Is Madeira good for a solo trip?

Is Madeira good for a solo trip? It's easy to see why Madeira is one of the best places for solo travel in Portugal! Keep reading for all the best tips on things to do and see in Madeira, plus where to stay, how to get around, and epic places to go like Funchal, Ponta do Sol, Pico Arieiro, Santana, and Pico Ruivo.

Does Madeira have beaches?

On the island of Madeira there are some golden sand beaches, such as Calheta and Machico on the south coast, created artificially and now very popular recreational areas. Although uncommon, the dark sandy beaches of volcanic origin are natural to the island.

How walkable is Madeira?

Well-marked walking routes and trails are located all over the island. From short, easy trails on flat terrain to advanced walks that can take half a day or more, there's a path for just about anyone who wants to experience the natural beauty of Madeira on foot.

Is Madeira a party island?

Most of Madeira's nightlife is found in its capital, Funchal, the only city of any size on the island. Outside of Funchal, Madeira has small towns or villages that are totally unlike tourist resorts. So, if you want to go out partying, Funchal is where you need to be.

Is Madeira safe for Americans?

Portugal is a safe destination for solo travel—and so is Madeira. Solo travelers should take the same precautions they would anywhere else. These include: Watching your drinks made.

How many days in Madeira is enough?

Madeira is a pretty small island, and so luckily you don't need very long to see all of the incredible things that this destination has to offer. If you're looking to experience the must-dos then a short four-day break would be fine. However, a week is the perfect amount of time to really make the most of the island.

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.

Is Madeira cheaper than Lisbon?

Funchal – Madeira Island's capital A family of four estimated monthly costs are 1,943.8€ without rent. A single person estimated monthly costs are 542.5€ without rent. Funchal is 13.1% less expensive than Lisbon. Rent in Funchal is, on average, 32.4% lower than in Lisbon.

Is Madeira for older people?

I write about travel, food, culture and fashion. This article is more than 3 years old. The Portuguese island of Madeira has traditionally attracted an older clientele than the Spanish Canary Islands partly due to its comfortable subtropical climate year round, thanks to its proximity to Northern Africa.

What is the most picturesque town in Madeira?

Ponta do Sol One of the greatest aspects of life in Madeira are its coastal villages. And Ponta do Sol is arguably the most beautiful.

Is it worth it to go to Madeira?

I highly recommend going if you love nature, if you enjoy great food, a warm culture and breathtaking views at every turn. I stayed in the main Funchal, away from the tourist area. I didn't go to Madeira to be surrounded by other tourists taking photos of this or that.

Is it safe to walk around Madeira?

Violent crime involving tourists is extremely rare in Madeira and so you have little to worry about with regard to personal safety. But as with any travel destination, it's important to take basic travel safety precautions such as keeping your valuables close by and/or hidden, especially at night.

Why is Madeira so famous?

Throughout the 17th and 18th centuries, Madeira's economy boosted with the emergence of its world-famous wine. In fact, Madeira's fortified wine has not only accompanied many great meals, but also some of the world's most historically significant moments.

What airport do you fly into for Madeira?

There are two main access points for those looking to get to Madeira. First of all, Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport, located in the city of Santa Cruz, which is the main gateway to and from the region. Secondly, the Port of Funchal, which is on the route of the major international cruise ships.

Can I get around Madeira without a car?

Visiting Madeira However, there are other means of transport available such as buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycles and scooters. It is also worth mentioning the importance of the cable cars, which connect to some of the archipelago's most iconic points of interest.

Is Madeira cheap or expensive?

Madeira in general isn't an expensive place to live. Housing, transport, and food are quite affordable for expats staying in Madeira longer term.

Is Madeira worth the hype?

In fact, Madeira was just voted Europe's “Leading Island Destination” in the World Travel Awards again (the sixth time in the last seven years). Less than four hours from London and with almost guaranteed sunshine, Madeira is an ideal winter break, or for that matter, anytime destination.

Is Madeira too touristy?

Yes, Madeira is a popular destination and indeed some of the main tourist attractions can get quite busy. But for the biggest part, Madeira is still very quiet and undiscovered.

Do they speak English in Madeira?

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.

Can you swim in Madeira year round?

Calheta Beach is one of the island of Madeira's few yellow sandy beaches. A peaceful swimming experience is guaranteed by two piers, so you can exercise in the sea all year round.

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.