Want to go to Madeira in October?
Find out if the region is right for you at this time of year, with our comprehensive guide to climate, travel conditions, crowds, 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.
Moving to Madeira in October: quick answers
Is the weather good in Madeira in October? Is this a good time to visit?
October is a good time to visit Madeira, with temperatures ranging from 22°C (72°F) to 23°C (73.5°F). The weather is still pleasant, with plenty of sunshine but a slightly higher risk of precipitation, averaging 2 to 3 days a month. However, we like this time of year because it’s the end of the high summer season, providing you with a good balance between favorable weather and moderate tourist numbers. How about an Indian summer in Madeira?
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Travelling to Madeira in October: summary of conditions
Temperatures
Average temperatures in Madeira in October are stable. You’ll see that the thermometer reads an average of 23°C (73.5°F). You’ll enjoy pleasant days, while nights become a little cooler, with average temperatures around 16°C (61°F ) to 18°C (64°F).
Water temperatures
Given the island’s mild climate at this time of year, the water remains pleasant for bathing in October in Madeira, despite the risk of precipitation. As this is not a tropical destination, the good news is that the temperature of the ocean and natural pools varies little. It is approaching 24°C (75°F). If you’re afraid of cool water when it’s time to take a dip, try a light wetsuit. It’s also practical if you like water sports, which are still possible at this time of year!
Crowds and prizes
We love the month of October in Madeira, as the island slowly empties of tourists, allowing you to visit at your leisure. Prices are falling, making them more affordable, but that doesn’t rule out the importance of anticipation. So remember to book as early as possible, even if you’re planning to leave in October, to ensure you have plenty of choice. You’ll find the atmosphere more relaxed. Prices of accommodation and tourist activities are tending to fall, making holidays more affordable.
Opening conditions
In October, you’ll find that most museums, restaurants and hotels are open in Madeira. It’s still an active time for tourism, so you’ll find a wide range of services and activities available. Although many establishments are seasonal, they don’t usually start closing for the off-season until later in the autumn. Some of them can adjust their opening hours, but you’ll have access to a varied offer overall.
Length of day
Daylight hours average 1:30 pm. As you can see, it gets shorter and shorter in autumn, but that still leaves you plenty of time to explore the region by day. In fact, we advise you to visit most nature sites during the day, or to find out as much as you can about the conditions before you set off.
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Best attractions in Madeira in October
October remains a good time to visit Madeira, as you’ll find that everything is still practicable, with a few points of caution, such as the risk of fog when hiking or the need for a wetsuit for swimming. The climate remains mild, so there’s always plenty to do! Museums, towns and villages, hiking, gourmet meals, swimming and nature are all on your list. A good time for:
- Swimming in the natural pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal
- Walking along a levada like 25 Fontes
- Surveying Porto Moniz
- Driving and admiring sublime views
- Strolling the beaches of Porto Santo
- Explore Funchal and its many museums
- Marvel at Madeira’s magical waterfalls
- See the sunrise from Pico do Areiro
- Discover Porto Santo
- Explore other towns and villages: Camara de Lobos, Ponta do Sol…
- Enjoy the contrast at Ponta de Sao Louranço
- Nature activities: canyoning, kayaking, hiking…
- Discover the 2 islands of the Madeira archipelago or Porto Santo
- See more and more species-specific dolphins and whales
- Visit botanical gardens in bloom such as the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- 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 October – weather forecast
In October, Madeira enjoys a consistently mild and pleasant climate, with only 2 to 3 days of rainfall in the month. There’s a little more rain at this time of year, but it’s minimal and brief.
Along the coast
Close to the ocean, prepare for an often sunny atmosphere with a light breeze, creating ideal conditions for enjoying beaches and coastal activities. Daytime temperatures can rise somewhat without being stifling, with humidity still moderate despite the few days of precipitation during the month.
In the heights
In the mountains, cover up when hiking or exploring the heights! The weather can be slightly cooler and sometimes more changeable. On the other hand, you can also witness beautiful sunny spells! It’s cooler than at sea level, and clouds tend to cling to the peaks, sometimes creating fog or light drizzle. The weather in Madeira in October is relatively stable, but occasional showers can occur, especially in the mountainous areas more suited to hiking and levadas. These rains are generally short-lived and alternate with sunny spells. Your evenings and nights will be a little cooler, especially at higher altitudes.
October temperatures in Madeira
Weather in Funchal
- Average daytime temperature: 22.5°C (72.5°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 19°C (66°F)
Temperature in Porto Moniz
- Average daytime temperature: 22.5°C (72.5°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 18°C (64.5°F)
Temperature in Porto Santo
- Average daytime temperature: 22.5°C (72.5°F)
- Average night-time temperature: 18.5°C (65.5°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
In Madeira in October, rainfall picks up moderately. Rainfall, when it does occur, is often short-lived and of low to medium intensity. You can expect occasional showers, particularly in the mountains, but these will alternate with sunny spells.
- Rainfall in Funchal: 58mm
(over 3 days on average) - Rainfall in Porto Moniz: 58mm
(over 3 days on average) - Rainfall in Porto Santo: 69mm
(over 3 days on average)
There’s no snow in Madeira in October. The island enjoys a mild subtropical climate all year round, and snow is extremely rare, even in winter on the highest peaks.
You’ll find that in Madeira in October, wind conditions are stable. The prevailing winds are the trade winds, blowing from the northeast. Near the coast, you’ll feel a refreshing sea breeze. At higher altitudes, winds can be stronger and more changeable. Overall, the windy conditions remain pleasant and will not disrupt your activities.
Sunshine
In October, you’ll enjoy an average of 7 hours of sunshine a day. The days are still relatively long, so you’ll have plenty of time to enjoy the sun. Although less intense than in summer, the sunshine is still sufficient for outdoor activities and sunbathing. Mornings are often sunny, with the occasional cloud forming in the afternoon, so plan to spend most of your time outdoors at this time.
Water temperature – bathing in Madeira in October
We consider October to be another good time for water sports in Madeira, with temperatures around 24°C (75°F). Conditions are often suitable if you enjoy swimming, snorkeling or other water sports. Just remember to bring a light wetsuit for water activities.
October is still a good month for swimming.
- Water temperature in Funchal: 24°C (75°F) on average
- Porto Moniz water temperature: 23°C (73.5°F) on average
- Porto Santo water temperature: 25°C (77°F) average
Crowds and other conditions
Like us, you’ll love Madeira in October, when the crowds start to thin out compared with the high summer season. Your vacation atmosphere will be more relaxed and the tourist sites less crowded, giving you a more authentic experience. You’ll be pleasantly surprised by the falling prices of accommodation and tourist activities, making your stay more affordable.
Garden flowers
In October, Madeira’s gardens are still in full bloom, albeit less spectacularly than in spring. The autumn blooming season remains interesting, with many floral wonders such as agapanthus, strelitzia (also known as birds of paradise), orchids, aloe vera and viperina. Enjoy the floral fragrances and sublime colors. Discover our tips on the most beautiful gardens to visit in Madeira.
Cetacean watching by boat
October is still part of Madeira’s optimal cetacean-watching season, which generally runs from April to autumn, depending on the species. So you’ve made the right choice! At this time of year, you can observe a few species in the waters around the island, but with less diversity. In addition to common dolphins and bottlenose dolphins, you may be lucky enough to see Risso’s dolphins, which usually travel in groups. Dolphins congregate in shallower waters close to the coast, making it easier to observe them on boat trips. As for the whales, they are present but dive deeper into the ocean, which can make them less easy to observe than the dolphins.
At this time of year, however, you can see pilot whales, sei whales and Bryde’s whales, also known as tropical whales. Read more
Outdoor and nature activities
In October, Madeira once again promises ideal conditions for your outdoor activities. You’ll love the mild weather if you’re planning a hike, especially along the levada trails or up Pico Ruivo.. Canyoning in Ribeira das Cales and surfing on the west coast are also popular. We recommend that you organize them in the morning, when there is less risk of fog and rain. You’ll enjoy better visibility, especially as the days get shorter and the sun sets a little earlier! Are you a thrill-seeker? Discover the cable car and glass platform of Cap Girão with spectacular views! The pleasant climate also allows you to enjoy botanical gardens and natural pools such as those at Porto Moniz. For all water sports, bring a light wetsuit to reduce the chill of the water.
October events in Madeira
Even in October, Madeira is in full swing:
- La Fête de la Nature: this festival celebrates nature and the beauty of the countryside. If you’re a fan of outdoor sports, try some adrenaline-pumping activities.
- Les Concerts-L: concerts orchestrated by Madeira’s National Conservatory of Music, a national and international cultural initiative.
- The Madeira Canyoning Meeting: the Seixal Naval Club and the Portuguese Camping and Mountaineering Federation organize this annual event, which welcomes participants of various nationalities, all canyoning enthusiasts.
- The International Bridge Open: this annual tournament brings together bridge enthusiasts from all over the world.
Madeira regularly hosts international events such as the World Canoe-Kayak Championships, as well as national events such as the Funchal EcoTrail and the Organ Festival.
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October prices
Like everywhere else, prices vary depending on what you’re looking for and how far in advance you book your stay! In October, Madeira offers a wide range of accommodation, from youth hostels to 5-star hotels. Some seasonal establishments may start closing or adjusting their opening hours. Note that in October, there are far fewer tourists, but some events still attract the curious and nature and thrill-seekers. Prices continue to fall compared with previous months.
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 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
