Madeira is an archipelago made up of the islands of Madeira and Porto Santo. It is a very special enclave full of nature, shrouded in a volcanic atmosphere. Discover all there is to see in Madeira, an archipelago full of the most magical spots and views in Portugal.
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Things to see in Madeira
Discover Funchal
Funchal is the capital of Madeira as well as its most important city. Surrounded by mountains and painted in colour, this city is the largest urban centre on the island and one of the must-see places in Madeira. The city owes its name to the large amount of fennel (funcho in Portuguese) that was found here when the island was discovered. Today this herb is used to make the traditional fennel sweets that you can find all over the island. Don’t miss the beautiful bay.
Mercado dos Lavradores, the market to see in Madeira
This is the largest market on the island and one of the most authentic and interesting places in Madeira. The market offers high quality produce, distinctive flavours and superb subtropical fruits and vegetables. Located in the square of the same name, the Mercado dos Lavradores opened in 1940 and has a unique atmosphere.
The Mercado dos Lavradores opened in 1940 and has large panels of Batisttini ceramic tiles depicting regional themes on the facade, the entrance and the fish market. It is without a doubt one of the must-see spots in both Madeira and the city of Funchal, and the best time to do so is in the morning.
Admire the views of Pico de Arieiro in Madeira
At 1817 metres, Pico de Arieiro is the third highest peak in Madeira. It is one of the most visited places on the island of Madeira and the views it offers are breathtaking, combining an impressive expanse of clouds over the beautiful rock formations. You will have to walk along the Vereda do Arieiro to get to this peak.
This trail takes 3 and a half hours and is of intermediate difficulty. It connects the highest peaks of Madeira, Pico Ruivo (1862 m), Pico das Torres (1851 m) and Pico do Areeiro (1817 m). It is an easy trail and one of the most popular routes on the island, offering beautiful landscapes of the Central Mountain Massif, part of the Natura 2000 area.
Pico Ruivo in Madeira
At 1,862 metres above sea level, Pico Ruivo offers absolutely spectacular views. Pico Ruivo is the highest peak on the island and a unique place that deserves to be seen on Madeira.
Natural pools in Porto Moniz
These natural pools have an area of 3800 m² in which the sea enters and naturally brings crystal clear water. The Natural Pools of Porto Moniz were formed by volcanic lava and are the main attraction of the town of Porto Moniz. Along the promenade you will also find a variety of cafes, restaurants and shops.
When leaving this town, don’t forget to visit the Miradouro da Santa, highly recommended for its stunning views of Porto Moniz.
Seixal Beach in Madeira
Praia do Porto do Seixal is a black sand beach located next to the Port of Seixal and is surrounded by beautiful scenery on the north coast of the island of Madeira. From here you can explore the rocky coastline and stroll along Seixal’s quayside to admire the large cliffs and waterfalls that tumble down either side of this small village.
See the Cabo Girão
Cabo Girão is famous for its cliff, the second highest in the world at 580 metres. There is a popular viewpoint with spectacular panoramic views. Here you will find the chapel of Our Lady Fatima, built in 1931 and one of the most important pilgrimage sites on the island.
At the bottom of the cliff there is a small farming area called “Fajãs do Cabo Girão”. In the past it was only accessible by sea, but in August 2003 a cable car was installed to facilitate access for farmers and visitors.
Veu da Noiva Viewpoint
The Mirador do Veu da Noiva is located between the villages of Seixal and São Vicente, very close to Seixal beach. From this viewpoint, you can enjoy fantastic views over the Ver da Noiva waterfall and the north coast of the island.
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Things to do in Porto Santo, Madeira
Porto Santo is the smallest of the inhabited islands of the Madeira archipelago. It is located in the Atlantic Ocean, at the south-eastern tip of Europe, only 500 kilometres from the African coast and 1000 kilometres from mainland Europe.
Porto Santo Paleo Dune
The paleo dunes are a great example of how the island was covered with sand made of the remains of coral. In the north of the island, you can find a landscape that looks like it belongs on Mars. These dunes are very striking because they are not near the sea, but on top of the cliffs.
It is called a paleo dune because all the vegetation and small animals such as snails that were there were covered by the sand of the dunes and ended up fossilised. I encourage you to take a look at the sand when you walk along the dunes because you will easily find a multitude of remains.
Ponta Da Calheta in Porto Santo
At the southwesternmost tip, the area closest to the island of Madeira is perhaps one of the most beautiful spots you can find. We got to know it when we went to eat at the restaurant of the same name, Ponta Da Calheta, which is located in this enclave. It is one of the essential places to visit as it is where the most crystal clear waters are found.
Mirador Das Flores in Porto Santo
This is the most colourful viewpoint on the island, and to reach it you have to go up a dirt track, which can be done by car or quad bike. From this viewpoint you can see the whole beach along the island, and one of the small islands that used to be part of Porto Santo.
From the top you can also see the surroundings of the island very well, with the shallow waters appearing lighter blue in colour. Right next to it there is a cove worth seeing with a volcanic beach like those on Madeira.
Frequently Asked Questions
Madeira can be reached both by plane and by boat. The archipelago of Madeira has two airports, Madeira and Porto Santo. You also have the option of arriving by boat to the Port of Funchal and the Port of Porto Santo.
The best area to stay in Madeira is the capital city of Funchal. Make sure to visit the Zona Velha and its major attractions such as the Cathedral, the Madeira Story Centre or simply stroll around the Funchal Harbour area.
At the Mercado dos Lavradores you can buy flowers, tropical fruits, as well as liqueurs, sweets and even souvenirs.
The market is open to the public from Monday to Thursday from 08:00 to 19:00, and Friday from 07:00 to 20:00.
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