Escape to the paradise with last-minute holidays to Madeira
Dreaming of a spontaneous getaway? With last-minute holidays to Madeira, you can trade your daily routine for dramatic coastlines, lush mountains, and year-round sunshine — all just a short flight away. Whether you’re seeking adventure, relaxation, or a romantic break, Madeira offers the perfect mix of natural beauty and Portuguese charm.
Browse our unbeatable Madeira last-minute holiday deals and start packing for an unforgettable escape to the island of eternal spring.
Our favorite Madeira last minute holiday rentals
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Elena Apartment by Atlantic Holiday
From 90.00€ per night
Estreito Calheta – Ilha da Madeira
Villa de la Ponte by Atlantic Holiday
From 319.00€ per night
Ribeira Brava – Ilha da Madeira
Villa Ocean Haven by Atlantic Holiday
From 175.00€ per night
Ponta Delgada – Ilha da Madeira
Dream House by Atlantic Holiday
From 143.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Paradise View by Atlantic Holiday
From 90.00€ per night
Porto Moniz – Ilha da Madeira
Villa das Escaleiras by Atlantic Holiday
From 127.00€ per night
Fajã da Ovelha – Ilha da Madeira
Villa do Espigão by Atlantic Holiday
From 142.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Funchal Frui Vita by Atlantic Holiday
From 70.00€ per night
The best things to do for a last minute holidays to Madeira
Dreaming of escaping to sunshine, breathtaking landscapes, and a touch of adventure? Last minute holidays Madeira, Portugal are the perfect way to swap your routine for a tropical paradise without the long planning. This stunning Atlantic island offers year-round mild weather, dramatic scenery, and unforgettable experiences – all just a few hours’ flight from most European cities.
Whether you’re seeking adventure, culture, or pure relaxation, Madeira last-minute holidays guarantee unforgettable memories. With direct flights, mild weather all year, and countless activities, it’s never been easier to pack your bags and say Olá to paradise.
Relax by the sea
From the volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz to the golden sands of Calheta, there’s always a spot to unwind. Don’t forget to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or try snorkelling to see the island’s rich marine life.
Natural Volcanic Pools – Relax in the famous lava rock pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal, where crystal-clear seawater flows in naturally with each tide.
Golden Sand Beaches – Visit Calheta and Machico for calm, family-friendly swimming spots with imported soft sand.
Dramatic Cliffside Views – Enjoy a dip with breathtaking ocean backdrops at unique seaside complexes like Lido in Funchal.
Snorkelling & Diving – Discover Madeira’s rich underwater world, from colourful fish to volcanic rock formations.
Ocean Adventures – Try paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply take a boat trip to hidden coves and swimming spots.
Explore Madeira activities
If you love adventure, last-minute holidays in Madeira, Portugal, are the perfect excuse to get moving and discover the island’s natural beauty from every angle:
Hiking & Levada Walks – Follow scenic mountain trails and lush levadas that lead you past waterfalls, forests, and panoramic viewpoints.
Boat Trips & Dolphin Watching – Cruise along Madeira’s coastline and spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Mountain Biking – Tackle challenging off-road tracks or enjoy scenic rides through charming villages and valleys.
Paragliding – Soar above the island for a bird ’s-eye view of dramatic cliffs, emerald hills, and the sparkling Atlantic.
Water Sports – Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or diving in Madeira’s crystal-clear waters.
Golf with a View – Tee off on world-class courses surrounded by mountains and ocean panoramas.
Madeira is a year-round playground for active travellers, and with its mild climate, you can dive straight into adventure the moment you arrive.
Madeira delights
One of the most magical parts of last minute holidays Madeira Portugal is arriving just in time to be swept up in the island’s vibrant celebrations:
Flower Festival (Spring) – Funchal bursts into colour with floral carpets, themed parades, and the sweet scent of blossoms filling the streets.
Atlantic Festival (June) – Weekly firework shows over the bay, paired with live music and cultural performances.
Madeira Wine Festival (September) – Celebrate the island’s wine heritage with tastings, traditional dances, and grape-stomping rituals
Christmas & New Year’s Eve (December) – Festive markets, dazzling lights, and one of the world’s most spectacular fireworks displays, recognised by Guinness World Records.
Savour the local flavours
Treat yourself to espetada (traditional beef skewers), black scabbard fish with banana, and freshly baked bolo do caco bread. Pair it with a glass of Poncha – the island’s signature cocktail.
Relax by the sea
From the volcanic rock pools of Porto Moniz to the golden sands of Calheta, there’s always a spot to unwind. Don’t forget to take a dip in the crystal-clear waters or try snorkelling to see the island’s rich marine life.
Natural Volcanic Pools – Relax in the famous lava rock pools of Porto Moniz or Seixal, where crystal-clear seawater flows in naturally with each tide.
Golden Sand Beaches – Visit Calheta and Machico for calm, family-friendly swimming spots with imported soft sand.
Dramatic Cliffside Views – Enjoy a dip with breathtaking ocean backdrops at unique seaside complexes like Lido in Funchal.
Snorkelling & Diving – Discover Madeira’s rich underwater world, from colourful fish to volcanic rock formations.
Ocean Adventures – Try paddleboarding, kayaking, or simply take a boat trip to hidden coves and swimming spots.
Explore Madeira activities
If you love adventure, last-minute holidays in Madeira, Portugal, are the perfect excuse to get moving and discover the island’s natural beauty from every angle:
Hiking & Levada Walks – Follow scenic mountain trails and lush levadas that lead you past waterfalls, forests, and panoramic viewpoints.
Boat Trips & Dolphin Watching – Cruise along Madeira’s coastline and spot dolphins, whales, and sea turtles in their natural habitat.
Mountain Biking – Tackle challenging off-road tracks or enjoy scenic rides through charming villages and valleys.
Paragliding – Soar above the island for a bird ’s-eye view of dramatic cliffs, emerald hills, and the sparkling Atlantic.
Water Sports – Try stand-up paddleboarding, kayaking, or diving in Madeira’s crystal-clear waters.
Golf with a View – Tee off on world-class courses surrounded by mountains and ocean panoramas.
Madeira is a year-round playground for active travellers, and with its mild climate, you can dive straight into adventure the moment you arrive.
Madeira delights
One of the most magical parts of last minute holidays Madeira Portugal is arriving just in time to be swept up in the island’s vibrant celebrations:
Flower Festival (Spring) – Funchal bursts into colour with floral carpets, themed parades, and the sweet scent of blossoms filling the streets.
Atlantic Festival (June) – Weekly firework shows over the bay, paired with live music and cultural performances.
Madeira Wine Festival (September) – Celebrate the island’s wine heritage with tastings, traditional dances, and grape-stomping rituals
Christmas & New Year’s Eve (December) – Festive markets, dazzling lights, and one of the world’s most spectacular fireworks displays, recognised by Guinness World Records.
Savour the local flavours
Treat yourself to espetada (traditional beef skewers), black scabbard fish with banana, and freshly baked bolo do caco bread. Pair it with a glass of Poncha – the island’s signature cocktail.
Practical information about going on a last minute Madeira holiday
Getting around Madeira
Planning a trip to Madeira at the last minute is easier than you might think:
Getting There – Madeira’s Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC) has direct flights from many European cities, with frequent low-cost and charter options for spontaneous travellers.
Best time to visit – The island enjoys a mild, spring-like climate all year, so you can book your last minute holidays Madeira Portugal in any season without worrying about bad weather.
Getting around – Renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island’s mountains, villages, and coastline at your own pace. Public buses are available but less flexible for sightseeing.
Currency – The local currency is the Euro (€). ATMs are widely available, and most places accept card payments.
Accommodation – From boutique hotels in Funchal to seaside resorts and cosy rural guesthouses, you’ll find plenty of last-minute deals online.
Travel insurance – Even for a short trip, it’s a good idea to have coverage for medical needs, activities, and cancellations.
Language – Portuguese is the official language, but English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
What’s the weather like in Madeira?
MADEIRA
WEATHER
18°C44%JAN
18°C39%FEB
19°C28%MAR
19°C17%APR
21°C8%MAY
24°C5%JUN
26°C3%JUL
27°C4%AUG
27°C11%SEP
25°C31%OCT
23°C37%NOV
21°C45%DEC
Madeira enjoys a pleasant subtropical climate with dry, sunny summers and mild winters, making it an ideal destination for a last minute holiday to Madeira. Extreme weather is uncommon on this Atlantic paradise, so spontaneous travelers can book with confidence year-round.
In summer, warm leste winds occasionally blow from the Sahara, but Madeira’s mountainous interior creates protective microclimates that shelter coastal towns like Funchal. Even if you’re planning a last minute holiday to Madeira during peak season, you’ll find comfortable conditions with steady humidity and only brief rainfall bursts.
Why Book a Last Minute Holiday to Madeira?
From June to September, daytime temperatures hover in the comfortable mid-20s°C, with Atlantic waters just a few degrees cooler—perfect for swimming and sailing. However, those considering a last minute holiday to Madeira shouldn’t overlook the off-season, when hiking, canyoning, and paragliding remain excellent options.
Whether you’re booking a last minute holiday to Madeira for adventure or relaxation, pack sturdy hiking boots and a weatherproof jacket for exploring natural parks. A lightweight raincoat, hat, and compact umbrella prove useful in the mountains where weather changes quickly.
In short, you can book a last minute holiday to Madeira any time of year and expect pleasant conditions for sightseeing, hiking, and swimming.
Where to stay in Madeira for a last minute holiday
Choosing a holiday rental in Madeira, Funchal instead of a hotel offers you the freedom to enjoy your holiday your way — with more space, added privacy, and all the comforts of home. Whether you’re traveling as a couple, with family, or with a group of friends, our Funchal holiday rentals provide the ideal setting to relax, explore, and make unforgettable memories.
Funchal is a truly unique destination. Whether you’re looking for adventure in the mountains, wine tasting by the sea, or peaceful afternoons on your terrace, holiday rentals in Funchal Madeira put you at the center of it all.
At Atlantic Holiday Rentals, we’re here to make your stay seamless from the moment you arrive. In addition to beautiful, hand-picked accommodations, we offer a wide range of personalized services, such as transfers, rent a car, or babysitting services.
Accommodations in Funchal
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Banana Lodge by Atlantic Holiday
From 79.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Elena Apartment by Atlantic Holiday
From 90.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Magnólia Apartment by Atlantic Holiday
From 80.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Centromar Bella Vista by Atlantic Holiday
From 75.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
Centromar Residence Ocean View by Atlantic Holiday
From 77.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
BEATMANN Boutique Rooftop by Atlantic Holiday
From 80.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
BEATMANN Boutique II by Atlantic Holiday
From 60.00€ per night
Funchal – Ilha da Madeira
BEATMAN Boutique I by Atlantic Holiday
From 60.00€ per night
See all Funchal accommodations
Caniço accommodations
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Savana Apartment by Atlantic Holiday
From 60.00€ per night
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Sea View by Atlantic Holiday
From 50.00€ per night
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Madeira Ocean View by Atlantic Holiday
From 60.00€ per night
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Vista Mar by Atlantic Holiday
From 50.00€ per night
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Charming Garajau by Atlantic Holiday
From 50.00€ per night
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Desert Island Apartment
From 65.00€ per night
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Quintas Village AY by Atlantic Holiday
From 55.00€ per night
Caniço – Ilha da Madeira
Sweet Home Reis Magos by Atlantic Holiday
From 60.00€ per night
See all Caniço accommodations
FAQs
How far is Funchal from the airport?
Funchal is approximately 20 minutes from Madeira Airport (Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport) by car. Atlantic Holiday Rentals offers private transfer services to make your arrival smooth and stress-free.
Are cleaning and maintenance services included?
Yes. At Atlantic Holiday Rentals, most properties include professional housekeeping, and you can request mid-stay cleanings or additional services such as grocery delivery or laundry upon booking.
Are Funchal holiday rentals family-friendly?
Absolutely! Many of our Funchal holiday rentals are equipped with family-friendly amenities such as baby cribs, high chairs, and extra beds.
Do I need a car to get around Funchal?
It depends on your plans. The city center is walkable, and there’s excellent public transport. However, if you plan to explore the rest of the island, renting a car is highly recommended. Our team can assist with car rental services and guided tours.
Are there restaurants and shops near the holiday rentals?
Yes! Most of our holiday rentals in Funchal Madeira are within walking distance of top-rated restaurants, local cafés, supermarkets, and the famous Mercado dos Lavradores.