Top 10 Things to do in Madeira

Things to do in Madeira

Welcome to Madeira, a stunning Portuguese island located in the Atlantic Ocean. This breath-taking destination is known for its natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture. Whether you’re an adventurer seeking thrills or simply looking for a relaxing getaway, Madeira has something for everyone. In this blog post, we’ve compiled the top 10 things to do in Madeira – from exploring museums and gardens to diving into natural swimming pools and admiring panoramic views from cable cars. So grab your sunscreen and let’s dive into our list of must-see attractions!

1. Monte Palace Madeira

Monte Palace Madeira is a stunning palace-turned-museum located in Funchal. This impressive attraction features an extensive collection of art and artifacts from around the world, including African sculptures, Chinese porcelain, and Portuguese tiles. The museum is also home to beautiful gardens that blend Eastern and Western styles.

One of the highlights of Monte Palace Madeira is its striking entrance gate made out of 18th-century Indian wood panels. As you make your way through the museum, you’ll encounter several themed galleries showcasing different cultures and civilizations.

In addition to its cultural offerings, Monte Palace Madeira boasts magnificent views of Funchal Bay and the surrounding hillsides. Visitors can take advantage of this picturesque setting by strolling through the lush gardens or enjoying a meal at one of the on-site restaurants.

Monte Palace Madeira offers a unique combination of history, art, nature, and panoramic views that are sure to leave visitors awe-inspired.

2. Forum Madeira

Forum Madeira is a shopping centre located in the heart of Funchal, the capital city of Madeira. It is one of the largest malls on the island, offering numerous options for entertainment and shopping.

Inside Forum Madeira, visitors can find a wide range of international brands such as Zara, H&M, and Sephora. They also have many local shops selling traditional products made by artisans from Madeira.

Apart from shopping opportunities, Forum Madeira has several restaurants serving different cuisines ranging from fast food to traditional Portuguese dishes. There are also cinemas showing both mainstream and independent movies.

The mall’s architecture is unique with its open-air design which allows natural light to enter throughout most parts of it. The atmosphere inside is lively with various events taking place regularly including musical performances and art exhibitions.

Forum Madeira provides an excellent experience for those who love to shop or just hang out in a modern environment while enjoying some good food or entertainment.

3. Blandy’s Wine Lodge

Blandy’s Wine Lodge is a must-visit spot for wine lovers who are visiting Madeira. This family-owned company has been producing quality fortified wines in the island for over 200 years and their lodge offers visitors an opportunity to taste some of the finest varieties.

The tour of Blandy’s Wine Lodge starts with a brief history of the brand, followed by a guided walk through their cellars where you can see barrels filled with aging wines. Knowledgeable staff members will explain how the different types of Madeira wines are made and aged, as well as answer any questions that you may have about the process.

After the tour, guests can head to the tasting room where they can sample various kinds of Madeira wine including dry Sercial, medium-dry Verdelho, medium-rich Bual or sweet Malmsey. The experience is truly unforgettable because each type has its own unique flavour profile that reflects on its grape variety and production method.

In addition to tastings, Blandy’s also offers private tours which include food pairings such as cheese or chocolate that perfectly complement their delicious wines. If you’re looking for a memorable wine-tasting experience while in Madeira then don’t miss out on Blandy’s Wine Lodge!

4. Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools

The Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools are one of the top attractions in Madeira for a refreshing dip. The pools were formed from volcanic rock and filled with seawater, creating a unique swimming experience unlike any other.

Located on the northwest coast of the island, visitors can take in stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean while enjoying a swim in these natural pools. The crystal-clear water is perfect for snorkelling or simply relaxing and soaking up the sun.

If you’re feeling adventurous, you can try jumping off some of the higher rocks into deeper waters below. But be cautious as currents can be strong at times.

There are also plenty of restaurants nearby where you can grab a bite to eat after your swim, or enjoy a drink while taking in the beautiful scenery around you.

Visiting Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools is an ideal way to spend a day out with family or friends during your trip to Madeira.

5. CR7 Museum

The CR7 Museum is a must-visit attraction for football fans and those interested in the life of Cristiano Ronaldo. The museum showcases trophies, memorabilia and personal items belonging to the legendary Portuguese footballer.

Located in Funchal, Madeira, the museum offers visitors an insight into Ronaldo’s career from his early days at Sporting CP to his success with Manchester United, Real Madrid and Juventus. The museum also displays some of his most iconic moments including the numerous Balloon d’Or wins.

One of the highlights of the museum is its interactive exhibits that allow visitors to feel like they are part of Ronaldo’s journey as a footballer. It includes virtual reality experiences where you can take penalty kicks or play alongside him on a digital pitch.

Aside from football-related items, there are also sections dedicated to his personal life such as family photos and childhood mementos. This unique attraction provides an immersive experience into one of football’s greatest players.

6. Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a lush paradise tucked away in the hills of Funchal. The garden boasts over 70,000 square meters of land filled with exotic plants and stunning views. As you explore the garden, you’ll come across waterfalls, lakes, and even Japanese-style gardens.

One of the highlights of Monte Palace Tropical Garden is its collection of tile panels from Portugal and other parts of the world. These beautifully crafted panels depict scenes from history, mythology, and everyday life.

The garden also features an impressive sculpture collection that includes works by renowned artists such as Picasso and Moore. You can spend hours wandering among these fascinating pieces while taking in the natural beauty around you.

If you’re looking for a peaceful escape from the hustle and bustle of city life, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is definitely worth a visit. With its serene atmosphere and breath-taking scenery, it’s easy to see why this place captures visitors’ hearts year after year.

7. Cabo Girao

Cabo Girao is a must-visit destination for anyone traveling to Madeira. Known as one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, this attraction offers breath taking views that will leave you speechless.

As you approach Cabo Girao, you’ll notice the clear blue waters of the Atlantic Ocean below. The view from the top is simply stunning and provides an excellent photo opportunity for visitors.

One exciting thing to do at Cabo Girao is to take a walk on its famous glass platform which extends out over the cliff edge. Walking on this platform gives visitors a thrilling sensation of floating above open space while being able to admire panoramic views.

For those with a fear of heights or who prefer not to go out onto the glass floor, there are plenty of other viewing areas available where they can capture amazing photographs and enjoy spectacular scenery.

Moreover, there’s also a souvenir shop near Cabo Girao where visitors can buy unique gifts and souvenirs such as postcards, magnets, keychains among others.

Visiting Cabo Girao should be on everyone’s list when exploring Madeira as it promises adventure and unforgettable memories!

8. Funchal Cable Car

A thrilling and scenic ride awaits you at the Funchal Cable Car in Madeira. The cable car provides a bird’s eye view of the city of Funchal as it takes you up to Monte, located at an altitude of 560 meters above sea level.

As soon as you step into the cable car cabin, be prepared for breath taking views of Madeira Island’s rugged terrain. You’ll get stunning views of Funchal harbour, lush green mountainsides and picturesque towns along the way.

The journey takes about twenty minutes each way, giving ample time to take photographs and enjoy the panoramic vistas from various angles. At Monte station, there are many attractions such as botanical gardens with exotic plants from around the world or even a traditional toboggan ride back down towards Funchal.

To make your experience more memorable consider taking this ride during sunset or night time when everything is lit up beautifully against the dark sky. Riding on the Funchal Cable Car should definitely be on your list for top things to do in Madeira!

9. Valley of the Nuns

Nestled in the heart of Madeira lies a breathtakingly beautiful valley known as the “Valley of the Nuns”. This awe-inspiring location is surrounded by towering mountains and lush vegetation, making it one of the most picturesque spots on the island.

The valley gets its name from the fact that it was initially settled by nuns who fled their convent during an invasion. Legend has it that they found refuge here, where they lived in isolation for many years.

Today, visitors can explore this tranquil haven on foot or by car. As you journey through winding roads and scenic paths, you’ll witness some of nature’s most stunning wonders – cascading waterfalls, vibrant wildflowers and meandering streams.

At its heart lies a small village with charming houses and cosy cafes serving up traditional Portuguese cuisine. Valley of The Nuns is a perfect escape for anyone looking to immerse themselves in natural beauty while enjoying delicious food and local culture.

10. Santa Catarina Park

Santa Catarina Park is a beautiful green oasis located in the heart of Funchal. It’s a great place to spend an afternoon relaxing and taking in the natural beauty that Madeira has to offer. The park features stunning gardens, fountains, and walking paths that are sure to delight visitors.

In addition to its natural beauty, Santa Catarina Park also offers a variety of activities for visitors. There are playgrounds for children, tennis courts for sports enthusiasts, and even a small pond where you can rent paddle boats.

There are countless things to do in Madeira that make it one of Europe’s top destinations. From exploring historical landmarks like Monte Palace Madeira and Blandy’s Wine Lodge to soaking up the sun at Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools or Cabo Girao – there truly is something for everyone on this incredible island.

So what are you waiting for? Book your trip today and discover all the amazing things there are to do in Madeira!