Most Beautiful Places to Visit in Madeira

The "Island of Eternal Spring" is Madeira, a stunning island off the coast of Portugal. There are numerous things to do, from touring the city of Funchal to driving through the countryside and hiking. It is not surprising that this island is a very sought-after holiday destination with its pleasant climate and breathtaking scenery. Here, we'll provide our top 10 picks for convenient and enjoyable driving in Madeira.

INTERACTIVE MAP OF MADEIRA ISLAND

All about the island in one place. Over 320 points of interest entered into the Google Maps app. I've compiled a list of the top places to visit, including hiking trails, viewpoints, local towns, beaches, and more.

15 most beautiful places in Madeira

Funchal

You should travel to Funchal whether you're a football pilgrim (Cristiano Ronaldo was born there) or just want to see The Painted Doors Project, an art piece that spans the Old Town. After a night on the Poncha, a locally popular alcoholic sugar cane rum, the mountains and banana fields provide a wonderful backdrop for exploration. Just to say you did it, take the cable car to Monte and ride a classic wicker toboggan down.

Verada da Ponta de São Lourenço

The easternmost point of Madeira is home to this protected natural park, which offers a spectacular view of the volcanic peninsula's steep cliffs, stony beaches, and crystal-clear waters. Drive for 30 minutes from Funchal to the parking area at the start of the hike. Even though it is a very short hike, families with young children can still take in the scenery from a distance. Visiting Madeira Island without doing this is a must.

Bica da Cana Viewpoint

For views of Pico Ruivo, the tallest peak in Madeira, drive to Bica da Cana viewpoint or Miradouro Bico da Cana. You may still enjoy a picturesque view of Pico do Arieiro on a cloudy day. The drive to this perspective, which is a local favorite and one of Madeira's undervalued viewpoints, is strongly recommended.

Ponta Delgada

On their vacation to Ponta Delgada, most guests will take pleasure in whale-watching because the frolicking animals love to put on a show in the summer. The stunning volcanic terrain can be broken up by visiting pineapple and tea plantations, and a day trip to the Lake of Fire is worthwhile. In the charming Old Town, there are many low-key bars and eateries where you may unwind in the evenings.

Porto Santo Island

Due to its direct access to the Atlantic Ocean and 9km (5.6mi) of fine, silky sand beach, the Golden Island is a favorite among tourists. The beach in Madeira has the greatest sunsets and the turquoise waters are perfect for diving and snorkeling. Visitors interested in culture should visit the museum dedicated to Christopher Columbus, who came to this country with his Portuguese wife. They should also refuel with the regional specialties of a meat kebab basted in garlic butter or the renowned bolo do caco (bread baked on a hot tile).

Machico

Local lore claims that two infatuated youngsters who eloped from the UK and were shipwrecked in the Bay of Machico discovered Machico in the 14th century. Unfortunately, they passed away, but the crew lived to tell the tale. History buffs may like visiting the serene 17th-century church on the hilltop, where the observation deck offers breathtaking views of Ponta de So Lourenço at a height of 320 meters (1,050 feet). There is something for everyone thanks to the imported fine sand beach and the abundance of hiking routes.

Jardim do Mar

Jardim do Mar and its three beaches (Portinho, Enseada, and Ponta Jardim) should be on your radar if you're seeking for a traditional town with strong surf, unspoiled natural beauty, and an uncluttered coastline. Nothing extravagant about this beachfront location. In fact, until the 1960s, the only way to get to this isolated community was by boat. Those in the know travel today to see the ocean and the mountains. You might want to put on a few extra days to rest up after the dangerous, winding drive down, though!

Miradouro das Neves

As you sit on a picture-postcard hill, observe the sun set across the bay. It's understandable why so many situations where questions arise have taken place here. Give yourself enough time to ascend the wooden stairs and stay to see the city's dazzling lights. It's located on the ancient route from Madeira Airport and is well worth a trip for a sundowner.

Pico do Arieiro

Pico do Arieiro (or Stairs to Heaven) is worth the coffee drip since it has views that make you want to get up at the crack of dawn. Join the masses that swarm to Portugal's third-largest peak to see the sunrise as it emerges from the dense sea of clouds. It truly does feel like you are flying over the valley at one of the most well-known natural locations. This is also where the well-known hiking trail up to Pico Ruivo begins if you want to take in more of this breathtaking beauty.

Achadas da Cruz

One of Madeira's undiscovered beauties is located on the island's northwest shore, the Achadas da Cruz. It's a small village surrounded by mountains and a breathtaking beach. Some ingenious person built a cable car so that people could enjoy the view from above. You feel brave? You can descend the terrifying 500m (1,640ft) plunge via rope to the quaint town below. If you'd rather walk, there is a 2 km (1.2 mi) well-maintained track, but it is very steep and not suitable for everyone.

Levada Das 25 Fonte

One of the most visited tourist destinations on the island of Madeira is this. Because of the gorgeous stroll, natural ponds, Levadas, waterfalls, and lush flora, it has a reputation as being Madeira's best Levada walk. Less than an hour can be traveled by automobile from Funchal to the hike's beginning point at Rabaçal. Enjoy its natural pool—a it's wonderful spot to cool yourself on a hot day!

The Madeira Botanical Garden

Founded in 1881, Madeira's botanical garden is a hidden gem and one of the most well-liked tourist destinations on the island. It provides a breathtaking view of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean and a collection of about 2500 unique plants from every continent. You have the option of taking the cable car from Funchal to Monte, stopping in route to So Gonçalo or Caniço, or driving up the mountain to the Miradouro do Pico Alto.

Cabo Girão Skywalk

You may experience what it's like to gaze down from one of Europe's tallest sea cliffs in this beautiful viewpoint, which provides breathtaking views of the Atlantic Ocean, Camara de Lobos, and a Madeira's South Coast. Reach the directions on your phone, park for nothing, then walk towards the Cabo Giro Skywalk to get to this location.

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

About 100,000 plant varieties, including exotic flowers, trees, and other plants from all over the world, may be found in the 70,000 square meters of gardens that make up this old royal house by José Berardo. Very unusual plants, such the Encephalartos, which are thought of as living fossils due to their antiquity, are included in its collection.

Miradouro Pico do Barcelos

The first viewpoint you might visit after collecting your rental car is the Pico do Barcelos viewpoint. The miradouro is close to our corporate headquarters and only a few minutes from Funchal. This island's highest peak, which is around 355 meters above sea level, provides stunning, all-encompassing views of Funchal Bay. Soccer fans can also find the Maritimo soccer field nearby.

INTERACTIVE MAP OF MADEIRA ISLAND

Best tourist attractions of Madeira in one place