Madeira’s not your typical beach break. It’s all dramatic cliffs, lush levadas, fishing villages and wild Atlantic energy. This 12-day coastal Madeira road trip takes you around the full loop of the island, from lively Funchal to sleepy surf towns, black sand beaches, and Europe’s highest sea cliff.
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I’m Hazel, a British travel blogger and part-time levada walker. I loved my time road-tripping around Madeira, testing hikes, chasing waterfalls, and eating way too much bolo de caco (no regrets). This 12-day itinerary is based on my route around the island – complete with practical tips and incredible views.
You can do this trip two ways: use Funchal as a home base and do day trips, or stay overnight in different towns around the island for the full road trip experience. I’ve included accommodation suggestions for both styles, so you can mix and match depending on your pace (and how often you want to repack your bag).
I recommend grabbing a rental car from Discover Cars when you land at Funchal airport. That way, you’re free to take it slow, chase the sunsets, or pull over for impromptu picnics.
Your Madeira Road Trip Route – Interactive Map 🗺️
Want to see the full loop before you hit the road? I’ve put together a custom Google Map of this 12-day Madeira itinerary showing all the stops.
Save it to your own Google Maps and use it as a day-by-day driving guide. Super handy when you’re navigating twisty mountain roads or planning your next stop.
🚙 Ready to hit the road? Here’s how to spend 12 unforgettable days circling Madeira’s stunning coastline.
Days 1–2: Funchal – Gardens, Toboggans & City Charm 🌺
Start off in Funchal, Madeira’s colourful capital and the kind of place where you can sip poncha by the sea, ride a cable car to a hilltop garden, and zoom downhill in a wicker toboggan (all in one afternoon).
The old town’s a maze of cobbled lanes and painted doors, with sunny terraces and seafood spots tucked into every corner. Spend a couple of days here soaking it all in.
Wander through the Mercado dos Lavradores to get your farmers’ market fix, explore Santa Maria Street with its quirky murals, and stop for drinks in the marina as the sun sets over the harbour.
Take the cable car up to Monte for sweeping views, then visit the tropical gardens. They’re bursting with koi ponds, exotic plants and photo ops galore.
And yes, do the toboggan ride. It’s slightly ridiculous and very fun: two men in white uniforms and straw hats will guide your wicker sledge down steep streets with surprising speed. It’s a Madeira must-do.
👉 Want more? Check out my full guide to ? 15 Unmissable Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira.
Day 3: Machico & Ponta de São Lourenço – Beaches & Lunar Landscapes 🏖️
Day three takes you east, and it’s a beauty. Start in Machico, the first spot where Portuguese explorers landed on Madeira. It’s a laid-back little town with one of the island’s only sandy beaches (yes, actual sand!), a pleasant promenade and a couple of historic gems like the old São João Baptista fort.
After a beachy wander and maybe a coffee overlooking the bay, hop in the car and head further east to Ponta de São Lourenço. This wind-whipped peninsula is unlike anything else on the island – all jagged cliffs, rocky trails and wide-open Atlantic views. It’s more arid and exposed than the rest of Madeira, and the landscape feels wild and elemental.
Hike as far as you fancy. The full trail takes a couple of hours, but even a short stroll delivers wow-worthy views.
You can either stay overnight in Machico or drive back to Funchal (about 40 minutes). If you’re lucky, you’ll catch golden hour lighting up the cliffs on the drive home.
Day 4: Porto da Cruz & Santana – Rum, Thatched Roofs & Island Charm 🥃
Time to head north. Your first stop is Porto da Cruz, a quiet coastal village with moody mountain views and a strong rum-making tradition.
Pop into the Engenho do Norte Rum Factory for a peek at their steam-powered distillery. It’s still in working order and smells absolutely divine. If you’re visiting during harvest, you’ll see it in full swing.
From there, head up to Santana, home of Madeira’s iconic triangular houses. These colourful little palheiros with thatched roofs look straight out of a fairy tale and give a glimpse into Madeira’s rural past.
The village has a few of these preserved and open to visitors, and they’re unsurprisingly photogenic.
If you’re in the mood for more, check out the Madeira Theme Park nearby. It’s a quirky mix of history and interactive exhibits, and honestly more fun than it sounds.
Either stay the night in Santana or make the loop back to Funchal if you’re craving a city reset.
Day 5: Santana & São Jorge – Coastal Views & Peaceful Villages 🏡
You could spend the morning lingering in Santana (maybe grab a slow breakfast or revisit the palheiros in better light) before heading off to São Jorge.
This part of the island feels wilder, with steep cliffs plunging into the sea and fewer crowds overall. It’s proper breathe-deep, take-it-slow territory.
São Jorge is small, scenic and uncrowded, with some fantastic viewpoints and a relaxed local vibe. If you’re staying here, expect quiet evenings and star-filled skies.
If not, you can circle back to Santana for more dining and accommodation options – or even return to Funchal if you’re feeling energetic.
Day 6: São Vicente & Seixal – Lava Tubes, Black Sand & Secret Beaches 🌋
Today’s route hugs the lush northern coast: green hills, tumbling waterfalls, and the occasional tunnel carved through volcanic rock.
First up is São Vicente, tucked into a deep valley and known for its caves. The volcanic tubes here are open for guided tours, and it’s a cool (literally) way to learn how the island was formed. There’s also a wine and ethnography museum if you fancy a cultural bonus.
Next, make your way to Seixal, where you can see one of Madeira’s most photogenic black sand beaches. It’s backed by towering cliffs, thick greenery, and often misty skies, which gives it a moody, magical vibe. Sometimes there are little waterfalls spilling right onto the beach. It’s quiet, peaceful, and perfect for a rest day.
You could overnight here, head onwards to Porto Moniz, or circle back to Funchal (the drive’s about an hour).
Day 7: Porto Moniz & Levada Grande – Natural Pools & Mountain Trails 🏊♀️🌿
Porto Moniz is one of Madeira’s show-stoppers. The volcanic rock pools here are crystal clear and right on the ocean’s edge, perfect for a salty swim with the Atlantic crashing just beyond the rocks. It’s a surreal setting, especially on a sunny day when the water glows.
After a dip, explore the Natural History Museum (small but interesting), then swap your swimsuit for walking shoes and hit one of the nearby levada trails.
👉 Want more? Here’s my full post on 15 Excellent Things to Do in Porto Moniz, Madeira.
The Levada da Ribeira da Janela is stunning but challenging – with dark tunnels and slippery paths – while the Levada Moinho (also called Levada Grande) is a little gentler but still full of views. You’ll pass waterfalls, forests, and those impossibly steep terraced hillsides that Madeira does so well.
These photos are from my solo hike along the levada Moinho.
Stay the night in Porto Moniz to soak in the town’s relaxed evening vibe and fresh seafood.
Day 8: Ponta do Pargo & Paul do Mar – Lighthouses, Levada Views & Sunset Vibes 🌅
Time to head west. Start your day at Ponta do Pargo, where a lonely lighthouse stands guard over towering cliffs and rolling green hills. The views go on forever. There’s also a nearby trailhead for the Levada Nova, a panoramic walk that skims the edge of the escarpment, ideal for a half-day adventure.
In the afternoon, wind your way down to Paul do Mar, a peaceful fishing village nestled between steep cliffs and the sea. It’s got a low-key, surfy vibe with a handful of beachfront cafés and some of the best poncha on the island.
If you’re not in a rush, stick around for sunset – the light here is something else.
You can either sleep in Paul do Mar, head back to Ponta do Pargo, or nip east to Calheta for a change of scene.
Day 9: Jardim do Mar & Calheta – Surf Towns & Sandy Shores 🌸
These two neighbouring towns on the southwest coast are laid-back and lovely, each in their own way. Jardim do Mar is a flower-filled village with surfy energy and a maze of cobbled alleys.
There’s not a lot “to do”, and that’s the charm. It’s all about wandering, watching waves, and chilling out.
Down the road, Calheta is a bit livelier, with one of the island’s few artificial golden sand beaches and a breezy marina lined with cafés. You can paddleboard, swim, or just stretch out on a sunbed with a cold drink.
There’s also the Casa das Mudas Art Centre up on the hillside, it’s a striking modern gallery with brilliant views.
Stay overnight in Calheta if you’re craving beachside R&R. If you fancy some luxury, book yourself into the Savoy Saccharum for an absolute treat.
👉 Want more? Don’t miss my guide to 10 Amazing Things to Do in Calheta, Madeira.
Day 10: Ponta do Sol & Ribeira Brava – Sunshine Towns & Riverside Strolls ☀️
Ponta do Sol claims the title of Madeira’s sunniest spot, and you’ll see why when you arrive. The beach is small but scenic, framed by pastel buildings and palm trees. It’s perfect for a lazy morning swim or coffee on the seafront.
Then head to Ribeira Brava, a colourful little town cradled between steep green hills. The historic centre is compact but charming, with a striking Baroque church, a small ethnographic museum, and a palm-lined promenade where locals play chess and sip espresso. Everything feels calm and easygoing here.
It’s a short drive from either town back to Funchal, but you could also spend a night here if you want a quiet evening in a less touristy part of the island.
Day 11: Câmara de Lobos & Cabo Girão – Clifftops & Fishing Village Feels 🎣
Your final full day brings big views and a side of history. Start at Cabo Girão, one of the tallest sea cliffs in Europe. The glass platform juts out over a 580m drop. It’s vertigo-inducing but unforgettable.
There’s a café nearby and some excellent local stalls where you can pick up Madeiran honey cake, handmade embroidery and other Madeiran souvenirs.
Afterwards, descend to Câmara de Lobos, a ridiculously pretty fishing village with colourful boats bobbing in the harbour. It was famously painted by Winston Churchill and still feels like a scene from a postcard.
I love to wander the narrow streets, stop for seafood by the sea, and sip a poncha at a harbourfront bar as the sun dips low.
(The weather wasn’t great during my visit as you can see, but it was still lovely).
If you’re feeling sentimental (or just well-fed), head back to Funchal for one last night of city buzz.
✈️ Day 12: Departure from Funchal – Until Next Time, Madeira
Time to pack up and say goodbye to the island. Depending on your flight time, squeeze in a final coffee on the marina or a stroll along the promenade before heading to the airport.
You’ve just road-tripped around one of the most spectacular islands in Europe. Volcanic pools, levada hikes, surf towns, sunset viewpoints and enough poncha to keep your heart warm for weeks. Until next time, Madeira ?
Where to Stay in Each Town Along the Route 🏨
Planning your overnights? Whether you’re hopping town to town or using Funchal as a base, here are my top picks in each stop – from boutique gems to beachy stays with sea views.
Funchal
For central charm, go with Castanheiro Boutique Hotel or The Vine Hotel. For old-school glamour, you can’t beat Belmond Reid’s Palace. And if you’re watching your budget, Hostel Santa Maria is surprisingly lovely.
Machico
Dom Pedro Madeira sits right on the beach with views for days. Or try White Waters Hotel for something smaller and walkable to everything.
Santana
Go all in with Hotel Quinta do Furão – epic views, great food, and a peaceful vibe. Hotel O Colmo is another solid pick right in the centre of the village.
São Jorge
Accommodation is limited here, but that’s part of the charm. Casa das Proteas is a welcoming B&B with sea views, lush gardens, and homemade breakfast.
São Vicente
Estalagem do Mar offers coastal views and a relaxing pool, while Solar da Bica is a cosy, countryside escape nearby.
Seixal
Baía Guest House is perched above the black sand beach. For something rustic and full of character, check out Casa das Videiras – an 18th-century house with tiled details.
Porto Moniz
Aqua Natura Madeira has front-row seats to the natural pools. For something quirkier, Paradise Glamping lets you sleep under the stars with proper beds and mountain views.
Paul do Mar / Ponta do Pargo
In Ponta do Pargo, Residencial Farol is a classic pick with a pool. Or try the Victoria Tiny Stone House – a renovated Madeiran cottage with countryside charm.
Calheta
Treat yourself at Savoy Saccharum (it’s dreamy). Quinta Alegre and Hotel Jardim Atlântico are great alternatives with sunset views and peaceful surroundings.
Ponta do Sol / Ribeira Brava
Estalagem da Ponta do Sol is clifftop perfection. Enotel Sunset Bay is right on the beach. For a hidden gem, Fajã dos Padres offers vineyard cottages only reachable by cable car – magical and memorable.
Câmara de Lobos
Pestana Churchill Bay has panoramic views of the harbour and old town charm. For something more intimate, Quinta da Saraiva is a lush hillside retreat with a resident cat.
More Madeira Itineraries 🗒️
If you’re short on time or want to explore just one side of the island in depth, I’ve got you covered:
🗓️ 7-Day Itinerary – East Madeira
Funchal, Santana, São Jorge, Ponta de São Lourenço, Machico and more. Great for levada lovers and coastal hikers.
🗓️ 7-Day Itinerary – West Madeira
Cabo Girão, Ponta do Sol, Calheta, Porto Moniz, Seixal and inland levadas. Perfect if you love big views and natural pools.
Or check out my 20 Best Day Trips from Funchal if you’re staying put and want to build your own adventure.
Booking.comTours to Add to Your Madeira Road Trip 🚙🌿
Want someone else to do the planning for a day? These guided tours are easy to tack onto your itinerary – perfect for hiking without getting lost, spotting dolphins, or just sipping poncha with someone who knows their stuff.
🐬 Go dolphin and whale watching
Hop on a catamaran from Funchal to spot dolphins, whales and maybe even sea turtles. Most tours include a swim stop and a drink on board.
👉 Top 10 best whale watching tours in Madeira.
🌿 Try a guided levada walk
If you’re not keen on navigating the trails alone, join a guided hike along Levada das 25 Fontes, Caldeirão Verde, or Risco. Great scenery, no stress.
👉 See all levada walks available.
🚙 Explore the interior on a Jeep safari
Off-road through valleys, forests and jaw-dropping lookouts you might not find solo. The west coast tours are especially dramatic.
👉 See all the best jeep tours.
🥘 Eat and drink your way through Funchal
Join a food and wine tour to sample local cheese, honey cake, poncha, and plenty of island-grown wine – all with a bit of backstory.
👉 Top Funchal food tours.
FAQs about your Madeira road trip 💡
Below are some frequently asked questions about Madeira road trips.
A: Short answer: yes. You can get by with buses and taxis, but you’ll miss out on remote viewpoints, hidden beaches, and spontaneous detours. I recommend picking up a car from Discover Cars right at Funchal airport – easiest option by far.
A: It’s fine if you’re a confident driver. Roads are well-paved but often narrow and steep, especially in the mountains. Drive on the right, wear your seatbelt, and watch for blind corners and stray chickens.
A: Spring (April-June) and autumn (September–November) are ideal. Mild weather, blooming landscapes, fewer crowds. But Madeira’s subtropical climate means it’s a year-round destination.
Top highlights include:
– Funchal for city life and gardens
– Porto Moniz for volcanic pools
– Santana for cute thatched houses
– Ponta do Sol and Jardim do Mar for sunsets and surf
– Plus levada hikes, sea cliffs, rum tastings and black sand beaches
Comfy walking shoes, layers (the weather can change with altitude), swimwear, a rain jacket, sunscreen, reusable water bottle, and a daypack for hikes (this one is cool). And don’t forget your camera – Madeira is wildly photogenic.
A: You can base yourself in Funchal and do day trips, or stay overnight in different towns. I’ve listed all my favourite stays here – from cliffside hotels to rustic guesthouses.
A: Nope – Madeira’s roads are toll-free. Just be ready for tunnels and lots of zigzag driving through the hills.
A: Technically yes, but realistically… it’s a challenge. Public buses run between towns, but service can be slow and limited, especially in rural areas.
A: Madeira wine is a must. You’ll also find lovely Madeiran souvenirs like embroidery, wickerwork, artisanal chocolates, and handmade soaps. Farmers’ markets are great for edible gifts like honey, herbs, and local jam.
More Madeira Inspiration 📖
Still planning your trip? These posts pair perfectly with this road trip itinerary – whether you’re after restaurant tips, hotel recs, or bite-sized adventures based out of Funchal.
✨ Madeira Travel Guide: Tips for Visiting Madeira Island – When to go, what to pack, and all the need-to-know essentials.
🍕 Food in Madeira: What to Eat & Drink – Poncha, passion fruit pudding, and all the island eats you don’t want to miss.
🏠 Best Towns in West Madeira: Sunsets, Surf & Seriously Good Views – From cliff-top villages to sleepy surf towns.
🌟 Best Towns in East Madeira: Traditions, Trails & Tropical Vibes – Where to stay for levada walks, fairy-tale houses and dramatic coastlines.
Pin for Later 📌
Loved this itinerary? Save it to your Pinterest so you can find it later when you’re ready to book your flights, rental car, or dreamy sea-view hotel.
Planning later? Pin now, wander later.
👉 Looking for practical travel tools? Check out my Travel Resources page.
Tags: Europe, Islands, Itineraries, Madeira, Portugal, Road trips
