Exploring the pretty towns in Madeira is a great way of getting to know the country. The archipelago of Madeira is located in the Atlantic Ocean, so many of these towns are dotted along the coast.
Wander under Jacaranda trees in Funchal’s Old Town, chill on Machico’s prized golden sandy beach, or luxuriate in Porto Moniz’s natural swimming pools. Each of these Madeira towns have their own attractions, personality, and charm.
Here is our choice of the best towns in Madeira to include on your road trip around the island.
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THE BEST TOWNS IN MADEIRA TO EXPLORE
1. FUNCHAL: ONE OF THE MOST POPULAR TOWNS IN MADEIRA
Funchal is the capital city of Madeira Island, and the largest town in Madeira. Sitting in a beautiful bay bathed by the Atlantic Ocean on Madeira’s south coast, you are guaranteed stunning views, and a warm climate.
This cosmopolitan town has a stunning backdrop of lush landscapes, mountains and terracotta roofs, and is home to some of the best 5 star hotels in Madeira.
It is a delight to wander around on foot. From the colourful streets, bustling market hall (Mercado dos Lavredores) and São Tiago black sand beach of the Old Town. To the inviting cathedral, elegant Avenida Arriaga, town hall and numerous museums in the town center.
Its steep crooked streets packed with inviting cafes, lead down to a seaside promenade, with easy access to the ocean, and the numerous whale-watching tours. Be sure to take the cable car to Monte to visit tropical and botanical gardens.
With so many things to do in Funchal, you have to be organised with your time. Funchal has a lot to offer, and is an must stop on your Madeira Itinerary.
Best Town In Madeira For:
- First time visitors, or those spending only 3 days in Madeira
- Getting around without renting a car in Madeira
- Gothic and Baroque style buildings, culture, delightful gardens, churches and museums
Where To Stay in Funchal:
Whether you are looking for a hostel, luxury hotel with a swimming pool, or a design hotel, this charming town caters to every budget.
- Santa Maria Hostel offers budget accommodation in a historical building in Funchal old town.
- ARTS IN Hotel Conde Carvalhal offers accommodation in a restored mansion surrounded by greenery, with a fantastic breakfast.
- Reid’s Palace: is the epitome of luxury and elegance.
2. MACHICO: BEST TOWN IN MADEIRA FOR A QUIET SANDY BEACH
Machico is one of the most popular towns in Madeira to visit after Funchal. It is easily accessible by public transport, only 25 km from Funchal, and offers a relaxing atmosphere for your holiday.
The town is nestled between two large hills, along a wide fertile valley, with steep mountain slopes. Madeira’s oldest settlement is today, one of the prettiest small towns in Madeira.
Head up Pico Do Facho, which flanks the town to the east, and you will be rewarded with incredible views over Machico Bay, and towards Ponta de Sao Lourenco.
In town, stroll through attractive squares shaded by weeping fig trees. Visit Igreja Matriz de Machico, the main parish church which dates back to the 15th-century, with four chapels.
The town originally had three forts which protected the Bay from intruding pirates. You can see the abandoned Forte de Sao Joao Baptista as you stroll along the promenade. The peeling exterior of triangular-shaped Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo, now acts as office buildings.
After exploring the town, enjoy dinner then take a seat along the seat and watch a stunning sunset.
Best Town In Madeira For:
- A lovely golden sand beach
- Access to walking trails such as Levada dos Marocos and Verada do Larano
- Relaxing vibe with pretty coastal promenade
Where To Stay In Machico:
- Dom Pedro Madeira is the only hotel option in the town. Although slightly dated, the rooms are spotlessly clean, and there is a swimming pool, piano bar and restaurant. We stayed here for one night, and didn’t expect much from the low-rated reviews. However, we were pleasantly surprised and enjoyed a great selection of breakfast fare.
- Modern & Recycled Guest House is a good budget option with excellent reviews.
- Casa Do Pescador is a great choice for a rental accommodation.
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3. PONTA DO SOL: ONE OF THE PRETTIEST MADEIRA TOWNS
Out of all the Madeira towns and villages, this was one of my most favourite. Maybe more of a coastal village than the other towns in Madeira, it is also known as the hottest area on the island.
With a name meaning “Point of the Sun”, this southern town is a great spot for soaking up the sun’s rays year-round.
The view from its jetty is the stuff of postcards and makes for great photos. The attractive pebble beach has the town centre for a backdrop, with the imposing bell tower of Nossa Senhora da Luz taking centre stage.
View the crashing waves and cliffs from the bridge, and enjoy coffee from the café balcony. Stroll around the old part of town past colourful buildings, eateries, the cultural center and cobbled streets.
This is a town that prides itself on its appearance and bananas and sugar cane, are grown here. Look up at the hillside and you can see the banana plantations. The town is a perfect spot to check out other activities in Madeira
Best Town In Madeira For:
- Those looking for a quieter beach town
- A charming and colourful old town to stroll around
- Great accommodation options and eateries
Where To Stay In Ponta Do Sol:
- Estalagem Da Ponta Do Sol is a boutique hotel perched on a cliff with a stunning infinity pool.
- Escarpa – The Madeira Hideaway offers the perfect luxury escape.
- 1905 Zino’s Palace is a unique property with garden, terrace, and swimming pool.
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4. RIBEIRA BRAVA: BEST TOWN IN MADEIRA FOR A QUIETER VIBE
This south coast town is ideally located to explore all the main attractions in Madeira.
It enjoys a unique position with a diverse landscape, from the mountains to the Atlantic Ocean. A combination of warm climate and fertile soil produce some of the island’s sugar cane, bananas, and sweet potato.
Ribeira Brava sits in a deep valley, opens out into the sea, and has a laid back feel. A charming promenade leads to a small pebble beach, cafes and grand views of lush hills and plantations.
Visitors flock to see the one of the oldest churches on the island, Igreja de Sao Bento. Don’t miss its 15th-century baptismal font, and Manueline pulpit.
Housed in a 17th-century residence is the impressive Museu Etnografico da Madeira, where you can learn about traditional crafts, and the harvesting of crops.
Enjoy dinner and marvellous views from the terrace of The Restaurant & Grill Muralha, as you watch the sun setting.
Best Town In Madeira For:
- A more relaxed and quieter atmosphere
- Access to a lovely levada walk, Levada Nova
- Getting to nearby attractions such as Camara de Lobos
Where To Stay In Ribeira Brava:
- Sonho do Oceano has sea views and an outdoor swimming pool
- Holiday Apartment Ocean View has a 4 night minimum, but trust us, you won’t want to leave this amazing apartment. Book early to avoid disappointment.
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5. PORTO MONIZ: BEST TOWNS FOR NATURAL POOLS
Located on the extreme north coast of the Island, Porto Moniz is sandwiched between imposing mountains and the ocean. Popular with day trippers, it can be very busy during the day.
The reason people visit is to soak in the natural pools in the volcanic rocks. Formed by coastal lava rocks, the only addition is stairs, platforms, and areas to relax.
The waves crash against the rocks, naturally replenishing the pools, with little more interaction needed.
When you are done bathing, stroll along the promenade to the aquarium, housed in a replica of the old Forte Sao Joao Batista. There are an array of cafes and restaurants to dine in, and enjoy the volcanic landscape.
For a stunning view of one of the best towns in Madeira, head up ER101 to Miradouro da Santinha.
Best Town In Madeira For:
- Natural lava pools
- Views of Ribeira Janela
- Easy access to Levada da Ribeira da Janela and Seixal black sand beach
Where To Stay In Porto Moniz:
- Aqua Natura Madeira is a 4 star hotel located near the natural pools
- Studios by Aqua Natura Hotels has a great location, plentiful facilities and an excellent breakfast
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6. SANTA CRUZ: ONE OF THE OLDEST TOWNS IN MADEIRA
One of the oldest towns in Madeira, Santa Cruz is a charming, pleasant, and pretty coastal town to explore.
Most visitors arriving on Madeira Island are met with a landscape of mountains and ocean, but there is more to this hidden gem, if you take the time to visit.
Its history dates back to the 15th-century, when the site was christened. Stroll through the attractively paved streets to the church square. Igreja de Sao Salvador, built in 1533, has stonemasonry dating from the Manueline period.
Cut through the small market hall, where azulejo tiles depict fishing scenes, and locals gather to catch up.
The rocky beach is perfect for watching the sun set, and you can join locals at Doce Satisfacao, where they serve the best Portuguese tarts on the island.
Best Town In Madeira For:
- Watching planes land on the island
- Families who will enjoy the Aquaparque
- Getting off the tourist track and feeling like a local
Where To Stay In Santa Cruz:
- Amazing SEA LIGHT Apartment has garden views, balcony, and is a 3-minute walk from Palmeiras Beach.
- Kora Home is a delightful apartment with a balcony, free private parking and free Wifi.
- Holidays in a quiet area – Wings Apartment I is a nice and modern apartment.
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7. PORTO DA CRUZ: BEST TOWN IN MADEIRA TO AVOID CROWDS
Porto Da Cruz is one of the oldest settlements, and a bit of a hidden gem. Easily explored on foot, the wonderful promenade walk takes you past cafes at the eastern pebble beach, alongside stunning views, to the summer swimming area.
Head to the westerly cove of pebbly Praia da Alagoa, where you can swim in the sea, underneath steep Eagle’s Rock. The town has also become the second best surfing hotspot on the island.
Visit one of the few remaining sugar mills, free of charge, where you can wander around the sugar cane factory, and then have a taster in the shop next door.
Best Town In Madeira For:
- Dramatic cliff and ocean views
- Easy access to Verada Ponte do Sao Lourenco trail
- Hikers looking for a quiet base
Where To Stay In Porto Da Cruz:
- Jaca Hostel Porto da Cruz is a great budget option
- Casinha do Paiol is a great home with terrace, and a view to the Penha D’águia mountain.
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We hope you found this guide to our selection of the best towns in Madeira helpful, and that it will help you planning your Madeira Itinerary. If you have any questions, please leave a comment below.
MORE POSTS ON MADEIRA
We have several interesting articles for you to read:
- Driving in Madeira – a guide for first timers
- Cable Cars in Madeira for a thrilling ride
- Visit Ponta do Garajau Madeira
- Renting a car in Madeira
- Ponta Do Sol, Madeira
- Madeira Hidden Gems
And click here to find guides to other destinations.
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