11 Best Bars in Madeira, Portugal

One of Funchal's best-kept secrets, this tiny bar doesn't look like much from the outside, but inside it's full of character. There's an enormous world map and colorful posters plastered to the walls—and it's one of the few places in town where you'll find an entire menu dedicated to craft beer, which is why the locals hang out here all night long.

The best time to head to Mercearia Dona Mécia is early evening when there's still enough space to sit at a table under the shady trees. This tiny bar stands in a white-cobbled courtyard, where smartly dressed locals stop for a quick tipple on their way home from work. Start with a cerveja and a bowl of olives before switching to poncha as you watch the locals come and go.

This stone-walled wine lodge was first established in 1924, and it doesn't feel like much has changed in the past century; the timber-framed ceiling, the bar made with wine barrels, and the moody lighting make you feel like you're stepping back in time. Dusty bottles of Madeira line the walls, and an old wine press stands in the corner. It's a great place to visit in the evening when locals pile in, especially for a glass of their renowned poncha.

Tell the friendly bartenders at this cozy bar what liquor and flavors you prefer, and they’ll whip you up a personalized cocktail using fresh fruits, herbs, and spices. Or simply choose a tasty concoction such as the Madeira Colada from their extensive list.

This popular spot is tucked away amid the traditional restaurants on the backstreets of the old town, and the friendly bar staff can mix a mean cocktail. A soundtrack of mainly '70s, '80s, and '90s music plays until the early hours, and a small terrace allows for alfresco sipping and chatting on those warm Madeira nights. The bar attracts a mixed crowd of locals and visitors, ranging from young to young at heart.

You'll find potent poncha and tear-jerking fado at this enduringly popular spot in Funchal's old town, with live performances kicking off Tuesday to Sunday around 7:30 pm.

Beneath the Casino da Madeira, this club often has live Brazilian music. There's dance music on Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday in the summer starting at 11 pm (and on Friday and Saturday the rest of the year), which attracts a lively over-thirty crowd.

This quasi-English pub also shows big-screen sports and has imported beers, cocktails, theme nights, and a buzzy atmosphere.

The waitstaff does double duty as fado singers at this hugely popular spot in the old town. The food is fairly standard and quite expensive, but you can just stop in for a glass of wine. The atmosphere is always lively—just don't expect too much elbow room at your table. Book in advance, as it's often full.

House, hip-hop, or whichever type of music is currently in vogue is on tap at Madeira's largest nightclub in a cavernous former warehouse next to the docks. Regular guest DJs and drinks promotions shake things up on weekends. Things don't get going until after midnight.