Top 20 Must-See Places in Madeira: A Complete Travel Guide
1. Pico do Arieiro
- Dramatic mountain landscapes, sunrise viewpoint.
- Hiking to Pico Ruivo.
2. Pico Ruivo
- Highest peak on the island.
- Trail options and difficulty levels.
3. Cabo Girão Skywalk
- Glass platform with 580m cliff views.
- Perfect for adrenaline and photos.
4. Funchal Old Town (Zona Velha)
- Painted doors, cobbled streets, restaurants.
- Street art and atmosphere.
5. Mercado dos Lavradores
- Local market with flowers, fruit, fish.
- Best for cultural immersion.
6. Monte Palace Tropical Garden
7. Madeira Botanical Garden
- Wide plant collection, panoramic views of Funchal.
8. Levada Walks
- Explanation of levadas (historic irrigation channels).
- Must-try: Levada do Caldeirão Verde, 25 Fontes, Rabaçal.
9. Laurissilva Forest (UNESCO)
- Ancient subtropical forest.
- Hiking trails and biodiversity.
10. Porto Moniz Natural Pools
- Volcanic rock pools for swimming.
- Family-friendly attraction.
11. Santana Traditional Houses
- Colorful triangular houses.
- Cultural heritage of Madeira.
12. Câmara de Lobos
- Fishing village that inspired Churchill’s paintings.
- Try poncha (local drink).
13. Ponta de São Lourenço
- Eastern peninsula with dramatic cliffs.
- Hiking, ocean views, and wildlife.
14. Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)
- Mountain village surrounded by peaks.
- Local chestnut dishes.
15. Ponta do Sol
- Sunniest spot on the island.
- Great for sunsets.
16. Jardim do Mar
- Picturesque seaside village.
- Surfing and peaceful atmosphere.
17. Paul da Serra Plateau
- Vast high-altitude plain.
- Contrast to the coastal scenery.
18. Seixal Beach & Natural Pools
- Black sand beach and small pools.
- Less touristy alternative to Porto Moniz.
19. Madeira Wine Lodges (Funchal)
- Taste world-famous Madeira wine.
- History and cellar tours.
20. Cristo Rei Viewpoint (Garajau)
- Christ statue overlooking the sea.
- Cable car down to Garajau beach.
Practical Tips for Visiting Madeira’s Attractions
- Best time of year.
- Renting a car vs. tours.
- Packing advice (layers, hiking shoes).
Conclusion
- Recap of Madeira’s diversity (mountains, levadas, gardens, towns).
- Why these 20 spots are unmissable for any traveler.
