Madeira's climate is mild all year, with small temperature differences between seasons. What changes is where you are: the south coast around Funchal is sunnier and drier, while the north and the mountains are cooler, cloudier and wetter.
| Month | Day | Night | Sea | Rain |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| January | 19 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 90 mm |
| February | 19 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 75 mm |
| March | 20 °C | 13 °C | 18 °C | 70 mm |
| April | 20 °C | 14 °C | 18 °C | 40 mm |
| May | 21 °C | 15 °C | 19 °C | 20 mm |
| June | 23 °C | 17 °C | 20 °C | 10 mm |
| July | 25 °C | 18 °C | 22 °C | 2 mm |
| August | 26 °C | 19 °C | 23 °C | 5 mm |
| September | 26 °C | 19 °C | 23 °C | 30 mm |
| October | 24 °C | 18 °C | 22 °C | 80 mm |
| November | 22 °C | 16 °C | 21 °C | 95 mm |
| December | 20 °C | 14 °C | 19 °C | 100 mm |
Daytime highs in Funchal are usually around 19–20 °C from December to March, 21–23 °C in spring and early summer and 25–26 °C in August and September. Nights rarely drop much below 13–14 °C on the coast. The sea ranges from about 18 °C in February and March to about 23 °C in late summer.
Most of the rain falls between October and March; June to August are the driest months. These are typical averages: any given week can be warmer, cooler or wetter.
Clouds often build around the mountains in the afternoon, and the north coast can be grey while Funchal is sunny. At Pico do Arieiro and Pico Ruivo temperatures are around 10 °C lower than on the coast and can fall close to zero in winter. Check the forecast for the place you are going, not just Funchal, and look at mountain webcams before a sunrise trip.
For the official forecast and weather warnings, use the Portuguese weather institute (IPMA).
Plan mountain hikes for the morning, keep a flexible day for boat trips in case of rough sea, and save the north and west coasts for clear days. For crowds, festivals and the best activities, see the best time to visit Madeira, or open the guide for each month below.
August and September are usually the warmest months, with highs around 25–26 °C in Funchal and the warmest sea.
On the south coast, not much, and mostly between October and March. The north and the mountains are much wetter, which is why the levadas exist.
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
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
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
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
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
One-way scenic ride up to Monte, with pickup in the Funchal area or at the cruise port. Then try the toboggans or visit the Tropical Garden on your own. Photo stops on request.
from €25 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 half-day 4x4 outing for those who like small groups and wide views from an open-roof jeep. Stops include Cabo Girão and Jardim da Serra.
from €44 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.
