The Best Time to Visit Madeira

Madeira is known as the island of eternal spring: Funchal is mild all year, with only a small difference between summer and winter. But the mountains and the north coast have their own weather, and festivals shape the calendar. Here’s when to go.

Quick answer: Madeira is good all year. April to June and September to October are ideal for hiking and sightseeing. Summer has the warmest sea. Winter is mild in Funchal (around 19 to 20°C by day) but wetter in the mountains. The Flower Festival is in spring, and the New Year’s Eve fireworks are world-famous.

Season by season

Spring (March to May)

Green, flowery and great for walking. The Flower Festival fills Funchal in late April to May.

Summer (June to August)

Warm (mid-20s°C), with the warmest sea and festivals. It’s busy, so book ahead. See Madeira in summer.

Autumn (September to November)

Still warm, with the sea at its best in September. Rain increases in November.

Winter (December to February)

Mild on the south coast, with Christmas lights and the New Year’s Eve fireworks. The mountains are cooler and wetter. See Madeira in winter and Madeira New Year’s Eve.

Best time for...

• Hiking: spring and autumn. See levada walks.
• Swimming: July to October.
• Whale watching: all year, with more species in spring and summer.
• Escaping winter: November to March.

More: the Madeira itinerary, where to stay in Madeira and Madeira vs the Azores.

Prices and details change, so please double-check before you travel. Spotted something out of date? Tell us in the groups.