Things to do in Madeira
Browse our curated selection of experiences and local services across Madeira.
Best things to do across Madeira
Handpicked to help you discover the best the island has to offer.
A family-run Madeiran restaurant with a rooftop terrace, Michelin Bib Gourmand cooking and fresh seafood in Funchal's hotel zone.
A historic café beside Funchal Cathedral: coffee, pastries, and all-day dining in the heart of the Old Town.
Bonita da Madeira offers small-group sailing trips from Funchal on a traditional wooden caravel, with dolphin and whale watching, scenic coastal routes, and swim stops along Madeira’s coastline and nearby islands.
Madeira WaterSports in Funchal offers jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other ocean adventures, providing visitors with a fun way to explore Madeira’s coastline from the sea.
Go Go Away Rent a Car Madeira offers automatic car rentals across Madeira Island with flexible delivery, GPS-equipped vehicles, and roadside assistance, making it a practical option for exploring the island’s steep roads and remote locations.
Hiking Madeira is a useful resource for exploring Madeira Island’s hiking trails and levada walks, offering route guides, trail updates, permit information, and guided hiking experiences for visitors.
Madeira TuaTuk offers guided tuk tuk tours in Funchal, exploring viewpoints, cultural landmarks, and nearby attractions like Cristo Rei and Câmara de Lobos. A relaxed and scenic way to experience Madeira.
Trusted local taxi drivers in Madeira, offering private transport and airport transfers across the island. A simple, reliable way to arrange direct travel around Madeira with experienced local drivers.
The Funchal Cable Car is a must-do activity offering panoramic views over the city, mountains, and ocean. Connecting Funchal Old Town to Monte, it provides a scenic and easy way to reach the famous toboggan rides.
Be-Fit Gym Plaza Madeira in Funchal is a modern, well-equipped fitness centre offering spacious training areas, and group classes. Located inside Plaza Madeira, it’s a convenient option for visitors and locals looking to stay active in Madeira.
Böate Pub & Disco Club in Funchal is a vibrant nightlife venue popular for cocktails, dancing, and experiencing Madeira’s modern club scene in the city centre.
Yoga by Lena in Paul do Mar offers immersive coastal yoga sessions overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Led by a highly rated instructor, it’s a calming wellness experience suitable for all levels.
Restaurants
Best restaurants in Madeira for every taste and occasion
Sabores D’ Itália in Funchal Lido is a relaxed Italian restaurant known for homemade pasta, thin-crust pizzas, and rich risottos. A cosy spot offering great value, generous portions, and a warm atmosphere ideal for couples and families.
O.Giro Churros & Paninis in central Funchal is a popular casual dining spot known for its signature churros, steak sandwiches, and paninis, offering great value, generous portions, and a cosy, friendly atmosphere in the heart of the city.
Peixaria da Avenida is a modern seafood restaurant in central Funchal known for fresh fish, stylish interiors, and friendly service. It’s a great spot to enjoy high-quality Madeiran seafood just steps from Avenida do Infante.
Activities
Top things to do & unforgettable Madeira experiences
Bonita da Madeira offers small-group sailing trips from Funchal on a traditional wooden caravel, with dolphin and whale watching, scenic coastal routes, and swim stops along Madeira’s coastline and nearby islands.
Madeira WaterSports in Funchal offers jet skiing, parasailing, kayaking, paddleboarding, and other ocean adventures, providing visitors with a fun way to explore Madeira’s coastline from the sea.
Madeira TuaTuk offers guided tuk tuk tours in Funchal, exploring viewpoints, cultural landmarks, and nearby attractions like Cristo Rei and Câmara de Lobos. A relaxed and scenic way to experience Madeira.
The Funchal Cable Car is a must-do activity offering panoramic views over the city, mountains, and ocean. Connecting Funchal Old Town to Monte, it provides a scenic and easy way to reach the famous toboggan rides.
The Monte Wicker Toboggan is an iconic activity in Funchal, Madeira, offering a thrilling downhill ride from Monte in a traditional wicker sledge.
Bars
Best bars in Madeira for drinks and nightlife
Böate Pub & Disco Club in Funchal is a vibrant nightlife venue popular for cocktails, dancing, and experiencing Madeira’s modern club scene in the city centre.
Bar de Pedra in Paul do Mar is a rustic seaside bar known for its sunset views, cocktails, and authentic local atmosphere. A laid-back coastal spot perfect for enjoying poncha, traditional snacks, and the relaxed fishing village vibe of Madeira.
Dash Cocktail Bar is a cosy and modern cocktail bar in Funchal offering expertly crafted drinks. Known for its friendly staff and high-quality cocktails like the Moscow Mule and Negroni, it’s a must-visit nightlife spot in central Funchal.
Wellness
Relaxing wellness experiences in Madeira
Be-Fit Gym Plaza Madeira in Funchal is a modern, well-equipped fitness centre offering spacious training areas, and group classes. Located inside Plaza Madeira, it’s a convenient option for visitors and locals looking to stay active in Madeira.
Yoga by Lena in Paul do Mar offers immersive coastal yoga sessions overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Led by a highly rated instructor, it’s a calming wellness experience suitable for all levels.
Services
Trusted local services to better your Madeira trip
Go Go Away Rent a Car Madeira offers automatic car rentals across Madeira Island with flexible delivery, GPS-equipped vehicles, and roadside assistance, making it a practical option for exploring the island’s steep roads and remote locations.
Hiking Madeira is a useful resource for exploring Madeira Island’s hiking trails and levada walks, offering route guides, trail updates, permit information, and guided hiking experiences for visitors.
Trusted local taxi drivers in Madeira, offering private transport and airport transfers across the island. A simple, reliable way to arrange direct travel around Madeira with experienced local drivers.
All Recommendations
Be-Fit Gym Plaza
Be-Fit Gym Plaza Madeira in Funchal is a modern, well-equipped fitness centre offering spacious training areas, and group classes. Located inside Plaza Madeira, it’s a convenient option for visitors and locals looking to stay active in Madeira.
Yoga by Lena
Yoga by Lena in Paul do Mar offers immersive coastal yoga sessions overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. Led by a highly rated instructor, it’s a calming wellness experience suitable for all levels.
Upcoming Events
Plan ahead and discover events that may interest you during your stay.
The island's biggest religious festa: procession and Mass on the 15th, music and espetada the night before, high above Funchal.
Guided hikes, canyoning, biking and sea outings island-wide, autumn is Madeira's sweet spot for getting outdoors.
Roasted chestnuts, chestnut liqueur and a folklore parade in a spectacular mountain valley above Funchal.
Two weeks of tastings, folklore and a hands-on grape harvest, split between Funchal's Praça do Povo and the wine villages.