Portugal, Europe
Madeira in September
Warmest sea, the Madeira Wine Festival, and good hiking conditions.
The straight answer
September is one of the best months of the year to visit Madeira. Warmest sea, the Madeira Wine Festival, and good hiking conditions.
- Weather
- Warm, highs near 79F (26C), warmest sea
- Crowds
- 4 of 5
- Prices
- 4 of 5
What September is like in Madeira
September is one of Madeira's best months. Highs near 79F (26C) and the warmest sea of the year make it perfect for swimming. The Madeira Wine Festival brings harvest events and tastings. Hiking conditions are good, and trails are usually dry. Crowds and prices stay high, but it feels calmer than August.
This month suits almost everyone: families, couples, hikers, and wine lovers. Book cars and rooms ahead, since demand stays strong. If you want quieter days and lower prices, early October is also excellent, with the sea still warm enough to swim.
Make the most of September
What is especially good about Madeira this month.
Warmest sea of the year
Swimming at the natural pools and lidos is at its best.
Madeira Wine Festival
Harvest celebrations and tastings in Funchal and Estreito de Camara de Lobos.
Great hiking
Dry, clear days make the PR1 and levada walks reliable.
What to pack for September
- Swimsuits
- Hiking shoes
- Sunscreen
- A light layer for mountain evenings
Our timing tip
Go in mid to late September, after the summer crowds leave but while the sea is still warm.
Book Madeira for September.
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- Hotels for September
Hotels. Expedia
Hotels in MadeiraOpens a hotel search for Madeira in September, 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 September. Popular slots sell out in the best months.
What's on in September
Madeira Wine Festival
Late August into September
Grape-harvest celebrations, wine tastings, and events in Funchal and Estreito de Camara de Lobos.
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 September, quick answers
Is September a good time to visit Madeira?
September is one of the best months of the year to visit Madeira. Warmest sea, the Madeira Wine Festival, and good hiking conditions.
What is the weather like in Madeira in September?
Warm, highs near 79F (26C), warmest sea.
Is Madeira crowded in September?
Madeira is busy in September, though mornings and late afternoons stay workable.
What is happening in Madeira in September?
Madeira Wine Festival (late august into september).
Keep planning Madeira.
The months either side, and the best one if this is not it.
Also at their best in September
Before you book.
Sort these two things first.
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