Things to do in Porto da Cruz

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Brian Scrivner
Photo by Brian Scrivner
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
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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 Porto da Cruz

Popular places to visit

Sao Lourenco Point which includes rocky coastline

Sao Lourenco Point

Enjoy a rewarding hike, cool off with a swim and admire arresting views at Madeira’s easternmost point.

Sao Lourenco Point

Machico Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Machico Beach during your trip to Machico? Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Machico Beach

Santo da Serra Golf Club

Enjoy a round of golf in Água de Pena at Santo da Serra Golf Club. Check out the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Santo da Serra Golf Club

Madeira Whale Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Madeira Whale Museum during your travels in Machico. Stroll along the waterfront in this relaxing area, or check out its lively bars.

Madeira Whale Museum

Whale Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Whale Museum in Caniçal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

Whale Museum

Igreja Matriz de Machico

After visiting Igreja Matriz de Machico, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Machico. Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Igreja Matriz de Machico

Pico do Facho Viewpoint

You can find out about the history of Machico with a trip to Pico do Facho Viewpoint. Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Pico do Facho Viewpoint

Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo

After visiting Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Machico. Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo
Machico which includes a pebble beach

Machico

Frequently asked questions

Is Porto da Cruz worth visiting?
Renowned for its views and walking trails, discovering cool things to do in Porto da Cruz is a cinch. Remember to add Machico Beach to your itinerary when here.
How do I spend a day in Porto da Cruz?
Begin your day with a visit to Machico Beach and Faial Beach. Then, explore other parts of Porto da Cruz for local restaurants and some retail therapy.
What is the top tourist attraction in Porto da Cruz?
You can't leave without exploring Machico Beach, rated the top tourist attraction in Porto da Cruz.
Is three days enough to stay in Porto da Cruz?
Book a vacation in Porto da Cruz for three days and you'll comfortably be able to discover its most popular sights and get a taste for the local vibe. For the chance to visit highlights in nearby areas and venture off the tourist trail, consider sticking around for up to 10 days.
What are some activities to do in Porto da Cruz with kids?
If you're looking for sights and activities for all the family, we've got some terrific ideas for what to do in Porto da Cruz with kids.

What to do in Porto da Cruz for adults?
From incredible food and cultural gems to outdoor adventures and one-of-a-kind experiences, there are loads of fun things to do in Porto da Cruz for adults.
Are there free things to do in Porto da Cruz?
One of the simplest ways to find free things to do in Porto da Cruz is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider advice on interesting neighborhoods, parks and other top attractions you can enjoy without getting your cash out. Machico Beach is one place that doesn't charge an entrance fee.