Planning a trip to Portugal’s most dramatic island? This Madeira Travel Guide covers the best hiking trails, black sand beaches, scenic viewpoints, historic towns, and traditional food — plus practical tips on transportation and budget.
Welcome to the breathtaking Ilha da Madeira, one of Europe’s most spectacular island destinations.
How to Get to Madeira
The island is served by Aeroporto Internacional da Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo, located just outside Funchal.
By Plane (Best Option)
From Lisbon or Porto: 1h30 flight
Average round-trip price: €40–€150
Direct flights from major European citie
You can also visit Porto Santo by ferry (2h30, €60–€90 round trip).
Getting Around Madeira
For a complete Madeira road trip itinerary, renting a car is strongly recommended.
Car rental: €35–€60 per day
Fuel (weekly average): €60–€90
Public bus: €2–€5 per ride
Driving allows easy access to hiking trails, remote beaches, and mountain viewpoints.
Madeira 7-Day Itinerary
Day 1 – Funchal Old Town & Monte Views
Start in Funchal, Madeira’s capital and cultural center.
Highlights:
Mercado dos Lavradores
Sé do Funchal
Rua de Santa Maria (painted doors)
Monte Cable Car (€18–€22 round trip)
Traditional wicker toboggan ride (€30 approx.)
Day 2 – Cabo Girão & South Coast
Visit the dramatic cliffs of:
Cabo Girão
Skywalk entrance: ~€2
Relax at:
Praia Formosa
This is one of the best coastal stops for scenic views and a relaxed afternoon.
Estimated cost: €15–€30
Day 3 – Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike
One of the best hikes in Europe connects Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, following a spectacular mountain ridge with dramatic cliffs and breathtaking sunrise views above the clouds.
Alternative:
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Trail fee: ~€3
Estimated cost: €5–€15
Day 4 – Black Sand Beaches & North Coast
Discover Madeira’s volcanic landscapes.
Praia do Seixal
A stunning natural black sand beach surrounded by green cliffs.
Porto Moniz
Famous lava pools (€3 entrance).
Praia da Ribeira da Janela
Stop at:
Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
Estimated cost: €10–€20
Day 5 – Santana & Levada Hiking
Visit the charming village of:
Santana
Famous for its triangular thatched houses and mountain scenery.
Best Nearby Hike:
Levada do Caldeirão Verde
Distance: 13 km round trip
Duration: 4–5 hours
Difficulty: Easy to moderate
Entrance fee: ~€3
Alternative shorter option:
Rocha do Navio
Steep coastal trail with dramatic Atlantic views.
Estimated cost: €10–€25
Day 6 – Ponta de São Lourenço
Ponta de São Lourenço
This eastern peninsula offers a unique desert-like volcanic landscape.
Entry fee: ~€3
Ideal for sunrise or sunset hikes
Estimated cost: €5–€15
Day 7 – Relax or Porto Santo Escape
Option 1: Relax in Funchal
Option 2: Day trip to Porto Santo
Ferry: €60–€90 round trip
Bike rental: €15–€20
Estimated cost: €20–€90+
What to Eat in Madeira
Traditional Madeiran cuisine is a highlight of any Madeira travel guide:
Espetada in laurel skewers
Black scabbardfish with banana
Bolo do caco
Madeira wine
Poncha
Tropical fruits
Average meal price: €18–€30
Accommodation Prices in Madeira
Hostel: €20–€35
Airbnb: €60–€130
How Much Does This Madeira Travel Guide Cost?
Budget traveler: €650–€840
Mid-range traveler: €900–€1,400
Best Time to Visit Madeira
The best time to visit Madeira for hiking and beaches is April to October. However, thanks to its mild subtropical climate (18°C–26°C), Madeira is a year-round destination.
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