Do they speak English on Madeira Island?
Do they speak English on Madeira Island? Portuguese is the official language in Madeira. It is worth picking up a few key phrases if you want to be polite, such as 'please', 'thank you,' etcetera, although English is widely spoken in tourist areas. People who have visited the Portuguese mainland may notice a thicker accent in Madeira.
Do I need an EHIC card for Madeira?
You will need a valid passport or national identity card during your stay in Madeira. Although not mandatory, possessing a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) or equivalent health insurance coverage is recommended.
Do I need cash in Funchal?
Most places in Madeira do take cards, but you'll need some cash for buses, and I've heard that some of the cable cars only take cash too (the cable car from the promenade in Funchal does take cards). The small shops and cafes I visited all took cards but it's best to have some money just in case.
What is the most popular drink in Madeira?
Poncha is the most well-known alcoholic drink on the island, made with sugar cane brandy, sugar and lemon juice. But, in addition to the traditional version, there are other versions that are worth trying.
What is a typical drink from Madeira?
Poncha is a traditional alcoholic drink from the island of Madeira, made with aguardente de cana (distilled alcohol made from sugar cane juice), honey, sugar, and either orange juice or lemon juice. Some varieties include other fruit juices.
What is so special about Madeira?
Madeira is renowned for its landscapes, lore—and its legendary wine, which graced the tables of America's Founding Fathers.
Can you get by with English in Madeira?
The official language spoken in the Madeira archipelago is Portuguese, but a majority of the local population is proficient in English, especially in the more tourist-heavy spots.
Can you drink from the tap in Madeira?
ELECTRICITY AND WATER The electric current in the archipelago is 220 volts. There is plenty of water in Madeira and it is all drinkable and of excellent quality.
Is Madeira more expensive than Portugal?
With both rent and restaurant prices being around 25% cheaper than in Lisbon, Funchal allows you to live your island dream without paying the more expensive prices of mainland Portugal.
Can you walk around Madeira?
There are dozens of trails, hundreds of kilometres and countless sceneries to enjoy while hiking in Madeira. The west coast of Madeira hides some of the most breathtaking sceneries with trails and routes that cater for those who just want to stroll along as well as those who are looking for a bit of adventure.
What time of year is cheapest to fly to Madeira?
Find the best deals Airfare to Madeira Island (FNC) varies throughout the year based on seasonal demand. You'll see the lowest rates for roundtrips to FNC in December and in December for one-ways.
What is the difference between Madeira and Funchal?
If you don't already know, Funchal is the capital city of a magical Portuguese island archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic known as Madeira.
Is Madeira expensive compared to UK?
Comparison with London: Consumer prices in Funchal are 39.49% lower than in London (without rent). Rent Prices in Funchal are 63.96% lower than in London.
Is Madeira hotter than the Canaries?
We went in April and whilst I agree that Madeira is a stunning island particularly in the interior we found it much cooler than the Canaries at the same time of year. It depends what you want in a holiday but you only need to look at how green the island is to realise that there must be significant rainfall.
What is the most expensive part of Madeira?
Funchal is the most expensive place to buy property on the islands – given its higher demand and abundance of services.
Why is Madeira so cheap?
The average standard of living tends to be a bit lower than in mainland Portugal, and the local autonomous government gives generous subsidies coming from the tourist industry revenues and from the Portuguese national budget. Go where the locals go and everything will be cheap.
What is the best month to visit Madeira?
Average monthly temperatures For the highest temperatures the best time to visit Madeira is between August and September although the sub tropical climate offers sunshine throughout the year and winter months are equally popular with visitors.