Things to do in Caniçal

Activities, attractions and tours

Sao Lourenco Point showing signage
Sao Lourenco Point showing rocky coastline
Sao Lourenco Point showing rugged coastline
Sao Lourenco Point showing mountains and rugged coastline
Sao Lourenco Point featuring rocky coastline
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Top places to visit

1. Madeira Botanical Garden

Enjoy the rich collection of more than 2,000 plants at the Madeira Botanical Garden. Set on a hillside overlooking Funchal, this beautifully landscaped garden offers dramatic views of the mountains to the north and the ocean to the south.
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Botanical Garden which includes flowers

2. Town Square

Funchal’s Town Square is a bustling hub of activity, lined with beautiful checkered cobblestones and bordered by grand whitewashed buildings. In addition to being a lovely civic center, the square is an ideal starting point for visiting several attractions, including the Sacred Art Museum, City Hall and the former Jesuit College.
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Town Square which includes street scenes and a small town or village

3. Cabo Girao

Plummeting straight down toward the ocean, Cabo Girao is among the tallest cliffs in Europe. Rising 1,900 feet (580 meters) above the water, it is one of the most photogenic points in the region. For extra thrills, follow the glass-floored skywalk to this scenic site, offering a clear view of the steep downward drop below.
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Cabo Girao showing a coastal town

4. Pico do Ariero

Pico do Arieiro offers some of the most stunning views in Madeira. Towering 5,965 feet (1,818 meters) in the air, the mountain’s craggy rocks are frequently veiled with clouds. On a clear day, view Porto Santo in the distance. Pico do Arieiro is linked to the island’s highest peak, Pico Ruivo, by a challenging but rewarding hiking trail.
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Pico do Ariero showing mountains and views as well as a small group of people

5. Sao Lourenco Point

Sao Lourenco Point is a narrow peninsula distinguished by its intriguing volcanic rock formations, which have been carved over the centuries by the sea and wind. Stretching approximately 5.6 miles (9 kilometers) long and 1.2 miles (2 kilometers) wide, this unusual desert-like landscape was classified as a nature reserve to protect its unique flora and fauna.
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Sao Lourenco Point which includes rugged coastline

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What to do in Caniçal

Popular places to visit

Sao Lourenco Point which includes rugged coastline

Sao Lourenco Point

Enjoy a rewarding hike, cool off with a swim and admire arresting views at Madeira’s easternmost point.

Sao Lourenco Point

Machico Beach

Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Machico Beach during your trip to Machico? Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Machico Beach

Whale Museum

You can spend an afternoon browsing the exhibits at Whale Museum in Caniçal. Take in the museums while you're in the area.

Whale Museum

Santo da Serra Golf Club

4.5/5(5 reviews)

Enjoy a round of golf in Água de Pena at Santo da Serra Golf Club. Visit the spas and top-notch restaurants in this relaxing area.

Santo da Serra Golf Club

Madeira Whale Museum

You can spend time exploring the galleries in Madeira Whale Museum in Machico. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area or visit its top-notch restaurants.

Madeira Whale Museum

Pico do Facho Viewpoint

You can find out about the history of Machico when you stop by Pico do Facho Viewpoint. Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Pico do Facho Viewpoint

Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo

After visiting Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Machico. Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo

Igreja Matriz de Machico

After visiting Igreja Matriz de Machico, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Machico. Wander the beaches and seaside in the area.

Igreja Matriz de Machico

 

Looking for fun things to do nearby? Check things to do near me to find and book the best things to do, fun activities, and top attractions wherever you happen to be.

 

 

Machico featuring a pebble beach

Machico

Frequently asked questions

Is Caniçal worth visiting?
From retail therapy to outdoor adventures and history, there are many great things to do in Caniçal. Make sure to discover the area's blend of unmissable sights, local charm and culture.
How do I spend a day in Caniçal?
Start your adventures with a visit to Machico Beach and Madeira Whale Museum. Then, check out other areas of Caniçal for local dining and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Caniçal?
The top tourist attraction in Caniçal is Machico Beach, so be sure to include it on your sightseeing agenda.
Is three days enough to stay in Caniçal?
Three days in Caniçal is enough to visit the city's main attractions. Many travellers stay for four days on average. Machico Beach, Madeira Whale Museum and Whale Museum are highly rated sights. Want to see more? Hang around a bit longer to visit nearby hotspots such as Funchal.
Is Caniçal a walkable city?
With top attractions like Machico Beach close by, Caniçal is every bit a destination to experience on foot. Like to discover some cool neighbourhoods a walkable distance from downtown? Água de Pena is about 5 kilometres away.
What are some activities to do in Caniçal with kids?
Whether you're travelling with young explorers or playful teenagers, a fun-filled itinerary makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Caniçal with kids.

What to do in Caniçal for adults?
Whether you're a culture enthusiast, food lover or outdoor explorer, there are loads of things to do in Caniçal for adults.
Are there free things to do in Caniçal?
From visiting parks to strolling around exciting neighbourhoods, it's simple to discover free things to do in Caniçal. If you're stuck for ideas, ask a local tour guide for some tips. Machico Beach is a great spot for anyone looking to save on their sightseeing activities.