Solo Travel Madeira: Your Ultimate Guide to Exploring Portugal's Island Gem
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Welcome to Madeira, the ultimate paradise for solo travelers! Whether you're a seasoned digital nomad, a first-time solo adventurer, or someone who appreciates the art of slow travel, this European destination is one you cannot miss.
Madeira was one of my very first solo trips, and it is one destination that remains close to my heart. The serene, natural beauty and the warm, welcoming atmosphere made it a place I’m eager to revisit.
In this guide, I’ll share everything you need to know to make the most of your solo journey to Madeira. From the must-see spots to insider tips, I’ve got you covered so you can embark on your upcoming adventure with confidence.
What is Madeira Known For?
Madeira, often referred to as the "Pearl of the Atlantic," is a lush and mountainous Portuguese island located off the northwest coast of Africa. Known for its stunning landscapes, rich culture, and year-round mild climate, in recent years, Madeira has become a hotspot for nomads and solo travelers.
Many travelers enjoy Madeira's famed hiking trails, offering breathtaking views of valleys, forests, and waterfalls.
The island is also celebrated for its wine as well as its vibrant festivals. One local told me, “it doesn’t matter when you come to Madeira, you will always find a celebration happening somewhere on the island.”
Speaking of locals, Madeira is also known for its warm and welcoming people. Madeirans are incredibly hospitable and kind which is one theme you will find throughout this guide and one of the reasons why Madeira is such a great destination for solo travel.
Monte Palace Gardens in Madeira
Is Madeira Safe for Solo Travel?
Madeira is an exceptionally safe destination for solo travelers. The local people are warm and welcoming, and crime rates are low. Even as a beginner solo traveler, I felt extremely safe in Madeira, including while walking back to my hotel after dark in Funchal.
As with any travel destination, it's always important to exercise standard precautions, such as keeping an eye on your belongings and making sure you are paying attention to your surroundings.
The island's well-developed infrastructure, along with its extensive network of hiking trails and public transport options, makes it easy to explore independently.
Although I didn't hike solo on this trip, a friend who did hike solo emphasized the importance of being cautious due to the narrow and steep nature of the trails which require extra care as you don’t want to get yourself into an emergency situation while alone.
It's also crucial to stay hydrated, especially during the summer, as the island sun can get to you quicker than you'd expect.
The key is to plan your solo travel in Maderia with great detail to make it an exceptional and safe experience.
How to Get to Madeira
The Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), often called the Madeira or Funchal Airport, is located just outside of Funchal.
Madeira is easily accessible with regular flights from major European cities. I flew directly from Manchester, England, with the flight taking just under three hours. You can also find direct flights from London, Paris, and other key European hubs. If you're traveling from mainland Portugal, daily flights are available from Lisbon and Porto.
There are also limited flights to and from the Porto Santo Airport (an island close to Madeira, often called “Madeira’s little sister island”) and a regular ferry service that goes between the two islands multiple times a day.
Insider tip:
Make sure you have travel insurance. Although this is rare, there are occasions where extreme windstorms shut down the Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC).
If this happens to you, you will want to call your hotel and explain the situation. Most hotels will be understanding and hold the room for you. Many travel insurance plans will help cover any unexpected costs that are connected to inclement weather.
When to Visit Madeira
Madeira is a year-round destination, thanks to its mild subtropical island climate. However, the best time to visit depends on what kind of experience you want to have.
Spring (March to May) is ideal for seeing the island in full bloom, particularly during the Flower Festival.
Summer (June to September) is perfect for beach activities and outdoor adventures. Summer time can get hot, especially during heatwaves but the normal temperatures stay fairly mild. Make sure to look ahead at what to expect during your trip.
Autumn (October to November) offers pleasant weather and fewer crowds. There are still plenty of outdoor activities to do during this time.
Winter (December to February) is still mild and a great time to enjoy festive celebrations. I have heard from several people that December in Madeira is a very special experience due to the festivities.
The Funchal Promenade in Funchal city centre
Can You Solo Travel in Madeira Without a Car?
Yes! It is very possible to enjoy a solo trip to Madeira without renting a car. Renting a car does allow some freedom if you want to explore some of the rural areas at your own pace. However, I opted for a car-free trip and it turned out to be an amazing experience.
Madeira’s Aerobus service offers a shuttle from the airport directly into Funchal, with stops at many of the hotels and accommodations. It takes 30-40 minutes and costs around €5 one-way or €8 round-trip (as of June 2023).
Taxis to the airport from Funchal go for around €30. This is something I ended up doing as I had a 6:00 AM return flight. Uber is not used in Madeira but Bolt is and other taxi apps are popular. Alternatively, your hotel may be able to help you book a taxi and find the best deal.
Madeira’s public bus network is extensive, connecting major towns and tourist sites. As you will read later on in this article, I took the bus to travel to Monte as the cable car was down due to the wind. The routes were very simple to figure out and there are plenty of guides in Funchal city centre near the main bus terminals to assist you with any questions you have. In June 2023, the fare for a one-way journey was around €2.
In Funchal, you can easily walk around to explore the historic center, markets, and museums.
Organized tours and shuttle services for popular destinations like Pico do Arieiro and Porto Moniz. This is something I would definitely recommend doing. You not only get transportation to some of the more rural areas, you also get to see the island from a local guide’s perspective and experience all of the hidden gems along the way.
Pro tip:
If you are looking for a unique experience during your solo trip to Madeira, check out this safari jeep tour of the west part of the island. You get to see a handful of stunning, must-see sights in Madeira from the back of an open-top jeep!
The small group setting makes for a special experience and a way to meet other people who are traveling Madeira solo or in a small group just like you.
Safari Jeep tour of the west part of Madeira
Where to Stay in Madeira as a Solo Traveler
Funchal is the best base for solo travelers, especially if you are planning a short trip. As the island’s capital city, it features plenty of accommodation options, ranging from hostels to luxury resorts and boutique hotels.
If you're interested in wellness retreats, I have heard the coastal areas of Calheta and Ponta do Sol are known for their relaxing resorts.
If you are a nomad or a slow traveler looking for a place to stay in Madeira for a month or longer, Funchal still makes a great base but Madeira is also known for its digital nomad village, Ponta do Sol, which you may find to be a better option for your trip.
Here is a list of recommended places to stay in Madeira:
Best Hostels in Funchal ($): Hostelworld Funchal
Best Hotel for Solo Travelers in Madeira ($$$): Quinta Da Penha De Franca
Options for Nomads: DIGITAL NOMADS Madeira Islands
Hotel in Câmara de Lobos ($$$): Churchill Bay Pestana
Best Luxury Resort Hotel ($$$$$): Reid’s Palace
Digital Nomad Community in Madeira
Madeira has become a hotspot for digital nomads, thanks to its digital nomad village in Ponta do Sol, the very first of its kind in the world.
This initiative, supported by the local government, offers coworking spaces, networking events, and a vibrant community of remote workers. There are several accommodation options in this area, including various digital nomad co-living spaces.
The island's fast internet, relatively affordable cost of living, and stunning scenery make it an attractive destination for those looking to work remotely while enjoying a high quality of life.
Whether you're looking to stay for a few weeks or several months, you'll likely find a supportive community and plenty of opportunities to connect with like-minded individuals.
Best Places to Travel in Madeira
Funchal
Explore the island’s vibrant capital with its vibrant parks, historic buildings, and lively markets. Some of the best things to do in Funchal include:
Parks: Local parks are one of my favorite places to visit when traveling, as they offer a glimpse into the everyday life of the locals. There are several parks in Funchal that have the perfect atmosphere to relax and enjoy the sunshine such as Jardim de Santa Luiza, Jardim Municipal do Funchal, and Santa Catarina.
Wine Tasting: Did you know that Madeiran wine was enjoyed in celebration after the Declaration of Independence was signed in America in 1776? The island's wine has been renowned internationally for centuries, and the industry remains vibrant today. If you're a wine lover, you won't want to miss the chance to indulge in a wine tasting or tour while you're here—it's an experience not to be missed.
Promenade: Funchal’s Promendade follows the coastline. You will not only find gorgeous views on this little walk but you will also come across a mini outdoor market where you can find pastries, food, and, of course, poncha which is a traditional alcoholic drink made from brandy, honey, and orange juice. The recipe is prepared differently depending on the person making it.
Praça do Município: A historic square surrounded by notable buildings such as the Museum of Sacred Art, Church of St. John, and the Funchal City Hall. The black and white tiles throughout this area of town showcase traditional Portuguese design and incorporation of “azulejos” (glazed ceramic tiles).
Mercado dos Lavradores: A stunning courtyard market, is lined with local vendors of fruit, vegetables, fish, meat, and beautiful handcrafted goods. It's a must-visit on this trip, especially if you want to try some of the local fruits, including the famous monstera delicious or maracuja banana.
Dining in Zona Velha (Old Town): Zona Velha encompasses the oldest parts of the city including Praça do Município and Mercado dos Lavradores. The historic and charming street of Rua de Santa Maria houses some of the best dining experiences you will find on the island. This street comes to life in the evening, with live music filling the atmosphere and people enjoying good food and each other’s company.
Monte Palace Gardens in Madeira
Monte
Take the cable car from Funchal to this hilltop village, known for its stunning gardens and toboggan rides.The view of Funchal and the ocean as you take the cable cars up the mountain is absolutely unreal. Alternatively, you can take the public bus which you can catch in Funchal city centre which is what I ended up doing one day when the cable car was down due to bad wind.
The Monte Palace Gardens are a must-visit in Madeira. The entrance fee is €15 (as of April 2024) and when I went, they had free wine tasting with the purchase of the ticket. The self guided tour takes you through a forest maze of beautiful tropical plants.
As you make your way through the gardens, you may also encounter peacocks, chickens, flamingos, swans, and other birds and animals that freely wander the grounds.
There are also museums, houses, and lakes to explore. There is a cafe at the top of the hill and another when you make your way to the bottom (where the free wine tasting was located).
Monte Palace was built as a private residence in 1897
Toboggan Ride: Monte to Funchal
When you decide it is time to head back down the mountain,you might want to consider taking one of the well-known attractions in Madeira as transportation back to Funchal: the toboggan run.
You will be guided down the mountain in a traditional wicker basket by two chauffeurs called “carreiros.” This means of transportation was part of everyday life for Madeirans, starting in the 1850s. Today, this exciting 10 minute journey is one of the main characters in Funchal’s tourism portfolio.
As of June 2023 the Toboggan Ride was €27.50 per person. It is wise to check and do research before this activity as schedules and prices are subject to change.
Santana
Santana is famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses, known as "casas de colmo." These colorful, triangular homes offer a glimpse into the island's history and heritage. Additionally, the Madeira Theme Park provides an interactive journey through the island's history and culture. Santana is a perfect blend of cultural and natural beauty, making it a memorable stop on your Madeira itinerary.
Praia do Porto do Seixal, Madeira (black sand beach in Seixal, Madeira)
Seixal
The village of Seixal is tucked away on Madeira’s northern coast. This location is a place of raw, untouched beauty. Known for its striking black sand beaches, Seixal offers a unique contrast to the island's usual rocky shores.
Beyond the beaches, Seixal is home to enchanting waterfalls that cascade down the cliffs, adding to the village's serene atmosphere.
The charming village itself is also one of the island’s gems, perfect for those looking for a quiet day trip.
Queimadas Forest Park
This park, located near Santana, offers lush landscapes and scenic hiking trails, along with charming European-style cottages nestled in a tropical rainforest. The contrast between these cottages and the surrounding rainforest is incredible and unique. Among the trails, the popular Levada do Caldeirão Verde stands out, leading to a breathtaking waterfall.
Pico do Arieiro
Pico do Arieiro is one of Madeira's highest peaks, offering a beautiful hiking experience through dramatic landscapes.
There are a handful of guided sunrise tours that allow you to get to the peak just as the sun is lying above the clouds.
Whether you're an avid hiker or simply in search of awe-inspiring views, this peak promises a breathtaking adventure that captures the essence of Madeira's natural beauty.
The dramatic, rugged landscape around Porto Moniz’s natural volcanic pools
Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz is a small town on Madeira’s northwestern coast, known for its stunning natural volcanic pools. These crystalline pools, formed by ancient lava flows, offer a unique and serene swimming experience.
The village is surrounded by rugged cliffs and the sound of the ocean, Porto Moniz is the perfect place to unwind and connect with nature.
Whether you're looking to relax at the fabulous seaside restaurant, take a refreshing dip, or simply marvel at the geological wonders, this destination is a must-visit for anyone exploring Madeira.
Porto Santo
Take a ferry to “Madeira’s little sister island.” Porto Santo is known for its golden sandy beaches and gorgeous hikes.
If you want to learn more about Porto Santo and the things to do here, check out this YouTube video. You will quickly find out why this island stole my heart.
The village of Câmara de Lobos in Madeira, Portugal
Camara de Lobos
Fun fact: this scenic fishing village inspired Winston Churchill's paintings. That’s right, Churchill visited Madeira several times during his life and during his trip in1950, he spent his time immortalizing the view over the vibrant village of Camara de Lobos.
Fast forward 73 years to my own 2023 Madeira adventure, and Camara de Lobos was as vibrant as ever—fully decked out in festival mode, with colorful decorations lining the village’s streets and alleyways.
Madeira 4-Day Itinerary
If you're planning a quick trip to Madeira but still want it to be meaningful, embracing the art of slow travel, check out this suggested 4-day itinerary. This guide will help you maximize your time on the island while savoring its natural beauty, local culture, and unique experiences.
All festival decorations in Câmara de Lobos were made from recycled material
Conclusion
Madeira offers a rewarding solo travel experience with its beautiful landscapes, welcoming locals, and rich culture.
Whether you're exploring Funchal's lively streets, hiking the island’s trails, or relaxing on Porto Santo’s beaches, you’ll find plenty to enjoy.
For additional tips and a detailed itinerary, be sure to check out our related posts.
Safe travels!
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