What's the Weather Like in Madeira in December?
Even though December is the winter season in Madeira, the temperatures are relatively mild with around six hours of sunshine each day. This should give you plenty of opportunities to hit the beach and soak up some rays.
What's Christmas Like In Madeira?
The comparatively sunny weather makes Madeira an appealing and popular destination for UK visitors to enjoy a Christmas holiday.
Between 2016 and 2019 Christmas Days on Maderia have averaged out at a warm 19°C. 2018 was 19°C, 2017 came in at 16°C and 2016 was a pleasant 18°C. But the highs typically reach 20°C or a little above.
Is It Hot In Madeira In December?
The average temperature for the island falls from 18°C on December 1st to 17°C by December 31st. Daily highs range from 20°C to 19°C and the lows are from 16°C to 15°C.
Does It Rain In December In Madeira?
In December Madeira has an average rainfall of around 81mm (three inches) which is spread out amongst 16 rainy days. With rain falling on over half of the month, it's almost certain you'll experience some on your holiday.
Is Madeira Windy In December?
During an average December in Madeira, normal wind speeds fluctuate between 1 m/s (light breeze) and 7 m/s (moderate breeze),
Can You Swim In The Sea In Madeira In December?
December's average sea temperature for Madeira is 20°C. Some might find this pleasant enough for swimming, others might find it a bit too cold.
hMadeira Hotels in December
When it comes to affordable luxury, the three-star Hotel do Carmo is a wonderful choice. This hotel features twin and double rooms, each of which is decorated in a 60s style. Onsite services and amenities are numerous and include: restaurant with terrace, bar with garden, free WiFi access and swimming pool.
Another top pick when it comes to low-cost luxury is the five-star Pestana Casino Park. Here you'll find standard rooms, accessible rooms, junior suites, suites and presidential suites, providing something for all budgets. There are loads of facilities and services available onsite, including: bars, restaurants, casino, free internet access, swimming pools and Jacuzzi.
Travellers on a budget should think about staying at Enotel Lido. This budget-friendly hotel provides standard rooms, superior rooms, junior suites and tower suites, guaranteeing something for all budgets and tastes. Onsite services and facilities include: bars, restaurants, fitness centre, swimming pools, kids' clubs, WiFi access and evening entertainment.
Bars and Restaurants
Seafood lovers won't want to miss the chance to enjoy a meal at Vila do Peixe. This restaurant serves a huge range of fish and seafood, all of which is on display in a massive glass cabinet, so you can choose the exact one you want. If the weather is clear, you'll be able to take advantage of the wonderful views which stretch down to the coast and out to sea.
If you want to dine amongst locals, spend an evening at Restaurante Dos Combatentes. This small restaurant boasts an international menu with a few Portuguese specialities thrown in, too. Although small and large portions are available for most of the dishes, this restaurant is known for serving very generous portions, so the small size is normally more than enough.
Bar 2 is a great place to go for a drink and some top quality music. This small bar is sometimes open during the daytime, but it's usually busiest on an evening. Here you'll find a wide variety of coffees, soft drinks, beers, wine and spirits, all of which you can enjoy alongside free WiFi.
For a delicious, freshly-prepared cocktail, you can't beat FX Bar. This venue is known for serving some of the best cocktails around and with such a huge number to choose from, you're bound to find the ideal cocktail for you. If you're not in the mood for a cocktail, you'll be pleased to hear that there are many other drinks on offer, too.
Things to do in Madeira in December
The weather in Madeira can be a bit unreliable in December, but if you do experience a cloudy day, take advantage of the cool temperatures and go off on a hike. Eira do Serrado is one of the most popular places to hike on the island and can be reached by the local bus service. Here you'll find a number of trails ranging in difficulty, providing an option for all ages and abilities. Don't forget to stop by the local café before you head back to your hotel.
If you want to indulge in some unique Christmas presents, head to the Forum Madeira Shopping Centre in Funchal. Here you'll find a huge range of goodies which make perfect gifts for friends and family back home, such as hand-baked cakes, Madeiran wines and souvenirs, as well as clothes and accessories.
One of the best ways to see the New Year's Eve firework displays in Madeira is to take a Madeira Wind Birds midnight cruise. Although the cost of a ticket is quite pricey, it's more than worth it for the opportunity to sail along the coast, sipping a glass of champagne whilst fireworks light up the sky. The boat leaves from Funchal at around 10pm and returns at around 1am.
