Machico

Madeira's first settlement, and its most convenient beach town.

Machico bay and town seen from the hillside above
Photo: Ввласенко · CC BY-SA 3.0

Where Zarco landed in 1419 and the island's first capital. Today it is a relaxed east-coast town with a golden beach, a good seafront, and the airport ten minutes away.

History and town

The Capela dos Milagres and the 15th-century parish church anchor the old centre, and the Forte de Nossa Senhora do Amparo guards the bay. It is a town people live in rather than visit, which makes it pleasant out of season.

Base or day trip

With the Ponta de São Lourenço trail, Prainha, Caniçal and the whale museum all within fifteen minutes, Machico works well as a base for the east — and for early or late flights.

Local tips

  • Ten minutes from the airport, which makes it the best first-night or last-night town.

Guided trips here

Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.

  • Rugged coastal ridge on Madeira's eastern peninsula
    6 hours Caniçal

    Ponta de São Lourenço Guided Hike

    The dry, wind-carved eastern peninsula — red cliffs, sea on both sides and nothing like the rest of the island, with a guide and transfers.

  • Coastal road on Madeira leading towards Funchal
    30 minutes Airport

    Madeira Airport Private Transfer

    Fixed-price private transfer between Cristiano Ronaldo Airport and your accommodation, day or night.

  • Madeira Porto da Cruz to Machico Self Hiking Tour with Transfer in Madeira
    5 hours Machico 5.0(15)

    Madeira Porto da Cruz to Machico Self Hiking Tour with Transfer

    Embark on a self-guided hike from Porto da Cruz to Machico. Enjoy a scenic hike through the northeast coast of Madeira and admire the different vegetation and dramatic scenery changes.

  • East private full day in Madeira
    9 hours Madeira 4.9(12)

    East private full day

    If you want to have a open 4x4 tour just for you and your family up to 7 persons, this is the best choise. In a open roof 4x4, you'll visit the East side of Madeira, leaving the hotel and driving to Machico town.

  • Arieiro Peak, Santana & Ponta São Lourenço in Open Roof 4X4 Tour in Madeira
    7.5 hours Santana 4.9(247)

    Arieiro Peak, Santana & Ponta São Lourenço in Open Roof 4X4 Tour

    Get ready to explore the enchanting landscapes of eastern Madeira, where every moment promises lasting memories.

  • Full Day Jeep Safari East - Pico do Areeiro - Santana - Ponta de são Lourenço in Madeira
    7 hours Santana 4.8(918)

    Full Day Jeep Safari East - Pico do Areeiro - Santana - Ponta de são Lourenço

    Get to know the true spirit of the Island in this unique fashion 4x4 tour, the only way to enjoy the magnificent scenery of these unknown areas. An opportunity to 'step back in time'.

Stay nearby

Where to base yourself for this part of the island.

Nearby

Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.

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