Things To Do
Porto Santo
Take the morning ferry to this peaceful island for a relaxing beach day. With golden sands and calm waters, it's perfect for a slower pace—and it's where Filipa is from!
Madeira Botanical Garden
Hop on the cable car for stunning views of Funchal, then explore one of Madeira’s most beautiful gardens. A great place for a leisurely stroll surrounded by exotic plants. Visit the official website for even more gardens around the island.
Zona Velha do Funchal
One of the most charming parts of Funchal, Zona Velha is the city’s historic old town—full of cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and lively energy. It's also home to the Arte de Portas Abertas project, where over 200 doors have been turned into vibrant art pieces by local and international artists. You’ll find plenty of great spots to eat and drink here, from seafood restaurants and tapas bars to gelato stands and cocktail spots. Perfect for an afternoon wander or a relaxed evening out.
Mercado dos Lavradores
A bustling market in the heart of Funchal where you can browse tropical fruits, fresh fish, flowers, and local crafts. Worth a visit for the colours, smells, and people-watching alone. Don’t feel pressured to buy—just enjoy the atmosphere!
PR13 Vereda do Fanal
This 10.8 km trail starts from Paúl da Serra and takes about 4 hours to complete. It’s a magical walk through ancient laurel forests with foggy, fairytale vibes. Perfect for keen hikers - and one of my personal favourites! 👉 There are over 20 recommended hiking trails across the island (including more than 200 levadas!), so if you're keen to explore more, check the Visit Madeira website for more options.
PR6 25 Fontes hike & Levada do Risco
A relaxed 4.3 km trail with waterfalls and beautiful mountain scenery, this is one of the most popular hikes on the island. Be sure to check trail difficulty and time on the official Visit Madeira website before heading out.
Praia do Porto do Seixal
A stunning black sand beach on the north coast, backed by dramatic cliffs—great for photos and a dip in the ocean.
Câmara de Lobos
A colourful fishing village just west of Funchal, and one of Winston Churchill’s favourite painting spots! It’s a great place for a stroll along the harbour, soaking up the views and local charm. Make sure to try a glass of poncha, Madeira’s signature drink, traditionally made with sugarcane rum, honey, and lemon. It's also a great spot to try espada com banana—a local dish of black scabbardfish with banana, unique and surprisingly delicious! You can easily get here on the hop-on-hop-off bus.
Cabo Girão miradouro
One of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, with a glass skywalk that gives you epic views over the ocean and terraced hillsides. A quick stop, but totally worth it for the photos.
Serra de Agua - Taberna da Poncha
If you're driving through the mountains, this is a classic stop to try poncha at its strongest! Made by locals and full of character—just maybe not before hiking.
Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
Unique natural lava pools filled with crystal-clear seawater. Located on the northwest coast, it’s a lovely place for a swim and scenic lunch.
Machico
One of the island’s most historic towns—this is where Portuguese explorers first landed! A charming village with a sandy beach, coastal hikes, and local restaurants.
Santana
Known for its iconic triangular thatched houses, Santana is also a gateway to beautiful nature trails and breathtaking cliff views.
Cristo Rei
A peaceful coastal viewpoint with a large statue of Christ overlooking the Atlantic. A lovely place for a walk or a moment of quiet, especially at sunset.
Rei da Poncha
A must-visit to try Madeira’s famous drink, poncha! This local spot is also great for a casual and affordable lunch. Cash only!
The Snug Smoke House
For fans of smoked meats and craft beer, this cozy spot in Funchal hits the mark.
O Lagar (Madeira)
Located in Câmara de Lobos, this restaurant is known for traditional Madeiran dishes like espada (scabbardfish) and espetada (meat on a stick).
Funchal Taproom Craft Beer & Food
And those craving just the craft beer
Arraial da Imperatriz
A vibrant spot in Funchal inspired by traditional Madeiran festivals, Arraial da Imperatriz brings together several food stalls and bars in one colourful space. You can order from different kitchens—serving everything from local specialties to more international bites—and then sit together in the shared seating area. It’s casual, lively, and a great place to try a bit of everything with friends or family. Don’t miss the chance to grab a poncha while you’re there!
Restaurante Taberna Ruel
Perfect for fresh fish and a traditional Madeiran meal, located in the charming old town.
Regional Flavours
A lovely spot in the centre of Funchal. Tip: Download “The Fork” app for discounts at this and many other restaurants in town!
Adega Típica Do Funchal
A cosy, traditional tavern offering an authentic taste of Madeira. Expect hearty local food, rustic décor, and a warm welcome. Great for a relaxed dinner with local flavours.
Espaço Funchal
A restaurant in the centre of Funchal serving a mix of traditional Madeiran and Mediterranean dishes, with a modern touch. Great service, lovely ambiance, and ideal for a nice dinner out during your stay.
Boat trips
Enjoy a boat ride or go whale and dolphin watching along Madeira’s beautiful southern coast. Lots of options are available down at the marina.