What to do in Ilha

Activities, attractions and tours

Photo by Vincent Malley
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Márcio M. Alves
Photo by Vincent Malley
Photo by Dries Talloen

Ilha Tourist Attractions & Activities

If you’re searching for an exciting holiday, count on Expedia.com.au to help you find interesting attractions, enlightening experiences, and tons of other fun things to do in Ilha AU$12. From first-rate tours to incredible deals on sightseeing trips – our extensive selection of local things to do and places to visit is just a few clicks away.

It doesn’t matter whether you’re travelling alone, alongside your main squeeze, or with your favourite friends or family members, Expedia has the inside scoop on what to see and do while in this corner of the world. And our search tool makes it simple to score the best deals around. So regardless of if you are on a tight budget or prefer to spare no expense, you’ll find exactly what you’re looking for by browsing over 472 activities in Ilha, Santana.

The intuitive booking system here on Expedia.com.au makes planning your holiday easier—and more affordable—than ever before. And not only can you discover all the best Ilha attractions from AU$12, but you can also book flights, hire cars, and reserve hotel rooms all in just a few moments. A world of wonder awaits you and your travelling companions. Count on Expedia.com.au to help you plan the holiday of your dreams, and you’ll have the time of your life.


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Top places to visit

1. Porto Moniz Natural Pools

The Porto Moniz Natural Pools are one of the city’s most popular attractions. Formed by volcanic lava, these tranquil pools are sheltered from the strong current of the Atlantic by black basalt rocks. Swim, sunbathe or snorkel at the pools, which are complete with changing rooms, lockers and lifeguard services. There’s also a children’s pool and play area, making the pools an excellent spot for a family excursion.
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Porto Moniz Natural Pools showing rocky coastline

2. Madeira Botanical Garden

Enjoy the rich collection of more than 2,000 plants at the Madeira Botanical Garden. Set on a hillside overlooking Funchal, this beautifully landscaped garden offers dramatic views of the mountains to the north and the ocean to the south.
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Madeira Botanical Garden which includes flowers

3. Ponta Do Sol Beach

Ponta do Sol Beach is a pleasant pebble beach surrounded by rugged cliffs and lined with charming cafés. Known for being one of the sunniest places in Madeira, the beach is a wonderful spot to relax and bask in the warm sun and go for a dip in the calm coastal waters.
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Ponta Do Sol Beach featuring swimming, a coastal town and a pebble beach

4. Town Square

Funchal’s Town Square is a bustling hub of activity, lined with beautiful checkered cobblestones and bordered by grand whitewashed buildings. In addition to being a lovely civic center, the square is an ideal starting point for visiting several attractions, including the Sacred Art Museum, City Hall and the former Jesuit College.
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Town Square which includes a small town or village and street scenes

5. Cabo Girao

Plummeting straight down toward the ocean, Cabo Girao is among the tallest cliffs in Europe. Rising 1,900 feet (580 meters) above the water, it is one of the most photogenic points in the region. For extra thrills, follow the glass-floored skywalk to this scenic site, offering a clear view of the steep downward drop below.
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Cabo Girao showing a small town or village and mountains

What to do in Ilha


Discover the most popular places to visit in Ilha


 

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Frequently asked questions

Is Ilha worth visiting?
Whether you want to enjoy the local charm and cultural attractions or sample unique foods and venture into nature, there are many things to do in Ilha.
How do I spend a day in Ilha?
Once you've visited leading attractions like Pico Ruivo, spend the rest of your day discovering the retail and food options in Ilha.
What is the top tourist attraction in Ilha?
PARQUE FORESTAL DE QUEIMADAS is ranked the top tourist attraction near Ilha, so don't leave without experiencing it.
Is three days enough to stay in Ilha?
Three days in Ilha is enough time to explore the nearby attractions. A traveller favourite is PARQUE FORESTAL DE QUEIMADAS and Pico Ruivo, so why not add them to the itinerary when you're in the area?
Is Ilha a walkable neighbourhood?
Take a walk from the centre of Ilha to Pico Das Pedras and other popular attractions. Where to next? Stroll for around 3 kilometres to get to the neighbourhood of Santana.
What are some activities to do in Ilha with kids?
Deciding what to do in Ilha with kids has never been so easy. Whether you're taking a trip with little ones or teenagers, there's no shortage of family-friendly attractions to keep them happy here.

What to do in Ilha for adults?
From fantastic food and cultural hotspots to outdoor adventures and unique experiences, there are many exciting things to do in Ilha for adults.
Are there free things to do in Ilha?
Near Ilha, PARQUE FORESTAL DE QUEIMADAS is an excellent spot for anyone looking to experience the area without opening their wallet. Also, visit parks and other neighbourhoods, and ask a local tour guide for tips. It's one of the simplest ways to find the most popular free things to do in Ilha.