What to wear in Madeira in November: a packing list

In November, pack for a mild Atlantic autumn with showers: in Funchal the average daytime high is about 23°C and the night-time low about 17°C, with around 80 mm of rain spread over seven days or so (IPMA climate normal for Funchal, 1991 to 2020). Bring light layers, a sweater or fleece, a waterproof jacket and shoes with grip. The mountains are cooler and often misty, so take a warm layer up there even when Funchal is sunny.

Rain is more frequent in November than in the summer months, but it usually comes as short showers rather than whole wet days.

Madeira's microclimates mean you can have sun in Funchal and mist in the mountains on the same day. If you plan to see more than one part of the island, pack for both, and check the Madeira weather for each area before you set off.

Dress in layers. A T-shirt or light long-sleeved top is the base; add a sweater or fleece for the evenings, and keep a waterproof jacket within reach for the showers.

For bottoms, jeans, light trousers or skirts all work. If you plan to hike, bring sturdy walking shoes or boots, because the ground on many trails is rough. A pair of comfortable trainers covers walking around Funchal.

For the levadas, wear breathable clothing that dries quickly, and hiking boots with good grip: the paths can be slippery after rain. Our guide to self-guided levada walks has five routes you can do without a guide.

Carry a daypack with water, snacks and a light raincoat. The sun is still strong enough in November to burn, so bring a hat, sunglasses and sunscreen too.

• A travel umbrella for sudden showers.
• A reusable water bottle for walks.
• A universal power adapter: Portugal uses type C and F plugs.
• A few ziplock bags to keep your phone and documents dry.

Funchal's farmers' market, the Mercado dos Lavradores, is the place to buy fresh fruit and try local food. November is also a good month to visit Madeira's vineyards and taste the island's wine. For what is on during your stay, see the events calendar.

Leave some room in your luggage for souvenirs such as Madeira wine or handwoven tapestries.

Yes, if you want mild weather: Funchal averages about 23°C by day and 17°C at night. Expect some showers, roughly seven rainy days in the month.

Yes. Bring a waterproof jacket for the rain and a sweater or fleece for evenings and for the mountains, which are cooler and often misty.

Funchal gets about 80 mm in an average November, on around seven days. The showers are usually short.

Hiking boots or sturdy walking shoes with good grip for levadas and trails, which get slippery after rain, and comfortable trainers for town.

For other months, see the Madeira packing list for every month.