Want to go to Madeira in December?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, prices, sightseeing, attractions and events.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
Madeira in December: quick answers
Is it sunny in Madeira in December? Is this a good time to visit?
We find that visiting Madeira in December is an excellent way to escape the cold northern hemisphere winter. Although there may be a few rainy days, the island’s subtropical climate ensures mild temperatures and sunny days. In case you’re wondering, it’s a good time of year to enjoy the lush countryside and outdoor activities, while avoiding the crowds of summer and autumn.
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Travelling to Madeira in December: summary of conditions
Temperatures
In Madeira in December, average air temperatures are fairly mild, but inevitably lower than in previous months and, above all, you are entering the winter period. You’ll find that daytime highs generally oscillate between 19°C (66°F) and 20°C (68°F), while night-time lows are around 15°C (59°F). These mild temperatures will allow you to try out comfortable outdoor activities all month long.
Water temperatures
Beaches, swimming and natural pools in December – a utopia, you might say? Not Madeira! Surrounded by the ocean, the island boasts a number of beaches, some of them black sand, as well as natural pools to offer you a unique natural landscape. In December, the average water temperature is around 20°C (68°F). It is therefore much lower than in other months, but still pleasant for swimming, especially if you are used to cool waters. Your swims may be shorter, given the temperature.
Crowds and prizes
In Madeira in December, we also like the fact that tourist numbers drop considerably, especially in the first 2 weeks of the month. It’s a great way to explore the island in the off-season and enjoy all its treasures without being surrounded by crowds. Tranquillity and calm will be the watchwords of your stay in Madeira at the end of the year. Prices are also more affordable, with low-season rates for accommodation and certain tourist activities. It’s worth noting, however, that many people choose Madeira as their sunny holiday destination. This can lead to higher prices in the 2nd half of the month, depending on tourist numbers.
Opening conditions
The good news is that most tourist attractions, restaurants and hotels are still open. As the island is a year-round tourist destination, the infrastructure operates normally, sometimes with reduced opening hours as the days get shorter. We recommend that you check any specific seasonal timetables. Some seasonal resorts may close certain facilities during the off-season, such as outdoor pools, or suspend bookings.
Length of day
In December, daylight on the island of eternal spring averages 10 hours.
This still gives you time to explore the region, even if it’s more limited in early winter.
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Best attractions in Madeira in December
Think you won’t have much to do in Madeira if you go at the end of the year? On the contrary! We’re very fond of this destination, as everything is still practicable in December, with a few points of caution, such as the risk of fog on hikes, occasional rain, the need for a wetsuit for swimming, and reduced opening hours as the days get shorter. The climate remains mild but cool, so you’ll be able to make the most of it! Museums, towns and villages, hiking, gourmet meals, swimming and nature are all on your list. A good time for:
- See the sunrise from Pico do Areiro
- Discover Porto Santo
- Take a stroll through the village of Santana
- Enjoy the contrast at Ponta de Sao Louranço
- Nature activities: canyoning, kayaking, hiking…
- Marvel at Madeira’s magical waterfalls
- Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal
- Walking along a levada like 25 Fontes
- Surveying Porto Moniz
- Discover the 2 islands of the Madeira archipelago or Porto Santo
- See more and more species-specific dolphins and whales
- Explore other towns and villages: Camara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol…
- Visit botanical gardens in bloom such as the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- Driving and admiring sublime views
- Strolling the beaches of Porto Santo
- Explore Funchal and its many museums
- And many more unsuspected wonders to discover…
Discover our tips on the best things to do in Madeira.
And lots of activities like these:
OUR FAVORITE ACTIVITY IN Madeira
Catamaran tour to see dolphins and Madeira’s giant cliffs.
Climate in Madeira in December – weather forecast
If you’re planning to visit Madeira in December to celebrate the end-of-year festivities, that’s a great idea! The climate remains mild, and as it is subtropical, it is relatively stable all year round, with more or less rainy days. You’ll only have 3 in the month on average in December. Conditions remain ideal for strolling, discovering and enjoying nature and the island’s sublime landscapes. Be aware that Madeira’s microclimate can lead to local variations. So it’s not unusual to experience different weather conditions as you move from one part of the island to another. In our opinion, this climatic diversity contributes to Madeira’s charm!
On the coast
Near the ocean, the atmosphere is often sunny and temperate, with a light sea breeze. Enjoy clear days, and be prepared for occasional showers.
In the heights
At higher altitudes, the weather can be more changeable and slightly cooler. Sometimes you’ll catch glimpses of peaks shrouded in mist or low clouds, creating a mysterious atmosphere. Rain is more frequent in the higher elevations, but is generally short-lived. Take something to cover up, like a light sweater. Madeira’s weather in December is little changed, with gradual changes rather than sudden variations between day and night. The days are often sunny and mild, ideal for outdoor activities and hiking. Evenings can be cooler, especially at higher altitudes, requiring a light sweater.
December temperatures in Madeira
Weather in Funchal
- Average daytime temperature: 19°C (66°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 15°C (59°F)
Temperature in Porto Moniz
- Average daytime temperature: 19°C (66°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 15°C (59°F)
Temperature in Porto Santo
- Average daytime temperature: 19.5°C (67°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 15°C (59°F)
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 and Wind
At the start of winter in Madeira, you’ll find that the amount of rain stabilizes in December compared with the previous month. Expect occasional showers, often of short duration and low intensity. Rainfall is more frequent than in summer, but much less abundant than in winter, with only 3 days on average in December. This rainfall helps maintain the island’s lush vegetation, much to our delight!
- Rainfall in Funchal: 64mm
(over 3 days on average) - Rainfall in Porto Moniz: 64mm
(over 3 days on average) - Rainfall in Porto Santo: 61mm
(over 3 days on average)
In Madeira in December, you’ll find that there’s usually no snow. The island enjoys a mild subtropical climate all year round, and temperatures, even on the high peaks, remain too high to allow snow to form just yet! Precipitation tends to be in the form of rain during this month of the year, even at higher altitudes.
At this time of year, winds are moderate. You’ll experience frequent coastal breezes along the coast. In the mountains, winds are stronger. Keep this in mind when out walking and hiking. However, winds are not a disruptive factor for tourist activities in Madeira.
Sunshine
In December, daylight hours vary from 9 a.m. to 10 a.m. as the days get shorter.
Sunrise is around 8am and sunset around 5.55pm. Average sunshine is stabilizing at around 5 to 6 hours a day. The skies are often clear, interspersed with cloudy spells and occasional showers. As the days get shorter, remember not to overload your daily schedule and avoid visiting nature sites at times close to sunset. You can also enjoy evening festivities in Madeira’s towns and villages in the run-up to Christmas and New Year.
Water temperature – bathing in Madeira in December
In Madeira in December, the average ocean temperature is around 21°C (70°F), depending on the area of the island. This temperature is relatively uniform all around the island, with slight variations due to sea currents. Note that it remains pleasant for swimming, especially if you’re used to cool waters. Temperatures vary little throughout the year, as this is not a tropical destination. Whether you’re a water sports enthusiast or just curious, it’s the perfect time of year! A shorty or light wetsuit is more comfortable if you’re a more cold-sensitive swimmer.
For all these reasons, December is a good month to swim in Madeira.
- Water temperature in Funchal: 21°C (70°F) on average
- Porto Moniz water temperature: 20°C (68°F) on average
- Porto Santo water temperature: 21°C (70°F) on average
Crowds and other conditions
December in Madeira is considered the low tourist season. We like the island at this time of year because the crowds are generally smaller than in summer, and the atmosphere for visiting is calmer and more relaxed. This relative tranquility will allow you to fully enjoy the island’s attractions and landscapes without the inconvenience of the big crowds. Tourist sites, restaurants and beaches are less crowded, offering a more authentic and relaxing experience. Prices are generally more affordable, with competitive rates for accommodation and some activities! If you’re looking for good value for money and a more serene atmosphere, now’s the time to take a vacation in Madeira.
Nature activities: hiking, kayaking, canyoning, levada…
Head for Madeira in December to enjoy the great outdoors! Even in winter, it’s an enchanting sight. Kayaking, canyoning, hiking along the famous levadas, breathtaking panoramas, peaks such as Pico Ruivo or Pico do Ariero. With its mild climate, it’s the perfect time to enjoy the island’s natural beauty while discovering its festive local culture. Go for it!
Gardens in bloom
Known as the island of flowers and eternal spring, we can confirm that this is not a myth, but a reality in Madeira all year round! Admittedly, December is not the peak of flowering, which is in April and May, but you’ll still see some beautiful gardens in bloom. Despite the oncoming winter season, let yourself be enchanted by the fragrance and sublime colors of the island’s emblematic strelitzias, which really do bloom all year round. You will also see poinsettias that will continue their winter bloom. Mimosas, agapanthus, bougainvillea, orchids and red-flowered aloe arborescens can also be seen at the end of the year.
Dolphin and whale watching
Did you know that Madeira is one of the best cetacean-watching areas in Europe? Although December is not the time when you’ll see a wide variety of species, some are still roaming the island’s waters. You can observe bottlenose dolphins, present all year round.. If you’re lucky, you’ll also spot striped and common dolphins.. Although less frequent, other species such as sperm whales, Bryde’s whales, pilot whales and fin whales may show up during your boat tour. We know that the period is less favourable than the summer, but observation is still possible with a good chance of encounters! These dolphin- and whale-watching excursions will add a magical touch to your stay. Read our tips here
Christmas and New Year in Madeira
December means the start of the festive season! Madeira is an enchanting destination to celebrate Christmas and the New Year with unique fervor. You’ll see the streets of Funchal lit up with a thousand lights. 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 sea on January 1st, a symbol of new beginnings.
December events in Madeira
Madeira is an island we also love for its year-round liveliness. Several events are held in December, such as:
- The Magic of Christmas at the Funchal Market: throughout the month, the capital hosts free workshops to make and share local products, in keeping with Madeira’s authentic traditions.
- The Mass of Childbirth: from the 2nd fortnight of December to Christmas Eve, the locals rise at dawn to take part in masses in honour of the Virgin Mary, and then share a variety of foods
- Traditional Christmas Nights: the island’s true Christmas traditions are presented in different places, on different dates. The best known is the Farmers’ Market in Funchal, held on December 23.
- The New Year’s Eve Show: in Funchal, the magic happens when you attend the famous fireworks display on the city’s old quay, complete with a musical show to celebrate the New Year.
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December prices
As everywhere, prices vary depending on what you are looking for. Madeira offers a wide range of accommodation, from youth hostels to 5-star hotels. It is therefore difficult to give you even an approximate budget. However, in December, there are far fewer tourists, so prices are lower because it’s a low tourist season. However, the island’s mild, stable climate, many end-of-year festivities and natural beauty attract the curious at all times. So remember to plan your bookings in advance, whatever month you stay in, especially for the last week of December.
Other months
When to go to Madeira, other months…
- 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
Or read our article on when to go to Madeira.
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
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