Weather in Madeira – when’s the best time of year to visit?

Boasting stunning scenery, delicious cuisine and a fascinating capital, Madeira is nothing short of paradise. Whether you’re planning a romantic getaway, family holiday or a relaxing solo break, you’ll love this beautiful island. The only question is: when should you visit?

Madeira is famous for having fantastic weather all year round. However, depending on your preferences, there may be particular times of year you want to aim for (or avoid!). Our guide will help determine the best time for you to visit.

For high temperatures and dry days

If you’re heading to Madeira to sunbathe, swim and explore the island in the sunshine, August is the best month to visit. On average, August tends to be the hottest month of the year, with average temperatures of around 23˚C. Keen snorkelers may prefer September, when the sea temperatures are at their highest – expect waters as warm as 24˚C! No wetsuit required!

Alternatively, June, July and October are also great times to go for warm weather, as temperatures rarely dip below the 20˚C mark. August is the driest month, but you’re unlikely to see much rain if you visit between May and July either.

For warm weather and fireworks

Can’t cope with temperatures above 20˚C? Then you’re much better off visiting Madeira in the winter, which has become an increasingly popular time with holidaymakers. January and February are the coolest periods, but be warned that the former is also the wettest month of the year. The good news is that you don’t really get ‘drizzly’ rain in Madeira like in the UK; when it rains it really rains!

No matter which winter month you choose to travel in, you can be sure the weather will be miles better than the UK’s. Temperatures average at around 16˚C, and are very unlikely to drop below 10˚C. It’s no wonder so many of us in Northern Europe head to the island for a holiday during our colder months! Plus, the News Year’s fireworks display is not to be missed.

For fewer crowds and cheaper accommodation

July and August may be the best months to visit in terms of sunshine and heat, but for these reasons they’re also the busiest times of year on the island. Not only will restaurants, bars and cafes be busier, the price of flights and accommodation shoot up too. It’s up to you to decide whether those 11 hours of sunshine are worth it.

If you’d rather save some cash and go to Madeira when it’s quieter, travel during the low season, which spans spring and autumn. As we’ve already mentioned, the weather is fine all year round, so if you don’t mind a higher chance of rain and slightly cooler temperatures, you could potentially save a lot of money by visiting in December instead of August.

Top five outdoor attractions

When the sun is shining you won’t just want to hang about by the pool – at least, not for the whole holiday! When you decide to adventure out, we’ve put together a list of attractions and places perfect for sunny days.

1) Pico de Arieiro – Madeira’s third highest peak offers breathtaking views and can be climbed in two to three hours.

2) Monte Palace Tropical Garden – This huge garden spans 70,000 square metres and boasts rare, exotic plants from all over the world.

3) Praia do Porto Santo – A stunning unspoilt beach with miles upon miles of golden sand. (The island near Madeira, so you’ll need to jump on a boat or plane)

4) Levada do Caldeirão Verde – A beautiful walking trail that takes you through woodland, dark tunnels (take a torch) and mountainside paths.

5) Porto Moniz Natural Swimming Pools – Formed by volcanic lava, these pools are popular with families; the views are incredible too.

Top five indoor attractions

It’s always good to have a back-up plan or two in case the weather doesn’t always play ball. Hopefully, these top indoor attractions will help keep you and your family entertained should the need arise.

1) Madeira Film Experience – This 30-minute film is the perfect way to start your holiday, as you’ll learn all about the island’s fascinating 600-year history.

2) Blandy’s Wine Lodge – Take a tour and see how Blandy’s Madeira Wine is made; you’ll even get to taste some!

3) Jesuits’ College of Funchal – Dubbed one of the most remarkable buildings on the island, the college is a fascinating place to visit. Take a guided tour to find out more about the building’s history.

4) Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte – A charming 18th century church with amazing views from the top.

5) CR7 Museum – A must-visit for Cristiano Ronaldo fans, this museum details the footballer’s life story and displays all 126 of his trophies.

Whenever you choose to visit Madeira, and whatever you get up to while there, we’re sure you’ll have a fantastic time. After all, it’s a stunning island with so much to offer!

Weather in Madeira by month

Wondering what the weather in Madeira is like throughout the year? We’ve taken the overall average weather for each month and added it here so you can see which is best for you.

January

Average temperature: 16ºC
Average high and low: 18ºC / 14ºC
Average rainfall: 108mm
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours

February

Average temperature: 16ºC
Average high and low: 18ºC / 14ºC
Average rainfall: 72mm
Hours of sunshine: 7 hours

March

Average temperature: 17ºC
Average high and low: 19ºC / 14ºC
Average rainfall: 52mm
Hours of sunshine: 8 hours

April

Average temperature: 17ºC
Average high and low: 19ºC / 14ºC
Average rainfall: 60mm
Hours of sunshine: 9 hours

May

Average temperature: 19ºC
Average high and low: 21ºC / 16ºC
Average rainfall: 15mm
Hours of sunshine: 10 hours

June

Average temperature: 21ºC
Average high and low: 23ºC / 18ºC
Average rainfall: 9mm
Hours of sunshine: 10 hours

July

Average temperature: 22ºC
Average high and low: 24ºC / 19ºC
Average rainfall: 6mm
Hours of sunshine: 11 hours

August

Average temperature: 23ºC
Average high and low: 25ºC / 20ºC
Average rainfall: 3mm
Hours of sunshine: 10 hours

September

Average temperature: 23ºC
Average high and low: 25ºC / 20ºC
Average rainfall: 36mm
Hours of sunshine: 8 hours

October

Average temperature: 21ºC
Average high and low: 23ºC / 19ºC
Average rainfall: 90mm
Hours of sunshine: 8 hours

November

Average temperature: 19ºC
Average high and low: 21ºC / 17ºC
Average rainfall: 90mm
Hours of sunshine: 6 hours

December

Average temperature: 18ºC
Average high and low: 20ºC / 15ºC
Average rainfall: 81mm
Hours of sunshine: 6 hours

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