What to do in Madeira in November is a question many travelers ask when planning an autumn escape. While much of Europe starts to feel the chill of winter, Madeira remains mild, colourful, and full of life. With its subtropical climate, stunning natural landscapes, and unique traditions, November is one of the most rewarding months to visit this Atlantic island.
Madeira in November combines comfortable weather, fewer crowds, and authentic local celebrations. It’s a chance to enjoy the island at a slower pace, discover its traditions, and explore its breathtaking trails and villages without the summer rush. Whether you are a food lover, a hiking enthusiast, or someone seeking cultural immersion, Madeira in November will surprise you with its charm.
To truly experience all the highlights and hidden gems of the island, renting a car is essential. With 7M Rent a Car, you can move freely between coastal towns, mountain viewpoints, and cultural events at your own pace.
Let’s dive into seven memorable experiences and events that make Madeira an unforgettable destination in November.
Experience the Chestnut Festival in Curral das Freiras
One of the most authentic events in Madeira during November is the Festa da Castanha (Chestnut Festival), held in Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley). Usually celebrated at the beginning of the month, this festival honors the chestnut, a fruit deeply connected to the history and traditions of the valley.
What to Expect:
The streets come alive with music, folk dances, and colourful stalls selling chestnut-based delicacies. From roasted chestnuts and soups, to cakes, liqueurs, and even chestnut beer. Locals wear traditional costumes, and visitors are invited to taste and celebrate alongside them.Why It’s Special in November:
Chestnut season peaks this month, so you’ll enjoy them at their freshest. The valley’s crisp autumn air and dramatic mountain scenery create the perfect atmosphere.Must-Do Tip:
Drive up to Curral das Freiras with your rented car and stop at Eira do Serrado Viewpoint before descending into the valley. From there, you’ll witness one of Madeira’s most breathtaking panoramas.
Discover Madeira’s Wine Harvest Traditions
Although the main wine harvest (vindima) takes place earlier in september, November still offers plenty of opportunities to explore Madeira’s wine heritage.
What to Do:
Visit a local winery in Funchal, such as Blandy’s Wine Lodge, Barbeito Madeira, or Henriques & Henriques, where you can learn about the process of aging wine in oak casks and taste different varieties of Madeira wine.Why It’s Special in November:
Cooler evenings make a glass of fortified Madeira wine particularly pleasant. Wine tours are less crowded in November, so you can enjoy more personalized experiences with guides.Extra Tip:
Combine your wine tasting with a tour in Câmara de Lobos, one of several traditional fishing villages that also play an important role in Madeira’s viticulture.
Hike the Levada Trails Without the Summer Crowds
Madeira is famous for its levadas (irrigation channels) that double as hiking trails through forests, valleys, and mountains. November is one of the best times to hike them.
Best Trails in November:
CLASSIFIED PEDESTRIAN ROUTE INFORMATION PANEL – LEVADA DO CALDEIRÃO VERDE
Levada do Caldeirão Verde (Santana): A lush trail through UNESCO-listed Laurissilva forest.
CLASSIFIED PEDESTRIAN ROUTE INFORMATION PANEL – LEVADA DAS 25 FONTES
Levada das 25 Fontes (Rabaçal, Calheta): Waterfalls and lagoons surrounded by autumn colours.
CLASSIFIED PEDESTRIAN ROUTE INFORMATION PANEL – VEREDA DA ILHA
Vereda da Ilha: The highest peak on the island, often with misty, atmospheric views in November.
Why It’s Special in November:
The mild weather (average highs around 20°C) makes long hikes comfortable. The forests are particularly vibrant with fresh greenery after seasonal rains.Travel Tip:
Renting a car allows you to reach the more remote trailheads early in the morning, giving you the advantage of peace and quiet before other hikers arrive.
Celebrate São Martinho’s Day in Câmara de Lobos
On November 11th, Madeira celebrates São Martinho’s Day (Dia de São Martinho), a tradition deeply rooted in wine culture.
What to Expect:
Locals gather around bonfires, roast chestnuts, and taste the first wine of the season (vinho novo). Câmara de Lobos, known as the birthplace of poncha (a traditional drink made with sugarcane spirit, honey, and lemon), is one of the best places to experience this festival.Why It’s Special in November:
It combines gastronomy, music, and tradition. This event gives you a chance to mingle with locals in a true Madeiran celebration.Don’t Miss:
Pair roasted chestnuts with a glass of young wine and finish with poncha in a local tavern.
Enjoy Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours
Whale and dolphin watching is possible year-round in Madeira, thanks to its location in the Atlantic Ocean and the migrations of these mammals. Madeira is also home to many birds, as well as sea lions.
Where to Go:
Most marine observation companies are located at the Funchal pier, where their boats depart. In addition to the Funchal pier, you can also find marine observation companies at the piers in Caniçal, Machico, and Calheta, where you can take private or group boat tours.
Why It’s Special in November:
With fewer tourists, the boats feel more intimate and the experience becomes more personal. Additionally, during this time, you’ll have a better chance of spotting local species, such as sperm whales and pilot whales. During your whale watching trip, you’ll likely encounter not only whales but also several dolphin species, such as the Atlantic spotted dolphin and the bottlenose dolphin. With Madeira’s crystal-clear blue waters and breathtaking scenery in the background, every moment is perfect for photos and relaxation.
Stroll Through Funchal’s Autumn Gardens and Markets
Madeira is nicknamed the “Floating Garden of the Atlantic” and even in November, its gardens bloom with vibrant colours.
What to See:
Madeira Botanical Garden – Exotic plants and sweeping views.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden – Lakes, sculptures, and Asian-inspired landscapes.
Farmers’ Market (Mercado dos Lavradores) – Seasonal produce like passion fruit, chestnuts, and sweet potatoes.
Why It’s Special in November:
The atmosphere is calmer compared to peak summer, letting you explore at a slower, more relaxed pace. The local markets feel authentic, buzzing with the rhythm of everyday Madeiran life.
Relax on Madeira’s Quiet Beaches
November may not be peak swimming season, but Madeira’s beaches are still inviting, especially for sunbathing, walking, or enjoying a seaside meal.
Best Beaches to Visit in November:
Praia da Calheta: Golden imported sand beach, perfect for a stroll or a relaxing afternoon.
Praia de Machico: A calm bay with imported sand, excellent for families.
Praia do Seixal: A secluded volcanic sand beach for those seeking tranquility.
Why It’s Special in November:
The beaches are quieter, the sea breeze is refreshing, and the coastal restaurants are less crowded, making seaside dining more enjoyable.
Because Madeira’s climate is predominantly mild and subtropical, it’s possible to go to the beach, sunbathe, and swim in the crystal-clear waters of the Atlantic Ocean, especially in mid-November, due to the “Verão de São Martinho”. However, there’s no reason not to experience cloudy, windy, or even rainy days, as the autumn season on Madeira Island occurs during November.
Why Visit Madeira in November?
In short, visiting Madeira in November means experiencing the island without the summer crowds. Furthermore, this time of year, despite the cooler weather, is still a pleasant time to visit. Therefore, this month offers unique cultural experiences, from authentic traditional festivals like the Chestnut Festival, held at the beginning of November, to Saint Martin’s Day on November 11th, also known as “Verão de São Martinho” You can also enjoy nature trails and levada walks, taste wine, poncha, and many other delicacies and traditional cuisine, visit museums, and stroll through gardens, viewpoints, and boardwalks.
Madeira in November is about balance between nature and culture, relaxation and adventure, tradition and modernity.
To experience all of these events and destinations, renting a car at 7M Rent a Car, is the smartest choice. Public transport can be limited in reaching mountain valleys or rural villages, but a car allows you to create your own itinerary and travel without constraints.
Discover more about How to Rent a Car in Madeira: 10 Essential Tips in our guide.
