Funchal
 
 
 
 
 
 
 

FUNCHAL TRAVEL GUIDE

Recommended destinations to discover selected by highly-rated travel experts.

 
 
 
 
 

FUNCHAL

 

Why travel to Funchal?

Funchal, the picturesque capital of the Madeira Islands, is a true gem in the mid-Atlantic. Situated on the edge of a sparkling bay against a backdrop of lush, towering mountains, this charming town attracts travellers with its winding cobbled streets, elegant colonial-style architecture, and deep-rooted history. The historic centre of Funchal overlooks the bustling harbour, decorated with government buildings and stately 18th-century mansions. The Sé Cathedral, a whitewashed beauty built between 1486 and 1514, boasts a magnificent Madeira cedar wood Mudejar ceiling and a lavish Baroque golden Sacramento chapel. The Quinta das Cruzes, now a museum, was once the residence of João Gonçalves Zarco, the discoverer of the island, and is an intriguing window into the past. Nearby you can find the 16th-century Santa Clara Church which houses his final resting place.

Best things to do in Funchal: discover all our food and wine plans

For those interested in wine, the Old Blandy Wine Lodge, situated within the 17th-century Convent of São Francisco, offers guided tours of its cellars and delightful wine-tasting sessions. 

Food lovers must spend at least a morning shopping at the farmers market, Mercado Lavradores. You will find colourful tropical fruit and vegetable stands all around the market. Check out the fresh fish stalls with a variety of locally caught fish like the Espada (Black scabbard fish), tuna, etc. There are some terrace restaurants outside the market to sit and taste fish and seafood like the delicious Grilled Lapas (limpets) in garlic butter!

Nature enthusiasts can explore the Botanical Gardens, home to a wide variety of vegetation from around the world, including desert cacti, rainforest orchids, and South African proteas. The thrilling Madeira Toboggan Ride on Traditional Wicker Basket Sledges from Monte, originally a form of passenger transport in the 19th century, remains a must-try experience.

Funchal is also a gateway to various active adventures, with nearby golf courses, opportunities for paragliding, canoeing from the harbour, and mountain biking trails across the island. Art enthusiasts will admire Funchal´s art galleries, including the Museu de Arte Contemporânea and the Museu de Arte Sacra, both boasting impressive collections.

And don't forget the bathing complexes not far from Funchal, such as Barreirinha Beach Complex with saltwater swimming pools, Ponta Gorda, and resorts in Porto Santo. If you want to relax, you can't miss these must-visiting spots in our Funchal travel guide!

If you are seeking natural wonders, from Funchal you can visit Curral das Freiras, a deep valley location known as the "Nuns' Refuge," situated near the centre of the island. You can also take in the breathtaking views from Cabo Girão, the world's second-highest sea cliff, which stands at a height of almost 600 metres. For a more relaxed escape, the pretty fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, to the west of Funchal, offers spectacular views of the surrounding landscape.

Funchal is a city of a wide range of experiences, where history, culture, nature, and adventure come together in perfect harmony.  Whether you are exploring its historic architecture, sipping on Madeira wine, taking part in adrenaline-rushed activities, immersing yourself in art and culture, or simply enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Funchal has something to offer every traveller!

Our food experts have chosen the best tour operators offering tours with food, wine, and walking holidays in Funchal. You can check our full list of things to do in Funchal: top food tours to Funchal and top boutique hotels in the sections of the travel to Funchal travel guide.

Population: 111,992 (2023) inhabitants

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FUNCHAL

 

RECOMMENDED TOURS, EXPERIENCES & TASTINGS

Our top 10 best tours, experiences & tastings in the destination selected by our experts. Slow Way Food Tours, Green Walking Holiday and Exclusive Food & Wine Tours/Tastings.

 
 
 
 
 
  7 Days / 6...
  3750,00 euros 
 

The True Flavours & Natural Beauty of Madeira...

 

Why are the Madeira Islands, Europe´s Best Island Destination in 2024? Discover it on a trip full of food and wine in Madeira: wine tastings and more!

 

  1 User Reviews

 
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Full Day...  
175,00 euros  
 

Wine Tour of Lush Vineyards of Madeira Islands...

 

The Madeiran fortified wine is one of the most enduring man-made creations in the world. A legacy of over 500 years, it is as famous as the stunning Madeira Island itself. Our full-day wine tour is your chance to taste this iconic wine, explore its production process, and soak in the island´s beauty. Join the tour for a day of wine, wonder, and discovery!

 

  

 
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  Half Day...
  80,00 euros 
 

Gastronomic Walking Tour of Funchal, discovering...

 

Welcome to Funchal! where we believe that gastronomy and wines are an integral part of the Madeiran culture. Our Food & Wine Walking Tour offers you the opportunity to taste the flavours of Funchal from a local perspective, immersing you in the spirit of Madeira!

 

  1 User Reviews

 
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Full Day...  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Levada Walk & Authentic Flavours of Madeira

 

Experience Madeira´s natural beauty and cuisine! After breakfast, explore the Levada da Serra do Faial with lush forests, and village panoramas, then enjoy a traditional Madeira lunch. Visit the Cristo Rei viewpoint for the stunning ocean and Funchal views, where you will have unforgettable memories of the Madeira Islands.

 

  

 
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  Half Day...
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Traditional Lunch with a Local Host in Madeira

 

Step into a world of gastronomic wonders, a Typical Lunch with a Local Host in Madeira. Enjoy a 3-course menu that includes seasonal local products, showcasing the best of the Madeira Islands, with the Madeiran kebab as the star dish. From a welcoming sip to an insightful tour of agricultural production.

 

  0 User Reviews

 
See details
 
Full Day...  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

A Day of Fishing & Tasting Madeiran Rum

 

Begin the tour with a thrilling fishing boat trip to explore the Atlantic. After a morning of fishing, enjoy a delectable lunch, followed by a unique rum tasting at Madeira´s only tiki bar, celebrating the island´s historical connection with Hawaii. Savour the essence of Madeira´s rich history through carefully curated rums and toast to an unforgettable day on this enchanting island.

 

  

 
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TOP RESTAURANTS

The best places to eat selected by our foodie experts in the food destinations we cover.

 
 
 
 
 
  Full Day...
  175,00 euros 
 

Wine Tour of Lush Vineyards of Madeira Islands...

 

The Madeiran fortified wine is one of the most enduring man-made creations in the world. A legacy of over 500 years, it is as famous as the stunning Madeira Island itself. Our full-day wine tour is your chance to taste this iconic wine, explore its production process, and soak in the island´s beauty. Join the tour for a day of wine, wonder, and discovery!

 

  1 User Reviews

 
See details
 
Half Day...  
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Traditional Lunch with a Local Host in Madeira

 

Step into a world of gastronomic wonders, a Typical Lunch with a Local Host in Madeira. Enjoy a 3-course menu that includes seasonal local products, showcasing the best of the Madeira Islands, with the Madeiran kebab as the star dish. From a welcoming sip to an insightful tour of agricultural production.

 

  

 
See details
 
  Full Day...
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

A Day of Fishing & Tasting Madeiran Rum

 

Begin the tour with a thrilling fishing boat trip to explore the Atlantic. After a morning of fishing, enjoy a delectable lunch, followed by a unique rum tasting at Madeira´s only tiki bar, celebrating the island´s historical connection with Hawaii. Savour the essence of Madeira´s rich history through carefully curated rums and toast to an unforgettable day on this enchanting island.

 

  0 User Reviews

 
See details
 
 
 
 

RECOMMENDED HOTELS

Our travel experts have researched the best hotels in the destinations we cover. Stay in unique accommodations from modern city centre hotels to wine country manor house with amazing food & wine. If you can not find a suitable option just let our experts know and we will suggest something different for you.

 
 
 
 
 
  4 Star
On Request Best Rate euros 
 

Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

 

Discover Funchal´s charm at a historic boutique hotel near the Palace of Jesuits. Welcome to an exceptional stay in the heart of the city!

 

  1 User Reviews

 
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