Places I always enjoy returning to
Everyone has them—those cafés you keep coming back to. Where you know what you’re going to get, where the quality is just right, and where you meet familiar faces.
I’ve found places like this in Madeira too: small cafés where the coffee is always good, where you drop in on the spur of the moment and just stay – for a moment of peace, a chat with friends, or a cozy afternoon.
Here are my five favorite cafés in Madeira – maybe one of them will become your new favorite place too.
XS Café Prazeres
A small café with great charm. From the square, you have a beautiful view of the church, and the beetroot or sweet potato sandwiches are simply brilliant. The freshly made juices are always a good choice—and if you love chocolate, you should definitely try the one from Uaucacau. The vegan apple pie is also very tasty. I like the relaxed atmosphere here—uncomplicated, friendly, delicious.
Villa Amore - Paul do Mar
A family café just as you would wish it to be: friendly, welcoming, and serving homemade cakes that always taste delicious. After yoga, I often go here with my students—it’s the perfect place to relax and round off the morning.
The café is surrounded by a beautiful variety of plants – everything is blooming, fragrant, and growing, and you immediately feel at home. Many locals also meet here to chat and share the latest news. I especially like the passion fruit tart – and Elaine, who works there, makes every visit special with her warm manner.
Gato Legal – Ponta do Pargo
A small coffee roastery with character. The aroma of freshly ground beans fills the air, and the homemade cakes are always a highlight. They serve breakfast, sandwiches, burgers—including vegan options. Ideal for a break after a trip through western Madeira. Cozy, delicious, friendly—that’s how a café should be. Extra tip: From here, there is a beautiful walk to Gaganta Funda, a viewpoint overlooking a waterfall.
Kamoshi - Paul do Mar
Newly opened—and already a favorite spot. The Kamoshi sourdough bakery smells of freshly baked bread, focaccia, and sweet pastries. They serve delicious coffee, chai latte, or matcha—and sometimes you have to wait a little because it’s so popular. But it’s worth the wait, every time.
Madeira Coffee Roasters - Santa Cruz
Stylish, modern décor and really good coffee. Madeira Coffee Roasters is a great place to stop off when you’re out and about in Funchal or want to take a short break on your way to the airport. A place where you can sit back, enjoy a freshly roasted coffee and recharge your batteries.
More Madeira tips to downloadMore Madeira tips to download
If you feel like exploring Madeira a little further, you can download my free PDF.
In it, you’ll find not only these five favorite cafés, but also my favorite hikes, brunch spots, and restaurants on the island.
All cafés are linked directly there—so you can find them with just one click, whether you’re already here or planning your trip.
This post is also available in: German