Madeira – also known as the Flower Island or the Hawaii of Europe. Wild coastlines, green mountains, charming villages and a capital city that combines culture and modern life. When you visit this Portuguese island in the Atlantic, you should take the time to discover different places – because each one has its own character.
Funchal – a capital city with flair
Funchal is the heart of the island. Life pulsates here, without the city losing its relaxed atmosphere. A stroll through the old town is particularly worthwhile. In the small alleys, you will come across the famous ‘Doors of Funchal’, artistically painted doors that transform the house fronts into an open-air gallery.
A must-see is the Mercado dos Lavradores, a market full of colours and scents: exotic fruits, freshly caught fish and colourful flowers. If you want to see the city from above, take the cable car up to Monte. From there, you can not only enjoy the view over the rooftops, but also visit the tropical gardens – or race back down in a traditional basket sledge.
Câmara de Lobos – the fishing idyll
Just a few kilometres west of Funchal you will find Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village. The taverns serve freshly caught espada, the famous black swordfish, and of course a glass of poncha, the typical sugar cane schnapps drink.
Santana – Tradition in the north
In the north of the island you will find Santana, famous for its thatched houses that look like something out of a picture book. The surrounding area offers numerous hiking trails along the levadas, the historic irrigation channels. Particularly charming is the Levada do Caldeirão Verde, which leads to a spectacular waterfall.
- Travel period: 7 days
- Best time to travel: From April to October
- Main dish: 10-15 €
More sights & highlights
Porto Moniz – natural swimming pools in volcanic rock
Porto Moniz is located in the north-west of the island. Here, the Atlantic Ocean meets black lava cliffs, forming natural sea pools. The Piscinas Naturais invite you to take a dip while the waves crash against the rocks all around. An impressive contrast between wild nature and relaxed bathing pleasure.
Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo – above the clouds
Madeira is also a paradise for mountain lovers. The hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island, is particularly impressive. The trail leads along narrow paths, through tunnels and along steep precipices. Often, a sea of clouds lies below the hikers – an unforgettable sight. Once at the top, a 360-degree panorama of the entire island opens up.
East coast – São Lourenço and wild landscape
The São Lourenço peninsula in the east shows a completely different side of Madeira. Instead of lush green jungle, visitors are greeted by barren rock formations that rise out of the sea like sculptures. The hike to the tip of the peninsula is not difficult, but spectacular. Especially at sunrise, it is
Culinary delights in Madeira
In addition to the landscapes, the cuisine also shapes the experience. Typical dishes include espetadas, spicy grilled meat skewers served with bolo do caco, a fluffy garlic bread. Fish lovers should try espada with banana – an unusual but surprisingly delicious combination. This goes well with a glass of Madeira wine or the refreshing Brisa Maracujá lemonade.
Sum up – diversity in a small space
Whether it's the capital city flair in Funchal, the fishing idyll in Câmara de Lobos, the traditional houses in Santana, the bathing pleasures in Porto Moniz, the breathtaking mountains or the wild east coast: Madeira offers an astonishing variety in a very small space. The island is a paradise for hikers, connoisseurs and anyone who wants to experience nature up close.
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Sum up – diversity in a small space
Whether it's the capital city flair in Funchal, the fishing idyll in Câmara de Lobos, the traditional houses in Santana, the bathing pleasures in Porto Moniz, the breathtaking mountains or the wild east coast: Madeira offers an astonishing variety in a very small space. The island is a paradise for hikers, connoisseurs and anyone who wants to experience nature up close.
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