Holidays to Machico

A city on the easternmost point of the island of Madeira, Machico can provide holidaymakers with numerous things to see and do during their stay. From the usual beaches and bars that many have come to expect from the island, to some fascinating historic sites and natural wonders, Brits holidaying here will be spoilt for choice.

While the city does have a working fishing industry, which brings in lots of fresh seafood for the restaurants in the area, much of Machico’s harbour is dedicated to private use, with numerous yachts sailing in and out of the bay.

Due to the secluded nature of Machico on Madeira’s eastern coast, the city enjoys relatively stable temperatures throughout the year. The heat doesn’t fluctuate too much during the day either, with temperatures only really affected by how high up you are. Staying by the coast, you can be sure that your friends back home will be green with envy.

Beaches

There are some pleasant beaches here if you want to watch the sailboats go by, as well as a promenade that has various bars and cafés. Snorkelling and diving takes place off shore.

Things To Do

There are a number of hiking trails lead into the forests and mountains that surround the city.

Food And Drink

Machico is something of a culinary haven on the island, with an annual food festival held each year at the start of August. At the event, visitors can enjoy the many exotic dishes that Madeira specialises in, such as carne vinho e alhos. This dish involves marinating small pieces of pork for about a day, in a mixture that often comprises wine vinegar, garlic and bay leaves, before cooking it in the same sauce.

For the rest of the year, holidaymakers’ tastes will still be cared for, with places such as MareAlta Peixe & Mariscos, and Tasca da Laurinda, catering for their needs.

While Machico is more of a family location than a party hangout, due to the nature of the island, anyone after a wilder time can easily travel to nearby Funchal for late-night clubs and bars. That is not to say that the city shuts down once the sun disappears, as Brits on cheap Machico holidays will be sure to find a number of establishments for a welcome drink with family and friends, such as the Bar Expresso.

Good to know

Cost of a beer

€2

3-course meal

€12.50

Flight time

2.5 hrs

(from London)

Currency

Euro

Language

Portuguese

Time difference

GMT +0

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