Practical Tips for Visiting Madeira
First-timer essentials for Madeira: money, language, driving, safety on trails, plugs and connectivity, tipping and common mistakes to avoid.
Money and costs
The currency is the euro. Cards (including contactless) are widely accepted; carry some cash for small bars, markets, rural spots and trail shuttles. Madeira is generally cheaper than mainland European capitals for food and wine, though tourist-area restaurants and New Year period cost more. Tipping is modest and not obligatory — rounding up or ~5–10% for good service is normal.
Safety
Madeira is very safe with low crime. The main risks are nature-related: slippery trails, cliff edges, big north-coast swells, and fast-changing mountain weather. Respect trail closures and warning signs, stay behind railings at viewpoints, and don't swim where the sea is rough.
Driving notes
Roads are good but steep, winding and full of tunnels; expressways make the south fast. Use low gears on long descents. Parking in central Funchal is mainly paid garages. Fuel stations are common on main routes but sparse in remote areas — fill up before heading into the mountains or far west.
Connectivity and power
Madeira is part of Portugal/EU, so EU roaming applies for European SIMs, and there's good mobile coverage in populated areas (patchier in deep valleys and tunnels). Plugs are the European type F (230V).
Health and accessibility
Standard EU healthcare rules apply (bring an EHIC/GHIC if eligible). Pharmacies are widespread. The terrain is hilly — Funchal's centre, seafront and many attractions are manageable, but levadas and old-town cobbles are not very wheelchair-friendly; some viewpoints and gardens are accessible.
Etiquette and language
Portuguese is the language; a few words (bom dia, obrigado/obrigada) are appreciated. English, German and French are widely understood in tourism. Madeirans are friendly and relaxed; meals run late by northern-European standards.
What to pack
Layers and a light rain jacket (mountain/north weather), sun protection (strong UV), proper walking shoes, a headlamp for levada tunnels, water shoes for pebble beaches, and a daypack with water for hikes.
Places in this guide
- Funchal