Travellers searching for a beachfront all-inclusive in Madeira often land on Hotel Riu Madeira, a 4-star property in Caniço de Baixo that reopened in May 2022 after a complete renovation and now operates a 24-hour all-inclusive package covering meals, branded drinks, and entertainment. This review draws on the official RIU website, verified guest ratings from multiple booking platforms, and detailed renovation reports to give you a balanced walkthrough of what this resort actually delivers.
Last checked: 2026-08-17
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Hotel name: Hotel Riu Madeira · Location: Canico de Baixo, Madeira, Portugal · Star rating: 4-star · Board basis: 24-hour All Inclusive · Beach: Beachfront on Reis Magos beach · Nearby airport: Madeira Airport (FNC), about 10-15 minutes drive
How we researched this
Last checked: 2026-08-17.
Sources reviewed: official property website (riu.com), TripAdvisor reviews, Booking.com listing, Hotels.com listing, Expedia listing, Traveloka listings, TUI Group press release, and the travel trade publication Profession Voyages.
No on-site visit was conducted, no staff interviews were performed, and no unpublished pricing data was used. All ratings and figures shown are publicly available as of the date above.
Hotel Riu Madeira at a glance
- 4-star hotel, 24-hour all-inclusive, beachfront on Praia dos Reis Magos (RIU Hotels & Resorts)
- Completed full renovation and reopened on 29 April 2022 (Profession Voyages; TUI Group)
- 4.6/5 on TripAdvisor, 9.0–9.2/10 on Expedia, Hotels.com, Booking.com, and Traveloka (TripAdvisor; Hotels.com; Booking.com)
- Three restaurants, two outdoor pools, one indoor pool, free shuttle to Funchal (The Family Holiday Guide; TripAdvisor)
| Detail | Value |
|---|---|
| Hotel name | Hotel Riu Madeira |
| Location | Caniço de Baixo, Madeira, Portugal |
| Star rating | 4-star |
| Board basis | 24-hour All Inclusive |
| Beach | Beachfront on Reis Magos beach |
| Nearby airport | Madeira Airport (FNC), about 10–15 minutes drive |
Is there a Riu hotel in Madeira?
Yes – Hotel Riu Madeira and Hotel Riu Palace Madeira. According to the official RIU Hotels & Resorts site, Hotel Riu Madeira is a 4-star property located at Praia dos Reis Magos in Caniço de Baixo. The trade publication Profession Voyages also notes it is the only RIU-branded hotel in Portugal, making it a distinct presence in the country’s resort landscape. The 5-star upgrade, Hotel Riu Palace Madeira, operates nearby in the same Caniço area and offers more upscale amenities, a tiered dining program, and additional premium facilities. The existence of both gives travellers a clear brand ladder to choose from depending on budget and desired level of luxury.
The pattern: two RIU options exist on the island, with Riu Madeira positioned as the accessible, family-friendly entry point.
Yes – Hotel Riu Madeira and Hotel Riu Palace Madeira
Both properties share the same coastal strip east of Funchal, but they cater to different traveller segments. Riu Madeira’s 4-star classification means it offers a solid all-inclusive package without the top-tier pricing of the Palace line, while Riu Palace Madeira adds a la carte restaurants, a larger spa, and a more sophisticated design. For many guests, the deciding factor is whether they prioritise the Palace’s premium touches or the value and relaxed atmosphere of the base resort.
Is Hotel Riu Madeira all inclusive?
Yes, Hotel Riu Madeira operates a 24-hour All Inclusive programme. RIU Hotels & Resorts states that all guests receive a wristband upon check-in, granting access to buffet meals, branded drinks (including spirits, cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks), snacks, and evening entertainment. The TUI Group press release from April 2022 confirms the package was introduced as part of the hotel’s full renovation, with the goal of creating a truly worry-free resort experience. The Family Holiday Guide notes that in practice this means all food and drink—including lunch, dinner, and late snacks—are included, with no surcharges for standard menu items.
The implication: guests can budget tightly for their trip as almost no on-site food and drink costs are extra.
24-hour All Inclusive explained
The 24-hour element is key: it covers early breakfasts, late dinners, and everything in between, with snacks available during off-peak hours. Reviews on Hotels.com consistently praise the variety and quality of the buffet, describing it as “wide-ranging” and “very good value.” A 2025 TripAdvisor review titled “Great stay for a family with a kid” specifically highlights the branded drinks, plenty of lunch options, and the evening entertainment as highlights of the all-inclusive experience.
What’s included in the Riu Madeira all inclusive package
Beyond meals and drinks, the package includes daytime activities organised by the entertainment team, access to the pool areas and sunbeds, and evening shows. Some reviews on Traveloka mention that while the selection is generally solid, the buffet menu can feel repetitive over longer stays—a common trade-off with all-inclusive resorts. The catch is that variety may be narrower than at high-end a la carte properties, though most travellers find the quality-to-quantity ratio favourable.
Tip for first-timers: If you are accustomed to ultra-premium all-inclusive resorts, note that Riu Madeira’s experience is more “solid and reliable” than “cutting-edge.” It works best for those who value convenience and consistent quality over gastronomic innovation.
The bottom line: Tip for first-timers: If you are accustomed to ultra-premium all-inclusive resorts, note that Riu Madeira’s experience is more “solid and reliable” than “cutting-edge.” It works best for those who value convenience and consistent quality over gastronomic innovation.
How many rooms does Riu Madeira have?
Hotel Riu Madeira contains more than 600 rooms. Exact figures available on RIU’s official page and corroborated by The Family Holiday Guide place the total room count in the low 600s. This makes the resort sizable but manageable; walkways and common areas are designed to accommodate the volume without feeling overcrowded, according to TripAdvisor reviews.
The bottom line: room count is large enough to support a wide range of amenities but small enough to avoid the “mega-resort” feel.
Room types and capacity
Standard rooms include double and twin configurations, all with en-suite bathrooms, air conditioning, satellite TV, and a balcony or terrace. Many rooms offer sea views, and some face the pool or garden areas. There are no dedicated suite categories at Riu Madeira—the step up in room size and luxury is provided by Riu Palace Madeira instead. This is a notable point for guests who specifically seek suite-style accommodation.
Are there suites at Riu Madeira?
No, Hotel Riu Madeira does not offer suites. The highest categories are junior suites, which are essentially slightly larger standard rooms with a sitting area. If a full suite is a priority, the Palace property next door is the better option. The absence of suites, however, simplifies the choice for many travellers and keeps the pricing structure straightforward.
What is the difference between regular RIU and Riu Palace?
The primary differences are star rating, amenities, and dining options. RIU Hotels & Resorts classifies Hotel Riu Madeira as 4-star, while Hotel Riu Palace Madeira is 5-star. Profession Voyages describes the Palace line as RIU’s premium brand, characterised by more elaborately decorated interiors, à la carte restaurants, an upgraded spa, and a higher standard of personalised service. In practice, this means Riu Palace Madeira offers multiple specialty dining venues (Italian, Asian, steakhouse), whereas Riu Madeira relies on its main buffet plus two smaller specialty restaurants (usually one for grilled dishes and one for snacks). The nightly rate difference between the two is typically €50–€100 per room depending on season, based on prices from Booking.com and Expedia.
The trade-off: paying the Palace premium buys you more culinary variety and a plusher setting, but Riu Madeira’s package already covers most needs for a relaxed beach holiday.
Riu Madeira vs Riu Palace Madeira: key differences
- Star rating: 4-star (Riu Madeira) vs 5-star (Riu Palace)
- Restaurants: 3 eateries (Riu Madeira) vs 5+ eateries (Riu Palace)
- Spa: None on-site (Riu Madeira) vs full-service spa (Riu Palace)
- Pools: 2 outdoor + 1 indoor (Riu Madeira) vs 2 outdoor + heated indoor (Riu Palace)
- Drinks in all-inclusive: Branded spirits, beer, cocktails, soft drinks (both); Riu Palace adds a wider selection of premium labels
Which one should you choose?
Choose Riu Madeira if you prioritise value, straightforward all-inclusive convenience, and a family-friendly atmosphere. Choose Riu Palace if you want an elevated gastronomic experience, a larger spa, and more luxurious finishings. Both properties share the same beach, but the Palace rooms are larger and more elaborately decorated. The decision is essentially about budget and how much you value upgraded dining and décor.
Note for couples: If you are celebrating a special occasion, Riu Palace’s premium experience and dedicated à la carte dinners may be worth the extra spend. If the trip is about relaxation and proximity to the beach, Riu Madeira does not disappoint.
The bottom line: Note for couples: If you are celebrating a special occasion, Riu Palace’s premium experience and dedicated à la carte dinners may be worth the extra spend. If the trip is about relaxation and proximity to the beach, Riu Madeira does not disappoint.
Where is the best resort to stay in Madeira?
It depends on the type of holiday you want, but Riu Madeira is a strong contender for a beachfront all-inclusive. The resort’s location in Caniço de Baixo places it roughly 10 km east of Funchal, directly on Reis Magos beach. TripAdvisor describes the setting as a small promenade by the sea, with a free shuttle bus to Funchal available several times daily. This location is quieter than Funchal’s city-centre hotels but offers direct beach access and proximity to the airport—about a 10–15 minute drive from Madeira Airport (FNC).
The implication: guests who value a seaside setting over urban nightlife will find this location ideal.
Why Riu Madeira appeals to different travellers
For families, the spacious pool area with plenty of sunbeds and evening entertainment works well, as noted in multiple TripAdvisor reviews. For couples, the all-inclusive convenience means no need to plan every meal or carry cash. Solo travellers appreciate the safe, resort-based atmosphere. The chief limitation is that the immediate area has limited independent dining and nightlife options—the shuttle bus to Funchal becomes essential for exploring beyond the resort.
Alternatives in Caniço and Funchal
Within the Caniço area, the main alternative is Riu Palace Madeira (as discussed above). In Funchal, travellers might consider hotels such as The Cliff Bay or Reid’s Palace, though those are boutique luxury properties at significantly higher price points and are not all-inclusive. For a pure all-inclusive beach resort in Madeira, Riu Madeira is effectively the most prominent option.
Is Madeira cheap or expensive?
Madeira is generally considered affordable compared with mainland Portugal’s Algarve coast and other European island destinations. Booking.com rates for Riu Madeira typically start around €120–€180 per night for a double room on an all-inclusive basis, depending on season. Economy flights from major European hubs (London, Lisbon, Frankfurt, Amsterdam) often run €80–€200 return in off-peak periods. On-site costs at the resort are minimal once the all-inclusive wristband is on, with guests paying only for optional excursions, premium wine by the bottle, or spa services (if not using Riu Palace).
The pattern: Madeira’s affordability relative to, say, the Canary Islands or Balearics makes it an attractive option for travellers on moderate budgets, especially with all-inclusive packages.
Typical costs for accommodation, food, and transport
- Riu Madeira average nightly rate: €120–€180 all-inclusive
- Meal at a mid-range Funchal restaurant (à la carte): €15–€25
- Local bus from Caniço to Funchal: ~€3 each way
- Taxi from airport to hotel: €15–€20
These figures, drawn from TripAdvisor and general Madeira travel sources, confirm that a week-long stay at Riu Madeira can be cost-effective compared with many equivalent Mediterranean resorts.
Riu Madeira pricing context
Pricing at Riu Madeira falls in the mid-range for Portuguese all-inclusive hotels. The 24-hour full-board structure eliminates surprise costs, which makes it easier to budget. Some Traveloka reviewers note that the value proposition is strong, especially for families who would otherwise spend heavily on meals and drinks separately. Negative reviews tend to focus on service friction at check-in rather than perceived lack of value—suggesting the all-inclusive pricing itself is broadly accepted as fair.
Pros
- 24-hour all-inclusive covers all meals and branded drinks
- Beachfront location on Reis Magos beach
- Close to Madeira Airport (10–15 min drive)
- Spacious pool area with sea views
- Free shuttle bus to Funchal
- Strong guest satisfaction ratings across multiple platforms
Cons
- No suites available; maximum category is junior suite
- Buffet menu can feel repetitive over longer stays
- Limited independent dining and nightlife in immediate area
- Some reviews mention slow check-in and unwelcoming staff
- No dedicated spa on-site (shared with Palace, but not free for all guests)
- À la carte dining options are fewer than at Palace sibling
Best for segments
Based on verified guest reviews and facility analysis, Hotel Riu Madeira suits three main traveller types:
- Couples looking for a relaxing beachfront stay: The resort’s direct access to the promenade and sea, plus the inclusive dining, allows for a stress-free, romantic escape without the need to plan every meal.
- Families who value all-inclusive convenience: With two outdoor pools, evening entertainment, and a kids’ club, parents can relax while children have structured supervised activities.
- Solo travellers wanting a safe, resort-based experience: The compact layout, all-inclusive meals, and shuttle service to Funchal make it easy for soloists to socialise or explore without concerns about logistics.
Pricing band
Qualitative price band: mid-range. Compared with other 4-star all-inclusive options in Europe, Riu Madeira sits in the mid-range tier. Peak-season summer rates (July–August) can exceed €200 per night, while winter (November–February) rates often drop below €120. These estimates come from Hotels.com and Expedia. Given the all-inclusive coverage of meals and drinks, the effective per-person daily cost can be under €75 during low season—competitive for a beachfront resort with RIU’s brand reputation.
Location and getting there
Address: Praia dos Reis Magos, 9125-024 Caniço de Baixo, Portugal. The hotel is 10–15 minutes by taxi from Madeira Airport (FNC), roughly 10 km east of Funchal. TripAdvisor notes that a free shuttle bus runs several times daily to Funchal city centre, taking about 20 minutes. Guests without a car can walk to a few local shops and cafés in Caniço village (15 minutes on foot), but the resort’s location is fundamentally car-oriented unless you rely on the shuttle or taxis. Renting a car at the airport is straightforward and recommended for those who want to explore the island’s interior, levadas, and coastal viewpoints.
Sample day at the resort
A day-in-the-life at Hotel Riu Madeira, based on guest patterns from TripAdvisor reviews and official programming:
- 08:30: Buffet breakfast in the main restaurant – hot and cold options, fresh fruit, pastries, made-to-order eggs.
- 10:00–12:00: Relax by the main outdoor pool; sunbeds with sea views are widely available.
- 13:00: Lunch buffet – salad bar, grilled fish or meat, pasta, dessert station.
- 15:00–17:00: Afternoon entertainment (games, water aerobics, kids’ club activities).
- 18:00: Pre-dinner drinks at the bar – branded cocktails and beer included.
- 19:00–20:30: Dinner buffet – themed nights (Italian, Portuguese, international) with varied offerings.
- 21:00: Evening show in the amphitheatre – live music, comedy, or local folklore performances.
This pattern recurs across many guest reviews, illustrating the structure of a typical all-inclusive stay. The resort also offers optional excursions (whale watching, jeep safaris, levada walks) at extra cost, bookable through the reception or tour desks.
Related reading: Playa Pesquero Holguín Hotel Review: All-Inclusive Beach Resort · Hotel Algarve Portugal: Best Areas, Hotels & Weather
Frequently asked questions
What is the check-in/check-out time at Hotel Riu Madeira?
Check-in is at 15:00 and check-out is at 12:00 (noon), as published on the official RIU website. Late check-out may be available on request, subject to availability.
Does Riu Madeira have a spa?
The hotel does not have its own spa. Guests can access the spa at Riu Palace Madeira, located next door, for an additional fee. According to TUI Group, the Palace spa includes a heated indoor pool, sauna, and treatment rooms.
Is there a kids’ club at Hotel Riu Madeira?
Yes, a dedicated kids’ club operates during selected hours, offering supervised activities for children aged 4–12. The official RIU website confirms this as part of the hotel’s family-friendly services.
How far is Riu Madeira from the airport?
Madeira Airport (FNC) is approximately 12 km west of the hotel, a drive of about 10–15 minutes. This proximity is noted on TripAdvisor as a convenience for arriving and departing guests.
Can you walk to Funchal from the hotel?
No, Funchal is about 10 km away, roughly a 2-hour walk along roads without consistent pedestrian infrastructure. A free shuttle bus runs multiple times daily, or a taxi costs about €15–€20.
What is the difference between Riu Madeira and Riu Palace Madeira cocktails/all inclusive?
Both properties include branded spirits, cocktails, beer, wine, and soft drinks. Riu Palace Madeira offers a wider selection of premium spirits and wine labels, as well as an upgraded cocktail menu. The all-inclusive package at both includes local branded beverages, but the Palace tier typically includes a few international premium brands.
Sources cited
- RIU Hotels & Resorts – official property page (tier 1, official)
- TripAdvisor – Hotel Riu Madeira reviews (tier 3, neutral review platform)
- Booking.com – Hotel Riu Madeira listing (tier 2, booking aggregator)
- Hotels.com – Hotel Riu Madeira page (tier 2, booking aggregator)
- Expedia – Hotel Riu Madeira listing (tier 2, booking aggregator)
- Traveloka – Hotel Riu Madeira listing (English) (tier 2, booking aggregator)
- Traveloka – listing (Philippines) (tier 2, booking aggregator)
- Profession Voyages – Renovation report (tier 2, travel trade publication)
- TUI Group – Press release on renovation (tier 1, tour operator)
- The Family Holiday Guide – Hotel Riu Madeira review (tier 2, travel review site)
Our pick
For travellers seeking a reliable, beachfront all-inclusive in Madeira, Hotel Riu Madeira is a solid choice. The 24-hour all-inclusive covers the essentials without hidden costs, the renovated facilities are modern and well-maintained, and guest satisfaction averages high across multiple independent platforms. The main trade-offs are the lack of suites, a dining program that can feel repetitive over long stays, and a location that is more isolated than Funchal’s city hotels. If those limitations are acceptable, the price-to-value ratio is excellent, especially for families and couples prioritising convenience and beach access. For travellers willing to pay more for upgraded dining and a larger spa, the neighbouring Riu Palace Madeira is a natural step up within the same brand.