All-Inclusive Madeira: What to Know and the Best Packages
All-inclusive in Madeira: what is included, where the resorts are, whether it is worth it, and how to book a flight-and-hotel all-inclusive package.
February 26, 2024 • 3 min read
All-Inclusive Madeira: What to Know and the Best Packages
All-inclusive Madeira, in short
Madeira is best known for its mountains, levadas and food rather than for beach resorts, so it works a little differently from a classic all-inclusive destination. Here is what all-inclusive means here, where to find it, whether it is worth it, and how to book.
What "all-inclusive" means in Madeira
All-inclusive usually covers your room, all meals and most drinks, and sometimes some activities or entertainment. In Madeira, many hotels offer half-board (breakfast and dinner) as well as full all-inclusive, so it is worth comparing the two. Always check exactly what is included: some plans cover local drinks only, or limit à la carte dining.
Is an all-inclusive holiday in Madeira worth it?
It depends on your trip. The honest picture:
- Good for: a relaxed, hassle-free base with a fixed budget, families, and travellers who want a hotel with a pool, spa and dining on site, especially in cooler months.
- Worth thinking about: Madeira's biggest draws are its scenery and its food. If you stay all-inclusive the whole time, you miss the island's superb restaurants and the day trips that make Madeira special. Many visitors prefer half-board, or a room-only or bed-and-breakfast hotel plus eating out and exploring.
A good middle ground is an all-inclusive or half-board base for part of the trip, with days out for levada walks, Funchal and the north coast.
Where the all-inclusive hotels are
Most all-inclusive and half-board hotels cluster around Funchal (the capital, with the best choice and easy access to sights) and nearby Caniço / Garajau (quieter, cliffside, close to the airport). You will also find options further west around Calheta and Ponta do Sol, the island's sunniest, beachier corner.
What to do beyond the resort
Even on an all-inclusive break, save time for the island itself: hike a levada, ride the Funchal cable car to Monte, go whale watching, and drive the dramatic north coast. See the best things to do in Madeira and the best time to visit.
Tips for booking an all-inclusive Madeira trip
- Compare all-inclusive vs half-board. Half-board often costs less and lets you try Madeira's restaurants for lunch.
- Book flights and hotel together. A package usually beats booking each part separately, and includes transfers.
- Check what is included. Drinks, à la carte meals and activities vary by hotel.
- Pick your base by pace. Funchal for sights and nightlife, Caniço for quiet, Calheta or Ponta do Sol for the most sun and beaches.
