A bottle of Madeira wine always goes down well and you can buy it in any supermarket for a fraction of the price of the airport, though you’ll need to transport it in your checked-in suitcase.
Browse the traditional Madeiran embroidery designs over at Bordal or get your hands on a colourful embroidered t-shirt from Bailha at the concept shop SOU. authentic Madeira.
Essential information
- Tourist office: Avenida Arriaga 16, Funchal; + 351 291 145 305; visitmadeira
- Emergency fire, police and ambulance: 112
- British Embassy: Rua de São Bernardo 33, Lisbon; +351 213 924 000; gov.uk
The basics
- Flight time: Four hours
- Currency: Euros (€)
- International dialling code: +351
- Time difference: GMT+1
Local laws and etiquette
Avoid doing the island’s levadas on your own, always bring a friend or join a local tour guide who is familiar with the hiking trails. Some paths may close after rainy days. The Institute of Forests and Nature Conservation is the best place to check for updates on open routes.
Accessibility for travellers with disabilities
Madeira is increasingly working on its accessibility features. Visitors can bring their own wheelchairs or hire equipment such as scooters directly on the island. Although most paths are narrow and hilly, the area along the waterfront is usually flat and there are adapted trails like Um Caminho para Todos which are wide enough for a wheelchair.
About our expert
Joana Taborda moved to the Portuguese island back in 2021 in search of warmer winters. She soon found herself loving its diverse landscape, camping amid the mountains, swimming in natural pools and whipping up recipes using the island’s freshest ingredients.