How Many Days Do You Need to Visit Madeira?

Madeira is one of those places you instantly fall in love with. From breathtaking landscapes to warm hospitality, crystal-clear waters and delicious cuisine — this Atlantic island offers something for every traveller.

But how many days are actually enough to visit Madeira properly? The answer depends on your travel style, but one thing is certain: every single day spent here is worth it.

Here’s a complete guide to help you plan your trip, with examples of what to do depending on how much time you have to visit Madeira the way it deserves.

3 Days in Madeira: A Magical Getaway

Perfect for a long weekend or quick escape, three well-planned days are enough to give you a taste of the island’s magic and make you want to visit Madeira again in the future.

Day 1 – Funchal & Monte

• Explore the historical centre of Funchal and the vibrant Farmers’ Market (Mercado dos Lavradores).
• Take the cable car to Monte, where you can visit the lush Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
• Enjoy the unique experience of a ride down in the traditional toboggan sleds.
• Have dinner at a local restaurant with espetada and traditional garlic bread (bolo do caco).

Day 2 – Stunning Cliffs & Coastal Views

• Head to Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs with a glass skywalk.
• Stop by the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos for a local lunch.
• Unwind by the sea on the Lido promenade or take a dip in the natural pools.

Day 3 – A Touch of Nature

• Try a short levada walk, such as the Levada dos Balcões or Levada do Rei — two great options for a first-time visit to Madeira’s landscapes.
• Visit the CR7 Museum or do some souvenir shopping in town.
• End the day with a refreshing poncha while watching the sunset.

5 Days in Madeira: Balance of Adventure and Relaxation

With five days, you’ll have time to explore several regions of the island while enjoying a more relaxed pace.

It’s one of the best ways to truly visit Madeira and appreciate its many faces.

Days 1 & 2 – Explore Funchal at Your Own Rhythm

• Visit Funchal Cathedral, the Old Town and stroll along the seafront promenade.
• Take your time at the Botanical Garden or the Contemporary Art Museum.
• Have dinner with a view at Nini Andrade Silva Design Centre.

Day 3 – East Coast & Santana

• Drive to Santana, home to the famous triangular thatched houses.
• Visit the Madeira Theme Park to learn about the island’s culture and traditions.
• Stop for lunch with mountain views and sample Madeira wine at a local estate.

Day 4 – Waterfalls & Levada Walks

• Walk the iconic Levada das 25 Fontes, a must-do if you plan to visit Madeira for its natural beauty.
• Stop at the Encumeada viewpoint for panoramic valley views.
• Enjoy a calm evening back at your hotel or by the sea.

Day 5 – Natural Pools & the Wild North

• Explore the north coast: São Vicente, Seixal, and the Bridal Veil Waterfall.
• Swim in the volcanic pools in Porto Moniz, one of the best spots to relax when you visit Madeira.
• Taste freshly grilled fish at a seaside restaurant.

7 Days in Madeira: A Full Experience

Seven days is the perfect amount of time to experience the full beauty and diversity of Madeira — from mountain peaks to coastal villages and hidden forests. If you’re wondering how long to visit Madeira properly, a week is the sweet spot.

Days 1–3 – Funchal, Monte, Cabo Girão, Câmara de Lobos

• Combine the activities of the 3-day itinerary.
• Add a dolphin and whale-watching boat tour, a unique highlight when you visit Madeira in the summer.

Day 4 – Ponta de São Lourenço & Machico

• Hike to the eastern tip at Ponta de São Lourenço, where the landscape is wild and dramatic.
• Relax on Machico Beach and enjoy a seaside lunch.
• Explore the town’s quiet charm and history — a lovely addition to any visit to Madeira.

Day 5 – Peaks and Panoramas

• Drive up to Pico do Areeiro and hike to Pico Ruivo, the island’s highest peak.
• Alternatively, choose an easier route like Pico das Pedras to Queimadas.
• Visit a local wine lodge for a tasting to enrich your visit Madeira experience.

Day 6 – Local Culture & Villages

• Explore villages like Boaventura, Faial or Ponta Delgada.
• Try grilled limpets (lapas) and enjoy traditional folk music in the evening.

Day 7 – Flexible Day

• Use this day to relax, revisit your favourite location, or simply soak in the last moments of your visit to Madeira.

More than 7 Days: Immersion into Madeira’s Soul

If you’re lucky enough to have more than a week, there’s no better opportunity to visit Madeira in depth and live like a local.

Discover hidden gems such as Chão da Ribeira or Achadas da Cruz — true highlights for anyone wanting to visit Madeira off the beaten path.

Take a day trip to Porto Santo, Madeira’s golden-sand sister island.

Join a poncha-making workshop, or learn traditional embroidery.

Try canyoning, paragliding, or diving in Garajau.

Conclusion

Whether you’re staying for a weekend or an entire month, every type of traveller will find something special when they visit Madeira.

• 3 days: enough for a first taste.
• 5 to 7 days: ideal for balanced exploration.
• More than 7 days: perfect for total immersion.

No matter how long you stay, once you visit Madeira, it will stay with you forever.