Top 25 Things To Do in Madeira, Portugal
Have you booked your flight to Madeira, but are still wondering what to do on your trip there? Check out all of the island’s most popular highlights below.
Tip: If you’re overwhelmed by the options, check out our condensed four day Madeira itinerary to learn the best things to prioritize during your visit!
*This post contains affiliate links, which means I may receive a small commission (at no extra cost to you) if you choose to make a purchase through the link. Thank you for your support – we hope you have a great trip!
Things To Do in Nature
A stunningly scenic and preserved tropical island, Madeira is full of things to do in nature! From picturesque beaches to world-renowned hikes, if you’re looking to get into the great outdoors, Madeira will not disappoint.
- Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
- The 25 Fontes of Rabaçal Valley
- Seixal Beach
- Enchanted Fanal Forest
- Lava Caves of São Vicente
Adventurous Things To Do
With such lush mountains to explore, the island of Madeira has plenty for the adventurous soul to do! Some of the top activities include off-roading tours and canyoning through Madeira’s many waterfalls.
- Monte Toboggan Ride
- Swim With Dolphins
- Canyoning & Waterfall Repelling
- Off-Roading Jeep Tour
- Kayak & Snorkeling
Culinary Things To Do
One of the best things to do in any new culture is to dedicate some time to tasting the local cuisine. Famous for its seafood, wine, and gorgeous coastal views, booking any of the dining experiences below will become a highlight of your trip.
- Wine Tasting & Vineyard Tour
- Market Tour & Cooking Class
- Re-Canto Food Experience
- Reid’s Palace
- Vila do Peixe
Cultural Things To Do
Interested in learning about the history of the island, or how the past generations of Madeira have influenced today’s culture? Check out any of the great cultural tours below!
- Best of the East Island Tour
- Best of the West Island Tour
- Convent of Santa Clara
- Madeira Story Centre
- Museu Etnográfico da Madeira
Seasonal Things To Do
If you’re lucky enough to be visiting Madeira during some of the seasonal festivals below, be sure not to pass up on the opportunity to explore them! Let us know how you enjoyed the festivals in the comments below.
- Madeira Taste Celebration (June – October)
- Madeira Flower Festival (April – May)
- Festival of Music (June)
- Carnival (February)
- Madeira Wine Festival (August – September)
In case it isn’t obvious from all that we’ve highlighted above, there is a lot to do in Madeira! Some of the most popular activities include the day trips to explore each half of the island and dolphin watching tours, but there is really something for everybody! Whether your interests be in nature, food, or history – Madeira will definitely have something for you!
More in Madeira, Portugal
1. Four Day Itinerary in Madeira
After visiting the island, we can confidently say that if you prioritize the activities in the four day itinerary below, you wont leave Madeira with any regrets….
Liked this post? Save it for later!
About the Author: Hi, I’m Jill! I am a biomedical & mechanical engineer who loves traveling during my free time. My hope is to help make it easier for others to plan their dream trips by providing firsthand experience from the places I’ve been! Read More.
Loved the variety of activities listed in this post! Thank you so much for giving such a comprehensive look at Madeira!
Yees! I would love the list of natural things (especially Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo and the Fanal Forest)… but it’s fab to hear about the culinary options as well for after we’ve hiked all day and need to fill our bellies! 😀
Love how outdoorsy it seems! I would especially be interested in canyoning and the off roading jeep tour! Also love the island hopping, thanks for the recommendations!