What shoes should I take to Madeira?

What shoes should I take to Madeira? Do bring your best walking shoes. Madeira is a volcanic island with many hills, you will walk better in flats or sneakers.

Can tourists drink the water in Madeira?

There is plenty of water in Madeira and it is all drinkable and of excellent quality. Porto Santo uses desalinated water, which is perfectly safe to drink.

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.

What to wear to the beach in Madeira?

If you plan to soak up some sun on the beach and play in the surf, you are going to need at least one swimsuit or swim trunks. Some guys wear board shorts. Whatever you feel most comfortable wearing on the beach that covers your body (no nude sunbathing allowed!).

Are there mosquitoes in Funchal?

The risk for mosquito activity is extremely high. Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants when spending time outdoors to prevent bites.

Is the sea warm in Madeira?

The water temperature remains very pleasant all year round, ranging between 19°C/66°F (winter) and 24°C/75°F (summer). The best month to swim in the sea is in September, when the average sea temperature is 24°C (75°F).

What is the special 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.

Do people tip in Madeira?

Tipping in Portugal & Madeira Tipping is not included nor do we have a set percentage to give, but it is common to tip in Madeira. If the food is good and the service friendly, tips are highly appreciated and appropriate.

What do you wear to walk in Madeira?

Throughout Madeira dress is casual. Shorts, t-shirts and camisoles are perfectly acceptable; team with a sunhat, sunglasses and beach bag for a perfect daytime look. Jeans are very popular everywhere but in the hottest months may be too uncomfortable; opt instead for lightweight natural fabrics.

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.

Can you swim in the sea in Madeira?

The temperature, visibility and transparency of the water, as well as the immensity and variety of marine life, make this a unique place for swimming. On the north coast, the deep blue sea is lively and dynamic, while on the south coast you can discover a calm, transparent sea with gentle waves.

Why is landing at Madeira airport difficult?

The airport was once infamous for its short runway of only 1,600 m (5,249 ft), which, surrounded by high mountains and the ocean, made it a difficult and technically demanding landing for even the most experienced pilots.

Do you need walking boots for Madeira?

On some walks you will also find a torch useful, as some of the levada walks pass through tunnels. You may also need to carry sun cream. It is essential that walking boots are worn for all walks.

What is the best month to go to Madeira?

Amazing and stable weather denotes April through November as the best time to visit Madeira. April to mid-June is known for price cuts and moderate crowds. This period can offer you unforgettable hiking among lush green vegetation, and you can join famous Madeira Flower Festival.

How much is a glass of wine in Madeira?

Small beer anything from €1 to € 2.50 depending on where you drink. WIne from about €1.50 a glass, beer and wine can be bought very cheaply at the supermarkets.

Do you need a jacket in Madeira?

A thin, light waterproof and windproof jacket will be very handy to take for hiking in Madeira because, being a coastal nation with a mountain range right in the centre, the wind can often be quite aggressive here!

Do you need water shoes in Madeira?

Many of the beaches around Madeira are rock beaches with rock bottoms in the ocean so water shoes are recommend in Madeira. To experience beautiful golden sand beaches it's worth taking the ferry and making a day trip to the island of Porto Santo.

What is the most famous dish in Madeira?

What is the national dish of Madeira? Espada com banana (black scabbard fish with banana) is one of the most popular Madeira dishes and it's unique to the island. Another unique Madeira food is the bolo do caco bread.

Is Funchal safe to walk at night?

Funchal is generally considered safe for female travelers. The city is known for its friendly locals and low crime rate. Women should still take the usual precautions when traveling, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables out of sight.

What should I bring to Madeira?

Is Madeira island 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.

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.