Top 10 Things to See and Do in Madeira | The Ultimate 2025 Travel Guide
Enjoy a luxury vacation on the Portuguese island of Madeira, often called the “Pearl of the Atlantic” or “The Hawaii of Europe”. This stunning archipelago, consisting of Madeira, Porto Santo, and several smaller islands, boasts lush landscapes and a rich history dating back to Roman times. With its Laurisilva forests, a UNESCO World Heritage site, and vibrant capital Funchal, Madeira offers a unique blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. We have compiled the best places to stay, dine, and explore to ensure you make the most of your island escape.
Quinta do Furão
Located on Achada do Gramacho in Santana, on the northeastern coast of Madeira, Quinta do Furão sits on 5 hectares of land, with 3 dedicated to organic vineyards, vegetables, and herbs. The hotel offers a unique experience, combining beautiful natural surroundings with sustainable practices. Guests can enjoy stunning views and explore the region’s natural beauty while staying in a tranquil and eco-friendly environment.
The hotel offers 65 rooms in seven categories, each designed for comfort and tailored to individual needs. The hotel features a restaurant blending local Madeira flavours with international cuisine, a bar with billiards, a wine cellar with Madeira wines, a bakery showcasing local traditions, and a Four Seasons Bar for cocktails.
For a truly unique experience at Quinta do Furão, take advantage of their weekly activity program, designed to enrich your stay. The wellness centre offers relaxing massages, a sauna, a pool, and a jacuzzi for ultimate relaxation.
Gourmet Wine & Food Tour
For a truly unique dining experience in Madeira, consider the Gourmet Wine & Food Tour, available on Mondays and Wednesdays for lunch. This tour takes you to three handpicked local restaurants, where you’ll enjoy a variety of dishes, from classic Portuguese specialities to modern fusion creations. You’ll also savour five wines from Portugal, complemented by guided tours from experts. Madeira Exquisite Food on Foot ensures a culinary adventure that highlights the best seasonal flavours, prepared by rising star chefs.
In addition to indulging in exquisite food, the Gourmet Wine & Food Tour also offers a chance to stroll through Funchal. As you explore the city’s charming streets, you’ll learn about the island’s rich history, culture, and traditions, all while enjoying some of the finest cuisine and wines Portugal has to offer. This immersive experience is perfect for foodies and history enthusiasts alike.
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
The Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike is one of Madeira’s most thrilling trekking routes, offering breathtaking views of rugged peaks and lush valleys. Starting at Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak, the trail winds through a series of rocky ridges, tunnels, and cliffs, leading to Pico Ruivo, the highest point on the island. With panoramic views and dramatic landscapes, it’s a must for adventure lovers and nature enthusiasts. Expect a challenging yet rewarding experience, with a hike that takes around 6 hours to complete.
25 Fontes Falls hike
The 25 Fontes Falls hike is another of Madeira’s most scenic trails, famous for its stunning waterfalls. Nestled within the Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, the trail offers an immersive journey through one of the island’s most pristine natural environments. As you follow the path, you’ll pass through dense greenery, meander along historic irrigation channels, and encounter a series of 25 spectacular waterfalls, each with its own unique charm and beauty.
This moderate-level hike, typically lasting around 4 to 5 hours, takes you deeper into Madeira’s breathtaking landscapes. The combination of Madeira’s iconic Laurisilva Forest, with its endemic flora and fauna, and the mesmerizing waterfalls creates a truly unforgettable hiking experience.
Cabo Girão Skywalk
The Cabo Girão Skywalk is a unique glass-floored platform offering incredible views from one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, standing 580 meters (1,903 feet) above the Atlantic Ocean. Located on Madeira’s southern coast, the Skywalk provides a great opportunity to take in panoramic views of the island’s dramatic cliffs, lush valleys, and the vast ocean stretching out in the distance.
Standing on the transparent floor, visitors can enjoy a clear view of the steep drop below, adding an exciting element to the experience. It’s a peaceful yet thrilling spot, perfect for those wanting to appreciate Madeira’s stunning natural beauty from a different perspective.
Boat Tours
Embark on a boat trip around Madeira and discover some of the island’s best dive spots, offering a unique opportunity to explore its crystal-clear waters and vibrant marine life. Whether you’re a diving enthusiast or simply want to experience the island’s stunning coastline from a different perspective, this is the perfect way to enjoy Madeira’s natural beauty. For those interested in wildlife, whale, dolphin, and sea turtle-watching tours are also available, providing an unforgettable glimpse into the island’s diverse marine ecosystem.
For a more romantic experience, consider a sunset boat ride departing from Funchal. Sip on cocktails, enjoy delicious snacks, and raise a glass of sparkling champagne as you cruise along the coast, taking in the breathtaking views of Cape Girão, Câmara de Lobos, and the picturesque Jardins do Lido. This tranquil and scenic evening is the ideal way for couples to create lasting memories and experience the magic of Madeira’s coastline.
Traditional Santana Houses
Visit the Traditional Santana Houses, iconic triangular-shaped cottages with thatched roofs, nestled in the charming village of Santana. These unique structures, often painted in vibrant colours, are a striking representation of Madeira’s rich cultural heritage and architectural traditions. Stepping into this picturesque village feels like stepping back in time, where these quaint homes stand as a reminder of the island’s past.
While in Santana, take the time to explore the village’s other offerings, including local Madeiran cuisine and handcrafted goods. You can sample traditional dishes, discover locally made crafts, and experience the authentic charm of island life. The Traditional Santana Houses and the surrounding village provide a perfect glimpse into the island’s cultural roots, making it a must-visit destination for anyone wanting to connect with Madeira’s heritage.
Madeira Botanical Garden
Madeira is often referred to as the “Island of Eternal Spring,” and boasts a rich tapestry of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature enthusiasts. Located just outside Funchal, this lush garden is home to a vast collection of plants, including many endemic species unique to Madeira. Spread across terraced landscapes, the garden boasts meticulously curated sections dedicated to different plant species, from exotic flowers and tropical trees to fragrant herbs and medicinal plants. In addition to the plants, the garden features beautiful pathways, ornamental ponds, and charming pavilions, enhancing the serene environment.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
This sprawling garden offers visitors a serene escape into a world of vibrant plants, stunning flowers, and a rich array of tropical and subtropical species from around the globe. As you explore the garden’s winding paths, you’ll encounter an impressive collection of flora, including rare and endangered species, all beautifully displayed in themed areas.
In addition to the diverse plant life, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is home to stunning art collections, koi-filled ponds, tranquil water features, and charming sculptures, adding an extra layer of cultural and artistic appeal. The peaceful atmosphere, combined with spectacular views over Funchal and the surrounding landscape, makes it an ideal spot for a leisurely stroll or a moment of relaxation.
The garden is easily accessible via the Monte cable car, which provides a scenic ride offering panoramic views of the island’s lush landscapes and coastline. Once you reach the top, you’ll find the garden nestled nearby, along with the famous Toboggan Wicker Sledges. Here, you can watch the exhilarating downhill rides as passengers race by or even take the sledges yourself for a thrilling, traditional Madeira experience.
Tandem Paragliding
Experience the thrill of soaring through the clouds with a VIP tandem paragliding adventure. This unforgettable experience lasts 6 hours or more, offering plenty of time to take in the stunning landscapes from the sky. You’ll be accompanied by one of the world’s most experienced pilots, ensuring a safe and exhilarating flight. With guaranteed flight time, you’ll have the opportunity to glide over Madeira’s dramatic coastline, rugged mountains, and picturesque villages, making this an incredible way to see the island from a truly unique perspective. Whether you’re a first-time flyer or an experienced adventurer, this tandem paragliding experience promises to be an unforgettable finale of your Madeira visit.
Explore curated travel tips, exciting activities, and must-see destinations that will help make your journey truly unforgettable at our Hype Destinations section.
