Madeira may be a relatively small island, but trying to fit its mountains, waterfalls, volcanic pools, forests, villages and incredible food into one week takes some careful planning.
During our seven-day Madeira road trip, we explored the quieter northeast coast, stayed beside the mountains in the north, hiked to one of Madeira’s most famous waterfalls, relaxed during a luxury spa day in Calheta and finished our trip in Funchal.
This Madeira itinerary is ideal for anyone looking for a balanced holiday combining:
- Scenic road trips
- Easy-to-moderate hikes
- Natural swimming pools
- Traditional Madeiran food
- Peaceful hotels
- Wellness and relaxation
- Madeira’s most famous attractions
Rather than staying in Funchal for the entire week, we divided our trip between three different parts of Madeira. This dramatically reduced our driving time and allowed us to experience several very different sides of the island.
Madeira 7-Day Itinerary at a Glance
Day 1: Arrive in Madeira and stay in Arco de São Jorge
Day 2: Explore Madeira’s northeast coast and Santana
Day 3: Drive along the north coast to Seixal and Porto Moniz
Day 4: Hike Levada das 25 Fontes, visit Fanal Forest and swim in Porto Moniz
Day 5: Enjoy a spa day in Calheta and drive to Funchal
Day 6: Explore Funchal and watch sunset from Cristo Rei
Day 7: Ride the Monte cable car, try the wicker toboggans and finish with a sunset mountain hike
Before You Visit Madeira
Do You Need a Car in Madeira?
You can visit Funchal without renting a car, but I strongly recommend hiring one for this itinerary.
Many of Madeira’s most beautiful viewpoints, forests, villages and hiking trails are difficult or time-consuming to reach by public transport. Having a car also gives you the freedom to change your plans depending on Madeira’s famously unpredictable weather.
The roads are generally in good condition, but they can be extremely steep, narrow and winding. Choose a car with enough power for the hills rather than automatically booking the smallest and cheapest vehicle available.
Our rental car cost £177 for the week, and we spent exactly €60 on petrol; we did rent a hybrid car.
Important Madeira Hiking Rules for 2026
As of 2026, visitors must reserve a time slot before entering Madeira’s classified PR hiking trails.
Most official PR trails cost €4.50 per non-resident, while residents and children under 12 may be exempt from the fee but must still register. Reservations are made through Madeira’s official SIMplifica platform.
Trail availability can change at short notice because of landslides, maintenance, fires or weather conditions. Always check Madeira’s official trail-status page before setting off. (Visit Madeira)
Also, you can look for webcams online which will help you find out the visibility you’ll get on some hikes, do use that if you are hiking far away from where you are staying as the weather does change drastically from one part of the island to another. https://www.madeira-web.com/en/webcams.html
Official trail booking platform:
simplifica.madeira.gov.pt
Day 1: Arrive in Madeira and Check Into Pestana Quinta do Arco
Try to book a morning or midday flight to Madeira so that you can enjoy your first afternoon rather than arriving after dark. Madeira Airport is known for its dramatic coastal setting, so the views start almost as soon as you land.
For the first part of our Madeira itinerary, we stayed at Pestana Quinta do Arco, in Arco de São Jorge on the island’s peaceful north coast.
The hotel is approximately 30 minutes from Madeira Airport, depending on traffic. Its location makes it a convenient base for exploring Santana and the northeast coast without driving back and forth from Funchal.
After checking in, spend the afternoon enjoying the hotel, walking around its gardens and recovering from the journey.
Dinner at Bolo do Caco Grill & Pizza
For dinner, head to Bolo do Caco Grill & Pizza.
This casual restaurant has an incredible setting for sunset and is an excellent introduction to Madeiran food.
Try one of the following:
- Traditional espetada, consisting of skewered meat grilled over fire
- A burger served in bolo do caco
- Garlic-covered bolo do caco as a side
Bolo do caco is Madeira’s traditional round flatbread, commonly served warm with garlic butter. Despite its name, “caco” refers to the hot stone or slab traditionally used to cook it.
Watching the sunset here was the perfect relaxed beginning to our Madeira road trip.
Day 2: Santana and Madeira’s Northeast Coast
Dedicate your second day to exploring Madeira’s dramatic northeast coast by car.
This area feels considerably quieter than Funchal and the south coast, with green mountains, coastal cliffs, traditional houses and impressive viewpoints.
Reserva Natural da Rocha do Navio
Start with the Rocha do Navio Nature Reserve, near Santana.
The reserve is located below enormous cliffs beside the Atlantic Ocean. Historically, visitors could descend using a cable car or follow a steep walking trail.
Both the path and cable car were closed for maintenance during our visit, so check their operating status before travelling there. Even when access to the bottom is unavailable, the viewpoint over the coast is still worth visiting.
Santana Traditional Houses
Continue into Santana to see its famous triangular houses.
These small, colourful buildings have steep thatched roofs extending almost to the ground. Although many of the houses around the main visitor area are now maintained as cultural displays or shops, they remain one of Madeira’s most recognisable symbols.
The central houses are easy to visit and do not require a long stop unless you also want to explore Santana itself.
Miradouro do Guindaste
Next, drive to Miradouro do Guindaste, also known as the Crane Viewpoint.
The viewpoint has glass platforms extending above the cliffs, offering wide views across Madeira’s rugged northern coastline.
It is a particularly impressive stop on a clear day, although the coast can still look dramatic when clouds gather over the mountains.
Optional Activity: Kartódromo do Faial
For something completely different, visit Kartódromo do Faial.
I tried karting here for the first time, and it ended up being one of the most entertaining activities of our trip. The track sits within Madeira’s spectacular mountainous landscape, which makes it a much more memorable setting than a typical indoor karting centre.
We paid 25€ per person.
Swimming at Piscina do Porto da Cruz
On a warm day, stop at the swimming complex in Porto da Cruz.
The pools sit beside the ocean and provide a safer place to swim when the Atlantic waves are strong.
Porto da Cruz is also a pleasant place to stop for lunch, coffee or a short walk along the seafront.
Hiking Option One: Vereda do Larano
For dramatic coastal views, consider hiking part of the Vereda do Larano.
This cliffside path follows Madeira’s northeast coast between the Machico and Porto da Cruz areas. Depending on the section and route chosen, the complete one-way hike can be around 12 kilometres and take approximately three to four hours.
The trail offers spectacular views over the Atlantic, but several sections are narrow and exposed, without protective barriers. It is therefore not the best choice for anyone uncomfortable with heights. (WalkMeGuide.com)
Because it is largely a point-to-point route, you must also plan transport back to your car or join an organised hike with transfers.
Hiking Option Two: PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço
A more structured alternative is PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço, located on Madeira’s eastern peninsula.
The official route is approximately three kilometres each way, or six kilometres return, and normally takes around two and a half hours. It is officially considered moderately difficult.
Unlike Madeira’s forest hikes, Ponta de São Lourenço has an open and arid landscape, with volcanic cliffs and uninterrupted views over both sides of the peninsula.
There is very little shade, so bring water, sunscreen and a hat. It can also be extremely windy.
As PR8 is an officially classified trail, reserve your time slot through the SIMplifica platform before arriving.
Return to Pestana Quinta do Arco for your second night.
Day 3: Drive From Santana to Seixal and Porto Moniz
After breakfast, check out and begin driving west along Madeira’s north coast.
This is one of the most scenic driving days of the itinerary, so allow plenty of time for spontaneous viewpoint stops.
For your next two nights, you can choose between staying in Porto Moniz or somewhere more secluded.
Where to Stay Near Porto Moniz
Choose Porto Moniz when you want restaurants, activity and easy access to the natural swimming pools.
For peace, mountain views and a more intimate atmosphere, I recommend Horizon Retreat Guesthouse.
We chose Horizon Retreat because of its quiet location, unbeatable views and heated pool. It feels considerably more secluded than staying in central Porto Moniz
Miradouro Água d’Alto
Make your first stop at Miradouro Água d’Alto.
This lesser-known viewpoint overlooks the green mountains and the northern coastline. It is an easy roadside stop and a good example of the unexpected scenery you encounter while driving around Madeira.
Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
Continue to Miradouro do Véu da Noiva, one of Madeira’s most famous waterfall viewpoints.
The waterfall drops down the mountainside towards the ocean, resembling a bride’s veil, which gives the viewpoint its name. You cannot walk directly to the waterfall, but the roadside viewing platform provides a clear perspective over it and the surrounding cliffs.
Seixal Beach
Next, drive to Seixal. Seixal’s volcanic black-sand beach sits beneath lush green mountains and waterfalls, making it one of the most photogenic beaches in Madeira.
On a calm and sunny day, the contrast between the black sand, turquoise water and green cliffs is incredible. Parking can become extremely difficult from late morning onwards, particularly during summer.
We used the paid Parking Miradouro Seixal, which cost approximately €3. Paying for parking saved us from circling the narrow streets and losing valuable time.
While in Seixal, look for Espaço Infinito, a beautiful coastal spot overlooking the water. Stop for photographs, enjoy the view and have lunch in Seixal before continuing towards your accommodation.
Dinner at Sabor aMar – Fish Factory
After checking into Horizon Retreat Guesthouse, drive to Sabor aMar – Fish Factory for dinner.
The restaurant is located beside the ocean and is an excellent choice for seafood at sunset. Madeira is particularly known for black scabbardfish, often served with banana, although you will find several varieties of grilled fish and seafood around the island.
Day 4: 25 Fontes, Fanal Forest and Porto Moniz Natural Pools
This is the most active day of the itinerary, so start early.
Hiking PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes
Wake up early and drive to the Rabaçal car park for PR6 Levada das 25 Fontes.
This is one of Madeira’s most popular levada walks, ending at a lagoon surrounded by multiple streams of water descending from the rock face.
The official PR6 route is around 4.3 kilometres and has an estimated duration of approximately three hours, although your total walking distance will be longer when starting from the upper Rabaçal car park.
Reserve a time slot in advance through the official platform. During busy periods, booking a few weeks ahead is sensible.
We recommend beginning between 7am and 8am, provided your reserved time slot permits this. Starting early gives you the best chance of reaching the waterfall before large guided groups arrive.
From the main parking area, you initially descend approximately two kilometres along a paved access road. You then join the woodland trail leading towards 25 Fontes.
The main walking path is relatively accessible, although there are steps, damp surfaces and narrow sections beside the levada.
It took us approximately two hours return from the lower trail area, and we spent around 30 minutes beside the waterfall. Your overall time will depend on whether you walk the access road and whether you add the Risco waterfall trail.
The weather was beautiful while we walked down, but it started drizzling on our return. That is completely normal in Madeira, where the weather can change quickly between elevations. Pack a light waterproof jacket even when the morning begins with sunshine.
A small shuttle operates between the upper car park and the lower Rabaçal area.
Recent information places the fare at approximately €5 one way or €8 return, although this should be treated as indicative and may change. The shuttle is paid separately from the hiking permit.
We walked both ways, but taking the shuttle uphill can save energy after completing the hike, although if the shuttle is running, it means you’ll encounter more people on the trail.
Visit Fanal Forest
After the hike, drive to Fanal Forest.
Fanal forms part of Madeira’s ancient Laurissilva forest and is known for its twisted, moss-covered trees.
The forest is especially atmospheric when fog moves across the plateau, but visibility can change very quickly. When we visited, the area was relatively busy, although there was still plenty of free parking.
Do not be disappointed when the weather is completely clear. The ancient trees and open landscape are still beautiful without mist.
Lunch at Talho Santa
For lunch, stop at Talho Santa and order a traditional espetada with a side of milho frito.
Milho frito consists of cubes of seasoned cornmeal that are fried until crisp. It is one of the best accompaniments to Madeiran grilled meat.
Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools
Spend the afternoon at Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools. There are two main swimming options:
Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz
This is the developed swimming complex, with changing facilities, platforms and supervised swimming areas.
Piscinas Naturais do Aquário
These pools have a more natural appearance and feel less like a conventional swimming complex.
Choose according to the sea conditions and the type of experience you prefer. The pools are formed among black volcanic rocks, while Atlantic waves continually refresh the seawater. They are an ideal place to relax after the morning hike.
For a casual dinner near Horizon Retreat, try Sunshine Pub & Grill.
Return to your accommodation early because the following day involves checking out and moving to the south coast.
Day 5: Calheta Spa Day, Cascata dos Anjos and Funchal
After the previous day’s hike, dedicate Day 5 to wellness and recovery.
Check out and drive towards Calheta on Madeira’s sunnier south coast.
Book a spa day at Saccharum Resort in Calheta.
The hotel overlooks the Atlantic and has one of the most impressive coastal settings in this part of Madeira.
Our spa experience cost €250 for two people and was one of the largest expenses of the trip, but it worked perfectly in the middle of an active itinerary.
Spend several hours enjoying the facilities, book a treatment and have lunch at the hotel. This creates a natural transition between the hiking-focused northern part of the trip and the city-based final days in Funchal.
After the spa, drive east and stop at Cascata dos Anjos, the famous roadside waterfall near Ponta do Sol.
The waterfall falls directly over an old coastal road, creating the impression of a natural car wash.
However, road access and safety conditions frequently change. The road has experienced closures because of falling rocks and landslide risks, so do not attempt to bypass barriers or enter a closed section. Check local signage and road conditions on the day of your visit. We were able to access it by feet after parking the car on the main road (parking spots available)
For dinner, stop at As Fontes do Horácio.
This traditional restaurant is another excellent place to try grilled meat, regional dishes and generous Madeiran portions.
Continue to Funchal and check into your final hotel.
We stayed at Terrace Mar Suite Hotel, which was well located and had useful facilities.
Most importantly, it offered parking.
Parking in central Funchal can be challenging and expensive, so I strongly recommend choosing a hotel with a confirmed parking space rather than assuming street parking will be available.
Day 6: The Best Things to Do in Funchal
Spend the sixth day exploring Funchal on foot.
Funchal is compact enough to visit many of its main attractions without using your car.
Try not to schedule your only Funchal day on a Sunday because some shops, markets and local businesses may be closed or operate reduced hours.
Parque de Santa Catarina
This public park overlooks Funchal’s harbour and is a peaceful place to walk in the morning. From here, you can watch cruise ships arriving and enjoy views over the city and ocean.
CR7 Museum
Football fans can visit the CR7 Museum, dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo, who was born in Madeira.
The museum contains trophies, photographs and memorabilia documenting his career. Even when you do not enter, you can stop outside for a photograph with the statue.
Comur Funchal
Visit Comur for a colourful and slightly theatrical souvenir-shopping experience. The shop specialises in Portuguese canned fish, with beautifully designed tins that are easy to pack and take home.
Funchal Cathedral
Continue to Sé Catedral do Funchal.
The cathedral dates back to the late 15th and early 16th centuries and is one of the most historically important buildings in the city. Look up at its detailed wooden ceiling before continuing towards the old town.
Mercado dos Lavradores
Visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal’s famous farmers’ market. You will find flowers, fruit, vegetables, fish and local products across its different sections.
The building itself is worth seeing for its tiled entrance and colourful flower displays. Be aware that some fruit vendors target tourists with tastings followed by surprisingly high prices. Ask for the exact price per kilogram before agreeing to buy anything.
Rua de Santa Maria
Walk through Rua de Santa Maria in Funchal’s old town.
The street is known for its painted doors, restaurants and lively evening atmosphere. The Painted Doors Project transformed previously neglected doors into individual artworks, making the street one of Funchal’s most photographed areas.
Pastel de Nata at Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha
Do not leave the old town without stopping at Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha.
We had one of our favourite pastéis de nata here. Order one with coffee and eat it while it is still warm.
Poncha at Rei da Poncha
Try Madeira’s traditional drink at Rei da Poncha.
Classic poncha is made using aguardente de cana, honey and citrus juice. It tastes deceptively easy to drink, but it is considerably stronger than it initially seems. Our poncha tasting cost approximately €18 for two people.
Lunch at Caco Factory
For lunch, visit Caco Factory for another opportunity to enjoy bolo do caco. It is a convenient and affordable option when you want a casual lunch rather than a long restaurant meal.
Sunset at Miradouro do Cristo Rei
Later in the afternoon, collect your car and drive to Miradouro do Cristo Rei in Garajau. A large statue of Christ overlooks the ocean from the clifftop, with sweeping views along the coast.
The viewpoint is particularly attractive around sunset.
Dinner at Talho do Caniço
Finish the day at Talho do Caniço. The restaurant offers a distinctive espetada experience and is an excellent final dinner after exploring Funchal and Garajau.
Day 7: Monte Cable Car, Wicker Toboggans and a Sunset Hike
Your final day combines two of Madeira’s most famous attractions with one final mountain experience. For my complete Guide about Funchal, read: “Best Things to Do in Funchal”
Take the Funchal Cable Car to Monte
Wake up early and arrive at the Funchal cable-car terminal shortly before opening. In 2026, the official advertised opening time is 8:45am, with the final journey at 5:45pm. Adult tickets cost €22 return or €16 one way. (madeiracablecar.com)
Buy your tickets online and have them ready on your phone so you can go directly to boarding. The cable car rises from Funchal’s old town to Monte, offering panoramic views over the city, harbour and surrounding hills.
Ride the Monte Wicker Toboggans
Once you arrive in Monte, walk to the departure point for the Carreiros do Monte wicker toboggans. This is one of Madeira’s most unusual traditions. Two traditionally dressed carreiros guide the wicker basket down the steep road using rubber-soled boots to steer and brake.
We paid €40 for two people.
The ride does not finish in central Funchal or beside the cable-car terminal. It ends partway down the hill, which is important when planning what to do next.
Getting Back to Monte After the Toboggan Ride
After the ride, we attempted to order Uber and Bolt, but no drivers accepted. Walk a short distance from the arrival point and you should find taxis waiting. Some drivers may initially quote a flat fare of around €20 to return to Monte. Politely declining or negotiating may bring this closer to €10, which is what we paid.
When travelling as a couple, consider sharing with another couple heading back to Monte. This can reduce the fare to approximately €2.50 per person. You could technically walk uphill, but it is extremely steep. A taxi is the most practical option when you intend to visit Monte Palace afterward.
Should You Visit Monte Palace Madeira?
Monte Palace Madeira is a large tropical garden containing ornamental lakes, sculptures, tiled panels, Asian-inspired features and extensive plant collections. Adult admission is currently €18, while children aged 14 and under enter free when accompanied by an adult. (Monte Palace Tropical Garden)
The garden is beautiful, but whether it is worth visiting depends on your interests, the weather and your available time. We arrived at around 10am, but it was already becoming busy and cloud eventually covered much of the view.
Allow at least two hours to explore properly. There is also a small poncha bar inside, although our poncha cost around €6, making it noticeably more expensive than drinks elsewhere on the island.
Visit Monte Palace When:
- You enjoy tropical gardens
- The weather is reasonably clear
- You have at least two hours available
- You do not mind walking on steep paths
Skip Monte Palace When:
- You are not particularly interested in gardens
- The mountain is completely covered in cloud
- You want more time in Funchal
- You prefer to keep the final day inexpensive
When skipping the garden, buy a one-way cable-car ticket, complete the wicker toboggan ride and then take a local bus or taxi back towards Funchal.
When visiting the garden, take a taxi back up after the toboggan ride and return to Funchal later using the cable car.
Lunch and Afternoon Rest in Funchal
Once you return to Funchal, have a leisurely lunch in the city. Spend the afternoon resting at your hotel, particularly when you have booked a guided sunset hike for the evening.
Finish With Madeira’s Stairway to Heaven
For our final adventure, we booked a guided sunset hike in Madeira’s central mountains, often promoted as the Stairway to Heaven experience. This name normally refers to the dramatic stairway section and viewpoints around Pico do Areeiro.
We paid £127 for two people for the guided experience.
PR1 Vereda do Areeiro is Madeira’s famous high-mountain trail connecting Pico do Areeiro, Pico das Torres and Pico Ruivo. The complete trail is approximately seven kilometres one way and is officially classified as moderately difficult, but closures and partial-access restrictions are common.
Do not assume the full route will be open. Check the official status before travelling and follow the route used by your licensed guide. Sunset tours may focus on accessible viewpoints and shorter trail sections rather than completing the entire Pico do Areeiro-to-Pico Ruivo crossing.
Bring:
- A warm layer
- A waterproof jacket
- Supportive shoes
- Water
- A head torch
- A fully charged phone
Temperatures at altitude can feel dramatically colder than in Funchal, particularly after sunset. Watching the clouds, mountain peaks and changing evening light was an unforgettable way to finish our seven days in Madeira.
What to Pack for One Week in Madeira
Madeira’s microclimates mean you may experience sunshine, wind, fog and rain on the same day.
Pack:
- Comfortable walking shoes
- Waterproof hiking jacket
- Light layers
- Warm layer for mountain sunsets
- Swimwear
- Quick-drying towel
- Sunscreen
- Hat
- Reusable water bottle
- Small backpack
- Portable phone charger
- Head torch
- Smart-casual outfit for restaurants or spa hotels
For levada walks, shoes with good grip are more important than fashionable trainers.
Is Seven Days Enough for Madeira?
Seven days is enough to experience Madeira’s main highlights without rushing excessively.
This itinerary includes the northeast, north coast, northwest, Calheta, Funchal and Monte while still allowing time for swimming, food and a spa day.
However, Madeira could easily fill ten days or two weeks, especially when you enjoy hiking.
With additional time, consider adding:
- Câmara de Lobos
- Cabo Girão
- Curral das Freiras
- São Vicente
- Levada do Caldeirão Verde
- Whale and dolphin watching
- The Botanical Garden
- A day trip to Porto Santo
What Is the Best Month to Visit Madeira?
Madeira is a year-round destination, although the best period depends on your priorities.
Spring is ideal for flowers and comfortable hiking temperatures. Summer generally offers warmer beach weather but attracts more visitors. Autumn can remain pleasantly warm, while winter is mild but wetter and less predictable in the mountains.
Can You Visit Madeira Without Hiking?
Yes. Madeira offers scenic drives, gardens, cable cars, natural swimming pools, beaches, villages, spas, restaurants and viewpoints that require little or no hiking.
This itinerary can be adapted by replacing 25 Fontes and the sunset mountain hike with scenic drives or shorter walks.
Are Madeira’s Hikes Difficult?
Madeira has routes for a wide range of abilities.
Levada walks may appear flat, but they can still involve narrow ledges, tunnels, slippery surfaces and long distances. Mountain trails often include steep climbs, exposed drops and rapidly changing weather.
Always read the official trail description rather than judging a hike from photographs alone.
Do You Need to Prebook Madeira Hikes?
In 2026, official classified PR trails require advance registration and generally involve a fee for non-residents. Book through the official SIMplifica platform and check the trail status shortly before departure.
Is Madeira Expensive?
Madeira can suit a variety of budgets.
Car rental, organised tours and luxury hotels can raise the total quickly, but local restaurants, bakeries, supermarkets and guesthouses can be reasonably priced.
Our trip averaged approximately 200€ per person per day, including flights, accommodation, car rental and a luxury spa day.
Is Monte Palace Madeira Worth It?
Monte Palace is worth visiting for travellers who enjoy tropical gardens, art and landscaped spaces.
Allow at least two hours. When the weather is poor or gardens are not a particular interest, you may prefer to spend the time elsewhere and purchase only a one-way cable-car ticket.
Is Porto Moniz Worth Staying Overnight?
Yes, particularly when you want to explore 25 Fontes, Fanal Forest, Seixal and the northwest without driving back to Funchal.
Porto Moniz is more active and convenient, while the surrounding countryside offers quieter guesthouses and mountain views.
Final Thoughts on Our Seven-Day Madeira Itinerary
Madeira is one of those destinations where the journey between places is often as memorable as the attraction itself.
During one week, we drove beside waterfalls, crossed misty mountain plateaus, walked through ancient forest, swam in volcanic pools, ate espetada overlooking the ocean and watched sunset from above the clouds. Dividing the trip between Madeira’s northeast, northwest and Funchal gave us a much more varied experience than staying in the capital for the entire week.
The itinerary was active without feeling relentless, and the spa day in Calheta provided the perfect break between the hiking days and our time in Funchal. For a first trip to Madeira, seven days is enough to understand why so many travellers return, while still leaving plenty of reasons to visit the island again.
