Madeira is a beautiful Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean that boasts a wide range of activities for visitors to enjoy. With its stunning landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and pleasant climate, there is something for everyone on this fantastic island. Here are the top 25 best things to do in Madeira.
| Activity | Single Travelers | Couples | Families | Larger Groups |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best of the West Tour from Funchal | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| All-Inclusive Whale & Dolphin Watching Luxury Tour | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Skywalk & Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools with 4×4 Tour | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hiking Pico do Arieiro to Achada do Teixeira | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Funchal Bay Dolphin & Whale Watching Luxury Catamaran | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Eastern Madeira Island Day Trip with Hotel Pickup | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Best of the East Tour from Funchal | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Madeira Level 1 Canyoning Adventure | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Mega Tour Madeira Island | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Whale and Dolphin Watching in Funchal | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Hike Madeira Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Private Madeira West Tour | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | |
| Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Dolphin Spotting and Whale Watching from Funchal | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Enchanted Terraces Porto Moniz from Funchal | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Madeira Flag Ship Tour of Santa Maria de Colombo | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Funchal Scuba Diving Experience for Beginners | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Madeira Walks Rabacal and the 25 Fountains | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Funchal Nuns Valley Safari Tour Viewpoints | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Intermediate Canyoning Adventure with Transfer | ✓ | ✓ | ||
| Buggy Tour Off-Road Half Day from Camara de Lobos | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Madeira Wine Day Tour with Tastings | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Roundtrip Transfer to Pico do Arieiro Trail | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
This table provides an overview of which activities in Madeira are suitable for single travelers, couples, families, and larger groups. Please note that the suitability of each activity may vary depending on individual preferences and the specific dynamics of each group.
Discover the picturesque western side of Madeira on this guided tour. Visit charming fishing villages, marvel at stunning sea cliffs, and explore lush valleys with your knowledgeable guide.
Embark on a luxurious whale and dolphin watching tour aboard a comfortable catamaran. With the help of an experienced crew, you'll have the chance to see these magnificent creatures in their natural habitat.
Experience the thrilling Skywalk at Cabo Girão, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, and explore the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz on this adventurous 4×4 tour.
Immerse yourself in Madeira's breathtaking landscapes with a guided hike from Pico do Arieiro to Achada do Teixeira. Enjoy panoramic views and discover the island's diverse flora and fauna.
Set sail on a luxurious catamaran cruise from Funchal Bay for an unforgettable experience of watching dolphins and whales in their natural habitat.
Explore the beautiful eastern side of Madeira on this full-day tour. Visit enchanting villages, lush gardens, and dramatic viewpoints while learning about the island's history and culture.
Experience the enchanting eastern side of Madeira on a guided tour that takes you through traditional villages, lush forests, and stunning landscapes, all while learning about the island's unique history and culture.
For the thrill-seekers, embark on a canyoning adventure in Madeira's lush landscapes. Abseil down waterfalls, jump into crystal-clear pools, and enjoy a unique outdoor experience.
Experience the best of Madeira in one day with this comprehensive Mega Tour. This full-day excursion will take you through stunning landscapes, historic villages, and some of the most spectacular viewpoints on the island.
Don't miss out on the opportunity to witness the awe-inspiring marine life that calls the waters around Madeira home. Join this whale and dolphin watching tour in Funchal and make memories that will last a lifetime.
Challenge yourself with this epic hike from Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, Madeira's two highest peaks. Experience incredible vistas and the island's natural beauty on this unforgettable journey.
If you've always wanted to explore the underwater world, this scuba diving experience in Funchal is perfect for beginners. Dive into the crystal-clear waters of Madeira and discover its colorful marine life with the guidance of professional instructors.
Embark on a guided walk through the enchanting Rabacal Valley and discover the famous 25 Fountains of Madeira. Experience the island's lush forests, cascading waterfalls, and serene levadas on this unforgettable adventure.
Explore the beautiful Nuns Valley on this thrilling safari tour. Enjoy panoramic views of Madeira's rugged landscape and learn about the history and culture of this fascinating region.
Delight your taste buds with a Madeira Wine Day Tour that includes tastings of the island's famous fortified wines. Visit local wineries, learn about the winemaking process, and taste some of the finest Madeira wines.
Make your journey to the stunning Pico do Arieiro trail hassle-free with this convenient roundtrip transfer service from Funchal. Enjoy the breathtaking views and explore the island's beautiful landscapes at your own pace.
Get off the beaten path and explore Madeira's rugged terrain on a thrilling off-road buggy tour from Câmara de Lobos. Drive through lush forests, along cliff edges, and past charming villages as you enjoy the island's natural beauty.
If you're looking for a place to stay during your visit to Madeira, check out this list of the best hotels in Madeira. To make your trip even more memorable, don't forget to explore the top 50 best restaurants in Madeira for an authentic taste of the island's cuisine.
For those who enjoy golf, Madeira is home to some stunning courses. Take a look at the top 50 best golf courses in Portugal to find the perfect course for your skill level and preferences.
Madeira's pleasant climate and stunning landscapes make it an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts. For a unique camping experience, visit some of the best campsites in Portugal, where you can connect with nature and enjoy the beauty of the great outdoors.
Madeira boasts a pleasant climate year-round, with mild temperatures and relatively low rainfall. However, the best time to visit is generally from April to October, when the weather is sunnier and warmer, perfect for outdoor activities and exploring the island.
Madeira is a Portuguese territory and part of the European Union. If you are an EU citizen, you do not need a visa to visit Madeira. For non-EU citizens, visa requirements will depend on your nationality. It is best to check with the Portuguese embassy or consulate in your home country for the most up-to-date information.
While Madeira has a public transportation system, including buses and taxis, having a car is the most convenient way to explore the island. Renting a car allows you to visit more remote locations and enjoy the island at your own pace. Check out Car Rental Funchal for car rental options on the island.
Madeira's cuisine is a delightful mix of Portuguese and local influences. Fresh seafood, tropical fruits, and local produce are common ingredients in traditional dishes. Some popular dishes include Espetada (grilled meat skewers), Bolo do Caco (a type of bread made with sweet potatoes), and Lapas (grilled limpets). Don't forget to try Madeira wine, a fortified wine produced on the island.
Yes, Madeira is an excellent destination for families. With a wide range of activities suitable for all ages, from hiking and water sports to whale watching and exploring gardens, there's something for everyone. Check out this list of the best Portugal resorts for families to find the perfect accommodations for your family vacation.
Madeira is a captivating island with a wealth of activities and attractions to offer. From scenic hikes and exhilarating adventure tours to world-class dining and luxurious accommodations, there's truly something for everyone on this enchanting archipelago.
