Due to its all-year mild Mediterranean temperatures, Madeira - the Island of eternal spring - is worth visiting at any time of the year. So whether you are looking for a subtropical summer holiday or you want to experience one of the most incredible new year's eve fireworks, you will find endless possibilities from January to December.
With temperatures ranging from 18ºC to 25ºC, Madeira is known for its many microclimates - including hot summer days in wintertime. Locals usually say you can experience the four seasons in one single day: just by simply crossing the Island from one end to the other. You can find sunshine in one place, cloudy weather in another and perhaps thundershowers somewhere in between.
Despite the Island's climate variations, each season holds various attractions and activities that will amaze your children, such as surf lessons, hikes, canyoning, birdwatching, and much more. Let's take a look at some of these options, season by season.
Springtime: April to mid-June
This is probably one of the most chosen periods to visit the Island by families who seek to avoid the crowded high season. This is when flowers and gardens are blooming all over the Island, and Carnival parades occur. In May, Funchal holds the famous colourful Flower Festival. If you are into hiking, this is the time of the year where the lush green vegetation is at its peak.
It is worth noting that springtime also means price cuts, making it a reasonable period to travel to and around the Island.
Summer: Mid-June to September
If you are looking for drier weather and warmer days, this is the option for you, except for June, cloudy and humid. The high season in Madeira has an average temperature of 26ºC, and it is the best time to explore the Atlantic beaches of Madeira, become acquainted with dolphins and whales, and enjoy endless sunsets on the charming south coast villages like Jardim Do Mar.
With August being the warmest month, accommodations tend to have less availability and become more expensive.
Autumn: Mid-September to November
Although you can experience some rainy days in autumn, it is generally sunny and warm enough to swim. These months tend to be quieter, and it is a great time to be on the Island as you can taste some of the fantastic seasonal fruits growing all over, such as cherimoya, tamarillo, and guava.
With the cold temperatures spreading over mainland Europe, many families choose this time of the year to visit Madeira searching for warm, sunny days and nature trails.
Winter: December to March
Christmas time is probably one of the most unforgettable periods on the Island. All towns are decorated with sparkling lights transforming villages into exciting Santa Claus playgrounds. On the 23rd of December, Funchal hosts the market night: a tradition Madeirans are very proud of. From singing choirs, local delicacies, and music echoing on the streets of the capital, this is a memorable night to experience with your family.
Christmas celebrations end on the 6th of January with the singing of the Three Kings. Despite January being the coldest month, sea temperatures stand at 19ºC, making it possible to swim and is one of the most favoured times to surf. Occasionally you may also have the opportunity to play with your kids in the snow on some of the mountaintops.
Choosing the best month to visit Madeira will depend on two main factors: the type of holidays your family is looking for and the location on the island.
As the mountains influence the climate, there are variations through different parts of Madeira. Generally, the south and west tend to be warmer and dryer, while the north and east can be slightly windy and cooler.
When you are on the island, a great insider tip is to use the webcams to check out the weather, in real-time, at different locations and choose the best spot to head to. In general, temperatures rarely fall below 20ºC, which makes Madeira an ideal destination all year round.
