One week in Madeira 

Are you ready to embark on your extraordinary journey to the island of Madeira? This volcanic gem in the Atlantic Ocean is famous for its breathtaking landscapes, vibrant culture, and exhilarating outdoor activities. When we started planning the trip, it was challenging and, in the end, a lot of adjustments, but this is how we spent our ten days in Madeira. Read the 7-day itinerary to uncover the island’s hidden treasures and create unforgettable memories. 

Our trip to Portugal started in Lisbon, so we flew to the island from there. We arrived in Madeira in the afternoon, and from the airport, it was directly to pick up the car we rented. Read more here – link

After getting the car, it was straight to Ribeira Brava, where we stayed on Airbnb most of the time. After all the formalities, it was almost evening, so we didn’t do as much on the first day apart from getting to Miradouro da Terra Grande. This charming spot holds an extra special place in our hearts because it was the first viewpoint we got to experience in Madeira. An hour after landing, we stood at this breathtaking spot where the scenery unfolded in a mesmerizing dance of lush landscapes with the ocean in the distance. We loved every minute there, knowing Madeira would be epic after this. So it was a half-day. 

When planning your trip, deciding which day you want to go to which side of the island to explore is good. Then, keep it flexible as the weather changes; sometimes, changing the initial plan for something else will be better. 

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Madeira Day 1 

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On our first day, we decided to go to the north coast of Madeira. This first day was the craziest one, as we wanted to see it all 😅. 

We explored the following: 

• • Caminho Do Miradouro. On the way to Sexial Beach, we stopped at one of the many viewpoints Madeira offers. It is between two villages and offers a spot to enjoy dramatic cliffs and the Atlantic Ocean. 
  • Água d’Alto waterfall. A waterfall next to the road. You can park the car about 200 meters away and waddle to it. For sure, also enjoy the views at Miradouro Água d’Alto. We came here early in the morning and enjoyed the sun rising. 
  • Véu da Noiva viewpoint. Before reaching Sexial Beach, we stopped to look at the beach from afar—another nice view. 
  • Sexial Beach. The first thing that will strike you on Seixal Beach is the deep black sand against the vibrant blue-green hues of the Atlantic Ocean. This scenery is framed by towering cliffs and lush vegetation, creating a visual feast. 
  • Islets of Ribeira da Janela. As you approach the Islets of Ribeira da Janela, prepare to be awestruck by the towering cliffs that cradle this serene spot. It is also a great spot to observe waves crashing against the rocks. 
  • Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools. Come here for a swim for sure. The swimming pools were formed over thousands of years through the cooling of volcanic lava, and they have crystal-clear water with fish easily visible. 
  • Teleférico das Achadas da Cruz. Our favorite place here in Madeira. Also known as the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, it is a remarkable feat of engineering that allows you to access one of Madeira’s most secluded and stunning spots.
  • O Farolim in Ponta Do Pargo. We grabbed a late lunch here before continuing. 
  • Lighthouse Ponta do Pargo. The highlight of this spot is the historic lighthouse, which stands proudly against the backdrop of the ocean. 
  • Miradouro do Fio. Very close to the lighthouse. This secluded viewpoint offers a unique perspective on Madeira’s stunning landscapes. It is positioned on a hillside and provides an uninterrupted panorama of lush valleys and rolling hills.
  • Cascata dos Anjos Waterfall. The Cascata dos Anjos, or “Waterfall of Angels,” is a one-of-a-kind experience and probably among the first pictures you see when Googling Madeira. The waterfall is a must-see if you seek to explore authentic Madeira.

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Madeira Day 2

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• • Miradouro do Juncal in Madeira. On a clear day, if you visit the Juncal viewpoint (Miradouro do Juncal), you can enjoy breathtaking panoramic views of the island’s central mountain range and its jagged peaks and lush green valleys. You can also catch a glimpse of the ocean on both sides.
  • Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo Hike. This is an iconic trail that promises awe-inspiring views and a thrilling adventure. This trail stretches across the central mountain range and leads you through a diverse range of landscapes, from rocky terrains to misty forests, providing an exhilarating and serene experience. 

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Madeira Day 3

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• • Vereda da Ponta de São Hike in Madeira (PR8). This hike offers an unforgettable adventure where you will have a feeling you stepped into another world. It felt like walking on the surface of Mars. 
  • Santana. The Santana Traditional Houses give a truly unique peak into how the people in Madeira used to live. The Santana Village is known for its iconic triangular thatched-roof cottages that offer a unique glimpse into Madeira’s past. 
  • O Arco. Again, we grabbed something to eat at this lovely restaurant. 
  • Miradouro de São Cristovão. It is yet another iconic vantage point on Madeira, offering unparalleled views. You park your car and waddle to enjoy the lush greenery and our favorite, dramatic cliffs. 
  • Ribeira Brava Beach and town. Once we returned from the hike, we went down to the city to explore a little. We checked out the beach, the market, and more. 

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Madeira Day 4

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• • Levada do Risco (PR6.1). This levada promises an enchanting journey through lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls. It was like waddling through a jungle. 
  • Fanal Forest. This forest offers a unique experience that feels like stepping into a living, breathing painting. It is the place of eternal fog. 
  • Muralha Terrace. As this was our last evening in Ribeira Brava, we went for a big dinner at our favorite restaurant. 

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Madeira Day 5 (Funchal)

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After four days, we moved out of our Airbnb in Ribeira Brava and moved to another one in Funchal while also returning our rented car. We explored Funchal from this point on. 

• • Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos. This is a vantage point that provides breathtaking views of Funchal. 
  • Snack Bar Pinguim. Here, we are biased, but grab a coffee from this local snack bar close to the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint. 
  • Funchal Municipal Garden. It is a famous oasis in the city center, attracting locals and tourists. The garden is also known as the Dona Amélia Garden, in memory of the last queen of Portugal.
  • Restaurante Informal. We grabbed lunch at this delicious restaurant. 
  • Cathedral of Funchal. The Sé Catedral, or Funchal Cathedral, is a timeless testament to Madeira’s rich cultural and religious heritage.
  • Santa Catarina Park. Santa Catarina Park is another green oasis, inviting you to escape the city and immerse yourself in nature’s embrace. 
  • Nelson Mandela Memorial. 
  • Funchal Farmer’s Market. You can find the Farmers’ Market in the heart of Funchal, and it is a must-visit. 

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Madeira Day 6 (Funchal)

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• • Funchal Cable Car. This is a must-ride when you are here. If you choose one thing, then choose the cable car. You will get a bird’s-eye view of Funchal as the car goes above the city.
  • Monte Palace Tropical Gardens. Although Madeira has tons to offer, you should not miss out on the Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Funchal. 
  • Toboggan ride. Take a Madeira Toboggan Ride on Traditional Wicker Basket Sledges. A thrilling and unforgettable ride of up to 30 Km per hour is guaranteed. 
  • Akua by Chefe Julio Pereira. We grabbed lunch back down in the city. 
  • O.Giro. Because lunch was not enough, we grabbed churros in this churros cafe. 
  • Bar Number Two. For poncha, we recommend this bar. Best prices and great taste. 

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Madeira Day 7 (Funchal)

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• • CR7 Museum. Fan or not, the museum is quite interesting. 
  • GALERIA Restaurant. Once again, got hungry. Here, we recommend the Wellington steak. 
  • H.M. Borges. We had to, of course, go for a wine tasting of the famous Madeiran wine. 
  • Empress Sissi of Austria Statue. 

This is our 7-day Madeira itinerary. We hope it helps you organize your trip or simply copy ours. 

Enjoy Madeira, and waddle on!

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More about Madeira