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Funchal – the capital of the Portuguese Island of Madeira – is a hub of activity and tourist attractions. To help you plan your perfect vacation, we are sharing the Top Things To Do in Funchal, Madeira.
Our list of Funchal Things To Do focuses mainly on the vibrant port city, but includes some Madeira Island exploration, as well. Plus, we feature top travel tips for planning your vacation to Portugal.
Planning a Trip to Funchal, Madeira
Funchal trip planning can be a big task. In addition to determining what sights to see in Funchal, visitors also need to consider how to get there and where to stay. No worries! We cover the need-to-know info in the Funchal Travel Tips section at the end of the article.
We also outline an ideal 7-day trip in our One Week Madeira Itinerary, which can help fellow travelers decide how best to spend their time on the island.
A big part of Funchal trip planning is determining what and where to eat. We love sampling the local fare and detail the best things to eat in our Madeira Food Guide.
As Madeira may not be your only vacation destination in Portugal, you might find these articles to be useful while planning your trip:
- Portugal in 10 Days
- 3 Days in Lisbon (Plus the Best Viewpoints and Most Beautiful Churches)
- Free Things To Do in Lisbon
- Tops Tips for Visiting Sintra and Belem from Lisbon
- A Perfect Porto Itinerary (and DIY Porto Walking Tour)
- Where To Find the Best Food in Porto and Local Porto Craft Beer
- How To Plan the Best European Vacation
Organize Your Funchal Trip
As you begin to plan your trip to Funchal, organization is key! Use our Travel Planner Printables – to stay on top of all the details of your Madeira trip!
31 THINGS TO DO FUNCHAL, MADEIRA, PORTUGAL
Now that we have covered the basics of Madeira trip planning, it’s time to dive into our list. Save, Pin or Bookmark this Funchal Travel Guide to plan your trip to Madeira!
#1 Walk the Funchal Waterfront
We are kicking off our list of Top Funchal, Madeira Things To Do with a must-see sight: The Praca do Povo and Waterfront.
A wide, pedestrian promenade stretches for nearly a mile along the Funchal Marina. Highlights of the area are Praca do Povo (People’s Square), a tiered lawn facing the sea (often with a nice breeze) along with shaded benches, alfresco cafes and an assortment of Funchal food trucks.
To the south, the brilliant sea extends to the horizon, with the distant Desertas Islands visible to the southeast. North of the promenade the town of Funchal crawls steeply up the hillside.
Top Travel Tip: The colorful Madeira sign sits in the center of Praca do Povo. It’s one of the fun Funchal things to see and is great for photo ops. Other points of interests include the Nelson Mandela Memorial and Gandhi Statue.
#2 See the Se Cathedral Funchal
The majestic Cathedral of Funchal, Madeira dates to the late 15th century and was officially inaugurated in the year 1514.
The interior is lavishly decorated. In addition to the gilded altars, the church is adorned with paintings, statues and tiles. However, the most outstanding feature of the Se Cathedral is the intricate wood-carved ceiling.
Budget Travel Tip: There is no fee to enter; it is one of the things to do in Funchal for free!
#3 Admire Funchal City Gardens
Visiting the gorgeous city center gardens ranks as one of the Best Things To Do Funchal, Portugal. These green spaces are exquisitely manicured and bursting with tropical blossoms.
Jardim Municipal do Funchal is an absolute gem, boasting an incredible variety of flowers, plants and trees from around the globe. The garden is a serene and calm space right in the heart of the city. Fun Funchal events are often held at the amphitheater, so be sure to check the schedule during your visit!
Parque de Santa Catarina is another must-see Funchal sight. Walkways weave through this wonderful park, passing flower beds and a central lake. In addition to the flora contained within the park, visitors can enjoy local fauna, too – like ducks, swans and zippy lizards.
One of the local Funchal parks that we often visit is Jardim de Santa Luzia. Marked by a towering chimney that stands as a reminder of the sugar cane industry, the park features a spacious lawn, a kids’ play area and a pleasant café and snack bar.
Insider Travel Tip: But wait, there’s more! The Botanical Gardens Funchal and the Monte Palace Gardens are two other top things to see in Funchal, Madeira – and we detail both attractions later on our list.
#4 Shop at the Mercado do Lavradores
One of the great things about Madeira Island is the local produce – so it comes as no surprise that one of the top things to do in Funchal is to go to the local farmer’s market!
The Lavradores Farmer’s Market Funchal is the biggest market in the city. It is housed in a 2-story, open-air building dating to the 1940s. Inside, merchants sell tropical fruits, colorful flowers and fresh fish.
Funchal Fruit Sellers
Vendors appealingly display bright and colorful passion fruit, dragon fruit, papayas and bananas – and many offer samples so that you can try the sweet, exotic flavors. Unfortunately, some sellers are notoriously known for overcharging – or even scamming – tourists; we decided to just look, but not buy.
Flower Market Funchal
In the flower market, visitors can see and smell native plants – plus, the flower sellers wear colorfully stripped traditional Madeiran dress.
Funchal Fish Market
Not to be missed is the pungent fish market, where visitors can get a close look at the different kinds of seafood that are caught locally. The ugly black scabbardfish is a Madeira specialty, and thankfully, it tastes much better than it looks!
Top Tip for Travelers: After perusing the goods, head to the rooftop patio café for a refreshing drink or to A Confeitaria on the ground floor for something sweet.
#5 View the Restock Gallery at Armazem do Mercado
A fun little area selling locally made products and displaying works by artists from around the world, Armazem do Mercao is tucked into a quiet space just steps from the Funchal Farmer’s Market.
The space, which also hosts the Restock Art Gallery, is hip and modern. Each of the distinctive shops presents different products – from paintings to plants to used paperback books. Perusing the goods is one of the unique things to do in Funchal.
Top Travel Tip: Armazem do Mercado is a fantastic place to pick up one-of-a-kind Funchal souvenirs!
#6 Find the Painted Doors on Rua de Santa Maria
Rua de Santa Maria is one of the original Funchal streets. In fact, in the 15th century, it was the main thoroughfare – and today, it constitutes part of the Funchal Old Town.
The narrow cobblestone lane is crammed with restaurants offering al fresco dining and shops peddling tourist trinkets. Wandering the street in the evening is especially atmospheric, when tantalizing scents waft down the street and enthusiastic laughter fills the air.
That said, what truly makes walking Rua de Santa Maria one of the unusual things to do in Funchal City is the fascinating painted doors.
In 2010, Funchal introduced the Art of Open Doors Project, a focused effort to revitalize the area. Artists from Madeira and around the world were invited to paint the dilapidated doors with tropical scenes. The result is an open-air gallery of unique street art that led to a reborn district.
Useful Travel Tip: We recommend walking Rua de Santa Maria both during the day (to best see the artfully painted doors) and at night (to experience the jovial atmosphere).
#7 Marvel at the Funchal Main Square
Praca do Municipio is a must-see Funchal sight. The rectangular space is bounded by some of the most magnificent buildings in the city, namely, Paços do Concelho do Funchal (Council Palace), the Episcopal Palace (now the Museum of Sacred Art) and Igreja de São João Evangelista do Colégio (Jesuit Church and College). Getting a closer look at these buildings is one of the interesting things to do in Funchal, Portugal.
Pacos do Concelho Do Funchal
The Council Palace of Funchal – or the Town Hall – was built in the middle of the 18th century…and has housed the Funchal City Council since 1868. Visitors are welcome to step inside the grandiose building. The foyer is decorated in unique Portuguese azulejos tiles and the elegant inner courtyard is architecturally stunning. It’s free to enter and the woman who works there is happy to share the history of the building.
Episcopal Palace
The Museum of Sacred Art is housed in the former Episcopal Palace, a building that dates to the 17th century. The vast collection is inclusive of religious paintings and artifacts from the Cathedral treasury. Additionally, visitors can go to the top of the tower for views over the Funchal rooftops. There is a fee to enter the museum and tower.
Colegio dos Jesuitas
The Jesuit College and Church on the northwest side of Praca do Municipio is the most intriguing building on the square. When it was built in the 17th century, the building complex ranked as the largest structure in Funchal. Despite the rather mundane façade, the glittering interior impresses. Don’t miss the nearly hidden room to the left of the altar – and it’s also possible to climb the bell tower for a small fee.
Top Tip: The center of Praca do Municipio features traditional Calcada a Portuguesa pavement. Created using black-and-white limestone tiles, the pieces are arranged to create intricate designs. The mesmerizing mosaic paving is common throughout Funchal (and all of Portugal).
#8 Wander Funchal Old Town
Downtown Funchal represents the historic area of the city – and it’s far and away one of the best places to visit in Funchal, Madeira. We highly recommend spending time just exploring the quaint squares and lively streets.
Some of our favorite places to walk in the Old Town of Funchal are Rua da Carreira, Avenida Arriaga, Avenida Zarco and Rua Dr. Fernao de Ornelas.
A few more beautiful squares to seek out while city sightseeing Funchal are Chafariz Square and Fountain and Praca do Colombo (also called Praca Amarela/Yellow Square).
Specific monuments in Funchal to look for are the Joao Concalves Zarco statue (the navigator credited with discovering Madeira) and the Portas da Cidade (Varadouros Old Gate).
Visitors interested in learning the history of Funchal should consider joining a guided Old City Tour Funchal. On this affordable 2-hour tour, guests are led by a local to the best Funchal historic sights and entertained with personal stories.
Free Tour Funchal Tip: Looking for a Free Walking Tour Funchal, Madeira? Local guides lead travelers through the Old Town on tip-based tours. Find information about these walks on the Free Walking Tours Funchal official website.
#9 Ride a Cable Car in Funchal
The cable cars in Madeira – or telefericos – were originally built to help locals navigate the steep inclines on the mountainous island. Today, however, they serve as Funchal tourist attractions.
In total, there are 7 cable cars around the island – but the cable car in Funchal (sometimes called the Madeira Cable Car) is the most popular for visitors.
The modern Funchal Cable Car opened in the year 2000 – and it was built to replace the defunct Monte Railway (which ceased operations in 1943). The cable car line stretches more than 2 miles, connecting the Praia do Almirante Reis Waterfront to the mountain town of Monte.
Fun Fact: It takes 15 to 20 minutes to ride the cable car from Funchal to Monte. The line features 39 cabins and has the ability to transport 800 passengers per hour.
#10 Visit the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Touring the tropical gardens at the Monte Palace is one of the fun things to do in Funchal. The sprawling palace gardens, which cover more than 17 acres of hillside land, are simply enchanting. Containing an incredible array of colorful flora and artistic enhancements, we were in awe at every turn.
Walkways wind through the exotic gardens, featuring exhibitions, statues and classic Portuguese ceramic tile work. Not to be missed are Central Lake, Santana Traditional House and the Oriental Gardens, but we recommend making a point of walking the entire grounds (where you may even spot peacocks and pink flamingoes!).
There is a fee to enter Monte Palace, but in our opinion, it is totally worth it. Visitors can easily spend half a day in the gardens and at the on-site museum – and we suggest timing your visit to stay for lunch. Bring your own picnic or dine at one of the cafes (the one at the bottom of the park offers a free tasting of local Madeira wine).
Travel Tip for Monte: There are several ways to reach the palace gardens: cable car, bus, taxi or car – and it’s also possible to walk from Funchal (but the uphill climb is challenging!).
#11 Discover Charming Monte
While the Monte Palace Madeira Gardens are a top attraction, there are a few more things to do in the area that entice visitors to stay just a bit longer.
Monte Churches
The outstanding Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte is not to be missed. Sitting atop a steep staircase, Our Lady of Monte was completed in 1818 after the previous church on the site was reduced to rubble by an earthquake.
The interior is adorned with sparkling chandeliers, gilded altars and blue azulejos tiles – and holds the tomb of Charles I, the last Emperor of Austria and King of Hungary. After the dissolution of the Astro-Hungarian Empire, he and his wife were exiled and sent to Madeira – and he died of pneumonia shortly after arriving.
Two other chapels in Monte worth visiting are the nearby Santa Maria Chapel and the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception.
Parks and Views in Monte
The pretty Monte Park is a local (and free) green space in the community that is fun for a wander. Plus, there are some good photo ops.
Local Shop Monte is an ideal spot for a cool drink with a superb view. Try a Portuguese craft beer or get a fresh-squeezed Madeira juice. They also offer tasty cakes and toasted sandwiches.
Just past Local Shop there is a trail that extends from Monte to the Madeira Botanic Gardens (which are different from the Monte Palace Garden); the hike takes about 2 hours. Alternatively, catch a ride in the sky! The Cable Car from Monte to Funchal Botanic Gardens whisks passengers across the valley in just about 10 minutes.
Basket Ride Funchal
The famous Funchal Basket Ride is an old tradition – and one of the quirky things to do in Funchal. Rather than riding a bus or hopping on the gondola, take a seat in a wicker Funchal toboggan and let the trained Carreiros push and steer you down the active road.
Personally, we decided to skip the toboggan in Funchal – because of the high cost (€35 for two) and that the ride doesn’t actually take you all the way down, requiring nearly an hour trek back into town.
Top Tip: The temperature tends to be much cooler in Monte, which we found delightful on hot and humid days in Funchal. However, the weather can change quickly, so make sure you are prepared with an extra layer or lightweight rain jacket.
#12 Stroll through the Madeira Botanical Garden
The beautiful hillside Madeira Botanical Gardens in Funchal are dedicated to both native plant species and flora from around the world. Highlights include the cactus garden, the ‘choreographed’ gardens, palm gardens, turtle pond and exotic flowering plants. Plus, visitors can spend time in the on-site natural history museum.
Tickets are required to enter the Botanical Garden (but they are about half the price of the entry fee to the Monte Palace Gardens).
With the easy cable car connection, visitors can definitely visit both the Monte Palace Madeira Garden and the Funchal Botanical Garden in the same day.
Money Saving Tip: The cost of visiting both gardens – plus the cable car rides – can add up in a hurry. Travelers planning a Funchal trip on a budget might consider visiting just one of the gardens (we would pick Monte Palace) and using the public bus instead of the cable car.
#13 Indulge in the Local Madeira Fare
Wherever we travel in the world, we are keen to sample the local food – and Funchal was no exception.
We were quick to notice that food in Madeira is not like Portuguese Food in Porto or Lisbon. The local Funchal cuisine has its own specialties and twists on classic mainland Portugal fare. Both meaty dishes and seafood feature heavily on traditional Funchal restaurant menus.
Funchal seafood specialties include Black Scabbardfish (which they often pair with passion fruit or banana) and Limpets (a shellfish that is grilled and seasoned with garlic, butter and lemon).
Some of the best meat dishes in Funchal are Espetada (skewered, grilled beef), Carne de Vinha d’alhos (pork cubes marinated in a garlic wine sauce) and Bolo do Caco sandwiches (featuring thin steak, lettuce and tomato on special Madeira bread).
Top Travel Tip: Eating out in Funchal is a highlight of traveling to Madeira Island. We detail what and where to eat in our Guide to Madeira Food.
#14 Go Dolphin Watching Madeira: Funchal Cruises
Embarking on a boat trip in search of dolphins is one of the best things to do Funchal! Dolphin activity is frequent around the island and boat trips depart Funchal throughout the day to help visitors get a glimpse of the cetaceans.
We opted to take a Sunset Dolphin-Watching Funchal Cruise with VMT Madeira – which far exceeded our expectations. The affordably priced 3-hour tour includes sailing along the coastline to the east (which is where our crew found an entire pod of playful dolphins) and a swim stop at the base of Cabo Girao Cliff. Plus, VMT offers fairly priced drinks from the on board bar. Funchal Sunset Cruises do book up, so reserve your space in advance!
Pro Tip: The VMT Dolphin and Whale Watching Funchal Boat Trips guarantee sightings. If no sea life is spotted, passengers can join a second cruise free of charge!
#15 Tour the Convento de Santa Clara Funchal
The Santa Clara Convent in Funchal is one of the most historic buildings in the city. Built in the late 1400s, the convent housed Franciscan nuns – mostly daughters of wealthy Madeira families, who believed having a nun in the family improved their religious standing.
Highlights of a visit to the Funchal Santa Clara Convent are the elegant chapel, fine cloisters, choirs and an example of a nun’s accommodations. Furthermore, the convent hosts sacred art, an extravagant ceiling and an abundance of decorative tiles.
Top Tip: The interior is dazzling, but after a recent renovation, a €10 ticket is required for entry.
#16 Conquer the Hilltop Funchal Fort
In the 17th century, Funchal was a thriving city, but its location left it vulnerable to attacks. In order to defend itself, a number of defensive fortifications were built – including the Fortaleza de Sao Joao Baptista do Pico.
Sitting at 365 feet above sea level, the historic Pico Fort is a Funchal landmark sight. The once mighty bastion, which is free to enter, boasts phenomenal views over the Atlantic Ocean, harbor and Funchal city center.
Additionally, the upper level houses a small museum that details the history of this Funchal Fort.
Travel Tip: The hill fort in Funchal has limited opening hours. Be sure to check current times before trekking up the steep and narrow street!
#17 Admire the Artefacts at Museu Quinta das Cruzes
Visiting the Quinta das Cruzes estate is one of the top things to do in Funchal, Madeira. The original 15th century residence was the home of the island’s founder, Joao Goncalves Zarco – and it has been lavishly expanded throughout the years.
Offering an intriguing glimpse into the history of nobility in Funchal, the Quinta das Cruzes Museum is styled just as it would have been in the 18th century – including fine furnishings, local artwork, tapestries and candelabras. Additionally, the museum features an extensive collection of cameos, jewelry and silver pieces.
There is a small fee to enter the house, but the tranquil gardens and quiet chapel are open to the public for free. The on-site café offers an affordable afternoon tea – and stellar views of the sea.
Travel Tip: There are two nearby sights that are worth seeing after visiting the Quintas das Cruzes Museum. Across the street is the Universo de Memorias Joao Carlos Abreu, which houses an eclectic collection of art. Just below Museu Quintas das Cruzes is a small, shaded viewpoint, called Miradouro da Quinta das Cruzes.
#18 Taste Madeira Wine
Madeira’s special wine has long been in production. The origins of Madeira wine can be traced to the 15th century – and the industry was booming by the 18th century. The best places to taste wine in Madeira are in cozy cellar shops, making wine tasting one of the fun things to do in Funchal when it rains.
Usually consumed as an aperitif or digestif, Madeira wine is sweet. Even the dry (seco) and medium dry (meio seco) contain a slightly sweet taste due to the wine’s exposure to heat during the maturating process – and we found the sweet (doce) and medium sweet (meio doce) too syrupy.
Of course, all palates are different, so we recommend sampling several different wines in Madeira to find one you prefer. Every bar, café and restaurant in Funchal offers Madeira wine, but we think it is best to go straight to the source.
Blandy’s Wine Lodge Funchal
The Blandy’s Funchal family proudly proclaims itself to be one of the original founders of the Madeira wine trade. Their lodge in the center of Funchal is an ideal place to get an introduction to the island’s wine.
Visitors can join guided tours or simply visit the old-fashioned bar for a wine tasting.
HM Borges Wine
A historic winery on Madeira Island, HM Borges is located in a 100-year-old building in the bustling Funchal center. Guests can opt to join a short, informative tour, partake in a wine testing or order specific samples by the glass.
Pereira d’Oliveira in Funchal
At the Pereira d’Oliveira shop, visitors are able to enjoy a Madeira wine tasting for free. It’s a great place to taste a few small samples and then buy a bottle of your favorite to take home.
Fun Fact: In 1776, after signing the United States Declaration of Independence, the 56 delegates made a toast…using Madeira wine.
#19 Browse the Livraria Esperanca Book Shop
Another one of the cool things to do in Funchal in the rain is visiting a bookshop – and Livaria Esperanca is a truly unique bookstore.
Occupying multiple floors of a rustic building, Livraria Esperanca is a maze of literature. Not only do books line the shelves, but they are also arranged in hanging displays.
In all, there are more than 100,000 books for sale – and it’s the perfect place to get lost for an afternoon.
Top Tip: While most of the books are in Portuguese, there is a small English selection.
#20 Celebrate a Football Legend at CR7 Museum Funchal
Cristiano Ronaldo is hailed as one of the most famous footballers (aka soccer players) in the world – and he was born and raised in Funchal, Madeira.
The CR7 Cristiano Ronaldo Museum Funchal, which celebrates his accomplishments, sits along the harbor front. Visiting the museum is considered one of the important things to do in Funchal, Portugal…whether you are a fan or not.
The museum features trophies, medals, jerseys and even his shoes are on display. A bronze statue of Ronaldo (which doesn’t seem to resemble him much at all) stands in front of the museum and his hands (and other body parts) are polished to a shine by fans who touch the statue for good luck.
Football Fan Tip: The Ronaldo Museum and Statue are just a stone’s throw from Ronaldo’s Funchal house. While strictly off limits, fans can get a look at the modern and fortified compound from Rotunda do Porto.
#21 Dine at Fortaleza de Sao Tiago
Painted an ochre yellow (like many of the historic buildings in Funchal), the Fort of Santiago clearly stands out along the eastern coastline.
Built in the 17th century as part of Funchal’s defensive system, the fort features lookout towers and waterfront views. Most of the fort is inaccessible, but it is still worth visiting to admire the architecture.
Additionally, dining at the fort is one of the romantic things to do in Funchal Old Town. The fine dining establishment, Restaurante do Forte, offers multiple course meals – and can even include a ride in their vintage car.
Pro Travel Tip: Many Funchal guidebooks claim that the Museum of Contemporary Art of Funchal is located within the fort, but it closed in 2015.
#22 Soak up the Sun at Praia da Barreirinha Beach Deck
Looking for the best beaches in Funchal Old Town? Sandy shores are few and far between on Madeira Island and you won’t find any in the center of Funchal. Instead, aim for Praia da Barreirinha, a concrete deck that serves as the best beach in Funchal City Center. It is located just to the east of Fortaleza de Sao Tiago.
An entry fee is required to swim at the Praia da Barreirinha facilities – and for a few euros more includes sun loungers and umbrellas. There are also showers, changing rooms and toilets.
Pro Tip: While swimming is one of the fun activities in Funchal, sea conditions can change quickly. At Praia da Barreirinha you can jump right in the sea for a refreshing swim under the watchful eye of lifeguards.
#23 Contemplate Artwork at the Franco Brothers Museum
Henrique and Francisco Franco are born-and-bred brothers from Madeira, both of whom excelled as artists. Since 1987, the Museu Henrique e Francisco Franco has shared a collection of their works.
Small and intimate, the Henrique and Francisco Franco Museum displays the brothers’ sculptures, drawings and paintings. Additionally, the museum offers guided tours and workshops.
Budget Travel Tip: There is no fee to visit the art gallery museum – it’s one of the things to see in Funchal for free!
#24 Savor the Views from the Funchal Miradouros
While the hills of Funchal are sometimes challenging, the elevated views are nothing short of spectacular. We think the best place to savor the panoramic sea views are from the lookout points – called miradouros.
We already mentioned Miradouro da Quinta das Cruzes viewpoint, but the best miradouro in downtown Funchal is Miradouro Socorro. Located above Praia da Barreirinha, the viewpoint is a great place to start or end a day in Funchal.
Two other nearby viewpoints are Miradouro da Vila Guida (which requires a steep uphill climb but features a nice garden) and Miradouro do Lazareto (which offers one of the best views of the Bay of Funchal at sunset).
That said, Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos is the most popular. Serving up super views of the mountains and the sea, there is also an onsite cafe and it can be easily reached by bus.
Top Travel Tip: Another one of the Funchal Best Things To Do is to visit churches – and Igreja de Santa Maria Maior that sits just behind Miradouro do Socorro is one of the most beautiful. If the gate and door is open, step inside to see the lavishly decorated interior!
Things To Do Near Funchal
So far, we have detailed the best things to do in Funchal that visitors can find from the city center. However, there are numerous places to see near Funchal that we want to highlight as well. No car? No problem! We share tips on how to reach each destination for those traveling without a car.
#25 Visit Camara de Lobos Fishing Village
Camara de Lobos is a quaint fishing village west of Funchal and a wonderful place to spend a few hours. As the first inhabited town on Madeira Island, Camara de Lobos boasts a renowned fishing culture and is the biggest producer of Madeira wine grapes.
Visitors can easily plan a relaxing half-day trip to Camara de Lobos. Top things to do are to watch the colorful Xavelhas – traditional boats – that bob in the marina. Other things to see in the Camara de Lobos Marina are the Capela de Nossa Senhora da Conceicao (a beautiful little chapel just steps from the water) and the life-size Winston Churchill Statue (which marks the spot where he sat and painted during his visit to Madeira).
With a little effort, guests can climb up to the Jardim do Ilheu. The elevated green space overlooks the sea and the astounding Cabo Girao Cliff face and honors the town’s fishermen with a giant boat statue. We recommend bringing a picnic so that you can enjoy lunch with a view.
Below the viewpoint is a long stretch of black pebbly beach, called Praia de Vigario, where visitors can swim (just wear swim shoes!)
Two other points of interest are the Press Museum (Museu de Imprensa da Madeira) that details the history of printing and the Henriques and Henriques Winery, which offers tours and tastings.
Travel Tip: Camara de Lobos can be reached by car, tuktuk tour or bus (and even on foot by ambitious travelers). Just be aware that the bus does not take passengers all the way into the village – a short walk along the coastline (and past a cement factory) is necessary to reach the marina.
#26 Embark on a Madeira Coastal Walk
The southern coastline of Madeira Island is exceptional – and there is a pedestrian path that extends from Funchal all the way to Camara de Lobos. One of the best ways to experience the coastal scenery is to set off on a seaside walk that connects the two destinations.
The route follows the shoreline, passing unique rock formations, black sand beaches and natural swimming pools. A highlight of the trek is the Tunel das Pocas do Gomes – a 100-meter-long tunnel with a cave that opens to the ocean.
Top Travel Tip: It can be a long (and hot) walk between Funchal and Camara de Lobos. We opted to walk just half the route. We started by riding the bus to Camara de Lobos, then after touring the village, we walked back toward Funchal. Shortly after passing through the Pocas do Gomes Tunnel – at Sao Martinho Sunset Viewpoint – we caught a bus back to Funchal.
#27 Swim in the Sea at Praia Formosa Beach
Formosa Beach is the best beach near Funchal – at least in terms of scenic beauty. The beach itself consists mostly of volcanic rocks and some black sand, which is not very comfortable for sunbathing or swimming. Water shoes, a beach chair and sun umbrella will help immensely, but only swim if there are lifeguards on duty.
Another fun activity at Praia Formosa Beach is watching the sunset.
Top Tip: A more comfortable place to swim and sunbath is at the nearby Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools. An entry fee is required to use the pools – and there is an additional charge for sun beds and umbrellas. Alternatively, the Lido Bathing Complex offers a saltwater swimming pool and easy access into the sea for ocean swimming – plus loungers and umbrellas – for one flat fee.
#28 Dare to Look Down from Cabo Girao Funchal
The Cabo Girao cliff, located to the west of Funchal, rises an astounding 1,900 feet above sea level. It is often touted as the highest sea cliff in Europe – and the view is completely mesmerizing.
The best vantage point from Cabo Girao is from the Skywalk – and a small fee is required to take in the view. The Cabo Girao Skywalk is a glass-bottomed platform that extends over the edge of the cliff, allowing visitors to look straight down to the sea crashing on the rocks far, far below.
Travelers can reach the Cabo Girao Viewpoint by car, taxi, as part of a tour or on the Funchal Hop On Hop Off Bus.
Travel Tip: At the base of the cliffs are cultivated plots of land and an isolated beach. At one time, farmers could only reach their crops by boat. However, now a cable car – called the Teleferico das Fajas do Cabo Girao – can be used by locals and visitors alike to travel to the foot of the cliff.
#29 Travel to the Valley of the Nuns
One of the most beautiful places near Funchal is the Valley of Nuns – or Curral das Freiras. Nestled in a valley surrounded by soaring mountain peaks, Valley of the Nuns is a particularly picturesque village and a must-see on your Funchal trip.
While the town itself consists of little more than a smattering of houses, a church and a cemetery; it is famous for its chestnut products. Visitors can order the local delicacy in a variety of forms – from chestnut cream soup to tofu with chestnut puree to chestnut cake.
However, we believe the best thing about Curral das Freiras is seeing the valley from afar – and the Miradouro Eira do Serrado offers the most magnificent view.
We recommend stopping at the viewpoint first and then heading into town. Visitors without a car (and those up for an adventure) can take a bus from Funchal to the Miradouro Eira do Serrado and then hike down to the village (allow about an hour). After wandering through Valley of the Nuns and enjoying the chestnut creations, take a bus from the center of town back to Funchal. Half day tours also visit the viewpoint and village.
Fun Fact: We heard two theories about how Valley of the Nuns earned its unusual name. The first is that, in 1480, the land was donated to the Santa Clara Convent and the name was given to the town at that time. The other belief, which is a much more tantalizing tale, is that in 1566, nuns living in Funchal fled pirate invaders and hid in the valley – and that is when people started referring to it as Curral das Freiras. Whatever the origin, it’s definitely worth visiting when in Funchal!
#30 Stretch Your Legs on Madeira Hiking Trails
Hiking in Madeira is one of the top island activities – and it’s fairly easy to plan trekking adventures from Funchal. We are highlighting just a few of the best hikes for your Funchal trip.
Balcoes Viewpoint from Ribeiro Frio (Trail PR11)
An easy trail that culminates at an outstanding vista, the Ribeiro Frio to Vereda dos Balcoes hike is a must-do for Funchal visitors! The flat, shaded, out-and-back trail is less than 2 miles roundtrip…and the mountain view is jaw-dropping. Best of all, the trailhead can be reached by car, as part of a tour or by using the public bus.
Ribeiro Frio to Portela Walk (Levada do Furado – PR10)
The Levadas da Madeira are an ancient – but still functioning – aqueduct system. The island is home to 500 miles of the irrigation channels – and the narrow paths alongside the canals are ideal for walking.
The Levada walk from Ribeiro Frio to Portela is one of the best. Stretching about 7 miles through the Laurissilva Forest (a UNESCO Natural Heritage Site), the slightly downhill hike can be completed in 3-5 hours. The trailhead in Ribeiro Frio can be reached by car, guided tour or public bus.
Vereda da Ponta do Sao Lourenco (Trail PR8)
The wild and rocky landscape of Ponta de Sao Lourenco marks the easternmost point of Madeira Island – and hikers can reach it via the Vereda da Ponta de Sao Lourenco trail. The rugged 4.35 mile roundtrip trek is one of the most popular hikes from Funchal. However, be aware that there is zero shade and parts of the trail can be a challenging (especially in the notoriously windy area).
The trailhead is reached by car, guided tour or by Bus 113 (although it’s a rather slow and long bus ride from Funchal!).
Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hiking Trail (PR1)
One of the most challenging – and most rewarding – hikes on Madeira, the Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike starts at Pico do Arieiro (the third highest peak on the island at 5965ft/1,818m) and ends at Pico Ruivo (the highest peak on Madeira at 6109ft/1862m).
Noted for its steep staircases, narrow trails and sheer cliffs, the Madeira Peak to Peak Hike is not for the faint of heart…but the views are out of this world.
Hikers can opt to trek one-way, as travel agencies in Funchal arrange drop off and pick up – and some offer the option to join a guided peak to peak tour. Alternatively, visitors with a car can hike the trail out and back. There is no bus service to either peak.
Top Tip Funchal Hiking: Another popular hike is the Levada Rabacal and 25 Fountains Trail – which was on our list, but we simply ran out of time! The hike is only accessible by car or organized tour.
#31 Set Off on Day Trips from Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is fun to explore – but taking full day trips from the city are an excellent way to experience more of Madeira. Visitors with a car can plan their own multi-stop full day trips, but those without a car should book an organized tour.
In our opinion, the two best day trips from Funchal are the East Tour and the West Tour.
We are highlighting what to see in West Madeira and East Madeira here, but we share detailed info and tips about these places in our 7 Day Madeira Itinerary.
East Day Trips Funchal, Madeira
Sights in the east of the Island of Madeira are simply spectacular and visitors can easily see multiple attractions in a single day.
Top things to see are Pico do Arieiro, Ribeiro Frio and the Laurissilva Forest, the beautiful Balcoes Viewpoint, traditional houses in Santana, the view from Miradouro do Guindaste in Faial, the Portela Viewpoint (including Eagle Rock) and Ponta de Sao Lourenco (the easternmost point).
If time allows, visitors can also stop in Machico to cool off with a swim at the yellow sand beach (imported from Morocco).
Traveling in Funchal without a car? Book this East Madeira Organized Trip!
West Excursions in Madeira, Funchal
A looping tour around the west side of Madeira Island is a fabulous way to spend a day!
Sights to see are Ribeira Brava Village (15th century church and Market), Paul da Serra Plateau (and, perhaps a levada walk), Porto Moniz (famous for natural volcanic rock swimming pools), Veu da Noiva Waterfall, Sao Vicente Village and Encumeada’s Viewpoint.
Both Camara de Lobos Fishing Village and the Cabo Girao Skywalk Viewpoint can be added to the day trip, too (if you haven’t already visited these sights).
Travelers without a car can book this highly rated Organized West Madeira Tour.
Day Trip to Porto Santo from Funchal
Visiting Porto Santo is touted as a top Funchal day trip (but not one that we took during our trip). Travelers can reach Porto Santo – the island just to the northeast of Madeira – by ferry boat or an incredibly short flight.
Porto Santo is best known for having a powdery sand beach – but visitors can also go hiking, biking, snorkeling and kayaking (among many other adventure activities).
Pro Tip: Looking for more guided adventures? Tours range from Canyoning Madeira Funchal Day Trips to 4×4 Jeep Trips. Find the best tours on Viator!
More of Madeira: Funchal Things To Do
Above, we shared our list of the Top Things To Do in Funchal, but there are a few more activities and attractions that we want to highlight.
Funchal Museums
We’ve mentioned a few museums in our list of Things To See and Do in Funchal, Madeira…but we didn’t cover them all! Fellow travelers might want to include visiting one or more of the following museums in Funchal.
Madeira Story Centre Museum: One of the best places to visit in Funchal to learn about the history of the island, the museum details the past via interactive exhibits – plus there is a rooftop terrace restaurant. Small fee to enter.
Museum of the City of Sugar (Nucleo Museologico da Cidade do Acucar): A small museum featuring information and artefacts relating to Madeira’s sugar trade, artwork and culture. Free to enter; audio guide in English.
Madeira Photography Museum: Displays historic photographs and old-fashioned photography equipment. Small fee to enter.
Casa Museu Frederico de Freitas: Historic mansion displaying the former owner’s collection of artwork and tiles (although limited information in English). Small fee to enter.
Natural History Museum (Museu de Historia Natural do Funchal): Housed in the Palace of St. Peter, the exhibitions consist of taxidermied animals and a fragrant garden. Entry is free.
Palacio de Sao Lourenco and Military Museum: Entry into these two museums is a bit confusing (and, thus, we never found our way into either). The small Military Museum features the history of the armed forces and charges a small fee. The Palace is only open at very specific times and registration may be required ahead of time.
House of Light Electricity Museum (Museu de Electricidade Casa da Luz): A surprisingly interesting museum (especially for engineers and children) that details the history of electricity on Madeira Island. Small fee to enter.
Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias Performing Arts
A gorgeous performing arts venue boasting excellent acoustics, the intimate Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias dates to the late 1800s. The concert hall still hosts performances – and attending a show is one of the best things to do in Funchal at night.
The concerts in Funchal at Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias range from classical music to orchestra to fado.
More Gardens in Funchal
Funchal is home to an astounding number of gardens and parks. We already highlighted our favorite gardens in Funchal – yet, there are still more green spaces to see!
Two more of the top-rated parks in Funchal are the Palheiro Gardens and Quinta da Boa Vista.
The romantic Palheiro Gardens feature winding paths, a variety of plants, stellar views and a lovely tea house. Tickets are required for entry.
Quinta da Boa Vista specializes in orchids and the owner is typically on hand for a chat. The garden charges an entry fee and also offers plants for sale.
Afternoon Tea in Funchal
Although Afternoon Tea is an English custom, the tradition has gained popularity on Madeira Island.
One of the Best Afternoon Tea Funchal experiences is the luxurious midday affair at Reid’s Palace Hotel. The sumptuous meal features finger sandwiches, scones and cakes – accompanied by tea, of course!
The café at Museu da Quinta das Cruzes offers a lovely Funchal Afternoon Tea with views over the city and at a reasonable price.
Funchal Cristo Rei Statue
Perched on a cliff overlooking the sea, the Cristo Rei Statue, with outstretched arms, stands 49 feet tall. Built in 1927, the art deco statue pre-dates the famous Christ the Redeemer statue in Brazil and the Cristo Rei Statue in Lisbon.
From the vista, visitors are treated to sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean and southern Madeira coastline. A cable car at the site transports guests from the cliff-topping statue to the quiet beach below.
Visitors can reach the Cristo Rei Statue in Funchal by car, organized tour or by bus (but it requires bit of a trek to get between the statue and the bus stop).
Funchal Shopping
The city center of Funchal is full of shopping opportunities (Rua Dr Fernao de Ornelas is one of the best shopping streets!). That said, the best clothes shops in Funchal can be found at the La Vie Shopping Mall.
Casino Madeira
A hotel and entertainment complex, Casino da Madeira is one of the established attractions in Funchal. The modern building – a project of renowned architect Oscar Niemeyer – is a distinctive Funchal icon. In addition to slot machines and table games, there are multiple restaurants, bars and a nightclub.
Funchal Map
Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our City Sightseeing Funchal Map.
Funchal Travel Tips
Now that you know what to see in Funchal and the nearby area, we have a few more helpful travel tips for Funchal, Madeira.
Madeira Tourist Information
The Funchal Tourist Information Office is a good place to pick up free maps and attraction brochures. However, the staff is of little help when it comes to schedules or other practical information.
Best Time To Visit Funchal, Portugal
Funchal enjoys a moderate, Mediterranean climate, making it relatively pleasant to visit any time of year.
Summer in Funchal is the busiest time of year…and also the hottest. While it is great for swimming, the heat and humidity can be brutal while exploring Funchal sights. Plus, summertime sees the most tourists – and prices are at their peak.
Autumn is less busy than the summer swell and no less beautiful (but still hot and humid). Visiting in autumn can be great for both swimming and hiking.
Winter in Funchal is relatively cool, with high temps in the 60s – and on very rare occasions, it is cold enough on the mountain peaks to snow. Yet, you may still see people swimming in the sea.
For the most part, Funchal winters are quiet, except for the month of December, which is festive. Full of twinkling lights and a jolly atmosphere, the party culminates in a raucous New Year’s Eve celebration marked with a massive fireworks display along the harbor.
Springtime can be quite nice in Funchal – as the sun shines and the flowers are in bloom. In fact, the Funchal Flower Festival takes place in May and marks the start of the summer tourist season.
Cruise Ships in Funchal
When planning when to go to Funchal, Madeira, one thing to consider is the number of cruise ships in port. The city can get quite congested when there are multiple cruise ships in port at one time. We recommend consulting a Funchal cruise ship calendar prior to booking your vacation to Madeira.
Getting To Funchal
Madeira Island can be reached by plane or boat (both ferries and cruise ships only dock in Funchal).
Flights to Madeira: Funchal Airport
The Funchal Airport – also called Madeira Airport or Aeroporto da Madeira – is located 8 miles east of Funchal. Flights to Funchal are operated by most major European airlines, several low-cost carriers and numerous vacation package companies. Direct flights are available year-round from Porto and Lisbon in Portugal as well as other top European destinations.
Additionally, travelers can search for flights to Porto Santo – and then either fly or take the ferry from Porto Santo to Funchal.
When looking for the best fares to FNC, we use Skyscanner to search and compare flight options. Before you get started, read all our Tips for Finding the Best Cheap Flights!
Getting Around Madeira Island
Earlier in the article, we mentioned that it is not necessary to get a Funchal rental car. Instead, visitors can join organized tours and take the public bus to reach the best attractions.
We prefer using Viator to book Funchal tours – as they offer a multitude of options and reviews to help us better understand what to expect. That said, we toured a lot of Madeira on our own using the Funchal public buses.
Bus Station Funchal
Unlike most capital cities, there is not one central bus station in Funchal. Instead, many buses originate routes near the waterfront – both along Avenida do Mar and near the Teleferico Funchal-Monte cable car station.
Buses in Funchal, Madeira
The bus service in Funchal is quite extensive, and most attractions and many Madeira hikes can be accessed using public transport.
That said, understanding schedules can be a little tricky – as there are multiple bus companies that operate on Madeira. The ones that we found most useful for tourists are: Horarios do Funchal, SAM and Rodeste.
Horarios do Funchal runs bus service in the city and to nearby attractions – like Nuns Valley, Monte and the Botanical Gardens. Horarios do Funchal schedule and ticket info.
SAM is responsible for the buses to Funchal Airport and many of the eastern Madeira attractions, such as Ponta de Sao Lourenco. SAM bus routes and ticket information.
Rodoeste Buses service many attractions on the west side of Madeira, including Porto Moniz. Rodoeste timetables and info.
Additionally, there is a Funchal Hop On Hop Off Sightseeing Bus that circles the city in 3 different routes. Tickets are available for 2 to 5 days. Get current prices and route info to find out what sights you can see with the Hop On Hop Off Bus in Funchal.
Bus Tickets Funchal
All buses accept cash payments directly to the driver. That said, visitors who plan to ride Horarios do Funchal buses in Funchal will likely benefit from purchasing a Giro Bus Card for 50c and topping up with prepaid trips (which are only valid for Horarios do Funchal urban bus routes).
Best Places to Stay in Funchal, Madeira
As a thriving tourist hub, there is no shortage of accommodation in Funchal. We think the best area to stay in Funchal is in the heart of the city. By staying in the center, it is easy to reach attractions on foot – and much simpler to catch a bus or join a tour to see the rest of Madeira.
Belmond Reid’s Palace Hotel
The most famous hotel in Funchal, Madeira, Reid’s Palace has hosted celebrities and dignitaries from around the world. The stunning resort features elegant rooms overlooking the sea, multiple swimming pools, a spa, gym, tennis courts and several fine dining establishments. Check rates and availability for your stay!
Barcelo Funchal Old Town Hotel
One of the newer Funchal hotels, Barcelo is ideally located in the city center. Offering stylish air—conditioned rooms, a rooftop pool and bar and an exceptional included breakfast, guests give it rave reviews. Check rates for your stay!
29 Madeira Hostel
Perhaps the best place to stay in Funchal on a budget, 29 Madeira Hostel offers private rooms and 4-bed dorm rooms at affordable prices. Plus, there is a good kitchen and an outdoor garden. We also like the location of the hostel – on the edge of the Old Town, so guests get to experience a more local side of Funchal. Check availability!
Funchal Airbnb
Travelers staying on Madeira for a week or longer might find that the best place to stay in Funchal is in a vacation rental. With more space and a kitchen, it can make a longer stay more comfortable (as long as there is aircon!).
Before booking a holiday apartment in Funchal, read our advice and top Tips for Airbnb Guests. Not a fan of Airbnb? Check out the apartments offered on Booking.com!
What To Pack for Funchal, Madeira
Our final tips are all about what to pack for your trip to Funchal! You can find all of our hacks on our dedicated Travel Packing Tips page. For now, get your FREE Packing Checklist!
Proper Shoes
Funchal is a walkable city – but only with the right shoes! Between the steep hills and mosaic tiled calcada sidewalks, it is imperative to wear shoes that won’t slip.
For most sightseeing, my grippy flip flops were fine – but lightweight sneakers are a better option for longer days of walking. Use our reviews of The Best Shoes for Traveling to help decide which shoes to pack in your backpack or suitcase.
Sunscreen and Insect Repellent
The sun is intense in Funchal, so it is imperative to pack sunscreen (and remember to apply it, even on cloudy days!). It can also help to wear a wide-brimmed travel hat – and, of course, pack your favorite sunglasses!
On the other hand, Madeira weather can change quickly, so packing a lightweight rain jacket or travel umbrella is also a good idea.
Mosquitos can be a real problem in Funchal – especially at dawn and dusk. Bring insect repellent to protect yourself from getting those annoying and itchy bites.
Madeira Travel Camera
There is no doubt about it: Funchal is beautiful! In order to capture it properly, we recommend upgrading to a real travel camera.
We use a DSLR Canon Rebel with an 18-135mm lens for all our travels. Not only is it easy to use and takes high quality photos, but it is one of the most affordable cameras for travelers.
Day Pack for Exploring Madeira
While out adventuring, it is best to carry a well-stocked day pack. In Funchal, we used small backpacks to stow all of the items we needed during the day – from our refillable water bottles to sunscreen to bug spray.
Not sure what type of day pack is right for you? Use our guide to the Best Day Packs for Travelers.
Portugal Travel Insurance
Travel is unpredictable, so you may want to insure your trip. If you are looking for a travel insurance policy, consider the great rates and robust coverage at World Nomads.
Start planning your trip to Portugal! Search for the lowest airfares, the best accommodations and fun things to do…then start packing! Want more vacation advice? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page!
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