Madeira Houses and Holiday Homes from $39 | HomeToGo (2023)

Where to find the best food in Madeira?

Madeiran cuisine is strongly influenced by mainland Portugal and southern Europe in general. Madeira's island location gives it a particularly rich and varied offer of fish and shellfish. Local specialties include oysters and mussels, lobster paella and meat dishes such as pico, made with small, succulent pieces of fried veal. The wood-fired meat skewer, served with fresh green salad, is another typical dish to be savored on the terraces of Madeiran restaurants.

Madeira wine is a local specialty, a fortified blend that comes in varieties to drink before or after meals. There is also no shortage of the usual wines in bars, restaurants and supermarkets across the island. You can buy excellent quality bottles for much less than in many other parts of the world. Finally, you cannot visit Portugal without trying one of the famous pasteis de nata, or custard tarts.

What are the best places to experience Madeiran art and culture?

Claimed by the Portuguese in the 15th century, Madeira has always been a place of contrasts. It looks very European, but it has a culture, climate and geography that sets it apart from the mainland. The beauty of nature can be appreciated even in its cities, as in one of Funchal's many large parks. These include the Madeira Botanical Garden and the Palheiro Gardens, the latter subdivided into themes such as the Rose Garden and the French Garden. Funchal is also a wonderful place to explore historic churches, such as the 17th-century Igreja do Colégio Jesuíta and the Sé Catedral.

The city ofSanta Cruzit is also an excellent place to appreciate traditional Madeiran handicrafts. Visit the Fábrica da Requeijão Massa Cheese Factory, nestled among the nearby mountains, or buy delicious food at the Municipal Market to prepare in your vacation rental.

What are the best activities for families in Madeira?

Madeira is an especially child-friendly destination, offering plenty of options for all tastes and activity levels. The best coastal spots for families include Ponta Gorda, near Funchal, with natural spots for swimming in the sea water, including designated children's pools and a play area.

Ponta do Sol is close to Ponta Gorda and is a charming town with a small, quiet beach and areas to play, and places to walk nearby. TheBreakOut Funchal is an immersive escape room experience, ideal for learning more about the island and enjoying hands-on family fun in the afternoon.

What are the best places to go out at night in Madeira?

If your ideal holiday includes a bit of bar and dancing, Funchal is definitely the place to visit in Madeira. Most establishments are scattered along the seafront, such as on Avenida do Mar, and in the smaller streets that lead from it. They include cozy wall bars frequented by locals. This is where they meet after work to have a few beers and have fun watching football or playing pool. Stylish cocktail bars can also be found where the staff are always known for being generous with their drinks when making the drinks.

The local "discos" are perfect for prolonging the night into the wee hours of the morning. If you prefer an artistic presentation, consider works byMunicipal Theater Baltazar Dias. This 19th century building exudes elegance inside and out. If you fancy something more cosmopolitan, a ballet night or a piano recital by renowned artists might be the perfect option.

Where are the unique attractions in Madeira?

In such stunning surroundings, you might want to hire a car or check out local tours for rural Madeira experiences. This includes sleepy fishing villages like Porto Santo in the northeast of the island. Environments like these are ideal for enjoying the traditional side of Madeira. Also, consider hiking through the mountainous landscapes ofPico do Arieirofor some of the most spectacular views across steep valleys, with opportunities to experience views above the clouds.

Beaches can be found in abundance near Funchal and at many points on the island. Porto Moniz's natural pools are an interesting alternative to these. Porto Moniz is located in the northwest corner of Madeira and is easily accessible even from Funchal in the south.