Madeira - where to stay

Where to stay for a brilliant holiday in or near Madeira

Most of the hotels you'll see will be in or close to the capital, Madeira, although there are a handful dotted elsewhere around the island. Choose between accommodation close to the sea, or higher up in the hills with magnificent views over Funchal.

Madeira also has a special category of hotel called 'quintas' - these are old manor houses converted into small bed & breakfast hotels, and are usually full of character and with a more personal touch.

Above Funchal, Monte is known for the stunning botanical gardens, and also the unusual way to get back to Funchal if you can't find a taxi - being pushed down in a Monte Toboggan, a wicker basket sled ride dating back to the 19th century!

For a more gentle day out, walking is a big thing with stunning landscapes and several trails along levadas, old water channels which are now used as footpaths.

Recommended Hotels

These are in typical price order, with the cheapest accommodation showing first, but please contact us for full package rates.

Quinta da Penha de Franca (4* BB HB) - this affordable hotel is very popular with repeat guests, and is close to the old town of Funchal.

Quinta Funchal Gardens (4* BB HB) - small, adults only hotel on the hillside above Funchal, with great views from the al fresco terrace. Indoor and outdoor pool.

Castanheiro Boutique Hotel (4.5* BB HB) - cosy, traditional hotel with great views over Funchal and a rooftop pool

Quintinha de Sao Joao (5* BB HB) - The hotel is located amidst lush greenery and scented gardens within an historical 18th century estate. There's a lovely selection of facilities including idyllic pool area and a couple of great bars. 

Pestana Carlton Madeira (4.5* BB HB) - larger hotel on the waterfront with lots of on-site activities and dining options. There's a choice of pools including 2 indoor pools.

Pestana Grand Premium Ocean Resort (4.5* HB) - excellent half board package as you can dine in themed restaurants as well as the main buffet restaurant. Lovely gardens and a large outdoor and indoor pool.

Quinta Da Bela Vista  (5* BB HB FB) = beautiful small hotel full of character, a couple of miles outside Funchal with a complimentary bus service, and offers a lovely pool and gardens.

Residence Porto Mare (4* SC BB HB) - part of a complex of three hotels, this is located on the seafront with a promenade for the walk into Funchal, and a good choice of pools and restaurants.

Quinta da Casa Branca (5* BB HB) - small hotel full of character and set within botanical gardens, it's a member of the 'Small Luxury Hotels of the World'

Porto Santa Maria (4* BB HB) - a brilliant location within easy walking distance to Funchal Old Town and right beside the sea.

Quinta Jardins do Lago (5* BB HB) - a charming old manor house with stunning views, situated in beautiful botanical gardens - this is a customer favourite.

Savoy Palace (5* BB HB FB) - a larger hotel and member of '‘The Leading Hotels of the World', it's an excellent choice for both relaxing during the day - there's a rooftop infinity pool , and dining at night - you've got 7 restaurants to choose from.

Cliff Bay (5* BB HB) - a firm favourite, this is a traditional style hotel with wonderful views over the sea, an indoor pool for cooler weather and a two Michelin star restaurant.

Reid's Palace (5* BB) - historic, traditional style hotel known for it's stunning cliff top location, stunning views and afternoon teas on the terrace. It now has a Michelin star restaurant.