Written by locals · Kept current for 2026
Madeira travel guides
Everything you need to plan the perfect island trip: when to go, where to stay, how to get around, what to eat and the best hikes, all in one place.
Your starting point
The complete guide to Madeira
Everything in one place: when to visit, where to stay, how to get around, what to eat, the best things to do and the island's finest levada walks. Researched on the island and kept current by the Olá Madeira team.
- Madeira Travel Guide 2026 The whole island in one read: getting around, the food, the best things to do.
- Best time to visit Month by month: temperatures, crowds, events and the honest trade-offs.
- Where to stay in Madeira Funchal or the west coast, and which base actually suits the trip you are planning.
Browse everything
All Madeira guides
Filter by what you are planning. Every guide is written from the ground here and updated when the island changes, not once a year.
Now make it happen
Ready to plan the rest?
The guides tell you what to do. Here is where to actually do it.
Find events
What is on while you are here: Carnival, the Flower Festival, concerts and the food fairs across the island.
Local recommendations
The restaurants, bars and businesses we send our own guests to. Vetted by us, never paid placements.
Our stays
Book our Funchal and Paúl do Mar rentals direct: best value, real local service, no booking fee.
Why Stay in Paúl do Mar, The West Coast Escape
Paúl do Mar is Madeira at its most raw — cliff-edged, surf-washed and genuinely quiet. Our local guide to staying, eating and exploring the west coast.
Best Places to Stay in Madeira (Area Guide)
Funchal or the west coast? Our local area guide covers every base in Madeira — from the old town to clifftop villages — so you stay somewhere that fits your trip.
Where to Stay in Paúl do Mar, Madeira
Three properties, one fishing village, zero tourist crowds. Your guide to choosing the right stay in Paúl do Mar — cottages, a group villa and what to know before you arrive.
Where to Stay in Funchal (The Neighbourhood Guide)
Old town charm, sea-view balcony or pool walk-out? Our Funchal neighbourhood guide cuts through the options so you book the right base for your trip.
