Porto da Cruz Travel Guide

Comprehensive travel guide for Porto da Cruz in Madeira, Portugal, featuring top places to visit, hiking/biking routes, food and drink scene, where to stay, local culture, safety and health, and transportation options.


Introduction to Porto da Cruz

Porto da Cruz is a charming town located on the northeast coast of the island of Madeira, Portugal. It is a popular tourist destination due to its historic landmarks, natural attractions, and outdoor adventures. The town is surrounded by lush greenery, vineyards, and stunning ocean views that promise visitors both relaxation and adventure.

List of Places to Visit in Porto da Cruz

Culturally Important Attractions: Museums and Historical Places

  • Porto da Cruz Old Sugar Mill: A museum that showcases the history of sugar production on the island.
  • Capela Nossa Senhora da Conceição: A 16th-century chapel with an impressive Gothic altar and paintings of the life of Christ.
  • Fortress of Santiago: A historic fortress that once protected the town from pirates.

Natural Attractions of Porto da Cruz: Outdoor Adventures and Scenic Views

  • Pontinha: An impressive natural rock formation located in the sea that can be accessed by a footbridge.
  • Penha d’Aguia: A stunning viewpoint that offers a panoramic view of the island’s coastline.
  • Levada do Castelejo: A scenic hiking trail that takes you through lush greenery and stunning waterfalls.

Hiking/Biking Routes of Porto da Cruz

  • PR14 - Vereda do Larano: A peaceful trail leading to the stunning Larano beach.
  • PR12 - Vereda do Larano / Boaventura: A hike that combines rugged coastline and stunning greenery.
  • Bike Tour Porto da Cruz: A guided bike tour through the town and surrounding countryside.

Best Things to Do in Porto da Cruz: Activities and Tours

  • Surfing lessons: The town has both waves suitable for beginners and advanced surfers, and many schools offer courses.
  • Whale and dolphin-watching tour: Take a boat tour to see the whales and dolphins that can often be spotted near the island’s coast.
  • Madeira rum tasting: Visit one of the town’s distilleries to learn about the history of the island’s rum production and taste some of the best rums.

Week-Long Itinerary for Porto da Cruz

Day Activities
1 Visit the Old Sugar Mill and walk the coastal path to Pontinha
2 Hike the PR14 trail and relax on Larano beach
3 Take a bike tour of the town and countryside
4 Visit the Fortress of Santiago and enjoy a rum tasting
5 Take a whale and dolphin-watching tour
6 Hike the PR12 trail and visit the Capela Nossa Senhora da Conceição
7 Relax at a local restaurant and enjoy the stunning sunset view from Penha d’Aguia

Food and Drink Scene of Porto da Cruz

Must-Try Dishes

  • Espetada: Grilled meat on a skewer served with local bread and vegetables.
  • Bolo do Caco: A local bread typically served with garlic butter and a variety of toppings.
  • Lapas: Grilled limpets often served as a snack with garlic butter.

Local Beverages

  • Poncha: A traditional Madeira beverage made from aguardente, honey, and lemon juice.
  • Nikita: A refreshing drink made from beer, ice cream, and pineapple or strawberry juice.
  • Madeira wine: A fortified wine produced in the Madeira archipelago.

Where to Stay in Porto da Cruz: Hotels, Hostels, and Guesthouses

  • Quinta Da Capela: A charming guesthouse in the heart of the town with a beautiful courtyard and garden.
  • Hotel Porto Santo & Spa: A modern hotel with stunning ocean views and luxurious amenities.
  • Areia Dourada: A budget-friendly hostel with a prime location near the town’s main attractions.

What to Buy in Porto da Cruz: Souvenirs and Local Products to Bring Home

  • Madeira wine: A bottle of Madeira wine is a must-try, and many shops sell bottles.
  • Embroidery: The island is famous for its embroidery, and many shops sell handcrafted pieces.
  • Honey: Madeira is known for producing high-quality honey, which can often be found at local shops and markets.

Local Culture and Customs of Porto da Cruz

The town is known for its vibrant culture and festivities. The island celebrates a range of traditional festivals throughout the year, such as the Festas de São João, where the streets are decorated with colorful flowers and lights.

Best Time to Visit Porto da Cruz

The best time to visit Porto da Cruz is between April and September when the weather is warm and sunny. However, the town is still worth visiting at any time of the year, as the lush greenery and stunning ocean views are always on display.

Do’s and Don’ts of Porto da Cruz

Do:

  • Try surfing or take surfing lessons.
  • Visit the local distilleries and try Madeira rum.
  • Experience a traditional festival or celebration.

Don’t:

  • Litter on beaches or in outdoor areas.
  • Overindulge in alcohol or drugs.
  • Disrespect local customs or traditions.

Safety and Health

Safety in Porto da Cruz

The town is generally safe for visitors, but it’s always important to take precautions when traveling, such as locking doors and windows and keeping valuable possessions safe. It’s also important to be cautious when swimming in the sea, as the currents can be strong and dangerous.

Health in Porto da Cruz

The island of Madeira has a high-quality healthcare system, and there are several hospitals and clinics located near Porto da Cruz. However, it’s important to bring any necessary prescription medications and take precautions to avoid illness while traveling, such as practicing good hygiene and drinking bottled water.

Getting to Porto da Cruz: Transportation Options and Logistics

Airports Near Porto da Cruz

Madeira International Airport is the nearest airport, located approximately 16 miles away from Porto da Cruz. There are regular flights from major cities in Europe and Portugal.

Bus Stations Near Porto da Cruz

There are several bus routes that connect Porto da Cruz to other towns and cities on the island, including Funchal, the capital of Madeira.

Other Options

Rental cars and taxis are also available, and many visitors choose to rent a car to explore the town and surrounding areas.

How to Get Around in Porto da Cruz

Walking is the easiest way to get around the town, as most of the major attractions are within walking distance of each other. Buses and taxis are also available for travel to other parts of the island.

Where to Go Next from Porto da Cruz: Nearby Destinations and Excursions

  • Santana: A charming village located just a short distance north from Porto da Cruz and known for its traditional A-frame houses.
  • Pico Ruivo: The highest peak on the island with stunning views of the surrounding countryside.
  • Funchal: The capital of Madeira, known for its historic landmarks, vibrant nightlife, and bustling markets.

Conclusion

Porto da Cruz is a beautiful and charming town on the island of Madeira that offers visitors a range of activities and attractions. Whether you’re looking for a relaxing beach vacation or an outdoor adventure, Porto da Cruz is the perfect destination for your next travel adventure.

Porto da Cruz with the public swimming pools next to the sea in the foreground Porto da Cruz with the public swimming pools next to the sea in the foreground The old rum factory The old rum factory The settlement of Ribeiro Frio, at the end of the Levada do Castelejo path The settlement of Ribeiro Frio, at the end of the Levada do Castelejo path The church The church