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Algarve or Madeira?
Both are nature, food and adventure destinations in Europe. Algarve adds beaches and history. Madeira adds mountains and islands.
| Algarve | Madeira | |
|---|---|---|
| Country | Portugal | Portugal |
| Cost of a week | mid-priced | mid-priced |
| Crowds at peak | high | medium |
| Best months | May, Jun, Sep, Oct | Apr, May, Jun, Sep, Oct |
| Warmest month | August, 30°C | August, 26°C |
| Coolest month | January, 16°C | January, 17°C |
| Known for | Limestone cliffs, emerald grottoes, and traditional cataplana octopus stew. | Pico do Arieiro, Monte Palace, Porto Moniz pools, Cabo Girão, Funchal Old Town |
Month by month, side by side
| Month | Algarve | Madeira |
|---|---|---|
| Jan | 16°C | 17°C |
| Feb | 17°C | 17°C |
| Mar | 18°C | 19°C |
| Apr | 20°C | 20°C |
| May | 23°C | 21°C |
| Jun | 26°C | 22°C |
| Jul | 29°C | 25°C |
| Aug | 30°C | 26°C |
| Sep | 27°C | 24°C |
| Oct | 23°C | 24°C |
| Nov | 19°C | 21°C |
| Dec | 17°C | 19°C |
So which one?
Pick Algarve if…
you want beaches and history. It suits photographers particularly well.
Pick Madeira if…
you want mountains and islands. It suits groups of friends and first-timers particularly well. It also works in April.
Both are at their best in May, June, September, October.
Book whichever wins
Common questions
Is Algarve or Madeira cheaper?
Algarve is mid-priced for a week, Madeira is mid-priced.
Which is warmer, Algarve or Madeira?
Algarve peaks at 30°C in August; Madeira peaks at 26°C in August.
Can you do both in one trip?
Yes — they are in the same country, so combining them is straightforward.
Temperatures are measured averages (ERA5, Open-Meteo). Hotel links are partner links — your price is unchanged.