“How long does it take to drive around Madeira Island?” is one of the most frequently asked questions by our visitors. However, the short answer is that the island is not very big, measuring only 63 kilometres long and 23 kilometres wide, so technically it is possible to drive around the island in about 3 to 4 hours without stopping, visiting only the coastal area of the island. But that would mean missing out on the real treasures that make Madeira one of the most incredible islands in the Atlantic.
Madeira is much more than its winding coastal roads. The island has stunning mountain peaks, lush Laurissilva forest, picturesque fishing villages, unique beaches, world-class hiking trails, historical museums, and cosy restaurants serving typical dishes.
The real adventure is not simply driving around, but taking the time to explore each municipality along the way.
The island of Madeira is divided into 10 municipalities, starting with the capital, Funchal; Câmara de Lobos; Ribeira Brava; Ponta do Sol; Calheta; Porto Moniz; São Vicente; Santana; Machico; and Santa Cruz.
In this article, we will detail how long it takes to drive around Madeira and highlight the must-see attractions in each municipality. This article also shows why renting a car with 7M Rent a Car is the best way to explore the island at your own pace.
How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Madeira?
As mentioned earlier, if you drive around Madeira Island nonstop, opting primarily for the Via Rápida (VR1), Expressways (VE1, VE2, VE3, and VE4), and Regional Roads (ER), you can complete the trip in about 3 to 4 hours by car.
That said, the best way to enjoy Madeira is to dedicate at least 4 to 5 full days to a road trip around the island, with enough time for stops at viewpoints, restaurants, beaches, trails, and museums.
Now, let’s delve deeper into each municipality of Madeira and highlight the 5 best places for each category to stop while driving around the island. The categories are: viewpoints, recommended routes (trails and levadas), beaches or swimming pools, activities and museums.
Funchal – The Vibrant Capital
Funchal, Madeira’s capital, is the cultural and economic heart of the island. With its colourful markets, cable cars, historical landmarks, and lively nightlife, it is a destination where tradition meets modernity.
Museums – Top 5 in Funchal to Visit
Funchal is home to many museums, but here are the five best ones worth including in your itinerary:
- Madeira Story Centre Museum – This interactive museum covers the island’s history, from volcanic origins to cultural development, using scent boxes, sounds, and interactive games.
- Sugar City Museum – Highlights Madeira’s Sugar Cycle in the 15th and 16th centuries, showcasing sugar moulds and artefacts that shaped the island’s economy.
- Natural History Museum of Funchal – Displays a fascinating collection of fish, birds, marine mammals, reptiles, fossils, and plants.
- Museum of Sacred Art in Funchal – Houses stunning works from the 15th to 19th centuries, including paintings, jewellery, vestments, and sculptures.
- Monte Palace Madeira Museum – Features over 1,000 pieces of contemporary Zimbabwean sculpture and an extraordinary mineral collection.
Activities
- Play golf at Palheiro Golf, one of the island’s top courses, with 18 holes along the course.
- Join Madeira WaterSports for Jet Skiing, Parasailing, Stand Up Paddleboarding and more.
- Take a boat trip with Bonita da Madeira, Santa Maria or another company to see whales and dolphins.
- Ride the Monte Cable Car and then the Botanical Garden Cable Car for spectacular city views.
- Wander through the Botanical Garden or Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
- Explore the Fortress of São João Baptista do Pico, the Fortress of São Tiago or the Palace of São Lourenço.
Recommended Routes
- Vereda do Burro (PR3) – From Pico do Areeiro to Ribeira das Cales
- Caminho Real do Monte (PR3.1) – Linking Ribeira das Cales to Monte
- Levada do Barreiro (PR4) – From Poça da Neve to Casa do Barreiro
Beaches – Top 5 in Funchal
- Praia da Barreirinha (Paid)
- Complexo Balnear do Lido (Paid)
- Complexo Balnear da Ponta Gorda (Paid)
- Piscinas Naturais da Doca do Cavacas (Paid)
- Praia Formosa (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro do Pináculo
- Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos
- Miradouro do Jardim do Pico Rádio
Câmara de Lobos – A Fisherman’s Paradise
A short drive from Funchal brings you to Câmara de Lobos, a fishing village famously painted by Winston Churchill.
Museum
- Madeira Press Museum – Showcases typewriters from the 19th and 20th centuries and the history of communication in Madeira.
Activities
- Take the Rancho Cable Car for panoramic views.
Recommended Routes
- Vereda do Urzal (PR2) – From Curral das Freiras to Boaventura
- Caminho Real da Encumeada (PR12) – From Boca da Corrida to Encumeada
Beaches
- Praia do Vigário (Free)
- Complexo Balnear das Salinas (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro do Cabo Girão
- Miradouro Pico da Torre
- Miradouro do Lombo do Facho
Ribeira Brava – Gateway to the West
Heading further west, you’ll find Ribeira Brava, a small town nestled in a fertile valley.
Museum
- Madeira Ethnographic Museum – Displays traditional tools, household items, and the cultural history of Madeira, such as, productive activities (fishing, wine, cereal and flax production cycles), transport, domestic units (kitchen and bedroom) and traditional trade (grocery store).
Activities
- Take the Fajã dos Padres Cable Car for panoramic views.
- Visit Ilha das Aves, a zoo dedicated to tropical birds. The space consists of several habitats for each species of birds, several lakes with koi fish along the route, a playground, a restaurant/bar with a terrace, and a ticket office and shop at the entrance.
Recommended Route
- Vereda do Chão dos Louros do Norte (PR22) – Circular route in Chão dos Louros
Beaches
- Praia da Fajã dos Padres (Paid – Cable Car Access)
- Complexo Balnear da Ribeira Brava (Free)
- Praia da Ribeira Brava (Free)
- Praia da Tabua (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro do Campanário
- Miradouro de São Sebastião
- Miradouro da Terra Grande
Ponta do Sol – Sunniest Spot in Madeira
Estalagem Ponta do Sol
Known as the warmest and sunniest municipality, Ponta do Sol is perfect for relaxation.
Museum
- Madeira Banana Museum (BAM) – A modern exhibition that highlights the importance of bananas in Madeira’s culture and economy. This is achieved through art, using holograms, photographs and other dynamic exhibition models.
Beaches
- Praia da Ponta do Sol (Free)
- Praia Calhau dos Anjos (Free)
- Praia da Madalena do Mar (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro do Cascalho
- Miradouro da Ponta do Sol
Calheta – Beaches and Sugar Cane
Calheta is famous for its man-made sandy beach and sugar cane traditions.
Museums
- Casa das Mudas – Madeira Contemporary Art Museum – Hosts modern art exhibitions and cultural events. In addition to the exhibition centre, the building has an auditorium, library, shop and restaurant. It’s also the venue for multiple temporary exhibitions, musical performances, plays and conferences.
- Sugar Cane Mill and Museum – Demonstrates the sugar cane production process with original machinery, going through its various stages: harvesting, transport, crushing, fermentation, distillation and bottling.
Activities
- Visit Quinta Pedagógica dos Prazeres, a farm with animals and gardens. Is a project that aims to raise awareness, educate and promote the rural environment.
- Explore the Ruins of Jardim do Mar Mill and the Convent of São Sebastião da Calheta.
Recommended Routes
- Levada das 25 Fontes (PR6) – From Rabaçal to 25 Fontes
- Levada do Risco (PR6.1) – From Rabaçal to Risco
- Levada Velha do Rabaçal (PR6.4) – From Pico Gordo to Casa do Rabaçal
- Caminho Real do Paúl do Mar (PR19) – From Prazeres to Paúl do Mar
Beaches
- Praia da Calheta (Free)
- Praia do Jardim do Mar (Free)
- Praia do Paúl do Mar (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro do Massapez
- Miradouro do Farol da Ponta do Pargo
- Miradouro da Raposeira
Porto Moniz – Volcanic Wonder
In Madeira’s northwest, Porto Moniz is home to spectacular natural volcanic pools.
Museum
- Madeira Aquarium – With 12 exhibition tanks, home to more than 90 native species, whose aim is not only to introduce visitors to the different species, but also to preserve the rich marine biodiversity of the archipelago.
Activities
- Try the Adrenaline X-Treme Adventures Park with one of the highest zip lines in Europe, at a height of almost 320 metres and one swing over cliff, a 20-metre-high structure installed on a sheer cliff, 250 metres above sea level.
- Take the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car for panoramic views.
Recommended Routes
- Vereda do Fanal (PR13) – From Paul da Serra to Fanal
- Vereda da Palha Carga (PR13.1) – From Louro da Gota to 25 Fontes
- Vereda da Ribeira da Janela (PR15) – From Curral Falso to Ribeira da Janela
Beaches
- Piscinas Naturais do Porto Moniz (Paid)
- Praia das Lages (Free)
- Piscinas Naturais do Seixal (Free)
- Praia do Seixal (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro do Teleférico das Achas da Cruz
- Miradouro da Eira da Achada
- Miradouro do Véu da Noiva
São Vicente – Mystical Valleys
São Vicente – Wikipedia Photo by Patrice78500
Heading east along the north coast, you’ll reach São Vicente, surrounded by lush valleys.
Museum
- Museological Centre – Rota da Cal – Explains the lime production process, from the extraction of limestone to its firing and its historical uses.
Recommended Routes
- Levada Fajã dos Rodrigues (PR16) – From Fajã da Ama to Ribeira do Inferno
- Caminho do Pináculo e Folhadal (PR17) – From Lombo do Mouro to Encumeada
- Caminho do Norte (PR21) – From Encumeada to Ribeira Grande
Beaches
- Praia da Fajã da Areia (Free)
- Complexo Balnear da Ponta Delgada (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro de São Vicente
- Miradouro do Teatro
- Miradouro de São Cristovão
Santana – The Iconic Houses
Santana is known for its postcard-perfect triangular thatched houses.
Museums
- Museum of Wine and Vine – Showcases wine presses, grape varieties, and tasting experiences.
- Madeira Theme Park – A family-friendly attraction with rides, exhibits, and replicas of traditional houses.
Activities
Kartódromo do Faial
- . It has a 1,040-metre track, which provides plenty of adrenaline along its fast and technical circuit.
- Take the Rocha do Navio Cable Car for panoramic views.
Recommended Routes
- Vereda da Ilha (PR1.1) – From Pico Ruivo to Ilha
- Vereda do Pico Ruivo (PR1.2) – From Achada do Teixeira to Pico Ruivo
- Levada do Caldeirão Verde (PR9) – From Queimadas to Caldeirão Verde
- Vereda dos Balcões (PR11) – From Ribeiro Frio to Miradouro dos Balcões
- Levada do Rei (PR18) – From Quebradas to Ribeiro Bonito
Beaches
- Complexo Balnear do Calhau de São Jorge (Free)
- Complexo Balnear da Foz da Ribeira do Faial (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro da Rocha do Navio
- Miradouro do Guindaste
- Miradouro do Ribeiro Frio
Machico – A Historic Town
Machico was the first landing site of Portuguese explorers.
Museums
- Whale Museum – Features life-size whale models and marine conservation projects.
- Solar do Ribeirinho Museum – Displays archaeological artefacts reflecting Machico’s history from the 15th to the 20th century.
Activities
- Play at Clube de Golfe do Santo da Serra. It has 27 holes, divided into three courses of nine holes each.
- Experience karting at Go Kart Madeira. The track is approximately 400 metres long and 5 to 7 metres wide, where the adrenaline is constant.
Recommended Routes
- Vereda das Funduras (PR5) – From Portela to Maroços
- Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço (PR8) – From Baía d’Abra to Cais do Sardinha
Beaches – Top 5 in Machico
- Praia da Alagoa (Free)
- Piscinas do Porto da Cruz (Free)
- Prainha do Caniçal (Free)
- Complexo Balnear do Caniçal (Paid)
- Praia de Machico (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro da Portela
- Miradouro do Paraíso
- Miradouro Francisco Álvares de Nóbrega
Santa Cruz – Gateway to Madeira
Santa Cruz is often the first and last stop for visitors arriving at the airport.
Activities
- Take the Garajau Cable Car for panoramic views.
- Spend a day at Madeira Aquaparque. It has a range of facilities, including swimming pools, water slides, fast slides, a rapid river, a black hole, a hole river, a lazy river and a children’s water park. In addition, visitors can enjoy other activities and amenities, such as a bar area, a restaurant with a terrace and changing rooms.
Recommended Route
- Levada da Azenha (PR23) – From Azenha to Caminho Velho do Castelo
Beaches
- Praia das Palmeiras (Free)
- Piscinas de Santa Cruz (Free)
- Piscinas de Ribeira da Boaventura (Paid)
- Praia dos Reis Magos (Free)
- Praia do Garajau (Free)
Viewpoints
The viewpoints are vast and scattered throughout the various parishes of the municipality, but the best ones are:
- Miradouro de Santa Cruz
- Miradouro de Gaula
- Miradouro da Camacha
Why You Should Drive Around Madeira
Driving around Madeira is an unforgettable journey. The island’s roads unveil dramatic cliffs, verdant valleys, sunny coasts, and charming towns. By taking the time to explore, you’ll encounter cultural heritage, authentic cuisine, and natural wonders that would otherwise remain hidden.
Simply put, how long does it take to drive around Madeira is not the real question. Instead, it should be: how long can you resist stopping at every stunning viewpoint?
Why Renting a Car with 7M Rent a Car Makes Travel Effortless
While buses and tours exist, they don’t offer the freedom and flexibility of having your own vehicle. Renting a car with 7M Rent a Car allows you to:
- Start your journey early and avoid crowds at top attractions
- Stop at hidden gems off the beaten path
- Store luggage, hiking gear, and beach essentials conveniently
- Explore the entire island at your own pace, whether you’re a family, couple, friends, or solo traveller
Final Thoughts
So, how long does it take to drive around Madeira? Technically, 3 to 4 hours, but the real joy lies in slowing down, exploring at leisure, and enjoying everything Madeira has to offer. From Funchal’s lively streets to Porto Moniz’s volcanic pools, from Santana’s thatched houses to Santa Cruz’s beaches, each stop offers a unique experience.
Pair your adventure with the freedom of 7M Rent a Car, and you’ll discover why Madeira is one of the most rewarding destinations in the Atlantic.
Discover more about How to Rent a Car in Madeira: 10 Essential Tips in our guide.
