A BROKE GIRLS GUIDE TO MADEIRA
Bom dia and welcome to Madeira, Portugal!
I came to Madeira during a rough patch in my life. I felt low, lost, and stuck. I had no energy, no direction, just this heavy feeling I couldn’t shake. So I booked a ticket, packed a backpack, and hoped some time in nature might clear my head. For the first few days, I barely spoke to anyone. I just hiked up in the mountains, through forests that felt like jungles. I slept in my little tent under the stars, woke up to birdsong or the sound of waves. I hitchhiked from one town to the next, not really knowing where I was going, just moving. I was missing this kind of freedom. The second half of the week, I slowed down. I went on a whales and dolphins tour, I swam in the freezing Atlantic, and drank way too much poncha! This trip surprised me. It didn’t fix everything, but it gave me space to breathe. I remembered how good it feels to move my body, to be outside, to talk to strangers, to do things just for the joy of it. Madeira is special, whether you're looking for adventure, silence, connection, or just some really good ice cream. This guide will include a packing list, itinerary, excursion advice, transport advice, budget hostel advice, and a budget breakdown.
Let’s explore Madeira with Broke Girls World!
What To Expect
Money
Madeira uses the euro (€), which makes things very easy if you’re traveling from mainland Europe. There’s no need to exchange currency, and credit and debit cards are accepted almost everywhere, from restaurants and shops to hotels. That said, it’s still smart to carry a bit of cash for local markets, small cafés, or more remote areas of the island.
Plugs
Electricity in Madeira is just as straightforward. The island uses standard European Type C and Type F plugs with a 230V voltage. Travelers from the UK or the US will need a plug adapter, but once you have one, charging your devices is easy and hassle-free throughout the island.
Safety
Madeira is considered a very safe destination for all kinds of travelers. Solo female travelers can feel comfortable exploring both during the day and in the evening. As anywhere, basic travel awareness applies, like keeping an eye on your belongings, but overall Madeira feels relaxed, welcoming, and secure.
🏳️🌈 LGBTQ+ Safety Guide
How To Get Around
Taxi
Madeira uses the euro (€), so there’s no need to worry about currency exchange if you’re coming from mainland Europe. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in shops, restaurants, and hotels, but it’s always good to carry some cash for small markets or remote areas.
Bus
If you prefer not to drive, public transport is a solid alternative, especially around Funchal and along the south coast. Buses are affordable and reliable, connecting major towns and popular spots. For exploring the capital, buses and cable cars work perfectly. Keep in mind that reaching more remote hiking trails or the rugged north coast can take much longer without a car and sometimes requires careful planning.
Walking
Madeira is considered very safe for all types of travelers. Solo women can feel comfortable exploring the island day and night, though usual travel caution applies — like keeping an eye on your belongings.
How To Get Around
Documents
Passport
Copy of passport
Visum
Insurance policy
Flight ticket
Credit card
List of emergency contacts
Drivers license
International drivers license
Essentials
Large backpack
Day bag
Packing cubes
Hand sanitizer
Painkiller
ORS
Plasters
Sunglasses
Sleep mask
Earplugs
Travel pillow
Books/magazine
Reuseable bottle
Clothes
Underwear
Socks
Pajamas
Swimwear
Long pants
T-shirts
Longsleeve
Dress
Sweater/hoodie
Sneakers
Scarf
Toiletries
Toothbrush
Toothpaste
Deodorant
Hairbrush
Sunscreen
Shaver
Shower gel
Shampoo
Conditioner
Body lotion
Microfiber towel
Electronics
Phone + charger
Travel plud adapter
Headphones + charger
Powerbank
Headlamp
Laptop + charger
Camera + charger
PORTO MONIZ
When you visit Madeira, you usually choose one of two routes: start in the west and work your way east, or do it the other way around. I decided to begin in the west, starting in Porto Moniz, and slowly make my way back to Funchal in the east. It felt like the perfect introduction to the island’s wilder side. The highlight here are the famous natural swimming pools. They are formed by black volcanic rock, creating sheltered basins where the Atlantic flows in and out, constantly refreshing the water with the tide. Surrounded by crashing waves and dramatic cliffs, it’s one of those places that immediately shows you how untamed Madeira can be, while still inviting you to slow down and take a (very cold) swim.
3-day Hike & Camping
My original plan was to hike all the way across the island on foot, following a carefully thought-out route from one side of Madeira to the other. But nature had different plans. Heavy rain caused mudslides that wiped out sections of the trail, making it impossible to continue as intended. Instead of giving up, I decided to adapt. With no real plan, a bit of hitchhiking, and an open mind, the trip took on a completely different shape. And honestly, it turned out to be just as special. From misty forests to trails above the clouds and raw, rugged landscapes, Madeira kept surprising me at every turn.
FUNCHAL
Funchal is the starting point of most Madeira trips, since you’ll land here at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, named after the island’s most famous and very proud local. Funchal immediately gives you that real holiday feeling, with endless restaurant options, a lively marina, and lots of small, colorful shops to wander through. It’s the perfect place to start your trip, stock up on supplies, and ease into island life. Or, like me, it’s a great place to end your journey, slowing down and celebrating a few intense days of walking with a well-earned poncha or two. Funchal is vibrant, welcoming, and full of color, and it holds a very special place in my heart.
