Areas to avoid in Madeira and those to favor

Want to discover Madeira, but like any other destination, you want to know the areas to avoid and the neighborhoods to favor to fully enjoy the island.

Indeed, you'll see that there are some places that aren't recommended for tourists. Between winding roads, areas devastated by fires, and sometimes disappointing beaches, it's helpful to choose your place of stay carefully to enjoy a pleasant, authentic, and safe experience on the island.

In this article I will tell you which areas to avoid in Madeira and the best areas to stay on this island. Portugal.

Is Madeira a dangerous destination?

When it comes to crime, Madeira is generally a safe destination for tourists. Crime and incidents involving travelers are rare, even in its capital. The streets are safe, even at night, and the atmosphere remains very peaceful in most areas.

The main risks for tourists in Madeira are natural: landslides during heavy rains, steep hiking trails, strong sea currents on some beaches, and winding mountain roads.

Are there any dangerous areas in Funchal?

As stated above, Madeira is one of the safest islands inEurope, without any real danger zones for reasons of crime.

However, there are some areas to avoid in Funchal because they present disadvantages for tourists in terms of comfort, accessibility or atmosphere:

Neighborhoods Monte, São Roque, Santo António These neighborhoods are located in the hills above Funchal. They are quiet, but access to the city center is difficult on foot due to the steep slopes and the distance from the main tourist attractions. This is not ideal if you want to fully enjoy the city without a car.
Old Town (Zona Velha) The old town is very touristy and lively, especially in the evening. It is safe, but it can be noisy, crowded, and saturated with tourist-trap restaurants, especially around Rua Santa Maria.
Lido District : This modern area is popular but can be very busy during peak season, with heavy traffic and higher prices. It sometimes lacks traditional charm and may not suit those looking for a more typical Madeiran atmosphere.

Areas to avoid in Madeira

The only areas to avoid in Madeira are those less suitable for a tourist stay due to their isolation, natural risks, lack of infrastructure or attractiveness.

The north coast Madeira is best avoided if you're looking for sun and swimming. Although the north coast is splendid and unmissable for its volcanic landscapes and natural pools, it has a different climate than the south. More exposed to prevailing winds and rainfall, the north coast is often cloudier, cooler, and wetter, especially in winter. Sun can be scarcer there than on the south coast, which is better to choose. The only recommended option on the north coast is the Porto do Seixal Beach, one of the most beautiful black sand beaches on the island with natural pools nearby.
Some dangerous or poorly marked hiking trails can present risks for tourists. Indeed, several trails, particularly levadas (irrigation canals) and some mountain routes, are steep, slippery, or poorly marked. Areas such as Pico do Areeiro, Pico Ruivo, Achada do Teixeira, and Ponta de São Lourenço require extreme caution.
The unsupervised beaches or beaches with strong currents should be avoided: Some beaches in Madeira are known for their strong currents and dangerous waves. Lifeguarded beaches (particularly in Calheta and Machico) are safer because they have trained staff to intervene in case of problems. Unlifeguarded beaches pose an increased risk.

By choosing your place to stay wisely from the recommended areas below, you will enjoy an unforgettable trip, between sea and mountains, in a safe and welcoming place.

Areas to favor for a stay in Madeira

To fully enjoy Madeira, here are the most recommended areas and neighborhoods:

Funchal, the capital, is undoubtedly the nerve center of Madeira. It is the ideal starting point for most organized excursions and has an excellent public transport network. Staying in Funchal is ideal for a first visit to Madeira to enjoy the culture, nightlife, amenities of the city and sites to visit: Mercado dos Lavradores, cable car to Monte and its gardens, the old town with its painted doors, Funchal Cathedral and museums. However, the city is not ideal for a beach holiday. There are hotel complexes with swimming pools and access to natural pools or developed bathing areas but no real beaches.
Caniço de Baixo : East of Funchal, this is an excellent option for a beach holiday, especially if you are traveling with family or are a diving enthusiast. It is a seaside resort with sea-related activities and a quieter atmosphere than Funchal.
Chamber of Wolves : Charming fishing village a few kilometers from Funchal, perfect for authenticity and local gastronomy.
Ponta do Sol, Calheta and Jardim do Mar These southwest villages are excellent options for a seaside getaway. The fact that they enjoy a sunny microclimate and a relaxed atmosphere is a big plus. If your priority is sun, relaxation, and access to real beaches, these locations are ideal.
Machico and Santa Cruz : Close to the airport, these towns are popular for their family atmosphere and golden sandy beaches.

Where to stay in Madeira?

Saccharum (Calheta / Arco da Calheta): This beautiful hotel offers 4 swimming pools, a spa, and excellent restaurants. It's an excellent choice if you're looking for luxury and easy access to Calheta Beach.

See this hotel

Hotel on the most beautiful beach in Madeira

Socalco Nature Calheta (Calheta): This property is located near Praia de Calheta and offers an outdoor swimming pool, garden and terraces in an exceptional setting.