Madeira tourist guide

Far out in the Atlantic Ocean, the island of Madeira soars dramatically from the sea in rocky peaks and cliffs, sliced by deep-cut valleys. Fertile volcanic soil and a mild climate bring Eden-like abundance, earning Madeira the nickname “Isle of Flowers”. Fruit baskets overflow, there’s seafood aplenty, and wine fit for the gods. In the 1800s, the rich and famous spent winters here. During the 20th century it became a haven for the genteel over-50s. But now a younger generation is flocking to Madeira for energetic walks through rugged mountain terrain, for its virgin forests and unspoiled nature, and for such adventures as deep-sea fishing, diving and hang-gliding.

This website tells you all you need to know about Madeira, its history, landscape, government, people, industry, environment and tourism.

Here you can learn all about places to see, things to do, where to eat, where to shop, about the nightlife and getting around on the island. You can book a hotel directly, find special deals for recommended accommodation, check out the weather, find out all those essential things you need to know in our top tips section, and much more.

We have offices with a large team in Madeira, so you can check out local news or link to our live webcam for a view over the harbour area of Funchal. Have friends or family visiting Madeira? See them live over our Peoplecam. A daily digicam image shows you stunning shots from around the island each day and we have a collection of stunning photos.

There’s an interactive map plus news on festivals and events, and a holiday calendar, to help you plan when to go.

And if it all appeals so much you decide you’d like a more permanent foot on the island, then you can even investigate property for sale.

So click away, enjoy your virtual visit to Madeira, and find out why this little island in the Atlantic is where Europe meets the Tropics.