Summer in Madeira is about much more than the beach.

It's the season for local festivals, sunsets, days in Porto Santo, mountain escapes and relaxed road trips. If you're visiting Madeira this summer, here are a few ideas to make the most of the island.

🏖️ Spend a day in Porto Santo

With good weather, swap the mountains for the golden sands of Porto Santo.

A day at the beach, a swim, a long lunch and plenty of time to do absolutely nothing.

Tip: don't try to see everything. Sometimes, the best plan is simply staying on the beach.

🎉 Experience a local festival

During summer, traditional festivals take place all over the island.

Music, food, poncha and plenty of atmosphere. If you find a local festival during your stay, don't think twice: go.

🌅 Go sunset hunting

Summer is made for long evenings outdoors.

Find a spot overlooking the Atlantic, grab something to drink and let the day end slowly.

You don't need to find the “best sunset”. Find somewhere you want to stay.

🌲 Head into the mountains with the family

When the heat gets too much, change the scenery.

The mountains offer cooler temperatures, nature and plenty of space for the whole family. A picnic, a short walk or simply stopping to enjoy the view can be the perfect plan.

🚗 Take a relaxed road trip

Pick a direction and leave room for whatever you find along the way.

A beautiful road, an unexpected viewpoint or a small village can be reason enough to change your plans.

Don't try to see everything. Enjoy the journey.

🌊 And leave a day to do nothing

A natural pool. The sea. A book. A long lunch.

Not every holiday day needs to be filled with plans.

☀️ Our best tip?

Leave room for the unexpected.

For the festival you hadn't planned on. The sunset that lasted longer than expected. An afternoon in the mountains or a day in Porto Santo.

This is how you enjoy summer in Madeira: like a local.