Top 10 Things to Do in Madeira, Portugal

Portugal is a paradise waiting to be explored, and the first place on that list is Madeira. Perched in the center of the Atlantic Ocean, this beautiful island is famous for its wonderful landscapes, fairy valleys and perpetual nice weather all year round. Madeira has something for everybody, whether you are an adventure seeker, you love nature and want to see dramatic cliffs and waterfalls, or you are an enthusiast of food. There are so many things to do in Madeira; who needs to taste the local cuisine? It’s not only its vibrant capital, Funchal or its peaceful levada trails, but every corner of this island is a tag of a classic, memorable experience.

If you are going for a trip, don’t forget to see Portugal visa requirements before you go. It is a busy city so it can be difficult to know where to begin. While you won’t regret anything you do, it will make your life easier if we sum up the top 10 things to do in Madeira that you can’t miss.

Here are the Top 10 Things to Do in Madeira, Portugal

1. Explore the Stunning Funchal City

The charming capital of Madeira, Funchal, is a perfect mixture of history, culture and scenic beauty. Head towards the Mercado dos Lavradores for fresh produce and exotic flowers and fish. Go up to Monte via a cable car and see the beautiful city from above. Go to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden with exotic plants and beautiful waterfalls and so many things to do in Madeira, Portugal. If you are a wine lover, you should not miss a visit to one of the Madeira wine cellars to taste the island’s famous fortified wine. The start of your Madeira adventure should definitely be Funchal!

2. Take a Breathtaking Hike on Levada Trails

A hiker’s paradise and the island’s Levada trails, require a visit for outdoor enthusiasts. Now, these ancient irrigation channels were built to carry water and have become beautiful walking paths along vast forests, waterfalls and towering cliffs. Mystical laurel forest, hidden caves, cascading falls on Levada do Caldeirão Verde; magical lagoon, natural springs by Levada das 25 Fontes. Hiking in Madeira is an unforgettable way to enjoy the island’s magical landscapes while having a balance of trails for all levels of fitness.

3. Visit the Enchanting Porto Moniz Natural Pools

Visit the natural volcanic pools of Porto Moniz for a refreshing escape, a real gem of Madeira’s coastline. These pools, which fill with crystal clear seawater, are formed by ancient lava flows and provide a beautiful, rugged rock formation swimming area. The pools are filled with the ocean waves in a mesmerizing way. Porto Moniz is a must-visit spot whether you want to take a dip, relax in the sunbathing areas or just admire the stunning Atlantic views. Madeira Aquarium and local seafood restaurants are nearby and this makes it a great day trip for all ages.

4. Witness the Breathtaking Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro

Stepping into another world is watching the sunrise from Pico do Arieiro. This is Madeira’s third highest peak at 1,818 meters above sea level and with jaw-dropping views over a sea of clouds. Early morning is the best time to visit when the sky is painted with the first rays of sunlight in orange and pink. The challenging Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike offers excellent adventure for Madeirans who love an adventure through the dramatic mountain landscapes of this tiny island. This moment is pure magic, either from hiking or just soaking in the view.

5. Ride a Traditional Monte Toboggan Sledge

Monte Toboggan Sledge Ride is one of the most unique experiences in Madeira. This thrilling adventure is a 19th-century thing when locals used these wicker basket sledges to get down the steep streets of Monte. Visitors can still have fun today by sliding down a 2-kilometer route at speeds of up to 30 mph with two skilled drivers, dressed in traditional white uniforms and straw hats and the best things to do in Madeira. It is both exciting and scenic with spectacular views of Funchal and it is an adrenaline rush. It’s a must for anyone who is visiting Madeira!

6. Marvel at the Cabo Girão Skywalk

The Cabo Girão Skywalk is indeed an unmissable attraction for those that love breathtaking heights. This is one of Europe’s highest cliffs, perched 580 meters above sea level and with a glass floor. Seeing the coastline and terraced farmlands below you, it’s as if you are standing on the platform of the utterly transparent, and you feel yourself floating above the Atlantic Ocean as you stand on the transparent platform. It has a great spot for photography and a memory for adventure seekers. For the braver at heart, you can even give paragliding from Cabo Girão a try and revel in a complete adrenaline rush along with stunning panoramic views.

7. Enjoy Dolphin & Whale Watching Tours

Deep waters around Madeira are home to a wide variety of marine life, which makes it one of the best places in Europe for dolphin and whale watching. Funchal has several boat tours that depart from there and you can see species such as bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales and even orcas in their natural habitat. There are tours available that include swimming with dolphins or visiting secret sea caves on the coast. This is a unique experience for lovers of nature and families as well, which can be made even more memorable with expert guides giving an insight into marine life. Touring is available year-round, but the best time for sightings is April to October.

8. Stroll Through the Enchanting Laurisilva Forest

The Laurisilva Forest is one of the most beautiful and environmentally significant places in Madeira, as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. The forest is also an ancient, subtropical forest dating back to millions of years ago, where rare plant species, waterfalls, and species of diverse wildlife are found. Its misty trails lead to walking such that you feel you are walking in a fairytale: towering trees, lush moss-covered rocks, the sound of flowing water. Said to be a paradise for hikers, bird watchers and photographers, the forest. While you go through this Laurisilva Forest, either through a Levada trail or a guided eco-tour, it’s a must-see for nature lovers.

9. Discover the Charming Santana Houses

One of the most picturesque villages of Madeira, Santana is famous for its traditional A-frame houses with thatched roofs and colorful facades. The charming homes are centuries old and built to withstand the humid climate of the island. Some of these houses are today preserved as cultural landmarks and visitors can see them for what they were—part of Madeira’s rural history. In Santana, you can also visit the Madeira Theme Park, which presents the island’s traditions, folklore and handicrafts. This quaint village is a great place to stop to take postcard photos and get a taste of real Madeira culture.

10. Taste Delicious Madeiran Cuisine

The flavors of Madeira’s cuisine are a delicious blend of the island’s history and the natural resources of the island. Espetada must try is a skewered, grilled beef, prepared with garlic and bay leaves. Serve with Bolo do Caco, a soft bread flavored with garlic and cooked on a hot stone. Lapas will be grilled limpets served with butter and lemon and will be enjoyed by seafood lovers. Maracujá pudding made from the island’s fresh passionfruit is a great choice for dessert. To finish off, sip on Poncha, a sugarcane rum, honey, and citrus juice drink that is traditional. You’ve got a real taste of the culinary shop to look forward to in Madeira!

Conclusion:

A destination with it all, Madeira is truly made for those who love to explore the outdoors (both natural and manmade), taste and see some of the world’s richest cultures and fill themselves with some of the tastiest food and wine. From hiking through ancient levada trails to standing on the edge of Cabo Girão taking in breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean to stopping and sampling some of the finest Madeira wine from the region with some Funchal, every moment on this beautiful island is unforgettable. Madeira has a mild climate, friendly locals and endless attractions to offer for those who want to take a break or have some adventure.

If you’re planning your trip, do not forget to check the requirements for a Portugal visa from India before heading out. That said, your trip to this Atlantic paradise will be nothing short of magical, as there are so many incredible things to do in Madeira. Pack your bags, get out there, and have yourself some memories to live for.

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