Principales activités à pratiquer à Madère

Explorer Funchal

Stroll Through Old Town

Funchal’s Old Town is a maze of narrow cobblestone streets, colorful houses, and vibrant street art. The Zona Velha offers a charming glimpse into Madeira’s history and culture. Don’t miss the Rua de Santa Maria, famous for its painted doors.

Visit Mercado dos Lavradores

Les Mercado dos Lavradores is the heart of local commerce. Here, you can find exotic fruits, fresh fish, and an array of local crafts. It’s a sensory overload in the best way possible.

Cable Car Ride to Monte

Hop on the cable car for a breathtaking ride up to Monte. Once there, explore the Jardin tropical du Monte Palace and perhaps even take a thrilling toboggan ride back down.

Sentiers de randonnée

Marches de Levada

Madère Marches de Levada are iconic. These irrigation channels offer unique walking trails through lush landscapes. Some popular routes include Levada do Caldeirão Verde and Levada das 25 Fontes.

De Pico do Arieiro à Pico Ruivo

For the more adventurous, the hike from De Pico do Arieiro à Pico Ruivo is a must. This strenuous trek features jaw-dropping views and takes you to Madeira’s highest peak.

Routes panoramiques

Route to Porto Moniz

The drive to Porto Moniz is a visual treat. Wind your way through mountains and coastal roads to reach the natural lava pools. It’s a drive worth taking slowly to soak in the scenery.

Drive through Santana

Santana is famous for its traditional A-frame houses. The drive here is equally captivating, offering spectacular views of the island’s rugged terrain.

Observation des baleines et des dauphins

Boat Tours

Madeira’s waters are teeming with marine life. Boat tours offer the chance to see dolphins, whales, and even turtles. Companies like VMT Madeira provide excellent guided tours.

Best Times to Spot Marine Life

The best time for spotting whales and dolphins is between April and October, when the waters are warm and marine life is most active.

Beaches and Natural Pools

Porto Santo Beach

Porto Santo Beach is a sandy paradise perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Its golden sands and clear waters are unparalleled.

Doca do Cavacas

Les Doca do Cavacas natural pools offer a unique swimming experience. Carved out of volcanic rock, these pools are a local favorite.

Jardins botaniques

Jardin tropical du Monte Palace

Les Jardin tropical du Monte Palace is a horticulturist’s dream. With exotic plants from around the world and stunning views over Funchal, it’s a must-see.

Jardin botanique de Madère

Les Jardin botanique de Madère in Funchal is another gem. It’s home to over 2,500 plants and offers an excellent overview of Madeira’s flora.

Dégustation de vin

Visit Vineyards

Vin de Madère is legendary. Several vineyards offer tours and tastings. Quinta do Barbusano and Blandy’s Wine Lodge provide insightful tours into the wine-making process.

Madeira Wine Museum

Les Madeira Wine Museum is where you can dive deep into the island’s wine history. Located in an 18th-century estate, it’s a treasure trove of information.

Adventure Sports

Canyoning

For adrenaline junkies, canyoning in Madeira’s rugged landscapes is a must. Descend waterfalls, jump into pools, and navigate narrow gorges with expert guides.

Parapente

Parapente offers a bird’s-eye view of Madeira’s stunning landscapes. Experience the island from above, swooping over mountains and coastline alike.

Museums and Culture

Centre d'histoire de Madère

Les Centre d'histoire de Madère provides an engaging overview of the island’s history. Interactive exhibits make it perfect for families.

Musée d'art sacré

Les Musée d'art sacré in Funchal houses an impressive collection of religious artifacts, paintings, and sculptures, primarily from the 15th to 19th centuries.

Unique Local Festivals

Fête des fleurs

Les Fête des fleurs is a riot of color and fragrance. Held in spring, it celebrates Madeira’s stunning flora with parades, displays, and performances.

Carnival Celebrations

Madère Carnaval is a vibrant affair, akin to Rio’s but with a unique local twist. Expect elaborate costumes, lively music, and street parties.

Dining and Local Cuisine

Traditional Espetada

Espetada, skewered beef cooked over an open flame, is a must-try. Head to a traditional restaurant for the best experience.

Seafood Restaurants

Madeira’s seafood is legendary. For a memorable meal, try fresh limpets, black scabbardfish, or octopus at one of the island’s seafood restaurants.

Shopping

Handicrafts

Madeira is famous for its intricate handicrafts. Items like embroidery, wickerwork, and tapestries make for excellent souvenirs.

Marchés locaux

Local markets are the best places to find fresh produce and unique crafts. Besides Mercado dos Lavradores, smaller markets in towns like Machico and Santana are worth a visit.