Home › Weather › Madeira Weather January
Live forecasts update automatically; written guidance last reviewed 16 June 2026 by the WordPatch weather desk. Data from national met services via Open-Meteo.
Live data from Open-Meteo · updates automatically ·
January in Madeira is mild and mostly settled, with average high temperatures around 17–19°C, some rain and plenty of winter sun. It is a reliable escape for travellers seeking warmth without the peak-season crowds.
What’s the weather like in Madeira in January?
January is one of Madeira’s cooler months, but still far milder than mainland UK. Daytime highs hover near 18°C, dropping to about 13°C at night. The sea remains swimmable at around 18–19°C. You can expect a mix of sunshine and short showers – the live forecast above will show the exact pattern for your trip. Light layers and a waterproof jacket are ideal, especially for exploring Funchal or walking the levadas.
Is January a good time to visit Madeira?
Yes – if you want a gentle winter break with fewer tourists and lower prices than summer. The New Year fireworks in Funchal are famous, and the gardens are still lush. UK school holidays fall in mid‑February half‑term, so January is quieter. For guaranteed beach weather, you may prefer late spring or summer, but for walking, sightseeing and a bit of winter sun, January works well. Many visitors combine a January trip with checking madeira weather february for early spring warmth.
Is Madeira warm in January?
Warm compared with the UK – expect daytime highs of 17–19°C, with sunshine feeling pleasant. It is not hot beach weather, but T‑shirts and a light jacket are fine for most activities. Evenings are cooler.
Does it rain a lot in Madeira in January?
Rain is possible – about 10 days typically see showers, often short and localised. The north of the island is wetter; the south, including Funchal, tends to be drier. A brolly or raincoat is worth packing, but the sun often returns quickly.
What to do in Madeira in January?
Visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden, take a cable car up from Funchal, walk the Levada das 25 Fontes, or join a whale‑watching trip. Indoor options include Madeira Story Centre and the local wine lodges. For scenery, a drive to Cabo Girão is worthwhile.
For UK comparisons, see our UK weather hub or the 10‑day forecast for the UK. If you are also considering madeira weather january february, the shift to February brings slightly warmer days and less rain, though both months share the same mild character.