What to do

What Can You Do in Madeira?

Madeira packs a lot into a small island: you can hike along levadas, swim in lava pools, watch whales and dolphins, wander through Funchal and eat your way through the local cuisine. Peaks above 1,800 m, laurel forest and sea cliffs are often less than an hour apart. Here are the main things to do in Madeira at a glance:

• Hiking: levada trails and mountain paths for every level, from the short walk to the Balcões viewpoint to the route between Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo. Start with the best levada walks in Madeira.
• Viewpoints: the Cabo Girão skywalk, Pico do Arieiro above the clouds and dozens of miradouros along the coast.
• On the water: whale and dolphin watching, sunset catamaran trips and kayaking at Ponta de São Lourenço.
• Swimming: natural lava pools in Porto Moniz and Seixal, pebble beaches in the south and a few sandy bays.
• Funchal: the old town, the farmers' market and the cable car up to Monte. Find the highlights in what to do in Funchal.
• Food and drink: espetada, bolo do caco and a glass of poncha in a traditional tavern.
• Wellness and adventure: spa days and yoga, or canyoning, climbing and mountain biking.

Good to know: official hiking trails (PR routes) have to be booked online in advance. Wondering how much time you need for all of this? Read how many days in Madeira.