If Madeira isn’t on your radar yet, it should be! This lush, subtropical Portuguese island in the Atlantic is known as the Hawaii of Europe and offers dramatic cliffs, natural swimming pools, enchanting forests, and seriously good food. Thanks to United Airlines’ new nonstop flight from Newark (EWR) to Funchal (FNC), getting there has never been easier and I recently had the chance to experience it all firsthand.
Here’s my full itinerary, travel tips, restaurant recommendations, and everything I’d recommend for your own Madeira escape.
Getting to Madeira
United Airlines now offers nonstop flights from Newark (EWR) to Funchal (FNC), making it the only direct route from North America to Madeira. The convenience was incredible — no stressful layovers or complicated connections. We landed bright and early and dove straight into exploring.
Book your United Airlines flight to Madeira here
Best Time to Visit Madeira
Madeira is a year-round destination thanks to its mild subtropical climate, but I really enjoyed going in summer! Long sunny days, warm ocean temperatures, and plenty of local festivals like Portugal Day in June make summer vibrant and lively. It’s a great time to enjoy natural pools and coastal towns.
Where to stay: TURIM Santa Maria Hotel, Funchal
Our base was the TURIM Santa Maria Hotel in the heart of Funchal. It’s modern, comfy, and walking distance to the marina and Old Town — plus a lovely rooftop pool for relaxing after busy days.
📍 R. João de Deus 24, 9050-027 Funchal, Portugal
My spacious room in TURIM Santa Maria Hotel with a view of the cable cars from the balcony
Day 1: Arrival & Explore Downtown Funchal
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Arrive early at Funchal Airport, pick up your rental car, and check into TURIM Santa Maria Hotel.
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Spend your first day walking the Funchal promenade and exploring the charming downtown.
Tip: The marina is perfect for a sunset stroll. Bring a light jacket as ocean breezes pick up in the evening and grab some poncha! My favorite spot is Rei da Poncha. They even have poncha flights!
Dinner Recommendation: Kampo for elevated local dishes
Day 2: Sunrise & Monte Adventures
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Start your day early with sunrise at Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto which is a breathtaking cliffside viewpoint then head back to hotel for breakfast included with your stay.
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Rest and refresh for a bit and get ready to explore the Old Town Funchal and lively Farmers Market (Mercado dos Lavradores).
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Have lunch at Peixaria no Mercado, a great spot for fresh seafood. We had the fish crudo, tempura, and the trigger fish and they were all fresh!
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Take the Funchal cable car up to Monte, stroll the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, then experience the classic toboggan ride back down to Funchal.
Tip: The toboggan ride is popular and you might find a long line but don’t feel intimidated because the line goes fast. The experience is worth it! It’s oe of my favorite experiences. And make sure to wear comfortable shoes for walking.
Dinner Recommendations: Armazém do Sal for traditional Portuguese cuisine with a twist. A Michelin Guide 2024 | Casal da Penha for local flavors with a view
Day 3: Beaches & Natural Pools
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Visit the mystical Fanal Forest for a morning walk surrounded by ancient laurel trees.
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Lunch at Natural Pools Beerhouse in Porto Moniz. Tip: make sure to grab a seat on the terrace for a front-row view of the Atlantic.
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Cool off in the saltwater natural pools at Porto Moniz then explore the nearby Ribeira da Janela which is one of Madeira’s most scenic and symbolic coastal spot.
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Relax at the beautiful black sand beach of Seixal Beach
Dinner Recommendations:O Forno for traditional espetadas | Il Basilico for Italian gems while nestled along the promenade
Day 4: Hikes, Viewpoints & Sunset
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Visit incredible viewpoints like Ponta do Bode and Rocha do Navio for panoramic coastal views.
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Enjoy lunch at Quinta do Furão, a cliffside vineyard restaurant with amazing local wine and views!
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Stop by the Madeira Theme Park for a bit of culture and history.
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End the day with sunset at Cascata dos Anjos, where waterfalls flow over the road.
Tip: Bring a swimsuit and towels to shower at this unique waterfall! It’s an unforgettable experience!
Dinner Recommendations: 90 Bar Grill for steaks and cocktails. It also has stunning sunset views | YUKI for a Japanese Izakaya experience in Funchal
Day 5: Coastal Villages & Local Charm
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Wake up early for a sunrise hike to one of the most popular view point in the island, Pico do Areeiro. Make sure you dress warmly and don’t forget to scan the QR code at the entrance to pay for the €3 hiking fee. There would be rangers waiting for you at the entrance on your way back and you can get fined if you don’t pay for it.
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Explore the colorful fishing village of Câmara de Lobos. Tip: This is the spot that inspired Winston Churchill’s paintings. Make sure to visit the small cafes and try the local poncha drink.
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Continue your exploration to the relaxed town of Ponta do Sol.
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Lunch at Sol Poente, known for fresh seafood and sunsets. Tip: order gelatos on their gelato stand right after lunch
- Optional activity: Paragliding with FlyMadeira to end the last full day in Madeira on high note!
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Head back to Funchal for your last evening.
Dinner Recommendations: Akua for creative seafood plates | Bar O Avô, a cozy spot for traditional Maderan cuisine
But if I’m being honest, we loved Kampo so much that we went back for another meal on our last night!
Day 6: Departure
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Early morning drive to Funchal Airport to return your rental car.
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Catch your United nonstop flight back to Newark feeling refreshed and inspired.
Madeira offers a beautiful blend of dramatic nature, rich culture, and delicious cuisine. With United Airlines’ nonstop flight from Newark, it’s now easier than ever to experience this hidden gem!
