Want to go to Madeira in July?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, activities, prices, 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.
Go to Madeira in July: quick answers
Is the weather good in Madeira in July? Is this a good time to visit?
Despite the summer rush, we love July for visiting Madeira. The weather is generally pleasant, with a mild, sunny subtropical climate. The island’s colors are revealed in the sunlight! Temperatures are ideal for enjoying outdoor activities, hiking, kayaking, canyoning and beaches. Perfect conditions for exploring the island, don’t you think?
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Travelling to Madeira in July: summary of conditions
Temperatures
In July in Madeira, the thermometer averages between 21°C (70°F) and 22°C (71.5°F). These mild, pleasant temperatures characterize the island’s subtropical climate. The “calima”, an occasional episode of warm wind, can add a few degrees, but it’s not as frequent as on islands like the Canaries, for example.
Water temperatures
In July, water temperatures are around 23°C (73.5°F), whether in the natural pools or on the ocean beaches. These temperatures are fairly stable throughout the year, with a slight rise in May, without reaching those of warmer waters in more tropical zones.
Crowds and prizes
July is considered high season in Madeira. Tourists are more numerous. At the height of the flowering and sunny season, there’s a plethora of things to see and do on the island. As a result, prices are higher than in previous months. Bear in mind that July and August are generally the months when the island is most visited, and therefore the most expensive. If you book your accommodation, flights and activities well in advance, you’ll have plenty of choice and good value for money.
Opening conditions
In July, all tourist attractions, restaurants and hotels are generally open in Madeira. It’s the height of the tourist season, so establishments benefit from the influx of visitors. All departments will be fully operational to welcome you in the best conditions!
Length of day
At the height of summer, the days are long and the amount of sunshine is one of the highest of the year! In July, Madeira’s sun rises around 7am and sets after 9pm, leaving you more than 14h to explore the island and its treasures. The number of hours of sunshine is between 9 and 10 a day.
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Best attractions in Madeira in July
What we love about Madeira is that no matter what month of the year it is, you’ll have a plethora of things to do and few activities become inaccessible! In July, as the climate is mild without temperatures rising too much, you can enjoy all the activities without worrying about the temperature rising! Museums, towns and villages, hiking, gourmet meals, swimming and nature are all on your list. A great program for:
- See more and more species-specific dolphins and whales
- Nature activities: canyoning, kayaking, hiking…
- Visit botanical gardens in bloom such as the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- Explore Funchal and its many museums
- Marvel at Madeira’s magical waterfalls
- Walking along a levada like 25 Fontes
- Surveying Porto Moniz
- See the sunrise from Pico do Areiro
- Discover the 2 islands of the Madeira archipelago or Porto Santo
- Discover Porto Santo
- Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal
- Driving and admiring sublime views
- Strolling the beaches of Porto Santo
- Explore other towns and villages: Camara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol…
- Enjoy the contrast at Ponta de Sao Louranço
- And many more unsuspected wonders to discover…
Read our article 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 July – weather forecast
In July on Madeira, we enjoy the generally stable and pleasant weather characteristic of the island’s subtropical climate.
On the coast
Close to the sea, you’ll enjoy a warm, sunny atmosphere, with a refreshing sea breeze to temper the heat. The days are long and bright, ideal for enjoying the beaches and water sports.
In the mountains
In the higher elevations, the weather may be slightly cooler and more variable. The air is crisper, and it’s not unusual to see a few clouds clinging to the peaks, creating spectacular scenery. However, you’ll find that the sun remains predominant, offering perfect conditions for hiking and exploring. On the whole, we like Madeira’s July climate mild and stable, with few sudden variations. Rainfall is rare, and humidity is moderate, making for a comfortable stay. The weather is sunny and a little drier, creating ideal conditions for enjoying both the coast and the mountainous interior.
July temperatures in Madeira
Weather in Funchal
- 22°C (72°F) on average
Temperature in Porto Moniz
- 22°C (72°F) on average
Temperature in Porto Santo
- 21.5°C (71°F) average
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
In July in Madeira, rainfall is generally scarce. When it does rain, it’s often short, light showers that don’t last long. These short, light rains generally do not affect tourist activities.
- Amount of rain in Funchal: 0mm
(over 0 days on average) - Rainfall in Porto Moniz: 7mm
(in less than 1 day on average) - Rainfall in Porto Santo: 0mm
(over 0 days on average)
There is no snow in Madeira in July. The island enjoys a mild subtropical climate, and summer temperatures rule out any possibility of snowfall, even in mountainous areas.
As with all destinations with lots of vegetation and windy spells, when the climate gets drier and temperatures rise, there can be a risk of fire. However, this is still very rare in Madeira.
Sunshine
In July, Madeira enjoys generous sunshine. The days are long and sunny, with few clouds. You can expect 9 to 10 hours of sunshine a day, which is ideal for outdoor activities and beaches.
Water temperature – swimming in Madeira in July
In July, you’ll experience a slightly higher water temperature in Madeira’s ocean or natural pools, of just over 20°C (68°F). The island is actually better known for the beauty of its natural pools than for its beaches. These lava-surrounded pools with views of the lush cliffs are the perfect place for a swim. This temperature can be considered cool for swimming, but acceptable for some swimmers. The ocean remains relatively stable throughout the year, with moderate variations as the area is not tropical. Some people may find the water comfortable, while others may find it cold, depending on their personal sensitivities. You may want to bring a light wetsuit for swimming if you’re worried about getting cold.
In these conditions, July is a good month to swim in Madeira.
- Water temperature in Funchal: 24°C (75°F) on average
- Porto Moniz water temperature: 22°C (72°F) on average
- Porto Santo water temperature: 23°C (73.5°F) on average
Crowds and other conditions
July is high season in Madeira. The crowds are bigger, with many tourists taking advantage of the summer vacations. Prices tend to be higher for accommodation, activities and sometimes catering, reflecting strong demand. We recommend booking in advance to obtain the best options and rates. Despite the crowds, we find the destination a pleasant place to visit, thanks to its many natural and cultural attractions.
Cetacean watching in July
Good news for you: July is a great month for whale and dolphin watching! In addition to common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, Atlantic spotted dolphins and blue and white dolphins, you may be lucky enough to see rough-toothed dolphins or Risso’s dolphins, which usually move in groups. Dolphins tend to congregate in shallower waters, closer to the coast, making it easier to observe them on boat trips. Whales, although present, spend more time in the depths of the ocean, which can make them a little more difficult to observe than dolphins. At this time of year, however, you can see sperm whales, pilot whales, fin whales, sei whales and Bryde’s whales, also known as tropical whales. Read our article on the subject.
Flower gardens in Madeira
If, like us, you love flowers and beautiful trees and would like to visit Madeira, don’t hesitate and go there in July too! The weather is fine, temperatures are rising and so is the amount of sunshine. You’ll marvel at the colors of these fragrant flower gardens. Known as the island of flowers and eternal spring, Madeira will fascinate you with its nature, adorned with its most beautiful flowers and fragrances at the height of the summer season in July! Our favorite garden is without a doubt the Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Funchal, where you’ll discover many unique species of flowers.
Natural pools and beaches
July is also a good time to swim in Madeira, not in very warm waters because you won’t be in the tropics, but on beaches and, above all, in natural pools! A must-see on the island, these pools are surrounded by lava and overlook lush cliffs. A landscape like no other! Those built around lava rocks are in Porto Moniz, Seixal and Poças do Gomes. Many have also been designed on the basis of human intervention at the ocean’s edge. Another of Madeira’s sights is its famous black sand beaches, a legacy of the island’s volcanic activity.
July events in Madeira
Summer is lively in Madeira, with its share of major events. After the Atlantic Festival in June, follow up with Madeira’s National Day on July 1. The celebration is a highlight for this island destination. This is the most important event in July. What you can see on the day:
- Flamboyant parades in the streets of Funchal
- Locals in traditional costumes
- Folkloric dances such as the “bailinho da Madeira”.
- Local gastronomy in the spotlight, with dishes likeespetada and bolo do caco
- Spectacular fireworks light up the night sky
The national holiday is a unique opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and take part in celebrations that often last several days!
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July prices
Unsurprisingly, prices in July are inevitably higher than in other months of the year, as you’re in the height of the high season. There’s plenty to choose from in terms of accommodation, from youth hostels to 5-star hotels, as well as activities. It is therefore difficult to give a budget. However, in July, tourists are very numerous throughout the month. Prices are rising.
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 August
- Madeira in September
- Madeira in October
- Madeira in November
- Madeira in December
Or read our article on when to go to Madeira (coming soon).
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
