Portugal, Europe
Madeira in May
Great hiking weather, and the Flower Festival often falls here. Sea still cool.
The straight answer
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Madeira. Great hiking weather, and the Flower Festival often falls here. Sea still cool.
- Weather
- Pleasant, highs near 70F (21C)
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What May is like in Madeira
May is great hiking weather, with highs near 70F (21C) and drier days. The Flower Festival often falls in May, with flower carpets and a parade through Funchal. The island is green, and trails are at their best. The sea is still cool for swimming. Crowds and prices are high but not at summer levels.
This month suits hikers, families, and anyone who loves gardens. It is a great month to explore the whole island by car, from the green north coast to the dry eastern tip. If warm swimming is important, wait until late summer or September.
Make the most of May
What is especially good about Madeira this month.
Flower Festival
When it falls in May, the parade and flower carpets in Funchal are a highlight of the year.
Ponta de Sao Lourenco
The dry eastern peninsula hike is at its best in mild spring weather.
Mountain hikes
Clear, dry days make the PR1 and other high trails more reliable.
What to pack for May
- Hiking shoes
- A light rain jacket
- Sunscreen and a hat
- A reusable water bottle
Our timing tip
Start mountain hikes early, before clouds build over the peaks in the afternoon.
Book Madeira for May.
Sponsored links to Expedia and Vrbo. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Hotels for May
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MadeiraOpens a hotel search for Madeira in May, 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 May. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in May
Madeira Flower Festival
Spring, usually late April or May, after Easter
Flower carpets, a children's Wall of Hope, and a big flower parade in Funchal.
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 May, quick answers
Is May a good time to visit Madeira?
May is one of the best months of the year to visit Madeira. Great hiking weather, and the Flower Festival often falls here. Sea still cool.
What is the weather like in Madeira in May?
Pleasant, highs near 70F (21C).
Is Madeira crowded in May?
Madeira is busy in May, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Madeira in May?
Madeira Flower Festival (spring, usually late april or may, after easter).
Keep planning Madeira.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in May
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
Sponsored links. We may earn a commission; it never changes a verdict.
- Visit Faye
Travel insurance.
FayeA missed connection, a bag that never turns up, a hospital abroad: far cheaper to cover before departure than to argue about after.
- Visit Saily
eSIM data.
SailySet up an eSIM before you fly so your phone has data the moment you land, without roaming charges.
Our top-rated travel gear
Whatever you decide, this is the gear we actually travel with: verified, priced, and ranked. Live price check on each.
As an Amazon Associate we may earn from qualifying purchases, at no cost to you.