The best time to travel to Madeira
Hiking, swimming and exploring: experience the island paradise up close
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The best time to visit Madeira is from May to September. Enjoy the wonderful temperatures and bright sunshine to experience the dream island on hikes or an unforgettable beach vacation.
Raphaela Wedel
Tourlane travel expert for Portugal
Updated on 11/24/2025
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There are four distinct seasons on Madeira. Nevertheless, the climate on the island is pleasantly warm almost all year round. While temperatures in summer can reach maximum values of around 79° F with up to 10 hours of sunshine per day, the winter months in particular see increased rainfall and sometimes strong winds. In addition, the south of the island is generally considered warmer and drier than the northern part of Madeira. Despite all this, Madeira is a destination that you can visit all year round.
Madeira in the high season
The high season in Madeira is from May to September. During this time, pleasant temperatures well above 68 °F and fantastic water temperatures between 64 and 73 °F invite you to experience the beautiful island on an active vacation in the mountains or a swimming trip to Madeira's beautiful beaches. At the same time, this time of year boasts an average of two days of rain per month, so you can enjoy the island's magical nature to the full.
Madeira in the low season
Even before the high season begins on Madeira, active and recreational vacationers will find fantastic conditions for an unforgettable vacation on the island. Hikers in particular can now enjoy Madeira's breathtaking nature and lush greenery in pleasant temperatures. At the same time, you only have to expect the occasional rain shower. In addition, the month of April is a wonderful time to visit the picturesque capital of Funchal in the south or to experience the colorful flower festival up close.
Madeira in the low season
Due to the increased rainfall, falling temperatures and, last but not least, significantly fewer hours of sunshine per day, Madeira becomes a little quieter between November and March. Nevertheless, a vacation on Madeira during this time of year is particularly worthwhile if you want to enjoy the island paradise in peace, i.e. away from the tourist crowds, or on a limited travel budget. The south island in particular still offers wonderful conditions for extensive hikes and numerous outdoor activities.
Hiking
Would you like to hike in Madeira at the best time to visit? Then a vacation between mid-April and mid-June is ideal. This is when you can explore the island's miles of hiking trails in the best conditions. Little rainfall, pleasant temperatures of around 68° F and bright blue skies make a trip to Porto da Cruz, Santana or the unique volcanic landscape an unforgettable experience.
Diving & snorkeling
The best time to go diving on Madeira and discover the island's stunning coastline is from July to October, when the weather is sunny, warm and stable. Thanks to pleasant water temperatures of over 68° F, you can also go snorkeling on Madeira or simply relax on one of the beaches such as Prainha or Praia de Laje.
Surfing
If you want to relax on the beach rather than sail, kite or surf off Madeira's coast, you should plan a trip between May and June. During this time, water sports enthusiasts on Madeira benefit from pleasant water temperatures of around 68° F and ideal wind conditions to put their skills to the test. At the same time, you can also discover the island while hiking or sightseeing during this time.
Paragliding
Would you like to explore the beautiful island from a bird's eye view? Then you should take the opportunity to try paragliding in Madeira between April and October. With glorious weather and long hours of sunshine, you can now enjoy both the view of the island's unique nature and the fresh breeze at lofty heights.
