When to Go

Holidays by Destination Europe Portugal Madeira When to Go 

The attraction of Madeira is its mild year-round temperature, averaging 16-18ºc in winter and 23ºc in summer (slightly lower on the higher slopes of Madeira where you may also get mist).

There can be strong winds on the north coast (localised weather is a feature), and the neighbouring island of Porto Santo. Rain is always possible on Madeira, particularly December to February, though it rarely lasts long and is much less common on Porto Santo.

Water temperatures are about 18ºc in winter 22ºc in summer.

The Portuguese tend to visit in summer, northern Europeans winter, with school holidays busy year round.