by Portugal Getaways Team
July 15, 2026 • 7 min read
The most Instagrammable places in Madeira, in short
20 photo spots in Madeira
- Cascata do Risco (Rabaçal): a tall waterfall reached on the beautiful Rabaçal trails, deep in the laurel forest.
- Véu da Noiva viewpoint and waterfall: the "bridal veil" falls tumbling toward the sea on the north coast.
- Fanal Forest: ancient, gnarled laurel trees wrapped in mist, the island's most atmospheric spot.
- Miradouro da Beira da Quinta: a dramatic north-coast viewpoint over cliffs and ocean.
- Seixal: a black-sand beach and green cliffs streaked with waterfalls.
- Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo: the ridge hike above the clouds, the classic Madeira sunrise shot.
- Ponta de São Lourenço: the bare, red-and-ochre peninsula at the island's eastern tip.
- Cascata dos Anjos: the waterfall that falls onto the old coast road near Ponta do Sol.
- Monte Palace Tropical Garden: tiled terraces, koi ponds and lush planting above Funchal.
- Miradouro do Guindaste: a striking cliff-edge platform on the north coast.
- Santana: the famous triangular, thatched A-frame houses.
- Ponta do Bode: a quiet viewpoint over the reservoir and mountains.
- Porto Moniz natural pools: volcanic rock pools filled by the Atlantic.
- Levada do Caldeirão Verde: a levada walk to a waterfall through tunnels and forest.
- Madeira Botanical Garden (Funchal): geometric flower beds and views over the bay.
- Cabo Girão: the glass skywalk high above the sea, one of Europe's highest sea cliffs.
- Miradouro da Portela: sweeping views over the eastern hills and coast.
- Cascata das 25 Fontes (Rabaçal): the "25 springs" waterfall and pool, a favourite levada walk.
- Miradouro da Eira do Serrado: the balcony view down into the valley village of Curral das Freiras.
- Ilhéus da Ribeira da Janela: the sea stacks rising off the beach on the northwest coast.
Tips for the best photos
- Go early: morning light is softest and the popular spots and viewpoints are quiet before the tour buses arrive.
- Pack for the weather: the north and the high peaks are often misty or wet, which can make for moody shots but needs a rain cover.
- Chase the clouds: at Pico do Areeiro you are often above the cloud line, so a bright coast does not always mean clear peaks, and vice versa.
- Rent a car: most of these spots are spread around the island, so having a car makes them far easier to reach. See our guide to driving and parking in Madeira.
Frequently asked questions about Madeira photo spots
What is the most Instagrammable place in Madeira? The Fanal forest, with its misty ancient laurel trees, and the sunrise on the Pico do Areeiro to Pico Ruivo ridge are the two most photographed. The Guindaste viewpoint and Cabo Girão skywalk are close behind.
Where are the best photo spots in Madeira? Fanal, the Véu da Noiva and Risco waterfalls, Seixal beach, Ponta de São Lourenço, the Porto Moniz pools, Monte Palace gardens, and the Guindaste and Eira do Serrado viewpoints.
When is the best time of day for photos in Madeira? Early morning, for soft light and fewer people at the viewpoints, and for the classic sunrise above the clouds at Pico do Areeiro.
Do you need a car to reach Madeira's photo spots? It helps a lot, as the best spots are spread around the island. You can also reach many on guided tours if you would rather not drive.
Is the Fanal forest worth visiting? Yes. Its centuries-old laurel trees, often shrouded in mist, are among the most striking and photographed sights on the island.
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