Things to do in Madeira Island

Activities, attractions and tours

Visit Madeira Island

Types of activities

Where to stay

Madeira Island Travel Guide

Ponta do Sol which includes rugged coastline and a coastal town

Funchal showing mountains, a coastal town and a sunset

Camara de Lobos showing a bay or harbor and a coastal town

Camara de Lobos showing rugged coastline, a marina and a bay or harbor

Funchal showing general coastal views, landscape views and mist or fog

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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 rocky 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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Madeira Botanical Garden which includes flowers

3. 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 mountains and a small town or village

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. 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

What to do in Madeira Island

Popular places to visit

Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Go for a swim in these unique salt water pools, which are dramatically set amid rugged coastal cliffs and protective volcanic rock.

CR7 Museum

You can spend time studying the exhibits at CR7 Museum in Sé. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this family-friendly area.

Funchal Farmers Market

During your trip to Santa Maria Maior, you can do some window-shopping at Funchal Farmers Market. Stroll along the area's seaside, or simply savor its top-notch restaurants.

Madeira Botanical Garden

One of Madeira’s most famous attractions is known for its scenic views and fascinating display of colorful flowers.

Cabo Girao

Brave the dizzying heights of this striking viewpoint to see some of the most spectacular views in Madeira.

Town Square

Defined by its striking black-and-white tiling, Funchal’s main square is surrounded by some of the city’s most interesting historic attractions.

Ponta Do Sol Beach

This pretty beach is an ideal place for a relaxing stroll along the coast. It’s also the perfect starting point for diving excursions.

Centro Comercial Forum Madeira

You can enjoy retail therapy at Centro Comercial Forum Madeira during your trip to São Martinho. Amble around this relaxing area's picturesque gardens and enjoy its top-notch restaurants.

Pico do Ariero

Enjoy splendid views from the peak of one of Madeira’s highest mountains, the gateway to a very popular hiking trail.

Areas of Madeira Island

Old Town Funchal

While visiting Old Town Funchal, you might make a stop by sights like Funchal-Monte Teleferico and Funchal Farmers Market.

Museum of Natural History which includes a city and street scenes

Sao Pedro

Sao Pedro is known for its colorful gardens, and you can plan a trip to Museum of Natural History and Quinta das Cruzes Museum while you're in town.

Imaculado Coracao de Maria

Travelers enjoy Imaculado Coracao de Maria for its gardens and seaside views. Consider checking out Quinta Palmeira while you're in the area.

Santana

Are you interested in fantastic nightlife, breathtaking beach views, and beautiful gardens? A visit to Santana might be the perfect thing. You can also explore top sights like Madeira Theme Park and Santana Traditional Houses.

Estrela da Calheta

If you're looking for some top things to see and do in Estrela da Calheta and surrounding area, you can visit Casa das Mudas Arts Center and 25 Fontes and Cascada da Risco.

São Roque

São Roque is well-liked for its restaurants. If you'd like to do some sightseeing in the greater Funchal area, you might plan a trip to Madeira Congress Center or Monte Palace Gardens.