What to pack for Madeira, in every season
A practical packing list for Madeira: layers for the mountains, shoes for the levadas, what to bring for the sea, and what changes between summer and winter.
The climate on the coast is mild all year, but you can drive from 25 °C on the seafront to 8 °C in the clouds at Pico do Arieiro in under an hour. Pack for both.
The essentials, all year
- Layers: T-shirts, a light fleece or jumper, and a warmer layer for evenings and the mountains.
- A light waterproof jacket. Showers come and go, especially on the north coast and in the mountains.
- Comfortable walking shoes with good grip. Levada paths can be wet and slippery. Trainers with a proper sole are fine for easy walks; take hiking shoes for mountain trails.
- A small head torch. Several popular walks go through tunnels, including Caldeirão Verde and the Pico Ruivo trail.
- Sun protection: sunscreen, sunglasses and a hat. The sun is strong all year at this latitude, even when it feels mild.
- A day backpack and a reusable water bottle.
- Swimwear and water shoes. Many swimming spots are rocky or pebbly.
- Plug adapter: Portugal uses type F sockets (European two-pin) at 230 V.
Summer: June to September
Light clothes, sandals and a swimsuit for every day. Still pack a fleece for the mountains and evenings by the sea, and a windproof layer for boat trips.
Winter: November to March
Daytime is often T-shirt weather in Funchal, but evenings are cool and indoor heating is rare in Madeiran homes. Bring:
- a warm jumper or light down jacket,
- long trousers for walks,
- gloves and a hat if you plan a sunrise at Pico do Arieiro, where it can be close to freezing,
- a proper rain jacket.
For levada walks
- Shoes with grip, ideally waterproof
- Waterproof jacket, even on a sunny morning
- Head torch for tunnels
- Water and snacks; there are few cafés on the trails
- A phone with your trail booking saved offline
- A light warm layer for higher walks
See our levada walks guide and hiking safety tips.
What you don’t need
- Lots of cash. Cards are accepted almost everywhere, though a little cash helps in village cafés and markets.
- A fancy outfit. Madeira is relaxed. Smart casual is fine even for good restaurants.
- Beach towels, if your apartment or hotel provides them; check first.
Packing for kids
Swim shoes, a sun hat, a light rain jacket and a head torch make most activities easier. Our Madeira with kids guide has more.