If this is your first trip to Madeira the best advice I can offer is to plan your days out carefully. Although Madeira is only 54km long, the winding roads will take you 2-3 times as long as they would elsewhere.

Most of the taxi drivers offer fixed island tours with a "menu of trips" regulated by the tourist board, you should find this card in each cab. Beware of low cost island tours being offered by the hotels, they often include a "time share presentation" so double check before booking. If you decline the presentation the price goes up 300-400%! My advice is pick a taxi driver who speaks your language and pay the extra for your own personal tour. Email me for a recommendation and help with booking.

If you are not inclined to hire a car or take a day trip, you can easily fill a week in Funchal through eating, shopping, the odd cafe, museums, taking the cable car, people watching, etc...
Pico do Arieiro
Botanical Gardens, Funchal
Santana, North East
Paul da Serra
Camara De Lobos
Monte, just above Funchal
Porto Do Moniz, North West
Ribeiro Frio & Trout Farm
Monte Tropical Gardens
Funchal City

March - IV Columbus Marathon - Porto Santo
6th March. This will be the fourth edition of the Columbus Marathon, taking place in Porto Santo. The simply breathtaking course on this island of rare beauty will prove an exciting way to spend the weekend and also provide the opportunity to participate in a large sporting event. Later this month Porto Santo will also play host to the 2nd Porto Santo Long Distance Triathlon" on the 28 March.

March - Madeira Island Open (PGA European Tour) – Porto Santo
March (days to be confirmed)

April - Madeira Flower Festival
17th April - The Wall of Hope Ceremony
18th April - Great Allegoric Parade

May - Onion Festival
Held in Caniço around the 2nd week of May

June - Atlantic Festival
5th, 12th, 19th and 26th June – Fireworks Contest

XXIII Classic Car Rally (FIVA World rally)
June (days to be confirmed)

July - Madeira Wine Rally (European Rally Championship)
30th , 31st July and 1st August

September - Madeira Wine Festival
2nd to 5th September – Shows and Exhibitions in Funchal
4th September - Live Harvest in Estreito de Câmara de Lobos.

September - Columbus Festival - Porto Santo Island
16th to 18th September
I would like to add to this page with your events, experiences and photographs. Please email me your pics and a few supporting words to mark@madeira-lets.com. I will load them and give you a credit.