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The true Madeiran Christmas traditions are shown in different locations throughout the island on different dates. The most well-known is the market night at the Farmers’ Market in Funchal on the 23rd of December.
On the night of December 23rd, the commonly known "Market Night", all the roads lead to the Farmers' Market in Funchal (Mercado dos Lavradores), where people make the last Christmas shopping related to fruits and flowers, and at the fish market traditional Christmas carols are sung.
Christmas and New Year. The Christmas spirit invades the city, starting this season with the launch of the Christmas lights and decorations that embellish the streets of Funchal in the first week of December. The festivities of this season are celebrated with a wide range of events.
- Is Madeira A Winter Destination? Short Answers
- 9 Reasons to Visit The Island of Madeira During Winter
- Madeira in Winter – Sun, Warmth, Weather
- Visiting Madeira in The Winter Months – Tips
- Madeira Winter Activities
- Christmas in Madeira
- New Year’S Eve in Madeira
What to expect when visiting Madeira in Winter?
Madeira has a lot to offer all year round. Specifically for Winter, you should expect: 1. Its climate is referred to as an “Eternal Spring” with temperatures around 19 to 20°C during the day and 13 to 14° during the night (at water level) 2. Sea temperature around 17°C to 19°C 3. Beaches with mostly pebbles (just a few sandy beaches with natural black sand or imported golden sand) 4. Stunning landscapes with lush vegetation 5. Colder mountain peaks 6. The island is still lively with locals –...
So, is Madeira a good destination in Winter?
Absolutely. If you are looking to escape the cold of Winter, enjoy some warmth and stunning landscapes, traveling to Madeira is an excellent idea. However, understand that it is not a tropical destination – many beaches have rocks, not sand, and temperatures are more Spring-like warm than hot.
#1. Climate
Madeira offers a warm climate during Winter, great to escape the cold. Temperatures are Spring-like – around 19 to 20°C during the day and 13 to 14° during the night (at water level). There is rain but not as much as in Norther countries, and because of the mountains in the middle of the island, you can drive somewhere else to get a different weather.
#2 – Lesser crowds
Madeira is becoming increasingly popular, especially during Summer. In Winter, it is not yet the first destination that comes to mind. So except for Christmas and the Portuguese school Winter holidays, the island is not crowded with tourists.
#3 – Landscapes remain green and stunning
Nothing burns because of the sun or turn grey. The lush vegetation remains lush, not as vibrant but still stunning. Landscapesare as impressive.
Is Madeira warm in Winter?
Madeira has warm weather all year round (but not hot). Temperatures to be expected on the lower parts of the islands are: 1. around 19 to 20°C during the day 2. 13 to 14° during the night. Therefore, it is one of the warmest places in Europe in Winter. However, if you decide to go explore the mountains, such as Pico Arieiroat 1818m in altitude, you will need to cover yourself, as temperatures will be lower.
Madeira Winter Sun – how much sun can you expect?
With climate, nothing is guaranteed. But because of the island’s geography, clouds come and go. It can rain, but not that much compared to the rest of Europe. In Winter you have: 1. around 10 hours of daylight, 2. an average of 5 hours of sunshine during the Winter days out of those 10 hours. But you can also chase the sun. Because of the mountains, it can be cloudy at one location and sunny at another. Check the weather map and webcams!
Can you sunbathe in Madeira in Winter?
Yes, it is possible to sunbathe in Madeira in Winter. As written earlier in December, January and February, the temperatures during the day at beach level are around 19/20°C. When the sun is out, because of the low latitude of the island, it is quite warm. However, the sun is never guaranteed and clouds come and go. There is little chance to spend your whole day sunbathing…
All of my normal tips about Madeira apply also to Winter. Check them out. But here are a few special tips to keep in mind.
What is there to do in Madeira in Winter? Almost the same things as in Summer. Check out my full article on the 35 best things to do in Madeira. Below are some of the highlight activities.
How is Christmas in Madeira?
Madeira is a popular destination for Christmas. It is a big even with festivities, decorations, delicious food… Temperatures are sea level are very pleasant, around 19/20°C during the day. Water temperature is lower (around 17°C), so it is not the best time for swimming but it is still possible to enjoy a swim.
Is Madeira hot in December for Christmas?
The weather is not hot, but it is warm. You can be in t-shirt during the day. You just have to carry a jumper in case clouds roll in. Average is 5 hours of sunshine over the 10 hours of daylight, on average. There is a chance of rain, but nothing like in northern Europe…
Christmas decorations
Because of the mild climate, you won’t find many traditional pine trees, but mostly artificial trees. They are traditionally decorated with balls, Christmas Lights, snowflakes, bows, wreaths, etc. Madeirans love decorating for every festival and events. If you walk around, you will also see many Nativity scenes in the form of a staircase or in a rock-shaped form (like a cave). Locals call them “lapinha”. It is often a small altar of three hauls, covered with a red and a white lace tablecloths...
Madeira for New Year’s Eve
Madeira is also famous for its New Year’s Eve. It used to hold the Guinness book of records title of the largest show in the world (from 2006 to 2012). It is not the largest in the World anymore, but it is still a fantastic show to enjoy if you like fireworks.
If you’re currently planning your own trip, or simply curious about what Funchal Christmas Market is like, then we’re here to help. Read on for an overview of Funchal Christmas Market, with official dates, hotel recommendations, and locations.
Some of the most extravagant in the world – and Guinness Book of World Record winner – Funchal’s eye-catching Christmas lights will be switched on from 1st December. Stroll the streets to take in every decorative display.
People also ask
How to celebrate Christmas in Funchal?
What to do in Funchal on December 23rd?
What is Funchal Christmas market?
When are Funchal's Christmas lights switched on?
Downtown Funchal is filled with people, folkclore presentations, concerts, food and beverage stands and nativity scenes. December 23 rd is the market night, where the “Mercado dos Lavradores” and the streets surrounding the market transform into one huge street party.
