Curator’s statement
With its location 700 miles off the coast of mainland Portugal and given the plethora of other European islands, Madeira remains one of the Atlantic's most underrated holiday destinations. It's year-round warm (but not hot) climate, great food, hiking, sailing and the vibrant capital city of Funchal ensure there is something for everyone on Portugal's Atlantic Gem. After having explored the island in-depth, I have put together the below guide, enjoy!
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Things to do in Madeira
Explore Funchal: Madeira's capital and largest city fuses an old European feel with new-world cosmopolitanism. Roam the streets for some great shopping, stellar food and sublime coffee.
Hike the Levadas: Initially built as irrigation channels across the island, the levadas are now better known for the breathtaking views they offer hikers from all over the world. Levels of difficulty vary, but the beauty will be there to witness no matter which route you choose.
Visit Monte and the Botanical Gardens: Take a cable car from the center of Funchal up to Monte to visit the resting place of the 'Last Habsburg' and then head over to the majestic botanical gardens.
Take the sun in at a Natural Pool: Madeira is dotted with natural pools on the edge of the ocean. Providing a refreshing swim without the risks attached to the deep sea. Most of them can put the infinity pool at your five-star resort to shame!
Take a boat trip around the island: whale watching, dolphin watching, wave-catching or just a romantic sunset cruise. Everything is possible when the water is not too choppy!
Visit Santana and the North: for a totally different vibe, head to the less inhabited north of the island and visit the characteristic pointy houses of Santana.
Jeep or dune buggy tour of the west: go off the beaten path (literally) with an off-road adventure of Madeira!
Football/soccer crazy? You've come to the right place! Madeira is football mad. It is the home of a certain Cristiano Ronaldo (you'll see him everywhere, including at his museum in the harbor). Madeira also hosts two professional football teams (Maritimo and Nacional). And, like in the rest of Portugal, the sport is the main topic of conversation (and argument) at every corner cafe!
Places to eat & drink in Madeira
Avista Restaurant: Fine dining with fresh seafood and stupendous ocean views. Top tip: the scallop risotto.
Franco's Corner: Neighborhood restaurant blending the best Mediterranean flavors with genuine Portuguese hospitality.
Design Centre Nini Andrade Da Silva: A hyper-chic design studio belonging to Madeira's beloved interior designer that moonlights as an avant-garde restaurant overlooking downtown Funchal from the harbor.
Theo's: In the heart of the old town, let Chef Julio Pereira take charge. Your palate will thank you.
Kampo: Also by Chef Julio Pereira, Kampo offers the 'best of the land' and is arguably the top place to eat beef on the entire island.
Craving Sushi? Head to Yuki.
Time for Indian? Evereste Montanha Madeira
Hidden gems: Restaurante O Polar and Abrigo do Pastor
Before you leave, try to book a spot for high tea at the Reid's Palace.
Need to know
Thanks to it's climate, Madeira can be visited year round, providing the perfect winter getaway for digital nomads.
The island is also flexible for differing budgets and is the perfect place for a one-week to 10-day honeymoon.
The level of English in Madeira is very high, making navigating Funchal and the surrounding areas very easy.
Travel Advisor
Nicola Volpi
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For more inspiration and insider recommendations, visit our Madeira page.