Visit Madeira

Madeira is one of Europe's oldest travel locations and one of the few island destinations that can offer the combined delights of a beach, mountain and city holiday, all wrapped into one.

Image Gallery Madeira © Madeira Islands Tourism With its spectacular volcanic landscape and subtropical climate, this Portuguese archipelago is renowned the world over for its natural flora and fauna, while its capital, Funchal, is an enchanting town set in a glittering bay.

The beautiful bay of Funchal, protected by Madeira's highest peaks, means it enjoys the best of the island's sunshine. From the main tourist area, the city can be easily explored by foot, although visitors would be well advised to devote more than a day to its array of fascinating and diverse attractions.

Machico is the island's oldest town and was the original capital. Visitors can get a glimpse of local life at the vibrant fishing harbour and the nearby picturesque fishing village of Canical. Machico is ideal for holidaymakers seeking a quieter alternative to Funchal.

The charms of rustic Santana also attract many visitors. Instantly recognisable by its characteristic small, thatched triangular houses, Santana is a charming agricultural village set in the lush Laurissilva Forest, surrounded by mountainous landscapes.

Eating & Drinking

Visitors can dine well and inexpensively on Madeira, especially on a diet of fish and vinho verde (light, slightly sparkling white wine). There are numerous seafood restaurants offering the local specialisities of Espada (scabbard fish), tuna (atum) and swordfish (espadarte).

Dine in long-established restaurants in Funchal's old town, or choose from a cosmopolitan selection of eateries on the marina - but be prepared to dig a little bit deeper for the privilege.

Alternatively, join the locals and sample fresh Madeira dishes at reasonable prices in small restaurants tucked in Funchal's side streets or in quieter towns and villages across the island.

Entertainment

Although almost five centuries old, Funchal offers a myriad of holiday attractions, from cable car rides from Funchal old town to the rustic Monte village, to sailing and boat rides, interactive visitor centres, and an abundance of shops The capital's many leisure attractions are located on the palm tree-lined Lido area, where visitors and locals alike can make use of three public swimming pools, including separate children's pools and water sports.

Funchal is also a treasure trove for visitors who like nothing more than to sample a city's proud past. Visit the majestic Sé Cathedral, the House-Museum Frederico de Freitas and the Santa Maria Maior Mother Church/Santiago Menor Church. Find out more about Maderia's development by visiting The Madeira Story Centre in the old town and drink in the views from the panoramic terrace.

Indulge your senses at the atmospheric souk outside the Hyatt. The market consists of assorted shops selling local arts and crafts, clothes and jewellery. It's a wonderful way to spend the evening, topped off with an al fresco night bite at one of the local food stalls.

Marine life lovers will find Canical's whaling museum, Museu de Baleia, fascinating, and Canical is also home to Caela dos Milagres, the island's oldest church.

It is also worth visiting the Madeira Theme Park in Santana which offers 17 acres of attractions relating to the history, traditions and culture of the island's people.

The surrounding area

Porto Santo can be reached on 15-minute long flights that leave daily from Madeira Airport or a two-hour trip on the Porto Santo ferry. Porto Santo is in stark contrast to its sister island of Madeira. The southern coast is bordered by a 9 km beach of golden sand - a perfect retreat for holiday makers seeking tranquillity within a moderate climate.