Top 5 Places to Stay in Madeira

June 30, 2025

Name	Air Quality	Nomad Cost	Expat Cost	Cost Score	Leisure Score	Rating
Madeira Portugal	100	$2754	$2141	80	80

Imagine yourself at the heart of a spectacular island with golden sandy beaches and compelling mountains. This is Madeira for you! The island located southwest of the Portuguese coast is well known for its semitropical climate with pleasant summers and mild winters. You could enjoy green mountains, lush forests, and remarkable cliffs.

Madeira is not just known for its scenic views; you will find a rich cultural heritage. People celebrate traditional festivals, promote artistic galleries, and enjoy unique cuisine. If you’re someone who’s planning to visit Madeira, this blog is for you. Scroll down your screens to know the top 5 places to stay in Madeira.

1. Funchal

Do you have admiration for history and modernity? If yes, Funchal is just the right place for you. It is a vibrant city and is the hub of businesses being the capital of Madeira Island. In Funchal, you will find botanical gardens, colorful markets, and cobbled streets. Funchal is not only the cultural center of Madeira but is also the starting point of the old Portuguese colonial architectural wonders.

Whether you are visiting the 16th-century Gothic Funchal cathedral with its Iberian-style ceiling or making your way to Blandy’s wine lodge to know the history of Madeira’s fortified wine; visiting the Museum of Sacred Art or eating a slice of honey cake in the local market, Funchal is all popular for its landscape and rich culture that suits people of all age groups.

2. Santa Cruz

If you are visiting Madeira with your children, you couldn’t find a place better than Santa Cruz. It is a small coastal village dating back to the 15th century. The area became a municipality on 26th June 1515, whereas it was declared a city on 2nd August 1996.

Santa Cruz is a much-loved spot for European visitors. It is close to the international airport and is a working port popular for its cruise ships. Santa Cruz is all about the early 15th-century spirit with its narrow alleys, paved streets, and terracotta roofs. The city is surrounded by chapels and churches dating from 1479.

The best part is you don’t have to worry about your kid’s entertainment. The large aqua park is an exciting spot for children with its kiddie’s pool, slides, and flumes. Another fulfilling spot is the Madeira Theme Park. It is equally exciting for children and adults as the park is based on the tradition, science, and history of Madeira. Now that’s something different, isn’t it?

Above all, you’ll find an exceptional selection of accommodation in Santa Cruz, from self-catering apartments to complexes and hotels to guest houses.

3. Calheta

Calheta is located below the high volcanic cliffs on the southwest of Madeira Island. Calheta is a Portuguese name meaning ‘small cove’. People who are beach lovers would definitely enjoy spending time lazily on the beach of Calheta. This place is stunning with its natural beauty and modern beach resorts.

What’s more interesting is the fact that Calheta is Madeira’s main cultivator of bananas, sugarcane, and grapes. You will also come across vineyards and various plantations around inland. As you’ll visit the town, you’ll find the Calheta’s village church. Especially if you are an admirer of old churches, chapels, and cathedrals. Calheta is going to keep you happy throughout your stay.

Some of the common attractions include modern Casa das Artes. It is a museum that sits on a clifftop and is rich in contemporary art. The heightened museum offers stunning views across the beach and marina.

4. Jardim do Mar

Jardim do Mar means ‘Garden of the sea’, is an attractive little village that lies on the southwest coast of Madeira. The name is derived from the fact that the village is colorful with wildflowers during summer. Not only this, you can see flowers on the balconies, pots, and hanging baskets around the houses.

Jardim do Mar village has three small beaches named Ponta Jardim, Enseada, and Portinho. Hence, it is the top surfing area in Madeira. People seeking facilities for water sports find this village a go-to spot. Jardim do Mar is not just about water excitement; it is more than that. You can find sacral architecture in the church of Nossa Senhora do Rosario and the chapel of Nossa Senhora da Piedade.

5. Camara de Lobos

Camara de Lobos possesses a wealth of attractions that draw European visitors year after year. Located just a few kilometers from the island's bustling capital of Funchal. This charming village also appeals to those who wish to enjoy the city's vibrant atmosphere during the day but love a quieter, more relaxed setting in the evening.

Steeped in history since the 15th century, Camara de Lobos is a picturesque spot featuring rocky coves, colorful fishing boats bobbing in the harbor, and dramatic coastal cliffs soaring over 500 meters high.

If you are an avid hiker, the village offers numerous trekking opportunities that you can explore right from your hotel. For those who prefer a more leisurely experience, renting a car is a great option to explore the stunning viewpoints in the area.

Camara de Lobos also offers a variety of evening entertainment options with its selection of bars and restaurants. Accommodation choices range from shared rooms and country cottages to self-catering apartments and various hotels. Whether you're seeking adventure or relaxation, this village has something for everyone.

Takeaway

Madeira Island, with its blend of natural beauty and cultural richness, offers an unforgettable experience for every type of traveler. From the bustling streets of Funchal, steeped in history and modern charm, to the family-friendly coastal village of Santa Cruz, the island promises a unique charm. Calheta's stunning beaches and agricultural landscapes provide a perfect retreat for beach lovers, while Jardim do Mar entices surfers and flower enthusiasts alike.

Camara de Lobos, with its historical allure and picturesque scenery, offers a serene escape. No matter where you choose to stay in Madeira, each location brings its own flavor of adventure, relaxation, history, and cultural immersion.

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