Want to go to Madeira in March?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, prices, outdoor activities, 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.
Going to Madeira in March: quick answers
Is the weather good in Madeira in March? Is this a good time to visit?
Planning to visit Madeira in March? That’s a great idea! You’ll enjoy temperatures between 16°C (61°F) and 18°C (66°F), with just over 7 hours of sunshine during the day. Although rain is possible (2 days a month on average), you’ll appreciate the generally pleasant climate, perfect for discovering nature in full bloom! In fact, you’re probably aware that Madeira is nicknamed the Island of Flowers, with its famous “eternal spring”. March is the month preceding the great garden bloom, with many beautiful plant species already in bloom.
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Travelling to Madeira in March: summary of conditions
Temperatures
In March, temperatures are still mild in Madeira, ranging from 16°C (61°F) to 18°C (64.5°F). Slightly warm wind events such as the “calima” can add a few degrees, but the effect is not as noticeable as in the Canary Islands.
Water temperatures
As Madeira is not a tropical destination, you won’t experience natural hot water on the beaches or in the natural pools. The water temperature is indeed fairly stable all year round, even slightly colder in March at around 18°C (64.5°F).
Crowds and prizes
Apart from the 1st week of the month, when Madeira’s Carnival festivities continue, the island attracts slightly fewer tourists than in summer. Prices generally drop in March after these world-famous events. In our opinion, this is the ideal time to explore the island, as the crowds are not yet high and value for money remains good for accommodation, flights and local activities.
Opening conditions
March is still considered the low tourist season, so some places may have reduced opening hours. However, you’ll find that all museums, restaurants, hotels and excursions are within easy reach! Just make sure you find out enough in advance to have plenty of choice and check out the flexible timetables. Please note that some seasonal establishments may limit access to certain facilities (outdoor pools, for example).
Length of day
Between sunrise at around 7.15am and sunset at around 7.45pm, the average day lasts 12 hours at this time of year. So you won’t be limited in time to visit and discover all the island’s treasures every day!
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Best attractions in Madeira in March
During March, tourist attractions, both cultural and natural, are easy to visit. Just remember to check if opening times have been adjusted, as this period is still considered low tourist season. By way of illustration:
- Enjoy the contrast at Ponta de Sao Louranço
- Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal
- Explore Funchal and its many museums
- See the sunrise from Pico do Areiro
- Walking along a levada like 25 Fontes
- Driving and admiring sublime views
- Visit botanical gardens such as the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, which are just beginning to blossom.
- Observe specific species of dolphins and whales
- Enjoy nature in a different way: canyoning, kayaking, hiking…
- Explore other towns and villages: Camara de Lobos, Ponto do Sol…
- And many more unsuspected wonders to discover…
See 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 March – weather forecast
In March, Madeira’s coastal climate is subtropical and mild.. You’ll enjoy largely bearable temperatures and little rain. The coastline, particularly the Funchal region, is sunnier and less humid than the island’s hilly inland areas.
On the coast
With little precipitation, the days are fairly sunny in March on the Madeira coast. Despite a few clouds, the sky is fairly clear, allowing you to observe the superb contrasts and shades of blue between the ocean and the horizon. In March, it rains a little less than in February in Madeira, but that can happen! So pack accordingly. The island is subtropical, so if you don’t like the heat, the temperatures are ideal for enjoying the beaches, natural pools and walks along the coast.
In the mountains
At higher altitudes, the weather continues to be more variable, with occasional clouds and mist. You can go from cool temperatures to slightly warmer ones. The atmosphere is more humid, with a little more fog. If you’re planning a hike, be prepared for changing conditions and lower temperatures, with the risk of mist or low clouds. Remember to pack suitable, waterproof clothing for these excursions, with different layers that are easy to put on and take off as the weather changes.
In terms of winds, the trade winds (inter-tropical breezes) generally blow from east to west. In Madeira, you’ll mainly feel these winds coming from the northeast, sometimes descending as far as the coast. Be aware that these winds increase the humidity on the northern slopes of the island, so bear this in mind if you plan to hike or explore the levadas in this area.
March temperatures in Madeira
Weather in Funchal
- 16.5°C (62°F) average
Temperature in Porto Moniz
- 16.5°C (62°F) average
Temperature in Porto Santo
- 17.5°C (63.5°F) on 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
March is neither the rainiest nor the windiest month of the year in Madeira, but there are a few episodes of rain and wind that may occur during your stay.
- Rainfall in Funchal: 40mm
(on average 2 days) - Rainfall in Porto Moniz: 40mm
(on average 2 days) - Rainfall in Porto Santo: 47mm
(on average 2 days)
In March, it doesn’t snow in Madeira. It can be quite exceptional, but you’ll potentially see snow (which melts quite quickly) on the island’s highest points, such as Pico Ruivo and Pico do Arieiro. On the coast, like Funchal, it never snows, with mild temperatures typical of the famous “eternal spring”, Madeira’s promise.
As we said earlier, March is not Madeira’s windiest month. It generally blows from east to west, particularly in the north of the island and in the higher elevations. The weather remains changeable, especially at higher altitudes. Always check the weather conditions if you plan to go hiking at this time of year. Read all our tips in our article on the best walks in Madeira.
Sunshine
In Madeira in March, the sun rises around 7.15am and sets around 12 hours later. The days get longer as spring approaches, so the number of hours of sunshine also increases, with just over 7 hours per day. The atmosphere can be a little humid in the hilly terrain, but the sunshine means that the climate is relatively dry, depending on the area of the island. On the coast, all attractions remain feasible.
Water temperature – swimming in Madeira in March
If for you, vacations are synonymous with a pleasant, temperate climate, sublime natural landscapes and swimming in cool waters, then Madeira is the place for you. As it’s not a tropical island, you won’t experience much heat here. Ideal for a wide range of activities at any time of day, and a leisurely swim in the natural pools of Porto Moniz, Seixal or Porto Santo. Or enjoy the ocean, on beaches far from the crowds.
March is therefore a good month to swim in Madeira in these conditions. For those more sensitive to cold water, a light wetsuit may be useful.
- Water temperature in Funchal: 19°C (66°F) on average
- Porto Moniz water temperature: 17.5°C (63.5°F) on average
- Porto Santo water temperature: 19°C (66°F) on average
Crowds and other conditions
You’ll find that in March, the island sees a moderate influx of tourists. You’ll enjoy a true balance of tranquility and excitement. At the beginning of the month, carnival festivities come to an end. Considered the low tourist season, this period attracts fewer tourists than the summer or Christmas holidays, for example. You’ll benefit from special rates for accommodation and activities, allowing you to discover the island at lower cost. Although some establishments may have reduced opening hours, everything remains open in Madeira in March. The rates are attractive, there’s a bit of entertainment, the weather’s nice and not too hot – what more could you ask for a successful vacation?
Outdoor activities: hiking, kayaking, canyoning…
Between ocean, mountains, exceptional landscapes, Madeira is a unique destination for outdoor activities even in March! Its mild climate means you can enjoy it at any time of day. As you’d expect, hiking is particularly popular, with a wide variety of trails. Boat excursions are also organized to observe dolphins and whales, for a unique experience at sea. Kayaking and canyoning are also must-try attractions. We recommend that you opt for guided tours, as the organizers are used to adapting activities to Madeira’s sometimes changing weather conditions in March.
Garden flowers
On the Flower Island, where spring is said to be eternal, there are beautiful flowers all year round. But March is certainly an ideal time to observe many new floral species blooming just before the start of spring. The peak flowering period is in April and May, so if you go in March, you’ll see the gardens at the very beginning of their peak. A magical and poetic moment to be experienced in Madeira’s most beautiful gardens from March onwards!
Dolphin and whale watching
In our opinion, Madeira is a must-see destination in Europe for cetacean watching, with different species frequenting the island’s waters throughout the year. In March, although species diversity is limited, you can marvel at common dolphins, bottlenose dolphins, striped dolphins and short-finned pilot whales. Sperm whales and pilot whales also roam around Madeira at this time of year. Bear in mind that these sightings are not always guaranteed, depending on weather conditions and the natural behavior of the animals. For more tips and photos, see our dedicated article!
March events in Madeira
Madeira hosts national and international events all year round. In March, here are the ones you can take part in:
- Madeira Carnival: during the last week of February and the 1st of March, Carnival is the most notable event of the month. Sublimely extravagant costumes, colorful floats and dancing to the rhythm of samba music will parade before you. Thousands of participants and spectators take to the streets of Funchal, also the following week, where masquerade costume is the dress code for all.
- Cherimoya Fruit Festival (Festa da Anona): this festival has been held every year since 1990 in the pretty village of Faial, on the island’s north coast. It aims to promote cherimoya, a fruit widely grown in this region. On the program: fruit displays and entertainment!
- International Forest and Tree Day: Funchal’s Ecological Park hosts a variety of activities including nature exhibitions, workshops, competitions and walks to discover the island’s forests. The aim is to raise awareness of the importance of trees and forests (see details here).
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March prices
As everywhere, prices vary depending on what you are looking for. Accommodation ranges from youth hostels to 5-star hotels. It is therefore difficult to give a budget. In March, however, tourist numbers are lower, especially in the middle of the month after Carnival. So prices are affordable.
Other months
When to go to Madeira, other months…
- Madeira in January
- Madeira in February
- 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
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
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
