Lying off the northwest coast of Africa, Madeira is an autonomous Portuguese archipelago made up of four islands.
Each unique island boasts incredible mountainous landscapes, saltwater rock pools and volcanic beaches that lead to crystal-clear waters. There is also plenty to explore, with various museums, historical cathedrals, outdoor galleries, exotic flower markets, botanical gardens, and a cable car that offers spectacular panoramic views over the region’s capital city, Funchal.
Thanks to its geographical location and mountainous landscape, Madeira benefits from a moderated subtropical climate, making it a popular all-year-round destination.
Where to stay:
Despite its size, Madeira’s unique landscape and geographical location mean that no two parts of the Island are particularly similar.
The capital of Madeira, Funchal, is the most popular destination for visitors. Located on Madeira’s south coast, the city benefits from a sunnier and warmer climate than the rest of the Island, as any cloud typically develops inland. Owing to the more settled weather conditions, many banana plantations and stunning flower gardens surround Funchal. The city is also considered one of the cleanest and most picturesque in all of Europe.
In contrast, inland Madeira’s mountainous landscape is a popular destination for levada walks and hikes. Sitting at 1,862 meters above sea level, Pico Ruivo is the Island’s largest mountain peak and is also the third-largest peak in all of Portugal. The mountain sits as the centrepiece of the Island and forms part of the backdrop to many mountain guesthouses.
Getting there:
Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC/LPMA) is the only airport serving the island of Madeira and is approximately 20 kilometres from Funchal. Accessible by private jet, a transfer from the airport takes around 20 minutes by road to the centre of Funchal.
Approximate flight times:
| Dubai ✈ Madeira | 9 hours 30 minutes |
| London ✈ Madeira | 3 hours 30 minutes |
| New York ✈ Madeira | 6 hours 30 minutes |
| Paris ✈ Madeira | 3 hours 15 minutes |
| Singapore ✈ Madeira | 17 hours 0 minutes |
| Zurich ✈ Madeira | 3 hours 45 minutes |
