Portugal, Europe
Madeira in October
Still warm, with thinning crowds. Rain increases later in the month.
The straight answer
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Madeira. Still warm, with thinning crowds. Rain increases later in the month.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 76F (24C), rain returning
- Crowds
- 3 of 5
- Prices
- 3 of 5
What October is like in Madeira
October is still warm, with highs near 76F (24C), and crowds thin. Rain returns later in the month. The sea is still warm for swimming early on. Prices ease. Hiking is good in the first half of the month, but storms can start to close trails later.
This month suits couples and families traveling outside school terms. It is a great value month for swimming, hiking, and garden visits in one trip. Aim for the first half of October for the best weather, and keep a rain plan for the second half.
Make the most of October
What is especially good about Madeira this month.
Warm water, fewer people
Early October still has swimming weather with calmer beaches.
Softer prices
Hotels are easier to book than in summer.
Garden visits
The Botanical Garden and Monte are calm and pleasant.
What to pack for October
- Swimsuits
- A light rain jacket
- Hiking shoes
- Layers for evenings
Our timing tip
Plan mountain hikes early in your trip, while the weather is still settled.
Book Madeira for October.
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- Hotels for October
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MadeiraOpens a hotel search for Madeira in October, 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 October. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
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 October, quick answers
Is October a good time to visit Madeira?
October is one of the best months of the year to visit Madeira. Still warm, with thinning crowds. Rain increases later in the month.
What is the weather like in Madeira in October?
Warm, highs near 76F (24C), rain returning.
Is Madeira crowded in October?
Crowds in Madeira are moderate in October; timed bookings still help at the biggest sights.
Keep planning Madeira.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in October
Before you book.
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