Portugal, Europe
Madeira in March
Spring blooms begin and hiking improves. Easter can fall at month's end.
The straight answer
March is a good month to visit Madeira. Spring blooms begin and hiking improves. Easter can fall at month's end.
- Weather
- Mild, highs near 67F (19C)
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What March is like in Madeira
March is mild, with highs near 67F (19C), and spring blooms begin to appear. Hiking improves as the days get longer and drier, though some rain remains. Carnival sometimes falls in early March. Easter can land at the end of the month, bringing busier streets and higher prices. The island is green and fresh.
This month suits walkers, garden lovers, and families on spring break. The sea is still cool, so it is not a swimming month. If you want peak blooms and the Flower Festival, aim for late April or May.
Make the most of March
What is especially good about Madeira this month.
Early spring flowers
Gardens and roadsides start to bloom across the island.
Better hiking
Longer days and fewer storms make levada walks like Caldeirao Verde more reliable.
Carnival in some years
When Carnival falls in March, Funchal hosts its parades and street parties.
What to pack for March
- Hiking shoes with good grip
- A light rain jacket
- Layers for changing weather
- A flashlight for tunnels
Our timing tip
Book Easter week early if it falls in late March, since flights and hotels fill up.
Book Madeira for March.
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- Hotels for March
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MadeiraOpens a hotel search for Madeira in March, dates filled in. Book early for the best months: the good rooms go first.
- Rentals on Vrbo
Vacation rentals. Vrbo
Vacation rentals in MadeiraWhole homes, condos and villas. Usually the better deal for families and groups, with a kitchen and room to spread out.
- Tours and tickets
Tours and tickets. Expedia
Tours and tickets in MadeiraTimed-entry tickets, day trips and guided tours in Madeira for March. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in March
Madeira Carnival
The days before Lent, February or March
Samba-style parades through Funchal with costumes and floats.
Things to do in Madeira
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo (PR1)
Madeira's classic high-mountain hike. Trails close after fires and storms, and a hiking fee and registration now apply for visitors; check the regional forest service.
Levada do Caldeirao Verde
A long, green levada walk from Queimadas through tunnels to a tall waterfall. Bring a flashlight.
Monte cable car and toboggan ride
Ride the cable car up from Funchal, see the Monte church and gardens, then slide down in a wicker basket sledge.
Madeira Botanical Garden
Subtropical gardens above Funchal with views over the bay.
Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal
The farmers' market for exotic fruit and the famous fish hall. Go in the morning.
Blandy's Wine Lodge
Tours and tastings of Madeira wine in the historic Funchal lodge.
Beat the crowds
- Start the Pico do Arieiro hike at sunrise or very early morning. Car parks fill and clouds often roll in by late morning.
- Choose weekdays for popular levadas like Caldeirao Verde and 25 Fontes; weekends add local hikers.
- Avoid New Year's week unless the fireworks are the point. Late January and February offer similar weather for much less.
- Base in Funchal for the south's sunshine, but consider a night on the north coast to hike early before day-trippers arrive.
Know before you go
- Mountain trails, including the PR1 peak hike, close periodically after storms, landslides, or fires. Check the official trail status before you go.
- A hiking fee and online registration now apply to many official trails for non-residents. Pay before you hike.
- Funchal and the main sights are open all year. Madeira has little true off-season.
- Wind at Madeira's airport occasionally causes flight diversions or delays, especially in winter. Build some slack into connections.
Madeira in March, quick answers
Is March a good time to visit Madeira?
March is a good month to visit Madeira. Spring blooms begin and hiking improves. Easter can fall at month's end.
What is the weather like in Madeira in March?
Mild, highs near 67F (19C).
Is Madeira crowded in March?
Crowds in Madeira are moderate in March; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
What is happening in Madeira in March?
Madeira Carnival (the days before lent, february or march).
Keep planning Madeira.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in March
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