The majority of tours that explore the east of Madeira make a stop at Machico—where you usually have free time to relax on Praia de Machico, wander among whitewashed houses, and enjoy panoramic views from the town’s forts. These excursions allow you to skip the hassle of car hire and navigation, and typically also cover eastern highlights such as Portela Viewpoint (Miradouro da Portela); the village of Santan, famous for its triangular thatched houses; and Pico do Arieiro, the island’s third-highest peak.
From the island capital of Funchal, Machico is a 30-minute drive via the VR1 road. You can also take the #56 or #103 bus from the cable car terminal in Funchal, which drops you right in the center of the town.
In general, the weather in Madeira is sunny and dry throughout the year. However, the best time to visit the island is in May or June—before the European summer holidays see a surge in visitors—and when temperatures are still cool enough to enjoy hiking opportunities.
The eastern side of Madeira is home to a handful of charming villages. Top picks include Camacha, a hilltop village that’s famous for its basket weaving and furniture—more than 1,000 articles are exhibited in the town museum. Another must-visit place is Santana, where brightly-colored houses have distinctive thatched roofs. The village is also famous for its parish church, which dates back to the 17th century.