Travel Facts and Weather Print E-mail
Best time to go - any time of the year
Madeira is an all year round destination with temperatures varying only a few degrees throughout the year. Madeira´s climate is generally considered to be one of the most perfect in the world.  There are also several micro-climates, with Funchal one of the sunniest at 6 to 7 hours per day. Night temperatures are only a few degrees cooler than the daytime.  The Early Spring and Autumn climate is very pleasant, the Summer months of July and August can be very warm and Christmas & New Year is mild!

Madeira Weather Guide
Temperature is mild with no great extremes – although it is wise to take warm clothes when visiting the mountains.  Average temperature range from 19 degrees C in the Winter , 23 degrees during Spring and Autumn rising to 30+ degrees in Summer.  To check the weather in Madeira today visit:
www.windguru.com

Approx flight time
3+ hours from the UK

Time difference
None - (same as UK)

Language
Portuguese, but English is widely spoken and understood.

Currency
Euro - as of Dec 2001.

Credit cards
All major credit cards are widely accepted in hotels, restaurants and shops.

Medical Facilities
There are 2 major hospitals in Funchal and a number of health centres around the island.  Each hotel has their own appointed doctor who is able to speak your language.  There are excellent dentists on the island also, and again your hotel will be of assistance.

Water
The local water is safe to drink.

Electricity
220 vlts; two pin Europe adaptors are required - easily purchased from most super and mini markets on the island.

Tipping
A service charge is normally included in hotel and restaurant bills, but an extra 10% for good service is appreciated.

Madeira Tourist Board
www.madeiratourism.com

Airport
The intercontinal airport at Santa Cruz has a runway of 2.78 kilometres and has a capacity for 3.5 million passengers per year.