Starting this October, you can fly directly to Madeira from Riga with airBaltic on Airbus A220-300 jets.
10 great reasons to visit the paradise island of Madeira
In the heart of the Atlantic Ocean, Madeira is Portugal’s enchanting volcanic island that dazzles visitors with dramatic landscapes, vibrant colours, and year-round Atlantic warmth; it truly lives up to its nickname of Paradise Island.
1) Breathtaking scenery and natural treasures
First of all, Madeira is simply a stunning place. The abundance of natural beauty is staggering, from towering peaks to verdant valleys to golden sandy beaches.
Highlights include the emerald treasure that is the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, and Ponta de São Lourenço, a volcanic nature reserve on the eastern tip of the island with towering volcanic rocks and a black sand beach.
2) Beautiful beaches and natural pools
Madeira’s beaches and natural swimming pools offer a captivating blend of relaxation and adventure, making the island a must-visit destination.
Just a 10-minute drive from the centre of Funchal you’ll find Praia Formosa, a family-friendly Blue Flag beach. With three small sandy beaches and a large pebble beach separated by rocky outcrops, it offers an adventurous coastline for swimming in the Atlantic Ocean.
3) Perfect weather all year round
Madeira’s subtropical climate means that the island enjoys endlessly beautiful spring weather, thereby offering a respite from the extreme temperatures of southern European summers.
It’s no wonder that Madeira is also known as the ‘Island of Eternal Spring’. This pleasant weather means warm sunshine but also cool breezes, providing the perfect balance all year round whether you’re looking for adventure or just want to soak up the sun on the beach.
4) Endless outdoor adventures and activities
We’ve said it before, but there’s really no way to overstate how incredible Madeira’s rugged landscapes are when it comes to outdoor adventure.
This island is an open playground for the outdoorsy type, and there’s an abundance of things to choose from that will quickly immerse you in Madeira’s stunning natural beauty.
5) Culinary delights from both land and sea
Madeira’s cuisine is a testament to the island’s bountiful nature and the ingenuity of its people.
The fusion of land and sea is reflected in dishes that are both simple and sublime, using local ingredients and mixing classic Portuguese flavours with unique Madeiran twists.
Fresh seafood is a staple, with dishes featuring octopus, tuna and the prized black scabbard fish, often paired with tropical fruits such as passion fruit and bananas.
Meat lovers will enjoy espetada, juicy beef skewers grilled over an open flame, and bolo do caco, a traditional flatbread served warm with garlic butter.
The island’s fertile soil produces an abundance of fresh vegetables and herbs that add rich, earthy flavours to any meal.
The perfect accompaniment to these culinary delights is Madeira’s world-renowned fortified wine, whose rich and complex flavour is a testament to the island’s centuries-old tradition of winemaking.
6) Unique flora and fauna
Thanks to its isolated location and volcanic nature, Madeira is home to a unique variety of flora and fauna, making it a paradise for nature lovers.
From lush laurel forests to rugged coastal cliffs, the island’s diverse ecosystems are teeming with life.
Madeira’s Laurisilva Forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a living relic of the ancient subtropical forests that once covered southern Europe. Here you’ll find an array of stunning plants unique to Madeira, including the Madeira orchid, the lupine-like pride of Madeira, and various species of heather.
7) Rich cultural heritage
Madeira also has a rich cultural heritage built on centuries of history, diverse influences and vibrant island traditions.
The story begins with its discovery by Portuguese explorers in the 15th century, and since then Madeira has developed a distinct identity that celebrates both its European roots and its unique island character.
The local architecture, characterised by traditional Madeiran houses with their iconic thatched roofs, reflects the island’s agricultural past.
In Funchal, the capital, the cobbled streets are lined with historic buildings, grand churches and charming squares that invite you to explore the old town.
8) Charming villages and towns
Madeira’s charming villages and towns offer a captivating blend of beauty and culture, each offering a unique insight into island life.
Funchal, Madeira’s capital, is the busiest and most vibrant place on the island, where historic sites such as Se Cathedral and the old quarter combine with modern amenities and stunning botanical gardens.
Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village, has colourful boats and waterfront cafes, while nearby Cabo Girão offers breathtaking ocean views.
Inland, Santana is famous for its traditional A-frame houses with thatched roofs, reflecting Madeira’s rural heritage.
Ponta do Sol, bathed in sunlight, has a tranquil seafront and historic architecture, while Madalena do Mar, known for its banana plantations, offers a tranquil coastal retreat.
9) Warm and welcoming people
At the heart of Madeira are its people, whose hospitality is as warm as the island’s sun. Visitors to Madeira often remark on the genuine kindness and generosity of the locals, who go out of their way to make guests feel welcome and at home.
Whether you’re exploring the bustling streets of Funchal or venturing into the island’s quaint villages, encountering the warmth of the Madeiran people is just one more reason why this is an island paradise.
Strike up a conversation wherever possible and you’ll be inundated with information about the island. From the hidden gems of the island to local traditions and where to find the freshest seafood, the locals are always happy to lend a helping hand and share their love of their island home.
10) Easy access to island beauty
What good is an island paradise if there’s no easy way to get to all its beauty? Fortunately, Madeira has an extensive and well-developed infrastructure that makes the whole island easily accessible and ensures a smooth and enjoyable experience.
Madeira Airport is just a short hop from the capital, Funchal, and once there, an extensive transport network and good roads make exploring the island a breeze.
There are car hire options and a huge range of accommodations, from the utter luxury of coastal resorts to local hospitality in design-led boutiques and cosy guesthouses.
Finally, local buses and taxis make it easy to get around without a car, getting you from one destination to another in no time at all.
After all, who says island paradises have to be difficult to get around in? Just one more reason to put Madeira on your bucket list.