Let’s talk about Madeira in December. While your friends back home are defrosting their cars, you could be strolling through a subtropical garden in a light jacket. That’s the reality of a winter trip here. You won’t find blistering heat in Madeira in December. But you definitely will be treated to mild days, festive spirit, and having the island’s stunning trails almost to yourself. It’s a clever choice for a getaway that’s more about feeling good than getting a tan.
The weather in Madeira during December
Right, the weather in Madeira in December. What can you actually expect? First things first, leave the heavy coat at home. Daytimes are pleasant, usually hovering around 19°C. Perfect for walking. Evenings are cooler, so a cosy jumper is your best friend. The sea is still surprisingly swimmable if you’re not faint-hearted – it’s about 19°C.
Now, it will rain. That’s a given. But it’s not usually days on end of drizzle. It’s more like a dramatic, heavy shower that passes through quickly, leaving the air smelling incredible and the hillsides even greener.
The Madeira weather in December is all about layers. You’ll be taking your jumper on and off all day. Just keep a light waterproof jacket in your bag, and you’re sorted.
What to do in Madeira in December
Your December itinerary here looks different from a July one, and that’s a good thing. The key is to mix indoor cosiness with outdoor adventure, always with an eye on the sky.
Festive fun
First, you have to lean into the Christmas spirit. Funchal is magical this time of year. The festive lights are some of the best in Europe, and the Christmas markets, with their stalls selling handmade crafts and warm bolo de mel, have a lovely local feel. It’s a wonderful time to just wander the Funchal Old Town with a warm poncha, ducking into a traditional tasca if a shower passes through.
Check out our guide to Christmas in Madeira for more.
Take a hike
Hiking is genuinely fantastic now. The summer heat has gone, making those famous hikes in Madeira much more comfortable. The levadas are often full and gushing with water, so the waterfalls you find along routes like Levada do Risco are properly dramatic. For a unique winter thrill, canyoning in Madeira is brilliant; the water levels are up, making the abseils down waterfalls even more exhilarating.
Hit the road
It’s also a perfect time for a scenic drive. Head west to the cliff-top village of Camara de Lobos to see the fishing boats bobbing in the harbour – it’s a classic Madeira scene that looks beautiful in the soft winter light. Another brilliant day out is a drive from Funchal east towards Machico. The road winds along the coast, and you can stop at the golden sand of Machico Beach for a bracing stroll.
Wander through the gardens
Don’t think the gardens are dormant. The Madeira gardens are still lush and surprisingly colourful. A morning spent at the Monte Palace Madeira is peaceful and even more special without the summer crowds.
Wine tasting
If you’re a wine enthusiast, this is a great month to visit a lodge in Funchal for a tasting of the island’s famous fortified wine, away from the rush. You’ll find a quieter, cosier atmosphere in the region’s wine cellars, perfect for a rainy day.
Recommended excursions and routes in winter
A local’s winter advice is simple: be flexible and follow the sun. The south coast is your best bet for clearer skies.
If you’re feeling energetic, the Ponta de São Lourenço hike is spectacular in December, with powerful waves crashing against the dramatic, arid peninsula. Just check it’s not too windy before you set off.
If you fancy a walk with huge rewards but not too much effort, the Vereda dos Balcões in Ribeiro Frio is a solid choice. It’s a short, flat levada walk that ends with a viewpoint looking right into the heart of a deep, green valley. On a clear December day, it’s breathtaking. Pack a picnic and enjoy the view without the crowds.
For a different perspective, a whale and dolphin watching trip from Funchal or Caniço is still running. The sea can be a bit choppier, but seeing these creatures against a dramatic winter sky is a real experience. You’ll appreciate the included waterproofs.
If the forecast shows rain for the south, make a day of it on the north coast. The sea is wild and dramatic, and you can explore the volcanic caves and the science centre in Sao Vicente. It’s a fantastic indoor-outdoor combo for a showery day. The drive itself through the ancient laurisilva forest in the interior is an event, often shrouded in atmospheric mist. The key is to check the Madeira weather forecast in the morning and plan your day around it. A rental car gives you this freedom.
Travel tips for December
Here’s some inside knowledge you won’t always find in a guidebook.
- Pack smart: Bring layers, a solid waterproof jacket, and proper shoes for walking. Those trails can be muddy after rain. A compact umbrella is handy for popping between cafes in Funchal.
- Book your Christmas Eve dinner early: Many restaurants have special meals for the 24th, but they get reserved well in advance by locals. It’s a big family night here.
- Rent a car:If you’re hiring a car, you won’t need to pre-book months ahead like in summer. You can often get a good deal closer to the time. Driving is a great way to explore the island’s different microclimates when you’re visiting Madeira in December.
- Stay for New Year’s: Finally, on New Year’s Eve, if you want to see Funchal’s famous fireworks, claim your spot by late afternoon. It gets busy. Or, do what many locals do and watch the spectacular show from a distance, like from the Cristo Rei viewpoint in Caniço.
Experience Madeira in December for yourself!
So, is Madeira in December a good idea? Absolutely. It’s for the savvy traveller who wants scenic walks, festive cheer, and a proper break from winter. You trade beach days for stunning landscapes without the crowds.
After a day of exploring, you’ll want a comfortable place to relax. Atlantic Holiday has a great range of holiday rentals, from city-centre apartments in Funchal to peaceful villas in the countryside.
Find your perfect winter retreat on our site and start planning your escape to Madeira in December.
