If you’re looking for your next vacation destination, look no further: about a 4-hour flight from Milan lies an island of eternal spring, nestled in the Atlantic Ocean: Madeira. Part of the Portuguese archipelago, you don’t need a passport to get there—just a strong desire for adventure.
Madeira is a true European gem, a place as wild as it is spectacular, so much so that it’s nicknamed the“Hawaii of Europe.” Whether you’re planning for summer 2026 or a short, rejuvenating getaway, this floating garden will surprise and enchant you.
Table Of Contents
Why is Madeira nicknamed the “Hawaii of Europe”?
Photo: Unsplash/Colin Watts
It’s not just a catchy nickname for social media: calling Madeira the “Hawaii of Europe” perfectly describes what awaits you as soon as you land. The island, of volcanic origin like many Atlantic islands, offers dramatic and primordial landscapes that justify the comparison:
- Steep Cliffs: Like Kauai’s Na Pali Coast, Madeira boasts towering cliffs covered in emerald-green vegetation that plunge into the Atlantic, with spectacular examples such as Cabo Girão.
- Laurissilva Forest: A prehistoric ecosystem often shrouded in mist, reminiscent of the most remote tropical jungles. A UNESCO World Heritage Site, it looks like something out of a Jurassic Park movie.
- Volcanic rock pools: In Porto Moniz, ocean waves naturally fill pools formed by black lava, creating a visual contrast reminiscent of Hawaii’s most iconic beaches.
- Microclimates: Thanks to the island’s geography, in less than twenty minutes you can go from the warm sun of the coast to the mysterious fog of the mountains, enjoying a unique experience of climatic variety.
- Colors and lush vegetation: Madeira is unique in Europe, so rich in biodiversity, vegetation, flowers, and plants that it has earned another nickname: “the floating garden.” And then there’s a perennial explosion of colors. Thanks to its eternal spring climate, Madeira is in bloom all year round. Streets, parks, and even the edges of the cliffs are covered with plants that we normally only see in pots, but which here grow lush, large, and wild: wisteria, bougainvillea, hydrangeas, strelitzias, and a host of other wonderful species.
The secret behind its lush greenery
Madeira owes its incredible lushness to the Levadas, a unique system of irrigation channels stretching over 2,000 km, carrying water from the rainy peaks of the north to the fields of the south. Walking along these channels means immersing yourself in the beating heart of the “garden,” where the vegetation grows so thick that it creates actual natural tunnels—an experience that combines adventure with breathtaking beauty.
What to see: from the natural pools of Porto Moniz to the forests of Fanal
Photo: unsplash/ Tim Roosjen
Madeira isn’t just an island to be enjoyed from the beach: it’s a place to explore step by step. Here are some must-see stops that will turn your trip into an unforgettable experience:
- Porto Moniz Natural Pools: Probably the island’s most iconic spot. Volcanic rocks form natural pools where ocean water flows in with every wave. Swimming sheltered by black lava while the Atlantic crashes just a few meters away is an experience that lets you feel the power of nature firsthand.
- Fanal Forest: Imagine centuries-old trees with twisted shapes, often shrouded in thick, silent fog. Fanal represents the heart of the Laurissilva Forest: when the nevoeiro (the typical fog) descends, the landscape becomes both eerie and magical. A true paradise for photographers and nature lovers.
- Cabo Girão – Suspended in mid-air: At 580 meters, it is one of the highest cliffs in Europe. The glass platform (skywalk) allows you to literally walk above the ocean. Not recommended for those who suffer from vertigo, but the view of the coast is simply priceless.
- Pico do Arieiro: Above the clouds: You don’t need to be an expert climber: the island’s third-highest peak is easily accessible by car. Arrive here at dawn to watch the sun rise over an endless carpet of white clouds.
How to get to the island
Until a few years ago, getting to Madeira almost always meant stopping over in Lisbon. Today, however, things have changed, and there are several quick options from the Milan area:
From Milan Malpensa (MXP):
- Wizz Air: The go-to airline for the island, with direct flights of about 4 hours and 15 minutes to Funchal. Prices are often very competitive, making them perfect for a long weekend.
- EasyJet: Seasonal direct flights, especially during the summer.
From Bergamo Orio al Serio (BGY):
In recent years, Bergamo has also seen the launch of direct and charter flights to Madeira, making the island even more accessible for travelers from northern Italy.
Whether it’s for an adventure among the clouds of Pico do Arieiro or a refreshing swim in Porto Moniz, Madeira is ready to amaze you. All that’s left is to pack your bags: this Atlantic paradise is much closer than you think.