Weather in Madeira in July travel guide

July in Madeira is the heart of summer, with its warm, inviting climate complemented by light Atlantic breezes. The island says goodbye to the remnants of the rains, entering a season filled with sunshine. This radiant weather in Madeira in July is conducive to exploring the majestic mountains, captivating gardens and charming villages. The gorgeous weather combined with the pleasant atmosphere makes July ideal for strolling the levadas, enjoying local culinary delights and relaxing on serene shores.

Highlights Madeira weather in July

The weather in Madeira in July is like a sunlit dream, where balmy breezes and crystal-clear skies promise endless adventure and serenity. This is the time when the island's beauty shines brightest, beckoning explorers and dreamers to its lush landscapes and azure shores. Let's delve into what makes this month so enchanting:

• Warm air temperatures: Thanks to the island's subtropical climate, daytime temperatures are comfortably warm, ideal for all kinds of outdoor activities without being too hot.
• Low rainfall: July is one of the driest months in Madeira, with little or no rain, ensuring clear skies and plenty of sunshine for tourists.
• Light breezes: The Atlantic Ocean provides light breezes that help to moderate the temperature, making it pleasant both day and night.
• Abundant sunshine: Long days of sunshine are the perfect time to explore the island's natural beauty, from lush gardens to impressive cliffs and peaks.
• Ideal for outdoor activities: The weather in Madeira in July is ideal for hiking in the levadas, swimming, sunbathing, and generally enjoying the outdoors.
• Warm sea temperature: The sea temperature is warm enough for swimming, snorkeling, and other water activities, making the beaches and coastlines particularly attractive.

Keen to visit Madeira? Talk to our local Portugal experts to kick-start creating your dream trip. And to ensure you're well-equipped for your trip explore our list of tips for traveling in Portugal.

Is July a good time to visit Madeira?

July is the best time to visit Madeira, with a sunny and dry climate ideal for exploring the island's natural wonders and outdoor activities. The weather in Madeira in July is consistently warm with refreshing Atlantic breezes, making for comfortable conditions for hiking, beach vacations, and sightseeing. With clear skies, transportation and travel plans are less likely to be affected by weather-related issues, allowing you to explore the entire island without any problems.

This month falls in the high season due to the attractive weather and the start of summer vacations in many countries. Because of this, Madeira is filled with energy and various festivals and events take place, but it also means more people and higher prices. It is recommended to book accommodation and airfares well in advance for the best prices.

In terms of rainfall, July is one of the driest months in Madeira. The average rainfall is minimal, which almost guarantees that rain will not affect your plans - from leisurely walks through the lush landscapes of the island to relaxing on its picturesque beaches.

Overall, July is a great time to visit Madeira due to its ideal weather conditions, which offer endless opportunities for outdoor adventures and cultural vacations. However, you should be aware of the island's busy atmosphere during the high season and plan your trip accordingly.

Editor’s tip: for a bigger picture of the weather, read up on the best time to visit Portugal.

Average temperatures in Madeira in July

Madeira enjoys mild and pleasant temperatures in July, making it attractive as a summer destination. The average high temperature is around 25°C (77°F) and the average low temperature usually stays around 19°C (66°F). These temperatures ensure a comfortable climate throughout the day and into the evening, allowing for activities ranging from sunbathing to exploring the island's scenic routes.

July temperatures vary slightly from day to night, ensuring pleasant evenings that are perfect for dining al fresco or strolling along the beach. Mild nighttime temperatures also mean that sleeping conditions will be comfortable without the need for powerful air conditioning.

Comparatively, July temperatures are warmer than the cooler and more temperate months of spring and fall in Madeira, such as March or November, but they remain more moderate than the peak summer temperatures seen in many other European countries. This makes July an ideal time for those wishing to enjoy warm but not excessively hot weather, allowing them to enjoy both the natural beauty of the island and the many outdoor activities available.

Want even more inspiration for your Portugal adventure? Discover the best places to visit in Portugal.

What about the crowd & cost?

In July, Madeira sees an increase in tourist traffic as the high season begins. Visitors are attracted by the excellent weather and a vibrant cultural calendar. This increased demand usually results in higher prices for accommodation, food and flights compared to the shoulder seasons (April-May and September-October) or low season (November-March).

However, the increased number of visitors in July also brings a bustling energy to the island, making it an interesting time to visit. To survive the high season, book early for the best deals and accommodation. 

If you want to avoid the peak crowds and still enjoy good weather, late spring and early fall offer milder conditions with fewer tourists and more competitive prices, retaining much of July's appeal but with added peace of mind and benefits.

Unforgettable and customisable Portugal itineraries

Are you ready to plan your dream trip to Portugal? The local experts at Rough Guides can help you create a fully customized and unforgettable itinerary tailored to your preferences. Here are three tantalizing travel options you should consider:

• Portugal – Cuisine and Culture from Porto to Lisbon (12 days): This culinary journey from Porto to Lisbon offers an insight into exceptional Portuguese culture. Taste port wine at a prestigious winery, savor gourmet cod, and picnic in the oldest wine region in the world. Hilltop palaces, medieval old towns, and glamorous beach resorts complete an unforgettable journey.
• The Wines of Portugal (9 days): This unforgettable journey takes you to some of Portugal's best wine regions, including the Douro Valley. Taste the best local varieties and explore the exciting and stunningly beautiful cities of Lisbon and Porto, complete with guided tours of their historic old towns.
• Madeira and São Miguel - guided island adventures (9 days): Visit Portugal's two autonomous regions: Madeira, the island of eternal spring as it is known, and São Miguel, nicknamed the green island. Guided tours will introduce you to the highlights of both islands, with plenty of time to explore on your own or simply relax.
• Discover more of our Portugal itineraries.

Still looking for options for your summer trip? Explore our list of the best holiday destinations in July.

What to do and see in Madeira in July?

July in Madeira offers an abundance of activities and sights, thanks to its perfect weather and vibrant cultural scene. Here's a list of five must-do things in Madeira during this lively month:

• Levada walks: Explore the island's unique irrigation canals, or levadas, which offer stunning views of the landscape. The dry and sunny weather in July is the perfect time for these walks, with routes such as the Levada do Caldeirão Verde being particularly popular.
• Visit the Laurisilva Forest: This ancient forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, is a nature lover's paradise. The mild July weather makes for comfortable conditions for hiking and discovering the diverse flora and fauna.
• Beach day at Porto Moniz Natural Pools: These unique seawater pools, formed by volcanic lava, are ideal for a refreshing swim. The warm July temperatures make a day at the beach or pool a must-do activity.
• Toboggan ride in Monte: Take a ride on a traditional wicker toboggan from Monte to Funchal. This exciting and historic mode of transportation offers spectacular views and is a fun way to descend from the heights of the island.

Madeira offers only a fraction of the unique experiences that Portugal has to offer. For even more ideas for your vacation, see our guide to the best things to do in Portugal.

Visit Madeira in different months

A year-round paradise, Madeira offers unique experiences every month to suit a variety of travelers' preferences. Whether you are looking for outdoor adventures, cultural events or just a relaxing vacation in nature, Madeira's diverse climate and activities ensure that there is always something special to do here.

• August: Experience the peak of summer with lively street festivals, including the popular Madeira Wine Festival.
• September: Take advantage of warm seas and less crowded attractions as the high season comes to an end.
• October: Watch the leaves change and enjoy the mild weather, ideal for exploring the island's natural landscapes.
• November: Enjoy the quieter side of Madeira and the wine harvest festivities, ideal for food lovers.
• December: Get into the festive spirit with Madeira's famous Christmas lights and New Year's Eve fireworks.
• January: Experience the tranquility of post-holiday Madeira, ideal for enjoying its natural beauty without the crowds of tourists.
• February: Take part in the vibrant festivities of the Madeira Carnival, one of the most colorful and lively events on the island.
• March: Spring awakens with blooming flowers and ideal temperatures for hiking and outdoor activities.
• April: Delight in the Madeira Flower Festival, where the island explodes with color and fragrant displays.
• May:  Enjoy comfortable temperatures and the start of the season of outdoor activities, including the Madeira Island Ultra Trail.
• June: Take part in the Atlantic Festival with fireworks and music, which marks the beginning of the summer festivities.