Madeira Attractions - Top 10 Most Popular Attractions

Just off the west coast of Africa lies the Portuguese archipelago of Madeira. The main island of the same name offers its visitors breathtaking landscapes and diverse nature. Natural attractions mainly consist of rugged volcanic landscapes and a stunning variety of flowers that can be explored year-round thanks to the warm, subtropical climate.

Here, we have compiled the 10 most beautiful attractions of Madeira for you.

Whether you arrive in Madeira by plane or ship, your journey will most likely take you to the capital, Funchal. The largest city on the island is situated in a picturesque bay in the far south of Madeira and is divided into two districts. The historical part dates back to the pirate era and is characterized by many old buildings. In contrast, the newer city center is home to numerous churches and official buildings.

There are many places in Funchal that you should visit during your stay. First, there is the cathedral, which dates back to the 16th century and is the oldest church in Madeira. Additionally, a stroll through the Mercado dos Lavradores, the city's vegetable and fish market, is a must. In the evening, a walk along the harbor promenade with its numerous restaurants is worthwhile.

Due to its coastal location, Funchal also offers a variety of water sports activities that can be enjoyed directly from the city. These include:

This steep cliff in the south of the island boasts several superlatives. It is the highest cliff in Europe and the second highest in the world, rising 580 meters above the sea. Since 2012, visitors have been able to view it from the new 'Skywalk' platform. However, be prepared for heights - the glass floor provides a direct view down to the sea.

Not far from the viewing platform of Cabo Girão, a cable car descends to Fajãs do Cabo Girão. Originally intended as a transport means for farmers, it now primarily transports tourists. If that's not thrilling enough for you, you can also try paragliding from the cliffs. You can take the cable car back up once you're finished.

Tip: It's worth getting up early or staying late, as the crowds are thinnest in the mornings and late afternoons.

These lava caves in northern Madeira date back to a volcanic eruption nearly 900,000 years ago. The result of this natural event is a 700-meter-long lava tunnel system that forms a bizarre labyrinth of corridors and grottos.

Since 1996, visitors have been guided through the caves. On such a tour, you will navigate the corridors of the lava caves, which are five to six meters high, and gain an impression of the volcanic origins of the island. The tour ends at the information center Cento de Vulcanismo, where you will receive detailed information about volcanism in Madeira and the formation of the caves.

Address:

Sítio do Pé do Passo

9240-039 São Vicente

Swimming in the sea is only possible at very few spots in Madeira, as most of the coastline consists of steep cliffs and rocks. To still offer visitors the opportunity to swim, the government created numerous natural swimming pools on the island. The most beautiful are the lava pools in Porto Moniz.

The lava pools are made of volcanic rock and stretch out against a picturesque backdrop into the open sea. While swimming, you can observe the wild surf of the Atlantic crashing against the natural swimming pools. This makes for a truly special swimming experience!

Address:

R. dos Alfarrobeiras 4

Porto Moniz

Countless small mountain and fishing villages on the island have preserved their original charm and natural hospitality. The village of Câmara de Lobos, located on the southern coast of Madeira, comes highly recommended.

The residents of Câmara de Lobos rely on fishing for their livelihood. Be sure to try one of the fresh, homemade fish dishes. You won't find such good cuisine everywhere! The idyllic charm of this place has even attracted a few celebrities: Winston Churchill himself is said to not only have visited Câmara de Lobos but has also painted here.

The Levadas are small irrigation channels that run throughout the island. They transport water from the north to the arid areas in the south of the island that are used economically. The Levadas were built over many centuries and today span a total length of 2,100 km, making them unique in the world in terms of their scope and extent.

Numerous hiking trails run alongside the Levadas, leading you to the most beautiful corners of the island. Along the way, you will pass impressive sights such as roaring waterfalls and adventurous stairs carved into the rock. Every now and then, you'll have a fantastic view of the island.

Tip: If you want in-depth information about the Levadas during your hike, guided tours are also available.

This nature park is located on a peninsula in eastern Madeira. The landscape here looks completely different from the rest of the island. While Madeira is known for its lush vegetation, Ponta de São Lourenço impresses with its volcanic rock formations. Numerous hiking trails through the park invite for extensive exploration.

The lava landscape here looks like it's from another planet. Rare native plants thrive in this lunar landscape. Additionally, many animals inhabit the nature park. Various bird species live here, and with a bit of luck, you might even encounter seals. Furthermore, the only black sand beach in Madeira is located on this peninsula.

Monte Palace Tropical showcases Madeira's typical flora with its year-round blooming plants and tropical gardens. This architectural and botanical masterpiece is located above the capital on Monte Funchal. You can reach the estate on foot or take the cable car. You can also go back down this way, or unleash your inner adventurer and descend by riding in a traditional toboggan.

In addition to the lush tropical vegetation, Monte Palace Tropical offers a large mineral exhibition as well as countless works of art and decorative buildings. Animals such as koi fish and swans inhabit the estate. The best views of Funchal and the bay are from the bar's terrace by the swan pond.

Address:

Caminho do Monte 174

9050-288 Funchal

In the highlands of Madeira lies Pico de Arieiro, the island's third highest peak. A 7 km long road leads to the summit at 1,818 m high. From here, you will have a grand view of the surrounding mountains and valleys, and on a clear day, you can even see the small neighboring island of Porto Santo.

If you want to see more of Madeira's mountains, Pico de Arieiro is the perfect starting point. For example, a hike to Madeira's highest peak, Pico Ruivo, takes about 2.5 to 3 hours.

Tip: It's best to visit the summit in the morning, as it is often enveloped by clouds in the afternoon.

The 'Santa Maria' was the ship of Christopher Columbus, with which he discovered America. An authentic replica is anchored in Madeira, where you can take half-day excursion trips into the Atlantic.

The all-inclusive tours on the 'Santa Maria' give you the feeling of stepping back in time. Everything on board is based on the original ship and its era, including crew members who are dressed as pirates. In the summer, it is also possible to swim from the ship or observe dolphins.

Did you know? Christopher Columbus once lived on Porto Santo, Madeira's small neighboring island.

Tropical plant life, volcanic caves, and a welcoming population - what more could you want on vacation? Madeira offers the best possible mix of culture and nature that makes your holiday unforgettable. If you've made it to the island, check out additional destinations for a beach vacation.