What to Do in Madeira: 10 Must-See Places
Madeira is unlike any other European destination. This Atlantic island of Portugal hides volcanoes, sheer cliffs, prehistoric forests and fishing villages that mass tourism hasn't reached yet. But it has a secret returning travellers always mention: without a car, you only see half the island.
Public transport covers Funchal reasonably well, but the most impressive viewpoints, the most spectacular levadas and the most authentic villages sit on mountain roads where the bus doesn't reach, or only runs once a day. A rental car in Madeira isn't a luxury: it's the difference between an ordinary trip and an extraordinary one.
10 things you can't miss in Madeira
1. Pico do Arieiro — The sunrise that changes your perspective
At 1,818 metres, Pico do Arieiro is Madeira's third-highest peak and the most accessible by car. Driving up for sunrise to watch the sea of clouds cover the valley is one of the most memorable experiences in the Atlantic. On a clear day, the summit views stretch across the whole island. In winter, snow isn't unusual.
You need a car to get here. 30 minutes from Funchal via the ER103. There's no direct public transport to the top.
2. Cabo Girão — Europe's highest glass skywalk
580 metres of freefall over the Atlantic. Cabo Girão is one of the highest cliffs in the world and has a glass-floored viewing platform that triggers instant vertigo. 20 minutes from Funchal by car via the ER229.
3. Porto Moniz — The natural pools of the far north
The volcanic pools of Porto Moniz are Madeira's most spectacular swim. Formed by solidified lava, they fill with Atlantic seawater. Only reachable by car, 1h20 from Funchal. Entry: €1.50.
4. Funchal city — The capital that surprises everyone
Mercado dos Lavradores, the Old Town with its painted doors and the Santa Maria district with its Madeira wine cellars can easily fill a full day.
5. Madeira Botanical Garden — The flowers that define the island
Over 2,000 plant species on a hillside overlooking Funchal bay. 10 minutes from the centre by car. Entry: €7.50.
6. Levada do Caldeirão Verde — The most spectacular levada
13 km round trip through tunnels carved into rock, waterfalls and laurisilva forest. The end point: a 100-metre waterfall. The Queimadas trailhead is 45 minutes from Funchal by car, with no public transport.
7. Fanal — The enchanted forest of the northwest
At 1,150 metres, centuries-old laurel trees with twisted shapes take on a mystical look on foggy days. Madeira's ultimate photography spot. 1 hour from Funchal, only reachable by car.
8. Monte — Wicker toboggans and the imperial gardens
Take the cable car up and come down in the famous wicker toboggans, steered by men dressed in white. The Monte Palace gardens, with its palace and camellias, are among the island's most beautiful.
9. Câmara de Lobos — Churchill's fishing village
Madeira's most photographed fishing village. Winston Churchill painted it repeatedly. Colourful boats, whitewashed houses and scabbard fish on every restaurant menu by the harbour. 10 minutes from Funchal by car.
10. Ponta do Sol — Madeira's sunniest corner
The sunniest spot on the island. A black pebble beach, a volcanic-stone promenade and a calm that contrasts with Funchal's bustle. 35 minutes from Funchal via the VE1.
How many days do you need to see Madeira?
- ✓3 days: Funchal, Pico do Arieiro and Cabo Girão. Enough for a first impression.
- ✓5 days: the full west-coast route, one levada and Funchal without rushing. Minimum recommended.
- ✓7 days: the complete experience. The whole island end to end, two or three levadas, local food.
- ✓10 days: add a day trip to Porto Santo, the neighbouring golden-sand island.
7-day Madeira car itinerary
Day 1 — Arrival: Pick up your car at the airport. Funchal: Old Town, Mercado dos Lavradores, scabbard fish dinner.
Day 2 — Funchal: Botanical Garden, cable car to Monte, wicker toboggan ride down.
Day 3 — Pico do Arieiro: Leave at 5:30am for sunrise. Afternoon: Levada dos Balcões from Ribeiro Frio (30 min, easy).
Day 4 — West coast route: Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão, Ribeira Brava, Ponta do Sol. Sunset from the promenade.
Day 5 — Northwest route: Fanal in the morning with mist. Porto Moniz pools. Return via the north coast.
Day 6 — Levada day: Levada do Caldeirão Verde from Queimadas. Full day, bring a torch and food.
Day 7 — Free day in Funchal: Blandy's Wine Lodge, Mercado dos Lavradores for souvenirs. Return the car at the airport.
Frequently asked questions about visiting Madeira
Do you need to rent a car in Madeira?
Yes. Public transport is limited outside Funchal. Without a car you'll miss at least 60% of the island.
How many days do you need to see Madeira?
5 days is the minimum. With 7 you have time for everything essential without rushing.
What can you see in Madeira in 3 days?
Funchal city, Pico do Arieiro at sunrise and Cabo Girão or Câmara de Lobos. Doable with a rental car.
What's the best time to visit Madeira?
Spring (March-May) for the blooms. Dry, sunny summer on the south coast. Autumn is perfect for hiking.
Can you visit Madeira without renting a car?
Technically yes, but it limits the experience a lot. To explore at your own pace and reach the best viewpoints, a car is the most efficient option.
Everything you just read requires a car. No deposit, no credit card needed, pickup at Madeira Airport. Compare prices and book at Funchal Car Hire.