What to do in Madeira in February
February is still one of Madeira’s quietest months, at least until Carnival. For most of the month, you can still find good deals for tours and accommodations. Besides, while the weather can be a little unpredictable, it’s still mild compared to most of Europe.
So, here’s what to do and what to expect in Madeira in February.
Stick to safer, Shorter levadas
The weather is mild, but let’s not get ahead of ourselves. If you like hiking, trekking, cannoning and other sports, February is not the month for you. While it may be possible to venture inland and explore the island, there could also be windy and rainy days.
That said, if you really want to hike a levada, I suggest the same routes I recommended back in January: Balcões, Ponta de S. Lourenço, and Levada do Risco. As always, you should check the official website to figure out which trails are open or not.
Explore Funchal without the crowds
For history lovers, this is the best time to explore Funchal. Personally, I’m a big fan of Funchal itself. The city centre is compact, sure, but it packs six centuries of world history. And that’s impossible to fully appreciate with Christmas and New Year’s crowds.
If you want to take a tour, I recommend this historical tour of Funchal guided by University of Madeira students.
Otherwise, outside of the peak season, the city feels more local, less rushed, and easier to enjoy. It’s a great time to check out some historical shops, the farmer’s market, and explore museums on rainy days.
Have a picnic in the Mountains
While levadas may be a slippery slope, it doesn’t mean you don’t get to enjoy the mountains and all the greenery. A single sunny, friendly February day is a perfect excuse to head to the mountains and have a picnic.
In case you don’t know, there are very few things Madeirans enjoy more than a “patuscada na serra”. Wether you’re up to barbecuing at designated spots or raiding the supermarket for a few treats, a picnic above the clouds is a cherished weekend plan.
In Funchal, you can head to the Ecological Park. Going further east, there are numerous picnic spots in Santo António da Serra and ER202. Going west, you may enjoy a picnic at Bica da Cana in Ponta do Sol. (In February, the North Coast is a bit of a gamble.)
Enjoy the Carnival Parade
In 2026, the celebrations will occur from February 11th to February 22nd. The parade itself will be in Funchal on February 17th – but if you’re on the island make sure to check Visit Madeira to see the full event schedule.
The Carnival parade is one of the island’s liveliest events, along with Festa da Flor in May. It will feature masquerades and satire in the famous Cortejo Trapalhão, as well as dancers and music.
In fact, Carnival in Madeira is a true mix of European and Latin American tradition, especially Brazilian. As such, do not be surprised by samba dancers parading along the promenade. It’s not Rio, of course. But it’s certainly fun.
Taste Madeira Wine Or Rum
If you’re coming to Madeira in February, I’d advise you to prepare some activities that don’t depend on perfect weather. One of those could be a Madeira wine tasting, which is great at any time of the year.
Plus, if you’re staying in Funchal, you don’t need to worry about transport or finding an organised tour somewhere else. There are plenty of cellars in the city, including Blandy’s Wine Lodge, Pereira d’Oliveira and H.M.Borges.
Outside of Funchal, you can visit the distillery in Porto da Cruz. Sugar cane is used to produce aguardente de cana, a beverage similar to rum in flavour and alcohol content that is used on local poncha.
Visit Smaller villages like Curral das Freiras or Ponta do Sol
February is chestnut season’s tail end, which Curral das Freiras is a good half-day trip. You can try the traditional chestnut soup, go up to the Eira do Serrado viewpoint – if it isn’t cloudy – and see another side of Madeira.
If you prefer to stay by the seaside, then head to Câmara de Lobos’ bay or Ponta do Sol, both on the sunnier South Coast. This is your best bet to avoid rain and wind, and enjoy Summer-like days in the middle of February.
Ponta do Sol, in particular, is a very charming little village with plenty of cultural events and restaurants, including some nice options for vegetarians.
Attend Festa da Anona in Faial
Cherimoyas (also known as custard apples, even though they’re not exactly the same thing) are one my absolute favourite fruits in Madeira. And luckily, they’re in season during the Wintertime to sweeten our days a little bit.
So, of course, Madeirans had to go, celebrate and cherish them with a big party in Faial (Santana). The Festa da Anona happens every year, and in 2026 it falls on February 21st and 22nd.
If you have a car, this is a great opportunity to mix with the locals and get a taste of Madeiran party flair. There will be popular music, fresh out of the hotplate bolo do caco, and plenty of beer. And cherimoyas, of course.
While you’re in the vicinity, you can go to the Guindaste viewpoint. Also, if you have some time on your hands, it’s not cloudy, and are not afraid of driving in single-track roads, head to Parque das Queimadas. This is another safe place to enjoy nature or even have a picnic.
should you come to Madeira in February?
February in Madeira isn’t about beaches or perfect weather. But as long as you’re willing to explore the island at a slower pace and remain flexible about your plans, you’ll definitely enjoy it. Still on the quieter side, you can enjoy places like Balcões or Ponta de S. Lourenço with less crowds. Plus, you’ll get to witness the real, traditional Madeiran lifestyle.