The island of flowers, levadas and dizzying Atlantic cliffs
Madeira, a Portuguese island in the North Atlantic nicknamed 'the island of flowers', is a green paradise rising from the ocean 1,000 km off the coast of Morocco. Funchal, its capital with colourful tiled façades, overlooks an amphitheatre-shaped bay of striking beauty. The island is world-famous for its levadas — a 2,500 km network of irrigation channels carved into the rock since the 15th century, today turned into exceptional hiking trails through the UNESCO-listed laurisilva forest. The cliffs of Cabo Girão (580 m) are among the highest in Europe. Porto Santo, a small neighbouring island, offers 9 km of golden sand beach, a rarity in this volcanic archipelago. Madeira is also the homeland of Cristiano Ronaldo, born in Funchal in 1985, and the birthplace of Madeira wine, a fortified wine aged with characteristics unique in the world.
Hotels and resorts in Funchal
Madeiran cuisine, espada
Levadas, hikes in the UNESCO forest
The island of flowers, levadas and dizzying Atlantic cliffs
| Capital | Funchal |
|---|---|
| Area | 801 km² |
| Language | Portuguese |
| Currency | Euro |
| Visa | Not required (EU) |
| Best time to visit | Toute l'année |
The best time to visit is Toute l'année. The weather is ideal for outdoor activities.
Not required (EU). Always check current entry requirements before travelling.
Flights serve Madère. Check available transport options from your departure point.
The island of flowers, levadas and dizzying Atlantic cliffs. Madeira, a Portuguese island in the North Atlantic nicknamed 'the island of flowers', is a green paradise rising from the ocean 1,000 km off the...