Madeira can take your breath away at a single glance, securing its place on the list of the ‘Best Islands in Europe’. Dramatic sea cliffs draped in green meadows, the striking blue waves rolling against the black sand beaches, and an all-year-round sunshine shower your skin. That’s a bit about Madeira – it attracts thousands of tourists regardless of the season. But, what if you have already visited Madeira and wish to see other equally beautiful places? Luckily, there are several places like Madeira across Europe that offer equally stunning landscapes, culture-rich experiences, and that same off-the-beaten-path magic.
In this blog, we’ll explore 9 alternative islands in Europe that are perfect if you loved Madeira, or want to discover something just as special.
Places like Madeira – Summary
- What is Madeira Known For?
- What Are We Looking for in “Places Like Madeira”?
- 1. São Miguel, The Azores, Portugal
- 2. Tenerife, Spain
- 3. Fuerteventura, Spain
- 4. Samos, Greece
- 5. Corsica, France
- 6. Aeolian Islands, Italy
- 7. Isles of Scilly, UK
- 8. Malta
- 9. Hvar, Croatia
What is Madeira Known For?
Madeira is a volcanic island off the coast of Portugal, celebrated for its laurel forests, terraced hillsides, levada trails, and panoramic cliffside views. “It’s simply a playground for outdoor enthusiasts. The nature is very diverse,” stated TripLeader Roberta, a group travel company owner who finds herself in Madeira a few times a year. Besides that, Madeira features laid-back and culturally-rich towns that scream ‘vacation’. Funchal, the capital city, boasts a lot of things to do, from riding a toboggan to sightseeing from a cable car. Not to mention, you can delve into Madeiran delicacies, including poncha and espetada.
In a nutshell, Madeira is known for its beautiful natural landscapes, top-notch hiking trails, interesting culture, and a wide choice of activities for leisure and vacation.
What Are We Looking for in “Places Like Madeira”?
To qualify as a great alternative to Madeira, an island should have either:
- Natural beauty and scenic hiking trails
- A peaceful atmosphere, away from mass tourism
- Local culture and charm
- Ideal for slow travel or wellness escapes
- A mix of coastlines, mountains, and maybe a volcano or two
Let’s dive into the list!
1. São Miguel, The Azores, Portugal
Known as the “Green Island” of the Azores, São Miguel is Madeira’s Atlantic cousin. With its steaming hot springs, crater lakes like Lagoa das Sete Cidades, and dramatic coastal cliffs, this island feels like a fairy tale—just with cows and hydrangeas.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Volcanic landscape and lush greenery
- Year-round mild climate
- Great hiking, whale watching, and thermal spas
- Also Portuguese, so you’ll feel familiar if you’ve been to Madeira
2. Tenerife, Spain
Tenerife offers much more than resorts. The island’s northern coast and inland areas like Anaga Rural Park and Mount Teide National Park offer Madeira-level beauty with a Canarian twist. Think banana plantations, lava fields, and cute old towns.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Volcano hikes and rugged cliffs
- Similar subtropical weather
- Excellent road-tripping island
- Wine culture and colonial history
3. Fuerteventura, Spain
Windswept, wild, and wonderfully uncrowded—Fuerteventura is a dream for travelers who want beaches, waves, and solitude. The volcanic terrain here is more desert-like than Madeira, but it has the same raw, untamed energy.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Dramatic natural beauty, minus the crowds
- Great for surfing and kitesurfing
- Remote coastal hikes and volcanic roots
- Slow travel destination with charming villages
4. Samos, Greece
If you love Madeira’s balance between coast and mountains, Samos will hit the spot. This green Greek island offers vineyards, pine forests, ancient ruins, and turquoise waters—without the Mykonos-level tourists.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Mountainous terrain and scenic coastal walks
- Authentic food and wine culture
- Peaceful, relaxed vibe perfect for slow travel
- Small villages and nature trails
5. Corsica, France
Corsica is one of Europe’s most diverse islands, with rugged mountain ranges, crystal-clear coves, and medieval towns. Its hiking routes, especially the famous GR20 trail, are bucket-list worthy.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Mountain-to-sea landscapes
- Amazing hiking opportunities
- Cultural mix of French and Italian influence
- Ideal for active, nature-first travelers
6. Aeolian Islands, Italy
Located just north of Sicily, the Aeolian Islands are a volcanic archipelago filled with natural wonders. Think black sand beaches, steaming vents, and gorgeous views from Stromboli or Vulcano.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Volcanic origin with unique geology
- Small island vibes and slower pace of life
- Fantastic food and sunsets
- Great for hiking and boat hopping
7. Isles of Scilly, UK
Don’t underestimate these subtropical isles just off Cornwall. The Isles of Scilly are surprisingly warm (thanks to the Gulf Stream), beautifully wild, and filled with coastal trails and sea views.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Remote and peaceful, perfect for nature lovers
- Walkable paths with stunning sea cliffs
- Off-the-radar feel
- Great for birdwatching, stargazing, and slow travel
8. Malta
A sun-drenched mix of Mediterranean charm and layered history, Malta combines coastal beauty with fortified cities and prehistoric sites. It’s a bit more built-up than Madeira, but still great for culture lovers who want sun and sea.
Why it is a great place like Madeira:
- Scenic coastal views and island heritage
- Mild winters and sunny weather
- Great diving, ancient history, and village culture
- Easy to explore by car or boat
9. Hvar, Croatia
Hvar blends lavender fields, sunny beaches, and medieval architecture in a way that feels both vibrant and relaxing. It’s got a reputation as a party island, but there are quieter towns and hidden coves too.
Why it’s like Madeira:
- Coastal cliffs and forested hills
- Small harbor towns and vineyard-covered slopes
- Laid-back luxury and sunny weather
- Ideal mix of nature and culture
Ready for an Island Adventure?
Whether you’re craving mountain hikes, volcanic views, or ocean breezes, these places like Madeira deliver the same magic in their own unique ways. Each one invites you to slow down, explore, and fall in love with island life all over again. Join a curated group trip to one of these amazing islands with JoinMyTrip and connect with like-minded travelers who are just as excited about exploring the hidden gems of Europe.