Madeira with Kids – Part III: When It Rains
Hello and welcome to part three of our miniseries "Madeira with Kids"! Madeira is known for its pleasant climate, especially on the island's southern coast, which enjoys around 300 sunny days a year, making it perfect for outdoor activities. Families can spend plenty of time outdoors, whether by the pool, hiking, or at the island's beaches. For more tips on what you can do with your kids, feel free to visit part I and part II of our mini-series "Madeira with Kids."
Of course, we love hiking along the Levadas or exploring Madeira's picturesque villages with you. But sometimes, the weather decides it's time for a little shower. Don’t worry, we’ve got a few tricks up our sleeves to make sure you won’t be bored on rainy days!
Our Top Tips for Rainy Days
Madeira Story Centre
Imagine going on a time-travel adventure: In about an hour and a half, you can experience Madeira’s history, from its volcanic origins to wild pirate battles, all the way to its modern development. The interactive center not only offers fascinating insights into the history but also plenty of fun for the kids.
The Madeira Story Centre has a lovely panoramic terrace with great views of Funchal. Little foodies can try delicious Madeiran snacks at the bistro, and the attached shop offers regional products and souvenirs.
Museums for the Whole Family
Madeira has a wide range of museums that are perfect for a family outing on a rainy day:
At the MUDAS, the Museum of Contemporary Art of Madeira, kids can marvel, laugh, and explore the world of art with all their senses. Colorful paintings, quirky sculptures, and interactive games are waiting to be explored by curious eyes.
For football fans big and small, a visit to the CR7 Museum in Funchal is a must. Here you can learn everything about the career of Madeira’s most famous son, footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, and admire impressive trophies, shirts, and awards.
In Lugar de Baixo, the Banana Museum (BAM) awaits, explaining the history of the banana and its significance for Madeira. Kids can playfully learn more about banana cultivation and go on a discovery tour. The large banana garden also features a small café with many banana-based treats.
The Casa da Luz, also known as the Electricity Museum in Funchal, is an exciting place for kids to learn about the history of electricity in Madeira. Located in a historic building that used to house Funchal's thermal power station, the museum offers fascinating exhibitions on the "Lights of Funchal," the development of electricity on the island, and renewable energies. Kids can engage with interactive stations, bringing the topic to life in a fun and understandable way.
At the 3D Fun Art Museum, art meets fun. In this child-friendly museum in Funchal, you can take interactive photos with fun 3D images—a guaranteed family favorite, allowing the kids to experience art in a whole new way.
The Photography Museum (Museu de Fotografia da Madeira) is an exciting place where you can explore Madeira’s history through the lens of a camera. Perfect for photography enthusiasts of all ages, you’ll dive into the fascinating world of photography and discover Madeira's story from a new perspective.
Mercado dos Lavradores
If you'd like to explore Madeira’s cultural side, you must visit the Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal. Even in the rain, you can stroll here and discover local products like exotic fruits (just be careful of the vendors!), spices, and handmade souvenirs. The vibrant atmosphere of the market will surely delight the kids!
Pura Vida Indoor Playground
For your little adventurers between 4 and 12 years old, the Pura Vida Indoor Playground in Funchal is a true paradise on a rainy day! Here, they can make new friends and let their imagination run wild in a safe environment. Whether climbing, sliding, or exploring exciting play areas, boredom is never an option here. While the kids get lost in their adventures, parents can relax in the cozy café area.
Sportpark Água de Pena
If the rain brings some wet surprises, Sportspark Água de Pena is a real hit for active families. Located beneath the start and landing runway of the airport, it offers kids the chance to run wild: trampolines, climbing walls, and an indoor football field—boredom has no place here!
Underwater Discoveries: Madeira Aquarium
A great destination for a rainy day is the Madeira Aquarium in Porto Moniz. Here, your kids can explore the fascinating underwater world and discover a variety of sea creatures from all over the world. It's both an exciting and educational experience, making it a highlight for the whole family.
Shopping – When the Rain Just Won’t Stop
And if the rain simply won’t let up, there are plenty of opportunities for a relaxing shopping day. The large shopping centers in Madeira offer a great variety of stores and are perfect for spending time indoors.
Madeira Shopping in Funchal is a shopping paradise, offering a wide range of international and local brands. Plaza Madeira tempts with modern boutiques and cozy cafés, perfect for a break. Forum Madeira not only has a wide selection of shops, but also a cinema center where films are shown in both Portuguese and English, as well as various restaurants for entertainment—perfect for enjoying a rainy day.
Go back to part 1