Madeira Travel: 100 Questions Answered based on NeemTime research
Getting There and Logistics
Is the Madeira airport landing really scary? It can be dramatic due to crosswinds and the short runway on stilts, but pilots require special training. If winds are too high, flights are diverted for safety.
Where is the airport located? It is in Santa Cruz, about 20–25 minutes east of Funchal.
How do I get from the airport to Funchal? You can take the Aerobus (approx. €5), a taxi (€30–€40), or a bolt/uber.
Is it better to rent a car or use the bus? Most Redditors recommend renting a car for freedom, especially for hiking. Buses are okay for Funchal but patchy for the north coast.
Do I need an International Driving Permit? Not if you have a valid EU or UK license. US drivers are generally fine with their state license, but check with your rental agency.
Are the roads difficult to drive? Yes, expect very steep inclines, narrow one-lane roads, and many tunnels.
Manual or Automatic car? Automatic is highly recommended because of the constant hill starts and steep gradients.
Small car or big car? Small! Large SUVs struggle on the narrow village streets and are harder to park.
Is there Uber or Bolt? Yes, they are widely available in Funchal and the south coast, but harder to find in the north.
Do I need cash? Yes, for small cafes, local bars, and some parking meters. Most shops and restaurants take cards.
Are there many mosquitoes? Not many, but they exist. A plug-in repellent is usually enough.
Is the tap water safe to drink? Yes, it is safe and high quality.
What is the tipping culture? Not mandatory, but 5–10% is appreciated for good service in restaurants.
Is Madeira expensive? It’s mid-range. Cheaper than London or Paris, but prices for accommodation and car rentals have risen recently.
What electrical plug is used? Type C and F (standard European 2-pin).
Weather and When to Go
When is the best time to visit? Year-round is good, but May/June (flowers) and September/October (warm water) are favorites.
Is it warm enough in winter? Yes, Funchal stays around 18–20°C, though the mountains can be near freezing.
What is a “microclimate”? It can be sunny in the south, raining in the north, and foggy in the mountains all at the same time.
Does it rain a lot in April? It can be unpredictable. Always bring a light rain jacket.
Is the ocean warm enough to swim? It stays between 18°C (winter) and 24°C (summer).
How should I dress for hiking? Layers. It might be hot at the start of a trail and freezing/windy at the peak.
What are the webcams for? Use “Netmadeira” webcams to check the weather at a specific mountain peak or beach before you drive there.
Is Madeira good for Christmas? Yes, it has world-famous lights and one of the world’s largest New Year’s Eve firework displays.
When is the Flower Festival? Usually in May, a few weeks after Easter.
Is it very windy? The north coast and airport area can be very windy, while the south is more sheltered.
Where to Stay
Where is the best base? Funchal for restaurants/nightlife; Calheta or Ponta do Sol for sun; Sao Vicente or Seixal for nature and peace.
Is Funchal too touristy? The “Lido” area is very touristy, but the Old Town (Zona Velha) and city center have more character.
Is the North Coast worth staying in? Yes, if you want quiet, lush scenery, and cheaper prices, but you definitely need a car.
What is the “Sunniest” town? Ponta do Sol and Calheta are known for the most hours of sunshine.
Should I stay in a Quinta? Yes, Quintas are traditional manor houses turned into hotels and offer a unique Madeiran experience.
Is Machico good? It’s near the airport and has a sandy beach, making it a convenient and local-feeling base.
Can I stay in the mountains? Yes, there are “Mountain Hotels” like those near Pico do Areeiro or Curral das Freiras for hikers.
Is the Lido area good for families? Yes, it’s flat, has many pools (Docas), and plenty of dining options.
Should I split my stay between North and South? For a 10-day trip, splitting 5/5 is a great way to see the whole island without long drives.
Are there all-inclusive resorts? There are a few, mostly in Funchal and Caniço, but most visitors prefer B&Bs or apartments.
Hiking and Nature
What is a Levada? An irrigation channel unique to Madeira that has a walking path alongside it.
What is a Vereda? A mountain trail (not necessarily along water).
Which is the most famous hike? PR1 – Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo.
Is PR1 dangerous? It is physically demanding with many stairs and steep drops, but well-maintained. Don’t go in high winds or heavy rain.
What is the “Stairway to Heaven”? A specific, steep section of the PR1 hike often seen on Instagram.
Do I need to pay for hikes? As of late 2024/2025, there is a small fee (approx. €3) for the most popular PR trails, payable online via the SIMPLIFICA portal.
Are the tunnels on hikes dark? Yes, some are long. You MUST bring a headlamp or a powerful flashlight.
What is Levada das 25 Fontes? A popular hike to a wall of small waterfalls. Go very early to avoid crowds.
Is PR8 Ponta de São Lourenço worth it? Yes! It’s a coastal walk with zero trees and dramatic volcanic cliffs.
What is the Fanal Forest? An ancient laurel forest. It is best visited when it’s foggy for a “mystical” look.
Are the hikes well-marked? “PR” routes are generally well-marked. Random trails found on Google Maps may not be.
Can I hike alone? Yes, but tell someone your route or use an app like Wikiloc.
Are there many snakes or dangerous animals? No, there are no snakes or large dangerous animals on the island.
Is Levada do Caldeirão Verde hard? It’s long and has several tunnels, but it is mostly flat.
What are the best shoes? Proper hiking boots or trail runners with good grip. The paths can be very slippery.
Sightseeing and Activities
Are there sandy beaches? Naturally, only black sand/pebbles. There are man-made golden sand beaches in Calheta and Machico.
What are the Porto Moniz pools? Natural swimming pools formed by volcanic lava.
Are the pools free? One set is free (rugged); the other is “Cachalote” which has a small fee for facilities.
What is the Cabo Girão Skywalk? A glass-bottomed platform on one of Europe’s highest cliffs.
Is the Funchal Cable Car worth it? Yes, for the views of the city. It takes you up to Monte.
What is the “Toboggan” ride? You sit in a wicker basket and are pushed down the street by men in straw hats. It’s a classic tourist experience.
Where are the A-frame houses? In the town of Santana.
Is whale watching good? Yes, year-round. You can see dolphins, sperm whales, and occasionally monk seals.
Can I swim with dolphins? Some tours allow it, but it’s strictly regulated and you stay tethered to the boat.
What is the Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)? A village deep in a mountain crater, famous for its chestnuts.
Which botanical garden is better? Monte Palace Tropical Garden is usually the favorite for its art and layout.
Is the CR7 Museum worth it? For Cristiano Ronaldo fans, yes. It houses his trophies.
What is the “Oldest Tree” in Madeira? Located in the Fanal Forest, some laurel trees are over 500 years old.
Are there waterfalls you can drive through? The “Cascata dos Anjos” in Ponta do Sol falls directly onto the old coastal road (check if it’s open to cars).
What is Seixal famous for? Its beautiful black sand beach and natural pools.
Food and Drink
What is Poncha? A strong traditional drink made of aguardente (cane spirit), honey, sugar, and lemon/orange juice.
What is Espetada? Beef cubes grilled on a laurel skewer.
What is Espada? Black Scabbard fish—looks scary but tastes delicious, often served with fried banana.
What is Bolo do Caco? A circular flatbread made with sweet potato, usually served with garlic butter.
What is Madeira Wine? A fortified wine. You can do tastings at Blandy’s or Pereira d’Oliveira in Funchal.
Is the fruit at Mercado dos Lavradores a scam? Many Redditors warn that the “exotic” hybrid fruits are overpriced and sellers can be pushy. Buy fruit at regular supermarkets.
What is Nikita? A drink made with beer, ice cream, and pineapple (can be alcoholic or non-alcoholic).
What is Brisa? A local passion fruit soda.
Is there good seafood? Yes, limpets (Lapas) served in a hot pan with garlic butter are a must-try.
What is “Bolo de Mel”? A traditional honey cake (actually made with molasses).
Can I find vegetarian/vegan food? It’s becoming easier in Funchal, but in mountain villages, options are limited to omelets or salads.
What is the local coffee? A “Bica” is an espresso; a “Garoto” is an espresso with a drop of milk.
Are restaurants closed on Sundays? Many local spots are, especially outside Funchal.
What is the best “cheap” meal? A Prego no Bolo do Caco (steak sandwich) and a beer.
Is the tap water served in restaurants? Usually, they will bring bottled water (for a fee) unless you specifically ask for tap.
Safety and Etiquette
Is Madeira safe for solo female travelers? Yes, it is considered one of the safest destinations in Europe.
Are there any “scams”? Only the high prices for fruit at the Funchal market and occasionally taxi drivers not using meters (always ask for a price first).
What should I do in a landslide? If it’s raining heavily, avoid the mountain roads and hiking trails immediately.
Do I need to speak Portuguese? Most people in the tourism industry speak excellent English.
Is there a dress code for churches? Modest dress (covered shoulders/knees) is respectful.
Is the ocean dangerous? Yes, the north coast has very strong currents and rogue waves. Only swim in designated areas or pools.
How do I call emergency services? Dial 112.
Are there any dangerous insects? None.
What if my flight is canceled due to wind? Airlines usually provide hotels, but it’s wise to have travel insurance that covers “travel delay.”
Is it okay to fly a drone? There are strict rules, especially near the airport and over crowds. Check the “Voa na Boa” website.
Miscellaneous
Is 1 week enough for Madeira? It’s the minimum. 10–14 days is better to see everything without rushing.
Can I visit Porto Santo? Yes, there is a daily ferry (2.5 hours) or a 15-minute flight. It has a massive 9km golden sand beach.
Is it worth staying overnight in Porto Santo? Yes, to enjoy the beach when the day-trippers leave.
Is there any nightlife? Funchal has clubs and bars (mostly on weekends), but Madeira is generally a “daytime” island.
Are there many digital nomads? Yes, Ponta do Sol has a famous Digital Nomad Village.
Is it good for kids? Yes, the natural pools and cable cars are big hits.
Can I see the Milky Way? Yes, the high peaks like Pico do Areeiro have very low light pollution.
Are there any festivals in summer? Yes, almost every village has a “Festa” with food, music, and fireworks.
Should I bring a hairdryer? Most hotels/Airbnbs provide them, but check first.
What is the best souvenir? Madeira wine, embroidery, wickerwork, or a bottle of local rum.