Tailor made holidays: Travellers will find 'winter magic' in Madeira

Travellers making the itinerary for their tailor made holiday in Portugal should take a trip to the nearby island of Madeira.

That is according to travel writer Emma Gregg, who revealed that the island is full of Christmas cheer during the holiday period.

She wrote in the Independent: "The Madeirans love to push the boat out at Christmas and New Year, making this an excellent time to visit.

"The fireworks which explode over the city at midnight on New Year's Eve are every bit as spectacular as Sydney's, without the crush."

The island's capital, Funchal, hosts three-dimensional illuminations during the winter, including waterfalls made out of fairy lights, luminous angels and huge walk-through baubles.

Acclaimed Funchal-based museum, Museu de Arte Sacra, features a range of regional art, while holidaymakers can also head down to the city's squares to hear choirs and folk bands play seasonal hits.

Madeira's churches will also feature elaborate Nativity scenes in the run-up to the big day.