Madeira Holidays

A peaceful archipelago filled with beautiful nature, Madeira is the place to go if you’re looking for a relaxing yet exciting holiday with lovely weather all year round. Whether you’re an old town wanderer, beach relaxer or a full-on activity buff, Madeira has it all. Delightful cuisine, fantastic festivals and stunning landscapes, discover new experiences on this fascinating but easy-going Portuguese island.

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Best beaches in Madeira | Best hotels in Madeira | All Inclusive holidays to Madeira | 2022 holidays to Madeira | Family holidays to Madeira | Luxury Madeira holidays | Nightlife in Madeira | Things to eat in Madeira | Culture in Madeira | Things to do in Madeira | What’s the weather like in Madeira? | Madeira Important information | Reviews |

Best beaches in Madeira

Thought of as one of the best beaches on the main island, Praira da Calheta is a sandy bay located on the south-west coast and is a great Blue Flag beach for families. Praia do Machico is a smaller beach located on the eastern coast, with its golden sands attracting plenty of beachgoers throughout the year. Looking for something a little mor epeaceful? Prainha (Caniçal) is a lovely secluded beach where you can simply soak up the sun and listen to the waves. On the northern coast of the island you'll find Praia do Seixal, a beautiful spot of shore that’s perfect for a relaxing day by the sea. If you’re willing to venture out to explore the island even more, Praia do Porto Santo located on Porto Santo island is an astounding beach with crystal waters and is a perfect place to relax. Plus, the island is easy to reach by ferry from Madeira.

Best hotels in Madeira

The wonderful island of Madeira is perfect for all holidaymakers and it's huge range of great hotels means that there's a hotel out there just perfect for your next break. So, whether its a five-star all-inclusive your after, or a boutique beachfront beauty, there's a hotel in Madeira with your name on it. One of our favourite family hotlels is the gorgeous Cliff Bay Resort. With ocean views, direct sea access and plenty of activities for all ages, it makes for a fun-filled family escape. Looking for a little luxury? Try the gorgeous five-star Pestana Carlton Madeira with relaxing on-site spa. For a unique stay, head to the Quinta Jardins do Lago. Surrounded by stunning gardens and located just outside Funchal, this hotel is the perfect base for exploring Madeira.

All Inclusive holidays to Madeira

Pretty botanical gardens, golden sweeps of sand and rugged mountainscapes - when it comes to scenery, Madeira has it all. Luckily, there are plenty of hotels that have it all, too. All Inclusive holidays to Madeira mean that you can enjoy everything from lazy pool days and beachfront walks to all-day ice cream and late-night cocktails without a care in the world, because it’s all wrapped up in one neat little package. Whether it’s a fun-filled family holiday that you’re after or an all-out trip with your special someone, you can’t go wrong with an All Inclusive break.

2022 holidays to Madeira

Need somewhere sunny to unwind this year? Madeira’s scenic landscapes might just be the perfect place to escape to for some sun, sea and serenity. This Portuguease archipelago is home to delicious Mediterranean cuisine, picturesque villages and blissful beaches - sound inviting? You can start planning your dream break now and book with confidence, because all of our flight-inclusive package holidays are ATOL protected.

Family holidays to Madeira

Beaches for exploring, pools for splashing in and gorgeous botanical gardens for admiring - in Madeira there’s something for everyone. Children’s pools and daytime activities are sure to keep the kids occupied, whilst the soaring mountains and vividly blue waters create the perfect peaceful paradise for some quality downtime. If you’re looking to jet off for a family holiday in the sun, then Madeira won’t disappoint.

Luxury holidays in Madeira

Holiday in the lap of luxury with your next Madeira break. This tranquil destination is the ideal backdrop for the view from your balcony. From family-run boutiques that are big on character and authentic experiences, to opulent resorts with everything you need at your fingertips, you can’t go wrong when you’re seeking the high life here. Foodies and sommeliers alike will love the upscale food and drink scene in Funchal and elsewhere on the island. To really up the wow factor, why not seek out a hotel with a spa, or even a private hot tub? Get the champagne lifestyle you deserve.

Nightlife in Madeira

Funchal is Madeira’s nightlife hub, with plenty of bars to choose from for a cheeky cocktail or two. Check out the Revelucion Rock bar in the old town for great music and a fantastic atmosphere until late. Also located in Funchal is the Madeira Rum House, a place to relax, sat out on the cobbled street and sample the locally produced rums – the perfect way to end a day in paradise. Over in Calheta, the Pukiki Bar is Madeira’s first tiki bar, with a chilled-out atmosphere, funky tunes and, of course, a wonderful range of cocktails.

Things to eat in Madeira

Cuisine in Madeira is at once similar to and distinct from the Portuguese mainland. Bolo do caco is a popular flat round bread, usually smothered in garlic butter and parsley and eaten as a starter. Soup lovers should definitely try sopa de tomate e cebola, a tomato and onion soup served with a poached egg on top. Something for parties or groups is picado - small pieces of beef fried in garlic, surrounded by French fries, eaten straight from the pan with wooden picks. Fish is also a staple part of the Madeiran diet, including tuna, codfish and gaiado - the regional delicacy. Peixe Espada is another typical dish on the island, which is the interesting combination of scabbard fish with banana. Those with a sweet tooth will thoroughly enjoy bolo de mel - a delicious honey cake, and queijadas -a type of cheesecake tart.

Culture in Madeira

The Portuguese archipelago may be located off the coast of North Africa, but it still keeps to Portuguese traditions…and they even have some of their own too! To truly indulge in Madeiran culture, try to plan your trip at the time when the Dancing Folklore Festival is on in Santana. There, you can watch the performances, sample the local food and even try the local wine! If you’re a wine connoisseur, then there is also the annual Wine Festival to visit, as Madeiran wine is famous for its unique taste.

Things to do in Madeira

Ride a Monte sledge

If you’ve ever spoken to someone who’s been to Madeira, there’s no doubt you’ve heard of the Monte Sledge rides. The traditional sledge is made of wicker, resembling a basket, and doesn’t have any wheels but instead is on skis! So how does it make its way down the hill? You’ll be pushed by two ‘drivers’ who will give the sledge the power to slip and slide all the way down the hill at some speed! It’s definitely an experience that you’ll never forget.

Visit a black volcanic beach

The golden sandy beaches of Madeira are absolutely delightful and perfect for days relaxing under the sizzling sunshine. If you want to experience something new, then make sure to visit one of the main island’s black volcanic beaches! Seixal Beach boasts fine black sand meeting crystal waters and is surrounded by dramatic mountain sides covered in lush greenery. Not only is this a fantastic spot for a beautiful beach day, but its unique scenery is perfect for a photograph or two.

Dolphin and whale watching

Whether you’re looking to take the kids on an exciting day out, or you and your loved one want to go on a sea adventure – booking a boat trip to go whale and dolphin watching is the answer! If you’re planning to visit Madeira between April and October you’re in luck, as this is when the most species are present in the surrounding waters. So, set sail and see the species of the seas for a superb day out under the sun!

Go hiking from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

Discover the lush, beautiful nature of Madeira and hike from Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. The 11km trail is one for those who already love to hike and may not be for beginners, but if you’re up for a challenge and love to be surrounded by stunning greenery, this will definitely be the highlight of your trip. Up and down, over and under, prepare for a work out which will not only make you break a sweat, but will lead you to jaw-dropping scenery you’ll be dreaming about forever.

What's the weather like in Madeira?

Madeira’s climate is pleasant all year round, with averages ranging between 23°C and 16°C, the hottest months are from June to October. May and November have average temperatures of 19°C and the milder months are December to April with averages ranging from 16°C to 18°C.

Covid-19 restrictions in Madeira

To find out more about the current restrictions in Madeira please visit our Covid Destination Updates page.

Important Information about travelling to Madeira

How long does it take to fly to Madeira?

The flight is just 3 hours and 45 minutes from the UK.

What’s the time difference between the UK and Madeira?

There is no difference!

What currency do they use in Madeira?

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal, so the local currency is the Euro>.

What language do they speak in Madeira?

The official language spoken in Madeira is Portuguese.

Do I need any vaccinations to visit Madeira?

Please check with your healthcare provider for all up to date vaccination advice before booking your holiday.

Do I need a visa to travel to Madeira?

Please visit our Brexit page for more information on visa requirements.

Customer reviews

At On the Beach, we’ve sent many satisfied customers to Madeira for a bit of sunshine. But don't just take our word for it, read some of their 5-star reviews below.