When to visit Madeira
Well, that depends on your criteria.
Here’s our complete guide with details to help you make your decision based on:
- Weather (temperature, rain, wind, etc.),
- Crowds and prices,
- Cetacean-watching opportunities
- Ocean temperature, when to swim in Madeira,
- Winter sunshine,
- …
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
When to go to Madeira – Summary
Best month to visit Madeira
Did you know that Madeira is nicknamed the island of flowers and eternal spring? It’s an excellent year-round destination. Our favorite month is June, because there are no summer crowds and it’s less windy. Gardens are in bloom, whales and dolphins abound in the waters around Madeira, and the morning clouds offer spectacular sunrises. And above all, the water is great for swimming at the beach or in the natural pools!
See our advice on where to stay in Madeira
Best time to visit Madeira
It all depends on what you’re looking for:
- Best time for sunbathing: May to September
- Best time to swim in the ocean: May to October
- Best time for hiking: March to October, possible the other months of the year with more wind and a little rain.
- Best time to see whales and dolphins: April to September is the period with the greatest variety of species.
- Best time for canyoning: April to November, although more crowded in summer and also possible in winter.
- Best time for flowering gardens: April to June
When to visit Madeira – Criteria
If you don’t want to read the whole article, here’s a summary based on what you’re looking for:
- Weather, temperatures, wind, rain…
The advantage of Madeira is that you’ll enjoy a mild, temperate climate all year round, with temperatures averaging 20°C (68°F). The island has 2 seasons: a slightly cool, wet winter (October to April) and a drier, hot summer (May to September). The “Leste”, a warm Saharan wind, blows a little in summer, while other sea breezes soften the coastal climate. Precipitation varies according to altitude and region, being more frequent in the higher elevations and in the north. Note that the island has a total of around 20 days of rain per year. - Swimming
As Madeira is not a tropical destination, the water temperature is relatively constant throughout the year. Temperatures are slightly higher from May to October, but rarely exceed 24°C (75°F) to 25°C (77°F) on average. - Crowd
January is generally the quietest month on the island, although the crowds drop off considerably between November and March. But there are tourists all year round.
The peak tourist season is in July and August. Easter, Christmas and winter vacations are also popular periods. - Price
Prices are of course higher when the island is busiest – in summer and during the European school vacations (spring, autumn and winter).
- Dolphins and whales
April to September is a good time to see a wide variety of cetaceans in the waters around the island, but it’s possible to spot them all year round. Nevertheless, chances of sightings are greatest in spring and summer. - Garden flowers
Also known as the island of flowers and eternal spring, Madeira will probably also attract you for its sublime gardens. Peak flowering occurs in April and May. However, various floral species really do bloom all year round, such as the strelitzias, emblematic of the island. - Festivals
Check the dates if you want to take part or avoid them.
The famous Carnival celebrations take place towards the end of February and continue into March. - For photography
You’ll find beautiful lights all year round. June and July are more likely to have swathes of cloud early in the morning, to give you an unforgettable sunrise.
Visual overview – When to go to Madeira
Here’s an infographic to help you visualize the best periods and decide the best time to go to Madeira according to your criteria.
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
When to go to Madeira – Weather and conditions
When is the best time to visit?
Overall, the climate can be described as subtropical Mediterranean. On the island of eternal spring, you’ll enjoy a memorable stay all year round! It’s also why we treasure this destination. All of Madeira’s key activities, such as hiking, swimming and water sports, are possible and practicable with weather that doesn’t change abruptly.
Climate
Madeira’s climate is that of eternal spring.
It rarely rains, just a few days a year (in May, July and August, the risk of precipitation is almost nil).
You can enjoy beautiful sunshine all year round, even in winter.
Summer is pleasant, but rarely too hot.
Winter weather is mild: with average daytime minimum temperatures around 16°C (61°F) and maximum around 20°C (68°F), a light sweater may suffice.
North, south, east or west?
Madeira’s weather conditions vary little from one part of the island to another. The north generally receives a little more rain and has lush vegetation, while the south is drier and sunnier. The extreme east, notably the tip of São Lourenço, is more arid and exposed to the north wind. The west enjoys an intermediate climate. These differences are due to the island’s mountainous topography and the influence of winds. To the south, you’ll enjoy more sunshine and mild temperatures all year round. It’s rare, but you can still see snowfall on the peaks in winter.
Length of day and sunshine
On Madeira Island, you’ll find that daylight hours fluctuate from 9 to 14 hours over the course of the year, with less marked variations than in the northern hemisphere. As it is a little closer to the equator, average sunshine is 5 to 7 hours in winter and 9 to 10 hours in summer, higher than the Northern Hemisphere average. The good news is that winter days are slightly longer than in continental Europe, but shorter in summer. The island enjoys more constant sunshine, offering a mild, sunny climate all year round, and above all allowing you to take full advantage of the destination’s natural beauty!
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Rain in Madeira
In Madeira, you’ll find that rainfall varies with the seasons. You’ll be happy to know that there are only 20 days of rain on average over the whole year. Winter is the rainiest period, with short but frequent showers between November and February. In summer, from June to August, the weather is a little drier, offering you pleasant, sunny weather. Spring and autumn bring moderate rainfall. The island’s topography also influences precipitation: at altitude, the risk of rain is more frequent than along the coast. We recommend you take this into account when planning your nature activities and hikes.
Wind in Madeira
On certain days in summer, a hot wind can blow in from the Sahara, creating temperatures of over 30°C.
Crowds and prizes
Thanks to its eternal spring climate, Madeira receives a constant flow of tourists throughout the year.
However, the busiest periods are..:
- the summer vacation months of July and August,
- Christmas season,
- and European winter vacations, for those in search of winter sun.
Prices are higher when the island is busiest.
OUR GUIDE TO PLANNING A Dream trip
- 7 maps that make planning easier
- + 120 pre-selected locations
- Practical advice
- + 260 photos to help you choose
Madeira water temperatures – when to swim
You can swim all year round, depending on how you like your water temperature. Bear in mind that the water is fairly deep all around the island, so the thermometer doesn’t rise much.
Ocean temperature varies:
- January, February, March, April: between 18°C (64.5°F) and 19°C (66°F)
- May, June and July: between 20°C (68°F) and 21°C (70°F)
- August, September and October: around 24°C (75°F)
- November: 22°C (71.5°F)
- December: 20°C (68°F)
Discover our list of Madeira’s most beautiful beaches and natural pools.
When to watch dolphins and whales in Madeira
Did you know that Madeira is one of the best destinations in Europe for seeing dolphins and whales in their natural habitat? Many species of dolphins and whales visit the waters around Madeira at different times of the year.
But bottlenose dolphins are the most common species all year round.
You’ll be able to observe the different seasons:
- common dolphins
- Atlantic spotted dolphins
- the blue and white dolphins
As a result, you can choose these tours all year round. As for the whales, they are observed for a few days each month, along with various species:
- sperm whales (especially adults)
- pilot whales (short-toothed pilot whales)
- Bryde’s whales
You may also be lucky enough to spot fin and tropical whales, as well as beaked whales.
To find out more, see our article on dolphins and whales in Madeira.
When to see the gardens in bloom in Madeira
If, like us, you love flowers and beautiful trees and would like to visit Madeira, don’t hesitate and go there in April and May! We marveled at the many colorful flower gardens everywhere. Known as the island of flowers, eternal spring or the floating garden of the Atlantic, Madeira will fascinate you with its natural beauty, decked out in its most beautiful colors and fragrances in April! Our favorite garden is without a doubt the Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Funchal. The gardens remain more or less in bloom all year round, with some of the island’s most emblematic floral species, such as strelitzias, in bloom whatever the season.
You can see lush vegetation and beautiful flowers all year round, but the full bloom and explosion of color occurs, of course, in spring.
What’s more, at this time of year you can have the chance to travel during Madeira’s Flower Festival, which includes..:
- performances by folk groups,
- the construction of magnificent floral carpets,
- music and concerts…
When to do nature activities in Madeira
If you’re traveling during the summer months, we recommend hiking and exploring the levadas early in the day.
Otherwise, the rest of the year offers fine conditions for hiking in Madeira, with occasional wind and short showers. We always recommend walking in the morning.
All water sports and nature activities are accessible all year round, with no restrictions except for adapted hours when days are shorter: kayaking, canyoning, water sports…
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Best time to go to Madeira – other criteria
When to go hiking in Madeira
Madeira Island offers magnificent hiking opportunities all year round:
- On volcanic cliffs,
- Along levadas surrounded by lush vegetation,
- At the top of the mountains,
- …
To help you plan your stay accordingly, here are a few things to consider when making your choice:
- In summer, be aware that temperatures can rise in the afternoon – so start your hikes early in the morning, even if the days are longer.
- Most hikes have narrow paths and can have hikers arriving in 2 directions (many levada hikes are out-and-back hikes, not loops). As a result, in summer they can be borrowed very often.
- In winter, the mountains can be much colder, with occasional snow on the summits. There’s also a bit more rain and the waterfalls are fuller.
Consequently, the best months for hiking in Madeira are the shoulder seasons – May, June, September and October, unless you want to admire the force of the waterfalls.
When to go canyoning in Madeira
If you’re interested in canyoning in Madeira, you should know that it can be enjoyed all year round thanks to the island’s favorable climate. Unsurprisingly, the summer season is particularly popular for its pleasant temperatures and optimal conditions for this activity. In winter, although the practice is possible, remember that temperatures are cooler and water flows greater. Remember to check weather conditions and follow the advice of local guides to ensure a safe experience.
When to do water sports in Madeira (kayaking, surfing…)
If you enjoy kayaking, canoeing, surfing, kitesurfing or other water sports, the best time to visit Madeira is from April to August. During these months, temperatures are stable with no risk of very hot weather. Conditions are ideal, with little rain and calm waters, allowing you to take full advantage of the island’s magnificent scenery. Although activities can be enjoyed all year round, note that this period is the most pleasant.
Description of the seasons in Madeira
Spring in Madeira
Spring is undoubtedly our favourite season in Madeira! The gardens are in bloom, and we love to marvel at the agapanthus, strelitzias, sublime tree ferns (also known as jacarandas), red poinsettias and aloe vera. This is also when the famous Flower Festival is held on the island.
The climate is also mild, with almost no rain. All activities are possible and almost everything is open! It’s also the start of the season for spotting various species of dolphins and whales, so are you ready for a feast for the eyes? Finally, there are no major tourist crowds yet, so it really is the ideal time to visit.
Summer in Madeira
The summer season is unsurprisingly a busy time for tourists, especially in July and August. The days are longer and very sunny, wherever you are on the island, with some nuances between the coast and the heights. There’s a plethora of things to do here, from cultural visits and water sports to hiking and culinary discoveries. Your stay will also be punctuated by several major events such as Madeira’s National Day and the Wine Festival! It’s also a good season for swimming on the beach or in the island’s natural pools.
Autumn in Madeira
You’ll feel that autumn in Madeira is a season of transition, marked by mild temperatures and a changing landscape. The days are often sunny, but the evenings become cooler, offering a pleasant atmosphere in which to explore the island. The vegetation, rich and varied, is beginning to change color, with golden and red hues embellishing forests and gardens. Local festivals, celebrating the harvest, add a festive touch to this period, allowing visitors to discover local culture through colorful events and authentic flavors. It’s also a time when sporting and cultural events are in full swing on the island!
Winter in Madeira
Winter in Madeira is marked by a mild climate, often described as “eternal spring”. Temperatures oscillate between 17 and 20°C, allowing you to enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking along the levadas or whale-watching. Although the sun is often out, clouds can appear. The landscapes are particularly attractive, with flowers such as aloe vera and bougainvillea in full bloom. The end-of-year festivities light up Funchal, creating a unique festive atmosphere, and Madeira’s famous Carnival is a wonderful way to round off the winter season.
Events to see or avoid
Depending on your interests, you should also take into account events that could have a major impact on your trip, and adapt your departure dates accordingly:
- If you really want to see a party
- If you don’t want to be blocked by an event
Festivals in Madeira (music, nature and culture)
- February/March
Madeira Carnival
International Forest and Tree Day - April/May
Flower Festival - June/July
Atlantic Festival (fireworks in Funchal)
Madeira National Day - August/September
Madeira Wine Festival
Madeira Traditional Canoe Regatta Festival
European Folklore Week - November/December
Madeira Street Arts Festival
Madeira International Mandolin Festival
Start of the illuminations and Christmas Market in Funchal
Mass of Childbirth and Traditional Christmas Nights
New Year’s Eve show in Funchal
Competitions in Madeira
- January
Madeira Hiking Festival
Madeira Orienteering Festival - February/March
Madeira Carnival
Festa dos Compadres in Santana
Cherimoya Fruit Festival - October/November
Fête de la Nature
Concerts-L (Madeira National Conservatory of Music)
International Bridge Open
Madeira Legend Rally
Christmas and New Year in Madeira
December means the start of the festive season! You’ll find that Madeira is an enchanting, must-see destination for celebrating Christmas and the New Year with unique fervor. Watch the streets of Funchal light up with a thousand lights. You’ll be treated to lots of decorations, especially in the capital. Christian traditions mingle with cultural events such as giant nativity scenes and folk music concerts. If you’re planning to spend New Year’s Eve here, you’ll want to know that it’s marked by a spectacular fireworks display, recognized as one of the biggest in the world. Finally, adopt local customs and take a dip in the ocean on January 1st, a symbol of new beginnings.
Because of the mild climate, you won’t find many traditional fir trees, but mostly artificial ones. They’re usually decorated with baubles, Christmas lights, snowflakes, bows, wreaths… As you’ll have gathered, Madeira is a popular Christmas destination.
Temperatures are very pleasant, around 20°C (68°F) during the day. The water temperature is lower, so it’s not the best time for a swim, but it’s still possible to enjoy a dip.
Best month to visit Madeira
And if you’re wondering which is the best month to visit Madeira, have a look at our dedicated articles:
- Madeira in January
- Madeira in February
- Madeira in March
- Madeira in April
- Madeira in May
- Madeira in June
- Madeira in July
- Madeira in August
- Madeira in September
- Madeira in October
- Madeira in November
- Madeira in December
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
Best of
Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
Natural pools
Most beautiful hikes
Most beautiful roads
Secret places
Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
Driving in Madeira
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
