16 Do’s and Don’ts in Madeira (2026 edition)

(Last update October 2026)

Madeira is an island of mountains, levadas, lush forests, steep cliffs and warm hospitality. To help you make the most of your trip and to help preserve Madeira for future generations, here is a list of essential do’s and don’ts, updated with some sustainability guidelines inspired by the official “Explore. Respect. Preserve.” campaign from Visit Madeira.

As a Madeiran local, these are the things I think every visitor should know before exploring the island

1. Do bring your best walking shoes.

Madeira’s volcanic terrain is steep and uneven. Waterproof trainers with good grip or hiking boots will make your levada walks much more comfortable.

#fromwhereistand

2. Do bring a warm jacket.

A sunny morning in Funchal doesn’t necessarily mean good weather in the mountains. Our nickname is the island of eternal Spring, but sunrises/sunsets can get cool and weather changes fast, especially at altitude so bring a jacket against wind and water.

3. Don’t forget sunscreen and a hat.

The sun is strong, even when cloudy. We’re close to Africa, protect your skin.

4. Do join good guided tours.

I have joined many amazing tours in Madeira and the insight and knowledge of some of these guides are well worth the investment. My advice is: start your holiday with a tour and then discover it at your own rhythm, knowing where you’d like to explore further.

A few suggestions:

• Levada walk with guide (especially if it means you don’t have to walk all the way back to the car, they’ll pick you up at the end of the walk – Vereda do larano is one example)

• Funchal Walking tours

• Wine Tours 

• Dolphin & whale watching

5. Do rent a car, if you’re comfortable driving hills.

If you love discovering places at your own pace, rent a car to explore Madeira. It gives you access to viewpoints and hidden corners you can’t reach otherwise,  but be prepared; while most roads are in great condition, some can be quite steep and narrow. Parking can also be tricky in some areas.

A few essential rules to help you drive safely and confidently in Madeira:

• White lines = free parking, Yellow lines = no parking
• “M” markings = residents only
• Blue lines = paid parking through app or coins (parking meter)
• Downhill drivers have priority.  On narrow mountain roads, slow down before blind bends and always follow the road signs and priority rules.

• Give way to those already inside roundabouts and keep the driving rules in mind ;)

Not sure whether driving is for you? Read my 10 Must-Know Tips Before Renting a Car in Madeira and How Long Does It Take to Drive Around Madeira?.

6. Do learn a few Portuguese greetings, small gestures make a big difference.

• Olá = Hello
• Obrigado /Obrigada = Thank you
• Bom dia = Good morning
• Por favor = Please
• Desculpe = Excuse me / Sorry
• Two cheek kisses among friends
• Handshake in more formal situations

7. Do ask the locals.

We are generally friendly people that like to welcome you and make you feel at home. If you want to know any tips or directions, just ask! GPS isn’t perfect and most locals speak English, specially younger people.

8. Do wear water shoes on pebble beaches.

Our beaches are made of slippery pebbles and black sand, so entering and leaving water can be a challenge, unless you take water shoes or plunge right from the pier (which is what I usually do).  Exception: Porto Santo (golden sand) and artificial sand beaches in Machico & Calheta.

9. Don’t rush your visit.

Madeira looks small on the map, but distances take time due to curves and mountains. Take your time to explore, for a first trip, 5-7 days or more not less – it’s bigger than it looks.

10. Don’t forget to check prices first.

• Some public buses accept contactless/card but not all, carry some money just in case.

• In taxis, make sure the meter is running.

• Try the prato do dia (dish of the day), usually a cheaper option.

11.Do check trail conditions and protect the Laurissilva Forest.

• Do check trail conditions before hiking.
  Trails can close because of weather, maintenance, rockfalls or safety conditions. Always check the official trail status before setting off.
• Stay on marked trails. Respect all signs.
• Don’t climb trees or lean on branches.
• Avoid cliff edges for photos.
• Don’t leave rubbish behind and carry your trash until you find a bin.
• Don’t feed the birds or pick flowers, shells or rocks.

12. Do explore the ocean responsibly.

• The Atlantic is full of life,  go swimming, snorkel or dive but check the weather conditions. Safety first.
• Respect marine wildlife: don’t chase, touch, catch or feed animals.

13. Do visit Porto Santo Island

If you’re short on time, a one day trip to discover this paradise, but if you can stay for 2–3 days you’ll experience Porto Santo at a much slower pace.

14.Do enjoy Madeira’s traditions respectfully.

• Dress respectfully in religious sites and remove hats and sunglasses when appropriate.
• Do not climb/sit on heritage structures. 
• Don’t interrupt parades to take photos

15. Don’t diet in Madeira, seriously.

Taste everything. Food is a huge part of the experience.

• Espetada

• Limpets

• Black scabbard fish

• Passion Fruit pudding

• Poncha

• Bolo de mel

• Queijadas

• Bolo do Caco

• Milho Frito

Vegetarian? Madeira has more options than you might expect; see my guide to 10 Vegetarian-Friendly Restaurants in Madeira.

16. Don’t forget to come back: leave something for next time!

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