Madeira is often called the island of eternal spring, and any month can work. The best time depends on what you want to do: hiking, swimming, whale watching or festivals each have their ideal season.
Spring (March–May): flowers everywhere, the Flower Festival in Funchal and great hiking weather.
Summer (June–September): the warmest, driest months and the best time for swimming, lava pools and whale watching, with more visitors in July and August.
Autumn (October–November): warm sea and fewer people; rain becomes more likely from November.
Winter (December–February): mild in Funchal, colder and wetter in the mountains. The Christmas lights and the New Year's fireworks are among the most spectacular in Europe.
Hiking: April to June and September to October usually combine stable weather and comfortable temperatures. Swimming and Porto Santo: June to October. Whale watching: dolphins all year, larger whales mostly in spring and summer. Festivals: the Flower Festival in spring, the Wine Festival in late summer and New Year's Eve.
Check typical temperatures and rain in our Madeira weather guide.
Usually November and January to February (outside Christmas and New Year) and early spring, when flights and hotels tend to be cheaper.
Yes, for mild weather in Funchal and walking, but expect more rain and cloud in the north and the mountains, and pack layers.
A catamaran outing from Funchal to look for dolphins and whales at sea. It lasts about 2.5 hours, which suits a half-day slot in the schedule.
from €35 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
Dolphin and whale watching on a classic catamaran with a cap of 18 couples. The 9 am trip in July and August lasts 2.5 hours without swimming; later departures include a 20-minute break.
from €40 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Covers the transport for a sunrise walk at Pico do Arieiro, useful for an early start. The whole outing lasts around 8.5 hours.
from €47 per person
Check availabilityvia GetYourGuide
For early risers who want a sunrise above the clouds plus about 5 hours of walking on PR1 and PR3, without a guide. Hotel pickup and drop-off are included.
from €30 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
For independent walkers who like to set their own pace without a guide. There is enough time to complete both levada walks, 25 Fontes and Risco.
from €43 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Self-guided snorkelling at your own pace in clear water with colourful fish. Equipment is rented on site, and a lesson comes before you start.
from €20 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Half-day walk along a section of Levada do Norte from Garachico to Estreito de Câmara de Lobos, with views of the town and the vineyards around it.
from €34 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
A fast-boat outing for wildlife fans. Spotters on land help direct the boat to animals, and marine biologists on board explain the species seen.
from €45 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Prices are indicative and may change. The final price is shown by the booking platform. Prices checked: October 16, 2026.
