11-Day Madeira Itinerary for Hikers: Trails, Costs & Where to Stay

Planning a trip to Madeira and wondering how many days you need, which hikes to prioritize, and what it will cost? This 11-day Madeira itinerary lays it all out. Over nearly two weeks, I hiked the island’s most iconic trails, found budget-friendly places to stay, and tracked every euro I spent. Whether you’re coming for the dramatic ridge walks like Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo or the peaceful levada paths through lush valleys, this guide shows you how to fit it all into one trip, without overspending.

Why Hike in Madeira?

Madeira stands out as one of Europe’s top hiking destinations because it offers something you don’t easily find elsewhere: variety packed into a small, accessible island. In less than two weeks you can walk across jagged volcanic ridges above the clouds, wander through dense jungle-like valleys on levada trails, and end the day with a swim in the Atlantic. The island’s mild weather means you can hike year-round, and while flights and accommodation aren’t the cheapest, Madeira still feels affordable compared to other hiking destinations.

I’ve hiked all over the world, in Switzerland, Spain, Albania, and Andorra to name just a few, but Madeira is different. The scenery isn’t just alpine peaks or rolling valleys; it’s a mix of volcanic cliffs, subtropical forests, waterfalls, and ocean views that change from one trail to the next. Even if you’ve tackled the Alps or the Balkans, Madeira’s landscape feels like nowhere else in Europe.

If you’re asking yourself “Is Madeira worth visiting for hiking?” the answer is yes. In this 11-day Madeira itinerary, I’ll show you the best trails to hike, how much it really cost me, and where I stayed, so you can plan your own trip with confidence.

Where to Stay in Madeira: Machico vs. Funchal

When most people plan a trip to Madeira, they default to Funchal. It’s the capital, it’s got more hotels, and yes, it’s lively. But if you’re here for hiking and adventure rather than nightlife, Machico is a smart alternative.

• Closer to hikes – Many of Madeira’s best levadas and trails (PR8, PR9, PR11, PR17) are easier to reach from Machico than Funchal. Less driving, more hiking.
• Budget-friendly – Accommodation and food in Machico are noticeably cheaper. Great for travelers who’d rather spend money on experiences than overpriced dinners.
• Beach access – Machico has one of the island’s few sandy beaches (artificial, but still nice for swimming). Perfect for a pnumbebr 1ost-hike cooldown.
• More relaxed vibe – Where Funchal feels busy and touristy, Machico feels like an actual town. You’ll hear locals chatting at cafés instead of just tour groups.

If you’re only in Madeira for a couple of days, Funchal might still make sense for convenience. But if your trip is hiking-focused and you want to save money, Machico is hands down the better base.

Essential Tips for Hiking in Madeira (Quick Facts You Need to Know)

• Best time to visit (for hiking): Apr–Jun and Sep–Nov → cooler, greener, fewer crowds. Jul–Aug = hot/exposed (PR8 is a furnace). Dec–Feb = wetter/slippery levadas.
• Best hike (my pick): PR17 Levada do Rei — waterfalls on the path, big views, zero boredom.
• Base if you’re hiking: Machico > Funchal for price + trail access (PR8/PR9/PR11/PR17 all easier from here).
• Car or bus? Rent a car. Buses won’t cut it for sunrise PR1 or stringing hikes together efficiently.
• What to pack (non‑negotiable): Headlamp (tunnels), grippy shoes, light rain layer, and simple layers for sunrise (pants + sweatshirt are enough).
• Crowd hacks: PR1 sunrise → arrive 30–45 min early; PR8 & PR9 → start by 8:00; weekdays beat weekends.
• Safety reality: Levadas = narrow edges + wet stone. PR8 is fully exposed + windy. PR1 = endless stairs. If clouds roll in, views vanish fast.
• Swim cooldowns that make sense: After PR8 → Prainha do Caniçal (black-sand cove). North coast → Seixal pools (calmer than Porto Moniz).
• Manage expectations: Cabo Girão skywalk (€3) = quick stop only; pair it with a short levada nearby or skip.
• Offline ready: Signal drops in tunnels/valleys — download maps before you go.

11-Day Madeira Itinerary Overview

Here’s how I structured my 11 days on the island. I based myself in Machico instead of Funchal, which turned out to be a great spot for accessing hikes and avoiding some of the tourist crowds.

• Day 1: Arrival in Funchal → transfer to Machico
• Day 2: Funchal viewpoints, old town, and cable cars
• Day 3: Hiking PR9 – Levada do Caldeirão Verde
• Day 4: Hiking PR11 – Vereda dos Balcões + Garajau Beach
• Day 5: Hiking PR17 – Levada do Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal
• Day 6: Machico viewpoints + Machico Beach
• Day 7: Hiking PR8 – Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço + Prainha do Caniçal Beach
• Day 8: Exploring northern Madeira towns, short levada walk, and Porto Moniz natural pools
• Day 9: Cabo Girão Skywalk + local hiking trail
• Day 10: Sunrise hike PR1 – Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo
• Day 11: Departure

Day 1: Arrival in Madeira & Base in Machico

After flying in from Porto (check out the 10 Best Things to Do in Porto in 2 Days), we skipped the default choice of Funchal and headed east to Machico. The decision was simple: it was a lot cheaper, only 10 minutes from the airport, and, since we rented a car, just as convenient for reaching the island’s best hikes. Instead of paying Funchal prices, we saved money on accommodation and put it toward the real reason we came: walking Madeira’s ridges, levadas, and cliffside trails. Day 1 was just settling in, but the adventure was about to start.

Day 2: Funchal Itinerary – Best Viewpoints & Cable Car Ride to Monte

If you’re spending time in Madeira, you’ll want at least a day in Funchal to see how the city spills from the coast up into the hills. But with so much going on, where should you focus? Here are three stops that make a perfect one-day Funchal itinerary.

First up: The Principality of Pontinha. It looks like a small stone fort sitting just offshore, but it’s actually a self-declared “independent nation” owned by a local artist. It’s quirky, unexpected, and a fun reminder that travel is full of stories you won’t find in the guidebooks.

Next, hop on the Funchal cable car to Monte. It’s touristy, yes, but it’s also the easiest way to grasp the city’s geography. As you glide over the red rooftops and rise into the green slopes, the view shifts from street-level bustle to sweeping panoramas of the bay. It’s a ride that makes you pause, look out the window, and realize: this is why people fall in love with Madeira.

Round out the day at one of the city’s viewpoints. Whether you stop at Miradouro das Cruzes or one of the terraces above Monte, you’ll see why Funchal is more than just Madeira’s capital — it’s the place where urban energy meets mountain drama.

Day 3: Hiking PR9 – Levada do Caldeirão Verde

If Madeira has a “welcome to the jungle” trail, it’s PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde. The hike starts in Queimadas Natural Park and immediately throws you into a wall of green, mossy cliffs, dripping waterfalls, and the sound of rushing water following you the whole way.

• Distance: ~13 km (round trip)
• Time: 4–5 hours (it took me 3h 20min at a steady pace)
• Elevation gain: ~100–150 m (fairly gentle)
• Difficulty: Moderate — long but not steep

The trail hugs the mountainside, which means two things: epic views and the occasional “don’t look down” moment. Some stretches are barely wide enough for two people to pass, with nothing but a sheer drop off to your side. Add in a few pitch-black tunnels carved straight through the rock, and suddenly your relaxing levada walk feels like an adventure. Pro tip: bring a headlamp unless you enjoy smacking your forehead on jagged stone. (I tested that theory for you. Zero stars, do not recommend.)

After a couple of hours, you’ll reach the Caldeirão Verde waterfall — a tall, narrow cascade dropping into a pool tucked deep in the cliffs. It’s not the biggest waterfall in Madeira, but the setting is so lush and dramatic it feels like you’ve stumbled onto a movie set.

Quick tips for PR9:

• Bring a flashlight or headlamp (the tunnels are no joke).
• Wear sturdy shoes — the levada path gets slick in spots.
• Go early to avoid big groups clogging the narrow trail.

This was the hike that convinced me Madeira wasn’t just another scenic island — it’s an adventure playground, and PR9 is the perfect warm-up.

Day 4: Hiking PR11 – Vereda dos Balcões & Cooling Off at Garajau Beach

After PR9’s tunnels and cliffs, PR11 Vereda dos Balcões felt like a recovery hike, short, simple, but absolutely worth it. It’s only 3 km round trip, but the trail ends at a viewpoint that looks like it was designed to sell postcards. On a clear day you can see Madeira’s central peaks, valleys carved like a green canyon, and if you’re lucky, even a few rare birds soaring around the cliffs. Minimal effort, maximum bragging rights.

• Distance: ~3 km (2 mi) round trip
• Time: 30–45 minutes
• Elevation gain: ~100 m
• Difficulty: Easy – bring your grandma, she’ll crush it

Once the morning hike was done, we traded hiking boots for flip-flops and headed to Garajau Beach. Getting there isn’t just “walk down and swim.” It’s a winding 15-minute descent that makes you work for that first dip (or you can cheat with the cable car). At the bottom, you’re rewarded with clear water, massive rock walls, and a beach so rugged it feels like it belongs on a movie set.

Here’s the part most people miss: tucked along the rock wall is a narrow stone walkway that curves around the base of the cliff at water level. It gives you a whole new perspective of the coastline, but it’s slick, uneven, and easy to slip if you’re not careful. If you take it slow, it’s a fun little detour that turns a beach stop into an adventure.

Towering above it all is the Cristo Rei statue, arms stretched over the Atlantic. Whether you look up from the beach or down from the viewing platform, the scene is pure Madeira: cliffs, ocean, and drama everywhere you turn.

Day 5: PR17 Levada do Rei – The Best Hike in Madeira

If you do one big hike in Madeira, make it PR17, the Levada do Rei. Forget the brochures that say it’s a gentle stroll, we did the full extended route and it was nearly 19 km (12 miles), 6 hours, and 725 m of elevation gain. Tired legs? Yes. Regrets? Absolutely not.

From the very start, this hike hooks you. You’re walking through dense laurel forest, the levada bubbling at your side, birds echoing overhead. It feels calm, almost too calm. And then Madeira does what it always does: it flips the script.

The higher you climb, the more dramatic it gets. Valleys open up, ridgelines cut across the sky, and suddenly you’re literally walking through the clouds. Every turn feels like another “stop-and-gawk” moment.

But here’s where it gets wild, the trail doesn’t keep you comfortable. Parts of it cling to the side of cliffs with a sheer drop to one side. And then there are the waterfalls. On. The. Path. You don’t just see them, you walk through them. Cold spray blasting your face, shoes getting soaked, adrenaline spiking, it’s hands down one of the coolest hiking experiences you’ll ever have.

And just when you think Madeira has played all its cards, the trail ends on an abandoned mountain road. Cracked pavement, landslide rubble, plants reclaiming the asphalt — it feels like you’ve wandered into a post-apocalyptic movie set. It’s eerie, surreal, and the perfect finale to a hike that throws everything at you.

Trail Stats (Extended PR17)

• Distance: 19.4 km (12 mi)
• Time: ~6 hours (took us 5h54 with photo + waterfall breaks)
• Elevation gain: 725 m (2,379 ft)
• Difficulty: Moderate to hard (length, cliffs, waterfalls on trail)

Tips for PR17

• Wear waterproof gear — you will get hit by waterfalls.
• Bring snacks and plenty of water (this is a full-day hike).
• If you have vertigo, maybe skip this one — cliffside sections are no joke.
• Start early so you’re not on that abandoned road near sunset (it’s creepy enough in daylight).

Bottom line: PR17 is the best hike in Madeira. It’s not just a walk, it’s an adventure, forest, mountains, cliffs, waterfalls, and even a ghost road. If you want Madeira at its rawest and most unforgettable, this is it.

Day 6: Machico — The Rare Sandy Beach You’ll Actually Want to Rest At

By Day 6 in Madeira, you’ll probably discover something funny: this island will wear you out. Between the endless levada trails and cliffside viewpoints, your legs will beg you for a break. That’s why Machico is the perfect reset, you still get the views, but without punishing your body.

We kicked things off at Pico do Facho Viewpoint, which is hands down the easiest “wow” moment you can get on the island. No hours of hiking required, just drive (or stroll up) and you’ve got Machico’s whole bay, the surrounding mountains, and the Atlantic spread out in front of you. Five minutes of effort, maximum bragging rights.

Then it’s straight down to Machico Beach. And here’s the kicker: it’s one of the only sandy beaches on Madeira. Most of the island’s beaches are either pebbles or dramatic cliffs, beautiful, but not exactly where you want to nap or wade in without water shoes. Machico changes that. The golden sand was actually imported from Morocco, which sounds like a gimmick until you realize it makes this one of the most comfortable swimming spots on the island. Parking is a hassle, so arrive early or be prepared to walk.

Why Machico works as a “rest day”:

• Soft sand instead of ankle-breaking rocks.
• Calm water, actually swimmable (rare in Madeira).
• Easy access — no cliff descent missions.
• Still feels scenic, with mountains as your backdrop.

So if you’re building a Madeira itinerary, here’s the truth: you need at least one day like this. I’ve traveled to 27 countries, and the biggest mistake I see people make, whether it’s hiking or city-hopping, is cramming in so much that they burn out halfway through. By the end, they’re not even enjoying what’s in front of them. Taking a “rest” day in Machico isn’t lazy, it’s what makes the rest of your trip better. Recharge here, and when you hit the next trail, you’ll actually have the energy to enjoy it.

Day 7: PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço

If PR9 is waterfalls and PR17 is jungle, PR8 Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço is pure Mars. This hike takes you to Madeira’s eastern tip, where the lush green disappears and you’re left with a windswept, volcanic landscape that feels like another planet. Red, yellow, and black rock cliffs plunge into the Atlantic on both sides, and the wind never lets up, honestly, it’s like hiking through a giant movie set.

Trail stats (from my GPS):

• Distance: 7.8 km / 4.86 mi (round trip)
• Time: 2 hours 20 minutes (at a steady pace, with photo stops)
• Elevation gain: ~480 m / 1,581 ft
• Difficulty: Easy to moderate – mostly rolling hills, but fully exposed

What makes PR8 worth it is the drama. Every bend gives you another “holy shit” view, jagged cliffs, wild waves, and ridges that drop off on both sides. At the very end, you reach a narrow viewpoint called Ponta do Furado, where it feels like you’re standing on the edge of the world. Bring a windbreaker, because the gusts out here can knock your hat straight into the Atlantic.

Tips for PR8 (trust me, these matter):

• Start early. The trail is one of the most popular on Madeira, and it gets hot + crowded fast.
• Zero shade. Pack water, sunscreen, and a hat you can strap down.
• Hiking shoes > sandals. The path is rocky and the wind makes balance tricky.
• Combine it with Prainha do Caniçal, a hidden black-sand beach nearby, for a perfect cool-down swim.

Bottom line: PR8 is a must-do if you want to see a side of Madeira most people don’t expect. It’s not waterfalls or forests, it’s raw, volcanic, and otherworldly. Out of all my hikes in Madeira, this was the one that felt truly unique.

Day 8: North Coast Road Trip – A Rest Day That Still Delivers

By Day 8, my legs were cooked. After days of levadas and cliffside trails, I needed something lighter — but I also didn’t want to waste a day. That’s where the north coast loop comes in. If you’re based in Machico, it’s the perfect way to give your body a break while still seeing a side of Madeira you’d regret skipping.

Here’s the deal: expect 4–5 hours of driving total (Machico → Porto da Cruz → São Vicente → Porto Moniz → Seixal → back to Machico). That leaves plenty of time to stop, wander, and actually enjoy the day instead of just burning rubber.

• Porto da Cruz (20 min from Machico): Tiny village, big cliffs, and a rum factory that smells way better than you’d think. Good spot for a first coffee.
• São Vicente (another 45 min): A slow-paced town tucked between sea and mountains. Traditional houses, cobbled streets — nice place to stretch your legs and pretend you live here.
• Porto Moniz (35 min): Yes, the famous lava pools are touristy, but they’re also spectacular. If you want the Instagram shot, this is where you get it. Swim if you’re into it, or just gawk at the Atlantic hammering volcanic rock.
• Levada da Ribeira da Janela: Short, low-effort levada to remind you you’re still on a hiking trip. Lush forest, running water, and zero need for hiking poles.
• Seixal Natural Pools: End the day here. Way quieter than Porto Moniz, still volcanic pools, but without the crowds. Perfect for a swim before driving back.

Why It’s Worth Doing

Here’s the thing: you don’t need to hike every single day to get the best out of Madeira. This loop gives you:

• A mental reset so the next big hike doesn’t feel like a chore.
• Variety, Madeira isn’t just mountains, it’s villages, rum, and wild coastlines.
• Efficiency, one day, multiple highlights, without feeling rushed.

I’d call it the most underrated day of my trip, not because it was the hardest or flashiest, but because it reminded me how much Madeira packs into every corner.

Day 9: Cabo Girão Skywalk (Worth It?) + The Levada Walk Nearby

Cabo Girão is plastered all over Madeira brochures: Europe’s highest sea cliff, a glass skywalk jutting 580m straight down, and endless coastline views. Sounds epic, right? Reality check: the views are decent, but if you’ve already hit other miradouros on the island, you won’t see anything dramatically different. Plus, there’s a €3 entry fee for what amounts to a 5–10 minute stop. In my opinion, it’s a “go if you’re nearby, but don’t drive across the island just for this.”

What actually made the stop worthwhile was pairing it with a short levada hike nearby. Often labeled as Cabo da Levada (but really part of the Levada do Norte), this trail is the antidote to the tourist bus crowds at the skywalk. It’s flat, shaded, and quiet, more of a gentle walk than a strenuous hike. You still get views across the valleys and farmland, but without the sweat and without paying a cent.

Why you should care:

• If you’re short on time: do both back-to-back. Skywalk = quick hit, levada = stretch your legs for an hour.
• If you’re tired of big hikes: this trail gives you nature without the grind.
• If you’re planning your itinerary: Cabo Girão is 15 min from Câmara de Lobos and 25 min from Funchal, so it’s easy to slot into a half-day loop along the south coast.

Bottom line: Don’t come expecting Cabo Girão to blow your mind. Use it as a pit stop, and then trade the tourist chaos for a quiet levada stroll. That combo makes Day 9 actually worth your time.

Day 10: Sunrise at Pico do Arieiro + PR1 Hike to Pico Ruivo

If you only do one sunrise in Madeira, make it Pico do Arieiro. We left before dawn and drove up the winding mountain road in the dark, headlights cutting through the mist. When we reached the top, we weren’t the only ones with this idea, dozens of people had already staked out their spots. If you want front-row views without the crowds, go early.

Now, let’s talk temperature because this is what everyone underestimates. I showed up in shorts and a t-shirt and spent most of sunrise wishing I had pants and a sweatshirt. You don’t need heavy gear, but bring a couple of layers, it’s chilly before the sun breaks, and you’ll thank yourself for it.

Once the sun started spilling over the jagged peaks, it was pure magic. Clouds drifted through the valleys below, and for a moment, it felt like we were standing above the world. Easily one of the most memorable moments of the trip.

From there, we tackled the PR1 hike: Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo. This trail is the most famous on the island for a reason — and also one of the toughest. Expect steep climbs, narrow cliffside paths, tunnels carved straight through rock, and constant up-and-down terrain. Our GPS logged 14 km (8.75 miles), 1,150+ meters of ascent (3,800 ft), and about 4.5 hours of hiking time, not including breaks.

Is it worth it? Absolutely. The views are insane the entire way. But it’s not for beginners. If you’re not used to hiking, it will feel brutal. If you are, it’ll feel like a challenging but rewarding day out. Either way, reaching Pico Ruivo, the highest point on Madeira (1,862m / 6,109 ft), is unforgettable.

Quick tips for PR1:

• Bring layers for sunrise (pants + sweatshirt are enough).
• Wear good shoes — the trail can be slippery and steep.
• Start early, both for sunrise and to avoid the biggest crowds.
• Bring water and snacks — there’s nothing along the way until the end.
• If you want an easier option, you can hike Pico Ruivo from Achada do Teixeira instead (shorter and less strenuous).

This was hands-down the most demanding hike we did in Madeira, but also the most rewarding. If you’re debating whether to push yourself, do it. You’ll remember standing at Pico Ruivo long after your legs stop aching

Day 11: Making the Most of Your Last Day in Madeira

If your flight is later in the day, don’t waste your final hours just sitting around waiting for the airport. Madeira is compact enough that you can still squeeze in something memorable before heading out.

1. Easy Morning Viewpoints
If you’re staying near Machico or Funchal, spots like Pico do Facho or Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto are quick drives with minimal walking. Perfect for one last panoramic look at the island without committing to a full hike.

2. A Relaxing Swim Before Flying
Machico Beach (artificial sand, calm water) or Santa Cruz’s natural swimming areas are both close to the airport. They’re ideal if you want a refreshing dip before sitting on a plane for hours.

3. Grab a Final Bolo do Caco & Coffee
Seriously, don’t leave without one last garlic-butter-loaded bolo do caco. Pair it with a strong espresso at a local café and you’ll be set for travel day.

4. Practical Tips for Departure

• Airport size: Madeira’s airport is small, but check-in and security can still take longer than you expect. Aim to arrive at least 1 hour before your flight.
• Rental cars: Most rental car returns are literally next to the terminal, but allow an extra 20–30 minutes in case of lines.
• Souvenirs: If you forgot gifts, the airport shops carry Madeiran wine and poncha kits (but they’ll cost more than in town).

Instead of ending your trip stressed, Day 11 can be the calm landing before the real flight home. A quick viewpoint, a swim, and a final snack will leave you walking onto the plane feeling like you truly squeezed every drop out of Madeira.

Best Hikes in Madeira (Ranked from My Trip)

After hiking across Madeira for 10 days, these are the trails that stood out the most. If you only have time for a few, start here.

1. PR17 Levada do Rei – The Best Hike in Madeira

If you do one hike in Madeira, make it PR17. This trail has everything: waterfalls spilling across the path (yes, you actually walk through them), lush forest, levadas running alongside you, and panoramic views that open up as you climb higher. It’s adventurous without being extreme, and the mix of forest and cliffside paths makes it feel like a greatest-hits album of Madeira hiking.

2. PR8 Ponta de São Lourenço – Madeira’s “Mars” Hike

Forget greenery, this hike is all about rugged, windswept landscapes that look straight out of a sci-fi movie. Located on the island’s eastern tip, PR8 is where you’ll find volcanic cliffs, crashing waves, and surreal red-and-yellow terrain. It’s not too long (7km round trip), making it perfect if you want big scenery without committing to a full-day trek.

3. PR1 Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo – Iconic, But Tough

This is Madeira’s headline hike, and for good reason: you’re literally walking between the island’s highest peaks. Catch the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, then push on through narrow ridgelines, tunnels, and steep climbs until you reach Pico Ruivo, the island’s summit. It’s intense, but if you’re looking for a true challenge with unforgettable views, this is the one.

4. PR9 Levada do Caldeirão Verde – Mossy Forest Adventure

If you want to step into a fairytale, this trail is it. PR9 takes you through moss-draped forests, along levadas, and through dark tunnels before ending at the Caldeirão Verde waterfall. It’s not as physically demanding as PR1, but it’s still adventurous, and the atmosphere makes it one of Madeira’s most magical hikes.

5. PR11 Vereda dos Balcões – The Easy Win

Short on time? PR11 is the hike to do. At just 3km, it’s more of a walk than a hike, but the viewpoint at the end is phenomenal. On a clear day, you’ll see jagged peaks and deep valleys stretching out across Madeira. It’s perfect if you’re not a hardcore hiker but still want a taste of the island’s landscapes.

How Much Does a Trip to Madeira Cost? (11 Days)

Madeira feels like a dream destination, but it doesn’t have to drain your wallet. Here’s exactly what 11 days on the island cost me:

Category	Cost (€)	Notes
Accommodation	223	11 nights in Airbnbs outside Funchal. Great value compared to hotels.
Car Rental	106.15	Covered the entire trip, gave us total freedom to explore.
Groceries	70.72	Stocked up for hikes and quick meals.
Eating Out	62.9	A handful of restaurant meals, most places are €8–15 per person.
Gas	30.39	Driving the whole island surprisingly didn’t cost much.
Gym	30	Optional, but worth noting if you like to keep active.
Alcohol	24.3	Local wine and poncha (try it at least once).
Entertainment	14.6	Entry fees like towers or light shows.
Miscellaneous	4.75	Random extras (coffee, snacks).
Total	566.81	For 11 days in Madeira.

What This Budget Means for You

• Average daily cost: about €51/day total.
• You can spend less by cooking more or skipping extras like the gym.
• Car rental is worth it. Public transport works but limits you for hikes.
• Staying outside Funchal keeps accommodation cheap and parking hassle-free.

How This Compares to a Typical Madeira Trip

• Most visitors spend €80–120/day (closer to €1,000–1,300 for 11 days).
• Hotels in Funchal often run €60–100 per night alone.
• Organized tours can quickly add up, while we spent less than €15 on “entertainment.”

Takeaway: For around €50 a day, you can eat well, hike world-class trails, rent a car, and still come in cheaper than most European destinations.

FAQ: Hiking in Madeira

Why Madeira Should Be on Your Hiking List

After 11 days of exploring, one thing’s clear, Madeira isn’t just another pretty island, it’s a playground for hikers. Every trail feels like stepping into a different world: misty levadas, volcanic ridges that look like Mars, rainforest waterfalls, and sunrises above the clouds. If you’ve been wondering whether Madeira is worth it for hiking, the answer is a big yes.

What makes Madeira stand out is variety. You don’t need to be a hardcore hiker to enjoy it. Some trails (like PR11) are short and beginner-friendly, while others (like PR1 and PR17) will push you hard but reward you with unforgettable views. And because distances are short, you can pack multiple hikes, viewpoints, and beach stops into one trip without wasting time in transit.

So if you’re planning your next hiking trip, put Madeira at the top of your list. Come prepared with good shoes, layers, and a sense of adventure, and this island will blow you away.

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