Madeira was ranked as the best island in Europe for the tenth time at the annual European Gala of the World Travel Awards, in addition to the Madeira Promotion Association as the best tourist entity in Europe. This popular archipelago is also considered one of the safest holiday destinations in the world!
The island is located in the Atlantic Ocean, about 560 kilometers off the coast of Morocco. It is the largest inhabited island in the archipelago with approximately 309 square miles (801 km²). The neighboring country, Porto Santo, is also inhabited and characterized by the best beaches.
Funchal is the capital of the island chain that is an autonomous region of Portugal.
Madeira is an island of eternal spring with temperatures from December to April around 70 degrees Fahrenheit and the rest of the year around 80 degrees F. The area around Funchal is drier, with the northern part of the island more warm from October to April gets rain. Europeans regularly travel to Madeira during the continent’s cold winters.
This picturesque resort is open all year round and is best known for its Madeira wine. The island also produces bananas and other tropical fruits, along with sugar cane. Madeira derives most of its economic growth from tourism, with many popular hotels and apartments available to visitors all year round. While the northern part of the island is still rural, the southern part around Funchal offers excellent accommodation, dining and entertainment.
Activities for everyone
The Madeira Islands are a perfect holiday destination because there is something for everyone.
Charter catamarans take visitors on trips to see migrating whales and dolphins. Hikers can trek through the mountains to visit waterfalls and peaks that offer spectacular views of the islands. A shuttle service is offered to hikers who want to watch the sunrise at Pico do Arieiro. Hikers can visit the Laurissilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site.
There are walking tours of the Old Town and a special Skywalk and Wine Tasting Jeep tour. Madeira also has a Carnival celebration, along with an annual flower show and a wine festival.
Direct flights from the US and Europe
Direct flights to Madeira are available from most major European cities. In addition, British Air and other airlines offer flights from Washington, DC and New York to Funchal.
