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Are you currently planning a vacation to Madeira and you’re looking for the best place to stay? No need to worry cause this articles has got you completely covered! From luxury hotels with a seaside cliff view to unique places to stay in the heart of nature.
Madeira is known for its mind blowing landscapes, adventurous hiking trails and rich culture. Every year this lush island gets more and more popular and by now its considered as one of the most beautiful travel destinations in Europe.
When it comes to accommodation in Madeira there’s a lot of different options to choose from. Here you’ll find world class hotels, unique boutique hotels, luxury villa’s and a ton of apartments. In this article I’ve focused on the first 3 categories which will guarantee you an exceptional holiday in Madeira.
Oh and to make things even easier for you you’ll find an overview of the nearby attractions underneath every single listing! This way you can plan your vacation in Madeira even better!
The Best Places To Stay In Madeira
When planning your holiday you’re probably wondering where to stay in Madeira. This small island is filled with beautiful places and fun activities and knowing where to stay will make your life a lot easier!
Madeira is often called the Hawaii of Europe because of its rugged mountain peaks and coastal landscapes. Especially in the Northern part of the island you’ll feel like you’ve stepped right into a scene of Jurassic Park. That is, minus the T-rex and velociraptors!
Madeira is the perfect travel destination for families who want to spend time together and couples who are looking for some quality time. But for me personally, Madeira is one of my favorite places to go for adventure.
How to get around in Madeira
The best way to get around in Madeira is to grab a rental car and on top of that Madeira is a beautiful place to drive.
During your drives you’ll come across waterfalls, ravines, lush jungles, high cliffs and astonishing views over the island and ocean. You can bet on it that you’ll want to park your car on the side of the road after every single turn.
If you don’t have a rental car and you want to see certain parts of the island you’ll depend on taxi’s, busses and tours. These are either very expensive options or also pretty unreliable when it comes to the public transportation on Madeira. It will take a lot longer to reach several destinations in one day and if you’ve booked a full day tour you’re also stuck if the weather turns out to be a complete disaster that day.
I do highly recommend you to book a car with an automatic transmission. The slopes can be very, very steep. Honestly at one point my mom was driving and the road was so steep that I was also trying to push in the gas on my side of the car…
The price of a rental car totally depends on the time of year and how early you book your car. So if you already know when you’ll travel to Madeira it’s best to book your rental car as soon as possible. I always use SunnyCars when choosing a rental car because there’s never any hidden costs with them. Their price is transparent and everything is included.
💡 TIP – Sometimes the local rental company will try to make you pay for additional insurance. This is in no way necessary cause SunnyCars offers you full coverage.
Where to stay in Madeira
Where to stay on Madeira Island – Comparison Table
| ACCOMMODATION | REGION | RATING | RATE/NIGHT |
| Quinta Jardins do Lago | Funchal | 9.7 Excellent | €256 |
| Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel | Funchal | 9.4 Superb | €550 |
| Sé Boutique Hotel | Funchal | 9.0 Superb | €158 |
| Hotel Porto Mare | Funchal | 9.1 Superb | €174 |
| Quinta da Casa Branca | Funchal | 9.5 Exceptional | €582 |
| Hotel Alto Lido | Funchal | 9.1 Superb | €105 |
| Quinta das Hortênsias | Santana | 9.3 Superb | €62 |
| Casa Leão de Ouro by MHM | São Jorge | 8.8 Fabulous | €101 |
| Casa das Proteas | São Jorge | 9.5 Exceptional | €84 |
| Solar da Bica | São Vicente | 9.3 Superb | €92 |
| Hotel Quinta Do Furao | Santana | 9.3 Superb | €149 |
| Casa das Escaleiras | Porto Moniz | 9.4 Superb | €190 |
| Aqua Natura Madeira | Porto Moniz | 9.1 Superb | €85 |
| Aqua Natura Bay | Porto Moniz | 9.3 Superb | €107 |
Funchal – An ideal place to stay in Madeira if it’s your first time visiting
Funchal is the capital city of Madeira and is situated on the South coast of the island. here you’ll find a ton of world class hotels and small boutique hotels. Funchal is the perfect base, especially if it’s your very first time visiting Madeira.
Funchal is only 30 minutes driving from the international airport of Madeira and is close to some of the most spectacular places on the island.
Funchal is home to fabulous museums, old churches, and botanical gardens. A lot of people chose to base themselves here cause there are plenty of restaurants, bars, tourist agencies and shops in the traditional streets to be found.
During my first visit to Madeira I spent 7 days in Funchal and traveled around the island from there. the only way to properly do this of course is if you have a rental car.
Stay in Funchal for the following activities:
- Funchal – Explore the old city centre
- Ponta de São Lourenço – Only 1 hour driving from Funchal you’ll find one of the most unique landscapes in Madeira
- Monte Palace Madeira – Wander through this beautiful botanical garden
Quinta Jardins do Lago – One of the most luxurious places to stay in madeira
Quinta Jardins do Lago is an elegant small luxury botanical garden hotel in Madeira Island. They situated on one of the green hills surrounding the city of Funchal and very close to its principal area of historical interest.
This charming Madeiran Quinta was built in the 18th century. More recently it was the home of well-known French and British families. During the Napoleonic wars General Beresford, Commander of the British forces on the island, chose it as his residence. His magnificent sideboard, a reminder of his stay, still adorns our dining room.
With an area of 2.5 hectares full of wonderful examples of rare species and old trees as well as many colourful and delicate flowers, the Flora of ‘Quinta Jardins do Lago‘ is such a rich and diverse collection that it can rival any good botanical gardens.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Quinta Jardins do Lago.
Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel – A world class hotel in Madeira
Reid’s Palace, A Belmond Hotel is surrounded by lush subtropical gardens and perches above picture-perfect Funchal Harbor. Having welcomed guests for 130 years, they’ve perfected the art of indulgence. Anticipate gorgeous panoramic views, innovative cuisine and the superb service of a bygone era—you may never want to leave.
Over the years this luxury hideaway has honed the art of pampering, earning a reputation as one of the best hotels in Funchal. Whatever your age or interest, there are activities both within the hotel’s estate and beyond to keep you on the go, all year round.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Reid’s Palace.
Sé Boutique Hotel – A small boutique hotel in Madeira
Sé Boutique Hotel is located 5 minutes walking from the sea and only 10 minutes away from a parking lot. Trying to park your car in the center of Funchal can be quite a hassle otherwise.
The hotel has a beautiful roof top bar which offers an amazing view over the city. Especially during sunset, when Funchal turns on its lights it’s a sight to behold.
There is a champagne and lobster bar inside the hotel. I can assure you that you’ll want to reward yourself after a couple of the hikes you’ll be doing on the island.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Sé Boutique Hotel.
Hotel Porto Mare
Hotel Porto Mare Occupies the central section of the Vila Porto Mare resort, and benefits from all its facilities.
The strong connection to the sea, direct views over the cruise port, picturesque surroundings, unique flavors . .. surround the hotel in an urban resort environment. The 146 suites and rooms equipped with kitchenette provide a high level of comfort and tranquillity.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Hotel Porto Mare
Quinta da Casa Branca
Quinta da Casa Branca is a 5 star boutique hotel set in the heart of a botanical garden near the centre of Funchal. The property’s history begins in the mid-19th century when the British ancestors of the current owners, the Leacock family, planted vines and banana trees on an area of 6 hectares.
Fully integrated into the vegetation, the first building was opened in 1998.
In 2002, new rooms were built, the building now spans an L which closes the field towards the Sun and the gardens.
Since 2003, Quinta da Casa Branca is a member of “Small Luxury Hotels of the World”.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Quinta da Casa Branca.
Hotel Alto Lido
Hotel Alto Lido is located west of the city of Funchal and is only 2.5 km from the center. The hotel was fully renovated in 2018 and boasts a truly unique style with its modern architecture and sleek styling.
From the Hotel you can contemplate the magnificent views of the Atlantic Ocean. Shops and restaurants are within walking distance.
The hotel has a private bus service to and from the center of Funchal, the journey takes approximately 5 minutes and is subject to availability.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Hotel Alto Lido.
Santana – Perfect place to stay in Madeira for hiking
The area of and around Santana is an ideal place to stay in Madeira if you want to go hiking in that area! There are a ton of spectacular hiking trails really close by and this small town is located on the East side of Northern Madeira.
Santana is also known as one of the most beautiful villages in entire Madeira and characterized by its small thatched triangular houses. These small houses, built of natural stone and thatched with straw, have served the locals for centuries as stables and dwellings.
The mountainous landscapes are dominated by the lush green that characterizes the Laurissilva Forest, which was classified as ‘World Heritage’ by the UNESCO, encouraging locals even more to do everything for maintaining its beauty.
Stay in Santana for the following activities:
- Miradouro do Guindaste – Enjoy sunset at one of the most beautiful viewpoints in Madeira
- Levada do Caldeirão Verde – Venture out on one of the most beautiful levada walks in Madeira
- Miradouro dos Balcões – A short walk to a stunning viewpoint over the highest peaks in Madeira
- Pico Ruivo – Hike to the highest peak on Madeira from Pico Arieiro
Quinta das Hortênsias
Quinta das Hortênsias is a traditional Madeira home located in Arco de São Jorge, on the north Coast of Madeira Island. The unit features views over the Atlantic Ocean and the lush Laurissilva Forest.
The apartments and studios are set in renovated family vineyard houses. Each of the self-catering units comes with a fully-equipped kitchenette, bedroom, garden and a furnished terrace. The heated units have a cosy living area. Free WiFi is available in all areas.
Local restaurants are available within a 10-minute walk, most serving the area´s traditional cuisine. Alternatively, guests may choose to stay in and cook their own meals in the equipped kitchenette. A buffet breakfast with a variety of products is also served each morning at the Roseiral tea house, a 5 minutes walk from the property, at an extra charge. The traditional “Poncha” beverage and the famous honey cake are also available, at an extra fee.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Quinta das Hortênsias
Casa Leão de Ouro by MHM
Casa Leão de Ouro by MHM is a private house that can host up to 4 people! They do require a 7 night stay at the minimum but if you ant to stay in this beautiful villa you better book in time!
Perched on top of a seaside cliff you’ll wake up to the most stunning views over the sea and mountains. After a long day of hiking or driving around Madeira you can relax by your own private pool or go for a swim.
This holiday home in Madeira comes with 2 bedrooms and 1 bathroom.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Casa Leão de Ouro by MHM.
Casa das Proteas
Casa das Proteas overlooks the Atlantic Ocean and offers an outdoor swimming pool surrounded by lush vegetation about 50 km from Funchal.
All Proteas’ rooms are heated and have a private bathroom. Some rooms have a kitchenette and sea views, while others have wooden sloped ceilings.
A breakfast buffet is served daily in the bright breakfast room. Guests wishing to explore further the island can request a packed lunch. There are barbecue facilities next to the pool. Other meals are available upon prior request.
After a refreshing dip in the outdoor pool in the summer, guests can enjoy a billiards game or a drink from the bar. The cosy living room includes plush sofas and a warm fireplace for the colder winter nights.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Casa das Proteas.
Solar da Bica
Solar da Bica is a cosy and tranquil retreat. This comfortable guest house faces the mountains and has green natural surroundings.
Guests of the apartment are welcome to prepare their meals in the fully-equipped kitchen of the unit. A homemade breakfast, featuring a variety of jams and local delicacies, is served each morning at the property.
A heated salt water swimming pool and a sauna are available for guests to enjoy a relaxing break. A comfortable lounge, with sofas and a fireplace is also a part of the property, where guests can quietly enjoy a book or the scenic mountain surroundings. Among the activities that guests might enjoy are canyoning, climbing, cycling, birdwatching, sky-view and Geocaching, upon request.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Solar da Bica
Hotel Quinta Do Furao
Hotel Quinta Do Furao features stunning views of the north-east coast of the Island of Madeira and the surrounding mountains, this 4-star hotel offers rooms with free Wi-Fi and a balcony.
The rooms at Hotel Quinta Do Furão are decorated with natural colors and elegant wooden furniture. All rooms have a flat-screen TV, a minibar, and tea and coffee making facilities.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Hotel Quinta Do Furao
Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz seems to have fallen from above into the northern sea and has long been famous for its natural swimming pools and its pure, beautiful scenery.
Porto Moniz is the perfect base if you want to explore the following places in Madeira:
- Fanal – A beautiful laurel forst which is often covered in fog and allures with its mysterious vibe.
- Seixal – Explore the area around the only black sand beach in Madeira and admire the waterfalls in the distance bursting down into the Atlantic Ocean.
- Achadas de Cruz – Take the most scenic and steep cable car down to reach one of the most unique spots in Madeira
- Ribeira da Janela – Admire these enormous rock formations sprouting up from the Atlantic Ocean.
- 25 fontes – Enjoy a beautiful levada walk to the 25 fontes and Risco waterfall.
Casa das Escaleiras
Casa das Escaleiras features beachfront accommodation with an outdoor swimming pool, a garden, barbecue facilities and free WiFi. The property was built in 2016 and has air-conditioned accommodation with a balcony.
The holiday home features 2 bedrooms, 2 bathrooms, bed linen, towels, a flat-screen TV with satellite channels, a dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and a patio with pool views.
The holiday home has a spa and wellness centre, including a hot tub. A car rental service is available at Casa das Escaleiras by AnaLodges.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Casa das Escaleiras
Aqua Natura Madeira
Aqua Natura Madeira is located just above the famous natural pools in the picturesque and welcoming village of Porto Moniz on the north coast of Madeira Island, offering a superb view of the Atlantic Ocean.
This unit combines the comfort and sophistication of its accommodations with some of the most stunning scenery on the entire island. It lies between the crystalline blue of the sea and the lush green of the mountains of the Laurisilva, a forest that is unique in the world, making it the perfect choice for lovers of nature and the sea.
The hotel’s privileged location is just 500 metres from the Madeira Aquarium and is close to the recreational port, where you will encounter a series of maritime-tourist activities that can help you discover the sea around Madeira
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Aqua Natura Madeira.
Aqua Natura Bay
s a new 4 Star Hotel, located in the paradisiacal Vila of Porto Moniz, on the North Coast of Madeira Island.
The hotel stands out for its mixed exuberant landscape, on the one hand, its fantastic views over the Atlantic Ocean and on the other, the imposing views over the mountainside of the northern side of the island.
With their Madeira Nature Experience, every guest will be able to enjoy different activities throughout the year, especially their sea activities, especially with the diving in the Madeira Aquarium (unique activity in Europe and in the World) where it gives you the opportunity to dive with sharks, rays and morays.
Click here to check the best current rates and availability for Aqua Natura Bay
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