Funchal
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Monte cable car and tropical garden | A cable car from the seafront up to Monte, and a tropical garden with ponds and old tiles. | Funchal |
| The Monte toboggans | A traditional ride down the road in wicker sledges steered by two men. | From Monte to Livramento |
| The Farmers' Market | A colourful market of tropical fruit and flowers. | Central Funchal |
Mountains and levadas
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo | The island's best-known trail, between peaks above the clouds. | Booking required; about €10.50 per person |
| The 25 Fontes levada | A walk beside an old water channel to a pool fed by waterfalls. | Rabaçal; booking and fee |
| Fanal forest | Old, twisted laurel trees in the mist, part of the Laurisilva on the World Heritage list. | North-west of the island |
| Ponta de São Lourenço | A colourful rocky peninsula with a trail by the sea. | The far east |
The coast
| Place | Why go | Before you go |
|---|---|---|
| The Cabo Girão skywalk | A glass-floored platform above one of Europe's highest sea cliffs. | About 20 minutes from Funchal |
| The Porto Moniz natural pools | Swimming pools among volcanic rocks, filled by the ocean. | The far north-west |
| The Santana houses | Traditional triangular houses with thatched roofs. | The north coast |
Tips before you go
- Since January 2026 most nature trails need booking and a fee, so book before your walking day.
- The weather is mild all year, but the peaks are cold and misty, so bring a jacket.
- You need a Schengen visa, and flights to Madeira go via Lisbon.
Hotels in Madeira
More places nearby
Visa
- Portugal visa for Saudis: Schengen step by step
- Schengen visa for Saudis: requirements, fees and steps
Frequently asked questions
What are the top things to do in Madeira?
The Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo trail, the 25 Fontes levada, Fanal forest, Cabo Girão, the Porto Moniz pools and the Monte cable car.
Do Madeira's hiking trails have a fee?
Yes, since January 2026 most need booking and a fee, with the Pico do Arieiro trail the highest.
How do I get to Madeira?
By flying via Lisbon to Funchal airport.
Planning your trip to Portugal? Read Travel to Portugal from Saudi Arabia.
Last updated: October 2026. The information is for guidance only; ticket prices and opening hours are set by each attraction and may change, so check them on the official website before you go.