Things to do in Ilha

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Vincent Malley
Photo by Vincent Malley
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Vincent Malley
Photo by Vincent Malley
Photo by Dries Talloen
Photo by Dries Talloen
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Top places to visit

1. Porto Moniz Natural Pools

The Porto Moniz Natural Pools are one of the city’s most popular attractions. Formed by volcanic lava, these tranquil pools are sheltered from the strong current of the Atlantic by black basalt rocks. Swim, sunbathe or snorkel at the pools, which are complete with changing rooms, lockers and lifeguard services. There’s also a children’s pool and play area, making the pools an excellent spot for a family excursion.
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Porto Moniz Natural Pools featuring a pool and rugged coastline

2. Madeira Botanical Garden

Enjoy the rich collection of more than 2,000 plants at the Madeira Botanical Garden. Set on a hillside overlooking Funchal, this beautifully landscaped garden offers dramatic views of the mountains to the north and the ocean to the south.
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Botanical Garden which includes flowers

3. Ponta Do Sol Beach

Ponta do Sol Beach is a pleasant pebble beach surrounded by rugged cliffs and lined with charming cafés. Known for being one of the sunniest places in Madeira, the beach is a wonderful spot to relax and bask in the warm sun and go for a dip in the calm coastal waters.
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Ponta Do Sol Beach which includes a pebble beach, a coastal town and swimming

4. Town Square

Funchal’s Town Square is a bustling hub of activity, lined with beautiful checkered cobblestones and bordered by grand whitewashed buildings. In addition to being a lovely civic center, the square is an ideal starting point for visiting several attractions, including the Sacred Art Museum, City Hall and the former Jesuit College.
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Town Square which includes street scenes and a small town or village

5. Cabo Girao

Plummeting straight down toward the ocean, Cabo Girao is among the tallest cliffs in Europe. Rising 1,900 feet (580 meters) above the water, it is one of the most photogenic points in the region. For extra thrills, follow the glass-floored skywalk to this scenic site, offering a clear view of the steep downward drop below.
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Cabo Girao featuring a coastal town

What to do in Ilha

Popular places to visit

Pico Ruivo

Pico Ruivo

Explore the great outdoors at Pico Ruivo, a lovely green space in Faial. Stroll along the seaside or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Pico Ruivo
Ribeiro Frio Natural Park

Ribeiro Frio Natural Park

Ribeiro Frio Natural Park is just one of the places to see in Santana, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While you're in the area, wander around the gardens.

Ribeiro Frio Natural Park

PR11 Vereda dos Balcões

You can take time to visit PR11 Vereda dos Balcões during your travels to Ribeiro Frio. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area, or check out its top-notch restaurants.

PR11 Vereda dos Balcões

Madeira Theme Park

Enjoy a fun-filled day at Madeira Theme Park during your trip to Santana. Amble around this relaxing area's seaside and enjoy its lively bars.

Madeira Theme Park

Parque Florestal das Queimadas

Parque Florestal das Queimadas is just one of the places to see in Santana, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? While you're in the area, wander around the parks.

Parque Florestal das Queimadas

Pico Das Pedras

You can take time to visit Pico Das Pedras during your travels to Santana. Wander the seaside and picturesque gardens in this relaxing area.

Pico Das Pedras

Santana Traditional Houses

Learn about the local history of Santana when you take a trip to Santana Traditional Houses. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the spas in this relaxing area.

Santana Traditional Houses

Kartódromo do Faial

You can take time to visit Kartódromo do Faial during your travels to Faial.

Kartódromo do Faial

Igreja Matriz de Santana

Igreja Matriz de Santana is just one of the places to see in Santana, so why not enjoy the other things to explore during your travels? Wander the seaside and picturesque gardens in this relaxing area.

Igreja Matriz de Santana
Sao Vicente showing cafe lifestyle, a small town or village and outdoor eating

São Vicente

Frequently asked questions

Is Ilha worth visiting?
Whether you want to enjoy the local charm and cultural attractions or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Ilha.
How do I spend a day in Ilha?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Pico Ruivo, spend the rest of your day discovering the retail and food options in Ilha.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ilha?
PARQUE FORESTAL DE QUEIMADAS is ranked the top tourist attraction near Ilha, so don't leave without experiencing it.
Is three days enough to stay in Ilha?
Three days in Ilha is enough time to explore the nearby attractions. A traveler favorite is PARQUE FORESTAL DE QUEIMADAS and Pico Ruivo, so why not add them to the itinerary when you're in the area?
Is Ilha a walkable neighborhood?
Take a walk from the center of Ilha to Pico Das Pedras and other popular attractions. Where to next? Stroll for around 3 kilometers to get to the neighborhood of Santana.
What are some activities to do in Ilha with kids?
Deciding what to do in Ilha with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep them happy here.

What to do in Ilha for adults?
From fantastic food and cultural hotspots to outdoor adventures and unique experiences, there are many exciting things to do in Ilha for adults.
Are there free things to do in Ilha?
Near Ilha, PARQUE FORESTAL DE QUEIMADAS is an excellent spot for anyone looking to experience the area without opening their wallet. Also, visit parks and other neighborhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's one of the simplest ways to find the most popular free things to do in Ilha.