Things to Do in Madeira

A 20-million-year-old subtropical rainforest and UNESCO World Heritage Site covering 15,000 hectares of Madeira's mountainous interior. This ancient laurel forest is believed to be 90% primary forest with some trees over 800 years old. Home to endemic species including the Madeiran long-toed pigeon and rare bats. The forest is crisscrossed by levadas (irrigation channels) creating over 2,500km of hiking trails through misty, moss-covered landscapes that feel like a fantasy world.

Conquer Madeira's highest peak at 1,862 meters for breathtaking panoramic views of the entire island and Atlantic Ocean. The most popular route starts from Pico do Arieiro (accessible by car) and follows an 11km challenging trail through tunnels, narrow pathways, and steep inclines. On clear days, views extend to Porto Santo island and even the Desertas. The summit shelter offers a rest stop before descending. Best experienced at sunrise when clouds swirl below creating a sea of white.

Spectacular natural swimming pools formed by volcanic lava on Madeira's northwest coast. These man-enhanced rock pools fill with fresh Atlantic seawater, creating safe swimming spots even when ocean waves crash dramatically nearby. The main complex offers facilities including changing rooms, lockers, and a café. The wild pools next door are free and offer a more adventurous experience. Combined with the scenic coastal drive through São Vicente and Seixal, Porto Moniz makes for a perfect day trip.

Experience vertigo-inducing views from Europe's highest sea cliff at 580 meters above the Atlantic Ocean. The glass-floored skywalk platform allows visitors to look straight down to the terraced vineyards (fajãs) and crashing waves below. The viewing platform is free, though an elevator down to the beach level costs €2. On clear days, views extend along the entire southern coastline. Located in Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village beloved by Winston Churchill who painted here.

A quintessential Madeira experience combining a scenic cable car ride with the famous wicker toboggan descent. The 15-minute Funchal Cable Car rises 560 meters to Monte village, offering sweeping views over the city and harbor. At the top, visit Monte Palace Tropical Garden before the thrilling 2km toboggan ride in a traditional wicker basket (carrinho de cesto), steered by two drivers in white outfits who have been operating since the 1850s. A unique and unforgettable adventure.

One of Madeira's most spectacular levada hikes leading to a magical waterfall cascading into a lagoon fed by 25 springs. Starting from Rabaçal, the 4.6km trail (each way) follows an ancient irrigation channel through the UNESCO Laurisilva forest, passing through tunnels and alongside sheer cliff faces. The nearby Levada do Risco hike (shorter, easier) leads to another impressive waterfall. Pack a rain jacket as the microclimate can change quickly. Bring a headlamp for the tunnels.

Funchal's vibrant farmers' market housed in an Art Deco building decorated with traditional azulejo tiles. Local vendors sell exotic Madeiran fruits like passion fruit, custard apples, and monstera deliciosa, alongside fresh fish, tropical flowers, and local handicrafts. The fish market in the basement displays impressive catches including espada (black scabbardfish), Madeira's most famous culinary export. Watch out for pushy fruit sellers offering free samples then expecting payment. Best visited in the morning.

A magnificent 70,000 square meter botanical garden surrounding the former Monte Palace hotel, showcasing exotic plants from around the world alongside Portuguese azulejos, African sculptures, and Japanese garden elements. Paths wind through cycads, tree ferns, and koi ponds across multiple terraced levels with panoramic views over Funchal. The museum houses one of Portugal's largest tile collections and minerals from around the world. Best combined with the cable car and toboggan experience.