Rota do Vinho – Wine Route (Half-Day Walk)
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
Madeira weather in October
October in Madeira is warm and calmer, with the first autumn rain later in the month. In Funchal, daytime highs are typically around 24 °C and nights around 18 °C, with the sea at about 22 °C.
| 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 |
Weather in October
These are typical averages for Funchal on the south coast. The north coast is usually cloudier and wetter, and at Pico do Arieiro temperatures are around 10 °C lower. Average rainfall in Funchal is about 80 mm in October. Rain usually comes in short showers between sunny spells.
For live conditions, check the forecast of the Portuguese weather institute (IPMA) and mountain webcams before a sunrise trip. See the full-year overview in Madeira weather.
What to do in October
Swimming is still pleasant, and hiking is good on clear days. Keep a flexible day in case of rain. Whale and dolphin trips continue all year.
Find guided options in our tours and guided hikes pages.
Events in October
The Madeira Nature Festival offers outdoor activities in October.
See the full calendar in festivals and events.
Frequently asked questions
Is October a good time to visit Madeira?
Yes, warm sea and fewer people, with a little more chance of rain than in summer.
How warm is the sea in Madeira in October?
Around 22 °C on average.
What should I pack for Madeira in October?
Light clothes for the coast, a warm layer and a rain jacket for the mountains, and shoes with grip for walking. Add swimwear and sun protection.
Top-rated tours
PR6 & PR6.1 25 Fontes & Risco Levada Self-Guided Hike, Rabaçal
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
Magic Dolphin Celebrity
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
Half-Day Small-Group Madeira Village Safari from Funchal
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.
- Easy
from €44 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, Stairway to Heaven and PR3 Self-Guided
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.
- Moderate
- Hotel pickup
from €30 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Funchal: Snorkeling Adventure in Eco-Park, from Shore or by Boat
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
Madeira Guided Wine Tour and Extras
Tour a Funchal wine lodge, learn its history and taste Madeira wines. Options add a cheese stop or a five-stop food tour. Other tour languages run at different times, so say so when booking.
from €35 per person
Check availabilityvia Viator
Rabaçal – 25 Fontes
Suits walkers who want levada channels, the Risco waterfall and endemic plants in about 4.5 hours. The route ends at the 25 Fontes lagoon, and the way back uses an 800 m tunnel.
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.
Plan your trip
- Best time to visitSeasons, festivals and the best months for each activity.
- WeatherTemperatures, rain and sea by month, and how to read the forecast.
- Car hireRenting a car at Funchal airport and driving tips.
- Where to stayThe best areas to stay in Madeira for each type of trip.
- ItinerariesHow to organise 3, 5 or 7 days in Madeira.
- BeachesSandy beaches, lidos and natural pools around the island.
- Madeira wine & foodMadeira wine, poncha, local dishes and tasting tours.
- Airport & transfersGetting from Madeira airport to Funchal and around the island.