Location: Madeira
Top Things to do in Madeira
Countries
Top 10 Free Things to do in Madeira, Madeira Islands
Breezy Madeira is an eponymous island in the Madeira Islands, a Portuguese archipelago. The capital city of Funchal was settled in the 15th century and is a colorful collection of gardens, religious sites, and quirky tourist attractions like the thatched-roof Madeira Story Centre. Hike to the summit of Pico Ruivo and you’ll feel like you’ve climbed through the clouds. Unwind over a glass of Madeira wine, an historic fortified beverage that’s musky and subtly sweet.
Restaurants in Madeira
1. Pico Ruivo
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 542 reviews
Reviewed By 205karolinar - Milton Keynes, United Kingdom
I loved the hike - the views are stunning, so if You like taking pictures this is beautiful hike - especially if You start early and catch the sun rise????We started at 6 am from pico de Arieiro and reached Pico de Ruivo at 9:30. The hike was challenging at times as there was some steep hikes plus I was almost 6 months pregnant but it was definitely worth it. I loved the experience.
2. Laurissilva Forest
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 129 reviews
This type of wild and scenic forest landscape is fast becoming a rare sight along the Mediterranean, and Madeira is one of the few places where they still exist.
Reviewed By Lily-Worldtraveler - The Netherlands, null
The laurissilva is a beautiful and mystical part of Madeira. From Ribeiro Frio you can do a really easy (flat) and relaxing levada walk to Balcoes (balcony) that will end at a 'balcony' overlooking the surrounding area. I definitely recommend doing that walk when you are in the neighborhood.
3. Lagoa do Vento
Overall Ratings
5.0 based on 21 reviews
Reviewed By kristofkesteloot - Zottegem, Belgium
What a perfect walk! Starting at the parking lot of rabacal. But instead of following the herd of people, we took the road to Alecrim. After some time the trail splits in half. Either you follow the levada do Alecrim, or you go way down to lagao do Vento. We´ve chosen the way down, and it was worth it! It´s a lot of stairs to go all the way down. But what you see is one of the most amazing places in Madeira. It is like a fantasy spot... The way back you can choose to go back up or take the path to the rabacal house.
4. Valley of the Nuns
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 1,153 reviews
The "Nuns Valley" is a small village situated in the crater of an extinct volcano, which has kept its 16th-century Santa Clara Convent where the nuns used to hide from pirates who were attacking Funchal.
Reviewed By bryanmg141 - Oldbury, United Kingdom
Our trip (with Lido Tours) included going to the top Pico de Arieiro so we could look down on the village, then onto the village itself where we enjoyed some chestnut bread and chestnut cake and had a sample of chestnut liqueur.. And we visited the chestnut museum! We didn't actually have time to eat anything in the restaurant itself, but did see people eating - you guessed it - roasted chestnuts! It's only a small place, but nice for a gentle wander - and don't miss the church, it's also pretty spectacular, especially given the size of the village. Our trip then went on to Camara de Lobos, another beauty spot where we thoroughly enjoyed a glass of poncha.
5. 25 Fontes and Cascada da Risco
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 982 reviews
Reviewed By melissaads - South Africa, null
One of the most beautiful and memorable hiking trails I've done. The vegetation among us is green and the actual 25 waterfalls are with the walk.
6. Cabo Girao
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 6,144 reviews
Reviewed By cliffm445 - Slough, United Kingdom
Popular spot. Good place for picking up buses, taxis or the great Green Train down to the coastal resort of Camara dos Lobos You will pay through the nose at the cafe - tea, coffee and custard tarts @ €15 would almost buy a meal for two with wine locally
7. Ponta de Sao Lourenco
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,422 reviews
Reviewed By robertmC6829LO
Really enjoyed the walk across to end of the headland. Rock formation is fascinating. Great views. Dolphins seen in the bay. Tip - the excellent path is rough in places and I would recommend wearing good trainers or walking boots to support your feet.
8. Levada Ribeira de Janela
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 145 reviews
Reviewed By PatriciusZ
This one is really easy, but still very nice, good for older people or families with kids but also for easy hikers. Nothing especialy dungerous here, there are some cliffs, waterfalls and the views are very nice.
9. Pico Ruivo do Paul da Serra
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 92 reviews
Reviewed By the_Devilyn - Surrey, United Kingdom
Don't miss out on climbing the Pico Ruivo (make sure you either have transport arranged or do a there-and-back-again walk), it's a fantastic viewpoint all over the island. You're above the clouds, it's sunny and the views are breathtaking. Hiking gear and UV protection is essential.
10. Parque de Santa Catarina
Overall Ratings
4.5 based on 2,013 reviews
Reviewed By bryanmg141 - Oldbury, United Kingdom
We walked through this park many times during our week at the Casino Park, however, it's a good job we noticed it closed at 8pm! Very picturesque, with lovely views of Funchal, a historic church, statue of Christopher Columbus and a lovely café overlooking the fountains.
