Madeira in March: weather, events and what to pack
Madeira in March: spring arrives, the island turns green, days get longer, Easter can fall this month and the sugar cane harvest begins.
Funchal, averages 1991–2020. Source: IPMA; sunshine: Deutscher Wetterdienst, 1991–2020; sea temperature rounded.
March is when Madeira wakes up for spring. The hillsides turn green, wild flowers appear along the levadas, and the days grow noticeably longer, especially after the clocks change at the end of the month.
The weather in March
Days average around 21 °C and nights around 14 °C. Rain is still possible, with about six rainy days on average, but there is more sunshine than in winter. The sea is about 18 °C. The mountains are fresh and often clear in the mornings.
Mid-month you get about 12 hours of daylight, with sunrise around 07:20 and sunset around 19:15. For today’s conditions, see our weather page and the live webcams.
Festivals and events
Easter sometimes falls in March, as it does in 2027 (28 March), with processions in many parishes. In late March the sugar cane harvest starts, and the island’s small rum mills begin pressing cane, which you can watch at Porto da Cruz and Calheta. The full list of dated events for March is below, taken from our calendar.
What to do in March
- Levada walks at all altitudes, as conditions improve
- Ponta de São Lourenço with spring flowers
- Garden visits in full bloom
- Watching cane being pressed at a rum mill
What to pack
- Layers for changeable weather
- A light rain jacket
- Walking shoes with grip
- Sun protection: the spring sun is strong
See the full packing list.
Crowds and prices
Still good value, but busier around Easter. Book Easter dates early.
Good to know
Plan big mountain walks for the second half of your stay, when the weather is often more settled. Read the best time to visit Madeira to compare the months.
Staying on Madeira?
Holiday homes around the island, from apartments in Funchal to houses with a sea view.
See homes on Madeira Dreams