Madeira Holidays

With year-round sunshine, the tranquil Portuguese island of Madeira is a haven for travellers seeking a beach holiday with a cultural twist. Nicknamed the Floating Garden, Madeira is all about balancing relaxation and adventure.

Explore small undiscovered villages, hike idyllic hillsides with panoramic views across the glistening ocean or nestle into a traditional terracotta café and watch the world go by as you take a break from blissful beach days.

Where is the best place to stay in Madeira?

The southern capital city of Funchal is where most British holidaymakers settle. Ideal for first-time tourists, couples, and families of all ages, Funchal’s attractions, well-connected transport, and stunning landscapes offer unforgettable experiences.

Calheta is a resort for sun-chasers, with calm waters, golden sands, and unbeatable hiking trails. On the east side, the fishing town of Machico offers a beautiful harbour, great golfing greens, and cooler temperatures ideal for exploring the island's nature.

For most, holidays in Madeira centre around relaxing pursuits; with days spent around the pool, exploring the island, or strolling around the wide range of shops. But for more active holidays, hiking Madeira’s levadas is unmissable.

Head to the Lido in Funchal for swimming. Visit the Botanical Gardens in Funchal or the Tropical Gardens in Monte. Swim in lava pools in Porto Moniz. Ride the cable car to Monte, where its twin-towered church and gardens stand among stunning views. And perhaps return down to Funchal in a traditional toboggan!

The towns come alive at weekends with live music bars and pulsing clubs in Funchal. For a more relaxed evening, seek out a panoramic seafront bar or head to the Old Town's network of streets and alleys to find authentic and traditional venues. The island also has four main festivals - Carnival, the Flower Festival, the Wine Festival, and lively New Year celebrations.

Due to its island location, fish and seafood feature heavily in the Madeiran cuisine, with tuna, swordfish, clams, mussels, and oysters all specialities.

If you’re looking for a quick bite, Madeirans have their own version of fast food, called 'prego'; a thin slice of grilled steak served in a bun - simple yet delicious. Madeira cake is renowned throughout the world and is best enjoyed on its home turf.