Madeira BEST Photo Spots
Madeira is hands down one of the most stunning places in Europe, brimming with photo opportunities at every turn. Whether it's the charming Portuguese architecture or the breathtaking natural landscapes, you'll find plenty of spots to capture on this beautiful island. Let's dive into some of the must-visit locations for photographers.
Is Madeira good for photography?
Madeira is a photographer's paradise! Its unique landscapes, with rugged cliffs, high mountains, and old forests, offer countless opportunities for photography.
SEE MORE: OUR GALLERY FROM MADEIRA
Our E-Book Guide to Madeira Island
Discover Madeira Island with our comprehensive E-Book Guide! Uncover the best attractions Madeira has to offer and easily locate all the places you want to visit. Plus, our specially curated Photographer's Itinerary ensures you can effortlessly explore Madeira and capture stunning photographs. Check it out in our shop!
Bored of reading? Watch out YouTube Guide about Madeira Island!
What's the best time to visit Madeira?
Madeira boasts a subtropical climate, which means it enjoys warm and agreeable weather all year long. However, due to its central mountain range, the weather can vary in different areas. This diversity is actually a significant advantage, as it means you can always find a spot on Madeira Island with pleasant weather for the day. I've personally experienced all the seasons on Madeira, and each one offered a unique and enjoyable experience. There's truly no wrong time to visit Madeira.
READ MORE: Weather on Madeira Month by Month
How to get around Madeira
While the public transportation on Madeira covers all areas of the island and could take you to most places you want to visit, it might not be very efficient for a traveler here for a short stay. We spent our first half-year on Madeira using only public transportation and occasionally renting a car for 2-3 days. Although we could get around well and travel to new places every week, it was only when we rented a car long-term that we truly experienced all the benefits of living on Madeira. This will be similar for you, if you're planing to stay on Madeira a week or so. We alway book cars from DiscoverCars, our go-to place for finding the best car rental deals around the world.
Just recently, a new business opened that provides transportation to the two main hiking areas on the island - Rabacal and Pico do Arieiro. This can be a fine addition to your trip or a way to save some money on a few days of car rental, but if you plan to efficiently explore the island, getting your own four wheels is still advisable.
Madeira BEST Photo Spots
Black Sand Beach in Seixal
Seixal Beach is one of those places that feels like it's straight out of a dream. Unlike most of Madeira's rocky shores, Seixal has a unique twist with its volcanic black sand. The beach is framed by lush green cliffs and towering mountains, with a waterfall that adds an extra layer of magic to the scene. If you're up early enough, sunrise here is a photographer’s paradise, as the light perfectly enhances the natural beauty. It's a popular spot among photographers, so don't be surprised if you run into a few others trying to capture that perfect shot.
Planning a trip?
Looking to book an activity or hire a guide? After spending two years on Madeira, we’ve gathered our top recommendations for local travel services, which you can find in our Madeira E-Book. But when we’re exploring new places, we always turn to GetYourGuide. They offer a huge selection of activities from trusted providers, all with upfront pricing and reviews from real customers, so you can book with confidence. Check out the activities below and find your next adventure with GetYourGuide!
Ponta do Rosto
Ponta do Rosto is the kind of place that makes you want to get up before dawn. This rugged coastline is perfect for a sunrise shoot, offering sweeping views that are well worth the early wake-up call. Conveniently, there’s a parking lot right near the cliffs, so you won't have to trek far to start snapping photos. The area is spacious enough to explore both sides of the peninsula, giving you multiple angles and perspectives to work with. While there aren’t any amenities, a food vendor might show up later in the day if you stick around for more photos.
Pico do Arieiro
For panoramic views that will leave you speechless, Pico do Arieiro is unbeatable. This spot gives you a bird’s-eye view of Madeira’s stunning landscapes, and the PR1 trail nearby offers even more incredible views. Don’t miss the Miradouro do Juncal at sunrise—it's one of the most breathtaking viewpoints on the island. Another must-visit is the Ninho da Manta viewpoint, just a short hike from the parking lot. Here, you’ll get views of rock formations that often pierce through the clouds, making it a surreal place for photography.
Fanal Forest
Fanal Forest is like stepping into another world. This secluded area is divided into three parts: the main area with its iconic, spread-out trees; a hilltop with dense, picturesque trees offering panoramic views; and Fanal Pond, which sometimes dries up in summer but still adds to the atmosphere. Fanal is perfect for a leisurely stroll, allowing photographers to get creative with their shots. With hiking trails crisscrossing the area, you can easily combine your photo session with a hike through some of Madeira’s most beautiful scenery.
Ribeira da Janela
For a truly awe-inspiring sunrise, head to the coastal village of Ribeira da Janela. The combination of rocky shores, dramatic cliffs, and the vast ocean makes for a setting that’s hard to beat. It’s a popular spot among photographers, but the beach is long enough that you’ll have plenty of space to find your own perfect angle. The quiet mornings here offer a peaceful atmosphere, ideal for capturing the natural beauty of Madeira.
Miradouro Ponta da Ladeira - Sunset Viewpoint
If you’re a fan of sunsets, Miradouro Ponta da Ladeira should be high on your list. On clear days, the sunset here is simply spectacular, with the cliffs of Achadas da Cruz glowing in shades of orange and red. The viewpoint also offers a great view of the fields of Fajã da Quebrada Nova. Just be aware that getting there involves a steep and somewhat tricky path, so it's not the best spot for kids or those uncomfortable with heights. But for those who make the trek, the reward is an unforgettable sunset.
Levada Caldeirão Verde
Levada do Caldeirão Verde offers a scenic 12-kilometer hike that takes you through the lush, jungle-like landscapes of Santana. The trail is surrounded by dense greenery, making you feel like you’ve stepped into a jungle. It ends at a stunning waterfall, with plenty of photo opportunities along the way, including views of mountains and valleys. There are a few tunnels to pass through, adding a bit of adventure to your hike. The trail is relatively easy, making it a great option for families. After your hike, relax at the café near the trailhead, where you can grab a coffee and a snack.
Guindaste Viewpoint
Miradouro do Guindaste is a unique spot that offers a wide view of the Atlantic Ocean and Ponta do São Lourenço. Test your nerves on the glass skywalk, where you can see the waves crashing below. For a unique angle, climb the nearby hill for a shot of a narrow cliff with the ocean as a backdrop. Though it’s a popular spot for tourists, the views here are exactly what you came to Madeira for—absolutely stunning.
Cristo Rei Viewpoint
Right beneath the Cristo Rei statue in Caniço, you’ll find a viewpoint that offers amazing perspectives over Garajau Beach and Funchal. The stairs leading down to the ocean provide some great angles for your photos, especially at sunset. It’s a peaceful spot to watch the sun dip below the horizon, casting a golden glow over Madeira’s capital. Don’t forget your camera—this viewpoint is a must for capturing those last rays of the day.
Monte Palace Gardens - A Green Oasis
Monte Palace Gardens is like stepping into a lush, green oasis high in the mountains. This sprawling garden is packed with diverse plants, impressive waterfalls, and fascinating art installations that make for some truly unique photos. The views from here are nothing short of spectacular, offering a perfect blend of natural beauty and artistic design. The Oriental Garden is a standout area, with its tranquil ponds and intricate landscaping—it’s a favourite for photographers looking to capture something different. Plan to spend at least 2 hours wandering through this peaceful retreat; there’s so much to see and snap along the way.
Bica da Cana Viewpoint
Bica da Cana Viewpoint is quickly becoming a favorite among visitors to Madeira, so don’t expect to have it all to yourself at sunrise anymore. Perched at an altitude of 1,580 meters, this spot offers a breathtaking view over the São Vicente valley, known for its lush Laurissilva forest. The viewpoint is a fantastic addition to any trip to Fanal Forest, another must-see natural wonder on the island. Getting there is easy—you can park near a camping site and take a short, 5-minute uphill walk to reach the viewpoint. The panoramic views are well worth the small effort, especially when the early morning light casts a magical glow over the landscape.
Join Us on Madeira Island
If you're ready to embark on a photography adventure with us on Madeira Island, take a look at what we offer.
Madeira's beauty is endless, and we can't wait to help you create unforgettable memories on this enchanting island. Your moments, our lenses—let's capture the magic of Madeira together.
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Madeira is such an amazing place to visit, and we still can't believe we've been able to call it home for the past two years. During our stay, we explored all the best spots on the island and tried all the most exciting activities, many of them more than once! This helped us create these comprehensive guides that will help you plan your own trip to Madeira.
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