Make the most of your time on the island with my handpicked recommendations for unforgettable dining experiences,
relaxing lunches, vibrant evenings, and everything in between. I am always asked where I go and what my recommendations are so I decided to do my own list.
I have personally tried everywhere I am recommending and these are my own personal favourites.
Reach this stunning oceanfront retreat by cable car. Explore lush gardens, swim in crystal-clear waters, and enjoy fresh organic meals with sea views - South Coast
A dramatic viewpoint with panoramic coastal views, perfect for sunset photos and peaceful moments above the northern cliffs. Utterly Beautiful - North Coast
Immerse yourself in the soul of Portugal with live Fado music and traditional dishes in an intimate and welcoming atmosphere. Authentically Portuguese - Funchal
Enjoy a full evening of entertainment with a live show, elegant dinner, and vintage charm at one of Madeira's most iconic venues- Funchal
This seaside path is perfect for a relaxed stroll with ocean views. From Falesia Gardens turn left onto Rua De Falesia. Walk down the hill following the road all the way round until the junction. Here turn right and keep walking until you pass a few restaurants and end up at the staircase that will take you to the beach, Praia dos Reis Magos. You can follow the promenade towards the restaurants and beach mentioned below. The route offers several spots to pause and enjoy the scenery.
Munchies is a beloved local spot offering a warm, welcoming atmosphere and a diverse menu that caters to various tastes. Open from 9:00 AM to 11:00 PM, Monday through Saturday, it's an ideal place for breakfast, lunch, or dinner. The establishment is known for its friendly staff and cozy setting, making it a favourite of mine. (Its my local :)) It's also conveniently located near Pizzaria La Carbonara, making it easy to find.
Nova Onda offers a relaxed, beachside dining experience with a focus on fresh, local flavours. This family-run spot is another favourite of mine for its friendly service, affordable pricing, and scenic sea views. The food is also very relaxed and always tasty.
Situated directly on the beachfront of Praia dos Reis Magos, you’ll often find me here enojying the view and the traditional Madeiran cuisine. With its proximity to the ocean, guests can relish fresh seafood dishes while taking in the serene coastal views. My thing is to buy “doses” or different starters and enjoy a Madeiran tapas :)
This family-run establishment is renowned for its Eastern European specialties, including borscht and hearty stews. They often have live music playing and it's a favourite among both locals and tourists.
If you’re looking for proper homemade Madeiran food, I always suggest Sabores da Andreia. It’s tucked away in Caniço and has that lovely local, no-fuss feel – but the food is spot on. Think big portions, traditional dishes like espetada, grilled limpets, black scabbard fish, and proper local sides. The staff are friendly, the prices are fair, and there’s a nice relaxed atmosphere whether you're going for lunch or dinner. It’s the kind of place where locals eat, which says a lot. It’s not fancy – and that’s exactly why it’s good.
Specialising in fresh seafood, A Traineira offers a cozy setting where you can enjoy dishes like scabbard fish and grilled octopus. The restaurant's commitment to quality ingredients ensures a memorable dining experience. You can see the fish of the day and pick what you like.
A charming spot known for its warm ambiance and a menu that blends local flavours with international dishes. Good attentive service and the quality of meals is also very good.
Savour Mediterranean flavours and fine wines with spectacular views over the Atlantic at this elegant, modern restaurant. Not cheap, but definitely somewhere special.
Stylish interiors and international cuisine meet at Theo's, where detail and service are just as important as the beautifully plated dishes.
One of the island's most exciting new openings, Audax delivers a chef-driven dining experience with bold flavours and creative presentation.
More than a restaurant, it's a design space offering gourmet cuisine and sweeping views over Funchal from an iconic fortress.
Wholesome, fresh and rooted in local produce, Horta reimagines vegetarian and plant-forward dining with seasonal flair.
This little spot lives up to its name – Joy, It’s got a really stylish, modern feel without being too formal, and the food is just as good as the atmosphere. The menu’s a mix of international and Mediterranean, with fresh ingredients and clever twists on classics. Great cocktails too. It’s the kind of place that works for a relaxed lunch or a night out. Its also one of the newest places in town.
Bright, lively and welcoming—this laid-back eatery serves comforting international favourites and casual cocktails in the Casa Branca area of Funchal.
A popular Italian-style restaurant on the promenade, offering relaxed dining with pasta, pizza and seafood specials.
Tucked near the waterfront in Funchal's old town, this charming spot offers classic Madeiran cuisine and a lovely sea-view terrace.
This rustic-style restaurant blends a warm atmosphere with inventive Portuguese dishes and friendly service.
Ideal for a relaxed lunch, coffee break or afternoon tea, the historic Ritz Café sits in the heart of Funchal with terrace seating and regular live entertainment.
An eco-conscious, beautifully styled spot that puts quality ingredients and sustainability at the heart of every dish.
Trendy and health-conscious, Prima Caju offers colourful brunch bowls, protein-rich dishes and excellent coffee in a contemporary setting.
A favourite among locals and visitors , Brunchology stands out for its creative breakfast dishes, matcha drinks, and modern vibe.
Authentic Irish pub atmosphere with Irish food, live music and multi TV screen Sports plus a great choice of drinks in central Funchal.
A friendly Irish-style pub serving generous portions, beers on tap, and live sports—a great place to unwind.
Affordable local eats in a relaxed setting by the sea at Praia Fermosa. Ideal for a quick bite or a casual dinner.
Funchal
If it’s your first time in Madeira, I always recommend spending a bit of time in Funchal. It’s the island’s capital and full of life – great restaurants, wine bars, local markets, and shops. It’s definitely the busiest place on the island, but it still feels relaxed compared to mainland cities. I love the cable car up to Monte and the walk back down through the botanical gardens – well worth doing.
Calheta
Calheta has a totally different vibe. It’s one of the sunniest spots on the island and one of the only places with a proper sandy beach (brought in from Morocco, no less). It’s popular with families and couples who want somewhere quiet but with a few nice places to eat and a nice marina. It’s also a great base if you want to explore the west side of Madeira. From here visit Ponta do Sol
Canico de Baixo
This is actually where I live – so I may be a bit biased! Canico de Baixo is a lovely little seaside spot with amazing views and a really peaceful feel. It’s not touristy in the usual sense, but it’s popular with people who come to Madeira regularly and want a quieter experience. You’ll find nice walking routes along the coast and a few brilliant snorkelling and diving spots. I would say it feels more residential.
Santa Cruz
Santa Cruz is a proper little Madeiran town with a good local feel. It’s right by the airport, but don’t let that put you off – once you’re in the centre, it’s all palm trees, lots of cafés and seaside charm. It’s not too busy, and it has a great natural swimming lido which is ideal on warm days. Perfect for a slower-paced afternoon or a sunset drink by the water.
Santana
If you want to see the postcard side of Madeira, head to Santana. It’s in the north and best known for the traditional triangle-shaped houses with thatched roofs. The area is incredibly green, and it’s cooler up here – a big contrast to the south coast. It’s very peaceful and brilliant for hiking, especially if you’re into levada walks and forest trails. From here visit Quinta do Farao
Jardim do Mar
This is one of my absolute favourite places on the island. Jardim do Mar is tiny, calm, and full of charm. It’s mostly known for surfing – some of the waves here are world-class – but I go for the views, the peace and the lovely little cafés. You won’t find crowds here, just cobbled streets and sea air. It feels like another world.
Porto Moniz
Porto Moniz is well worth the drive. The natural volcanic pools here are absolutely stunning and perfect for swimming – safe, clear and surrounded by dramatic cliffs. It’s on the far northwest of the island, so it’s less visited than places in the south, but it’s a great day out. Bring swimwear and a camera – and stop for a seafood lunch while you're there. From here visit Seixal
Nun’s Valley (Curral das Freiras)
This is one of those places that really takes your breath away. Tucked deep in the mountains, Nun’s Valley feels completely hidden from the rest of the island – like a secret village surrounded by towering peaks. It’s quiet and peaceful, with a dramatic history (nuns really did hide here during pirate attacks centuries ago). I always suggest stopping at the viewpoint on the way down – the view is unbelievable. There’s a small café in the village that does great chestnut cake, especially in autumn when the chestnut festival is on. It’s a different side of Madeira and well worth a visit.
Madeira isn’t just about great food and views (although there’s plenty of that too). For anyone looking to explore the island in a more adventurous way, there’s diving, canyoning, hiking, paragliding and more to get your pulse racing.
I’ll hold my hands up—I haven’t tried any of these myself. The idea of throwing myself off a cliff with a parachute feels like a hard pass before coffee. But I’ve personally tested every restaurant on this site… several times, in the name of research, of course.
Here are some top-rated options if you’re braver than me:
Diving Centres in Caniço
Caniço is known for having some of the best dive spots on the island — and these professional diving centres are a great place to start.
Atalaia Diving Center
Hotel Roca Mar, Caniço de Baixo
🌐 Visit Website
With direct access to six dive sites just steps from their base, Atalaia is ideal for both beginners and experienced divers. They offer SSI and PADI courses, plus guided boat and night dives.
Shore dives right from the hotel
Courses for all levels
Small group diving for a more personal experience
Equipment hire available
Manta Diving Madeira
Hotel Galomar, Caniço de Baixo
🌐 Visit Website
Located in the Garajau Marine Reserve, Manta Diving is one of Madeira’s most established dive schools. Their team offers everything from beginner try-dives to advanced wreck and night dives.
Dive in a protected marine park
PADI-certified instructors
Eco-diving and freediving courses available
Great option for families or small groups
Madeira Diving Center
Reis Magos, Caniço
🌐 TripAdvisor Listing
This smaller, friendly dive centre near Praia dos Reis Magos is ideal if you're looking for a personalised experience. They focus on safe, relaxed diving in small groups.
Local dive guides with great area knowledge
Great option for holidaymakers staying nearby
English, Portuguese, and German-speaking staff
🧗 Canyoning & Adventure Activities in Caniço
If diving’s not your thing, Caniço still has you covered. These trusted activity providers offer everything from mountain biking to wild waterfall descents.
Lokoloko Madeira – Outdoor Adventures
Caniço
🌐 Visit Website
Lokoloko is a top-rated outdoor adventure company offering canyoning, coasteering, and bike tours. They focus on sustainable, small-group experiences through Madeira’s natural landscapes.
Beginner to advanced canyoning routes
Mountain bike and e-bike rental
Coasteering and sea cliff exploration
Small group sizes for safety and fun
Madeira Adventure Kingdom
Caniço & island-wide tours
🌐 Visit Website
Known for their top safety standards and friendly guides, Madeira Adventure Kingdom is perfect for first-time canyoners and nature lovers alike. Expect dramatic scenery, natural pools, and a good splash.
Great for all ages and fitness levels
Full equipment provided
Transfers from Funchal or Caniço included
Stunning locations like Ribeiro Frio and Rabaçal
🚶♂️ More Adventures Nearby
If you’re up for a day trip, there’s even more action across the island — including paragliding in Calheta, surfing in Jardim do Mar, and one of Madeira’s most iconic hikes between Pico do Areeiro and Pico Ruivo.
Why It’s Worth Booking
These activities give you a whole new perspective on Madeira — whether that’s under the sea, on a cliff edge, or deep in the Laurissilva forest. If you do try one, let me know how it goes. I’ll be cheering you on... from a café. :)
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