A volcanic island nestled in the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is an extraordinary destination. With its rugged peaks, dense forests and eye-catching views, this island is the ideal destination for those seeking an active, outdoorsy holiday. Funchal is Madeira's bustling capital, boasting a vibrant cultural and cosmopolitan scene with a captivating history, going hand-in-hand with the other parts of the island that offer strikingly dramatic natural landscapes. From hiking in the Levadas, to catamaran cruises, and mountain adventures, Madeira has a lot to offer. The 6 best excursions and activities in Madeira 1. Explore Funchal Funchal is a delightful mix of old-world charisma and modern amenities. Stroll through the colourful Mercado dos Lavradores, with local produce and exotic fruit, and then wander the cobblestone streets of the old town. Visit Blandy's Wine Lodge to taste Madeira's famous fortified wine or take in the striking panoramic views of the city and ocean as you take a cable car up to Monte, one of the city's most unique areas. 2. Visit Porto Moniz Perched on the edge of the north-western tip of Madeira, Porto Moniz is an eye-catching town famous for its natural volcanic pools. Filled with crystal-clear waters fed by the ocean, a dip in these pools is a must on your holiday. And after a refreshing dip, it's time to relax in the sun or even take a walk along the coast. The area is also known for its good and moderately priced fish restaurants. 3. Climb Pico do Arieiro For those who adore strolling amidst the mountains, then Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira's three highest peaks, is a must. At 1,818 metres high, the mountain offers several impressive viewpoints. Reaching them is fairly easy. And if you're in good shape, you can even hike up the path leading to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island. 4. Walk through the Laurisilva Forest Step back in time and explore Madeira's Laurisilva Forest, a Unesco World Heritage site dating back to the Cenozoic Era. Disappeared in much of the Mediterranean, Madeira's Laurisilva is the largest forest of its kind still in existence today. Here, you can appreciate a diverse array of plant and animal life, including many species exclusive to the island. To explore this biodiversity, there are numerous trails to follow, and if the day is foggy, the experience becomes even more enigmatic. 5. Go trekking in the Levadas The Levadas, Madeira's irrigation canals, run around 3,000 km around the island, forming a network of hiking trails that can be walked almost entirely. The canals provide a great way to explore the island slowly, passing through green landscapes and impressive cliffs. One of the most popular trails is the Levada das 25 Fontes, a route that crosses 25 waterfalls surrounded by lush vegetation.
6. Join a catamaran cruise Finally, no trip to Madeira would be complete without a catamaran cruise. Set sail around the island's rugged coastline and admire its jagged cliffs from a different perspective. Keep your eyes out for dolphins and even whales. On some cruises, you'll also have the chance to take a swimming break, where you can get a refreshing dip or snorkel in the ocean waters.
