Madeira

A scenic island that rewards careful planning

Madeira offers coastal scenery and a city base in Funchal, with an island holiday that can be organised around selected outings rather than continuous independent walking. Its appeal is also the reason to plan precisely: a scenic location or viewing terrace says little about the route from a vehicle to the view. Start with the experiences you most want, then check each one before choosing the accommodation.

Use the official accessibility information

Madeira’s tourism board publishes accessibility guidance covering airports, accommodation, transport and equipment. It specifically advises contacting accommodation before booking. Use that information as a starting point for enquiries, not as a certification of every room or route. Ask the hotel to confirm your exact room category, bathroom arrangement and access to the facilities that matter to you.

Make transport part of the itinerary

For an island tour, request the actual vehicle arrangement and every planned stop. Establish whether you remain in your chair, how you board and whether any stop includes stairs or a long approach. A tour can still offer an enjoyable scenic day if some stops are viewed from the vehicle, provided this is agreed beforehand and matches your expectations. Avoid booking on the basis of an undefined “suitable for everyone” label.

Compare Funchal with a more secluded stay

Funchal gives you a focused place to start researching a city and coastal routine. A quieter property elsewhere may suit a restful holiday but make transport essential for meals and outings. Compare those practical costs with the room rate. Equipment hire should include delivery to the exact address and a clear response to breakdowns. Keep the flight assistance confirmation, transfer contact and accommodation measurements together so each supplier is working from the same requirements.

Put the plans together

Use our holiday-apartment checks and flight and transfer planning guide before paying. If you need hired equipment, agree the model, delivery address and replacement arrangements directly with the supplier.

Researched 5 September 2026. Local reference: Madeira tourism: accessibility. These are planning notes, not an on-site accessibility audit. Check current routes and services for your dates.