Madeira vs the Canary Islands: Which to Choose?

Madeira or the Canary Islands? Both are subtropical Atlantic islands with mild weather all year, but they suit different holidays. Madeira is green, mountainous and made for hiking. The Canaries are bigger, sunnier, sandier and more varied, with more resorts. Here’s how to choose.

Quick answer: choose Madeira for dramatic mountain scenery, levada walks, a relaxed pace and a charming capital (Funchal). Choose the Canary Islands for sandy beaches, more guaranteed winter sun on the southern coasts, big family resorts and more choice of islands and flights.

Side by side

• Landscape: Madeira is lush, steep and forested. The Canaries range from volcanic deserts to pine forests.
• Beaches: Madeira has few sandy beaches (Porto Santo is the exception). The Canaries have many.
• Hiking: Madeira is one of Europe’s best hiking islands. The Canaries also have great walks, especially on Tenerife and La Palma.
• Atmosphere: Madeira is calmer and more traditional. Parts of the Canaries are very built up.
• Weather: both are mild all year. The southern Canaries tend to be sunnier and drier.

Choose Madeira if

You love hiking, gardens, scenery and a slower pace. See is Madeira worth visiting? and the Madeira itinerary.

Choose the Canaries if

You want sandy beaches, big resorts or the most reliable winter sun.

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

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