The capital city of Portugal’s Madeira archipelago, Funchal is renowned for its mountains, blue sea, lush plant life, historical sites, and wine cellars. Apart from that, the city is also famous for the hospitality from the locals, which is a true representation of the country’s chill vibes. This is one of the many reasons people from all over the world love visiting this mesmerizing island. With that being said, to make your life a tad bit easy with all the planning, here’s a list of the best things to do in Funchal, Portugal. The city of beautiful wonders awaits you to experience the beauty that Funchal offers!
1. Treat your eyes to the magic of Palheiro Gardens
Featuring beautiful, astonishing collection of flowers, Palheiro Gardens attracts a lot of tourists and locals alike, to be mesmerized by the beauty of nature. Divided into various distinct habitats - Stream Garden, Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Lady’s Garden, and the wild and deliberately overgrown Hell’s Valley, these gardens are renowned for their tropical trees, lush plant life, fauna, and a wide variety of bird species.
Palheiro Gardens
Address: Caminho da Quinta, Funchal, Portugal
Website: Palheiro Gardens
Opening hours: 9am - 5:30pm (daily)
Price: 11.80 USD
2. Go back in time at the Santa Clara Convent
A 15th-century working masterpiece monastery, Santa Clara Convent is located up a steep hill from the center of Funchal. Open for just a few hours a day, this historic monastery offers guided tours given by one nun and is considered as one of the hidden gems of Funchal, making this place a must-visit.
Santa Clara Convent
Address: Calçada de Santa Clara 15, 9000-036 Funchal, Portugal
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 12pm, 3pm - 5pm; Sun: 10am - 12pm
Price: 1.69 USD
3. Explore the beauty of nature at Monte Palace Tropical Garden (from USD 132.0)
One of the most visited gardens in Funchal, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is located next to the upper station of Monte Cable Car. Featuring over 100,000 species of plants with a section solely devoted to Madeira’s flora, this is a garden where you can invest a few hours of your time. Other than witnessing species of flora, you can also enjoy marveling at the Japanese pagoda and the waterfalls.
Madeira Gardens Private Half-Day Tour
Duration: 4 hours
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4. Tour around the Old Town of Funchal (from USD 109.0)
If you want to explore a true local area, Funchal Old Town is your best bet. The city’s best shops and restaurants being located in this area, Funchal Old Town gives out a true rustic culture that one has to witness. Take this amazing sidecar tour and see the historic center of Funchal, the painted walls and doors of the town, and the bay-facing statue of Jesus Christ.
Funchal Old Town, East Old Roads and Christ Redeemer Statue
Duration: 1 to 2 hours
5. Hop on a gondola and admire the entire city (from USD 9.49)
Want to experience the beauty of Funchal all at once? Then hop on a cable car and admire the views of the mountain, city, and the seaside as you ride on the Botanical Garden cable car. You’ll also get to go over the Valley of João Gomes Ribeira and visit the village of Monte on top of the mountains surrounding Funchal. If you are a nature lover, then not only this destination but also its wonders welcome you with open arms.
Botanical Garden Cable Car Ticket
Duration: 3.0 to 4.0 day
6. Be amazed at Renaissance and Baroque architecture of Jesuits College
One of the notable buildings of Madeira, the 16th century Jesuit College of Funchal features beautiful interiors with equally incredible sculptures and paintings. The part of the building is now the University of Funchal that features a student café where you get lip-smackin’ custard cakes and good coffee.
Jesuits College
Address: R. dos Ferreiros Estrada, 9000-082 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Jesuits College
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 9:30am - 6pm; Sat: 9:30am - 1pm (closed on Sunday)
Price: Free
7. Get your dare-devil experience fulfilled with wicker sled rides
Up for some crazy fun? Wicker basket sled ride is just what you’re looking for! Considered as one of the unique experiences in Funchal, you’ll be on a toboggan that’ll be pushed and steered by two runners in traditional white attires, down the steep hill. It’s as amazing as it sounds. And as a bonus, you get to soak in the scenic views.
Carreiros do Monte
Address: Caminho do Monte 4, 9050-288 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Carreiros do Monte
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 9am - 6pm (closed on Sunday)
Price: 28 USD onwards
8. Buy farm-fresh produce at the Farmer's Market
Although the Farmers Market is a flower, fruit, vegetable, and a fish market, it’s a must-visit place in Funchal. This colorful bustling market dates back to the 1940s and the space inside is organized as different plazas and is connected by passages and staircases. You’ll also get to witness traditionally dressed flower ladies selling exotic flowers only on Fridays.
Farmer's Market
Address: R. Latino Coelho 38, 9060-155 Funchal, Portugal
Opening hours: Mon - Thu: 8am - 7pm; Fri: 7am - 8pm; Sat: 7am - 2pm (closed on Sunday)
9. Be mesmerized by the architecture of the Funchal Cathedral
In the city’s heart, lies the Cathedral of Funchal, which is renowned as one of the main historic landmarks in town. Constructed at the beginning of the 16th century, Funchal Cathedral symbolizes power and prosperity. Get to witness the Gothic altarpiece that’s composed of gilt woodwork, oil paintings, small sculptures, and the wooden cedar ceiling with ivory elements considered being one of the most beautiful ceilings in the whole of Portugal. Enjoy the artwork to the core.
Funchal Cathedral
Address: R. do Aljube 39, 9000-067 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Funchal Cathedral
Opening hours: 7:30am - 12pm, 4pm - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free
10. Sip on some vintage wines at the Old Blandy Wine Lodge
If you are a wine enthusiast how can you leave Funchal without getting to taste the famous sweet wine? One of the notable museums to get to the wine tasting is the Old Blandy Wine Lodge that’s been in the winemaking business for over 200 years. Other than getting to taste various styles of Vino Madeira, you’ll also get to learn about the making of the Madeira wine and its processes.
Old Blandy Wine Lodge
Address: Av. Arriaga 28, 9000-064 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Old Blandy Wine Lodge
Opening hours: Mon - Fri: 10am - 6:30pm; Sat: 10am - 1pm (closed on Sunday)
Price: 5 USD
11. Experience the aura of the 15th century Igreja do Monte church
This little 15th-century church, Igreja do Monte is located between Monte cable car top station and the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. Although you’ll have to navigate some pretty steep stairs, the moment you get to the top, the climb will all be worth it. You’ll get to enjoy the beautiful coastline and the mountains in the town of Funchal. This is a must-visit location within Funchal.
Igreja do Monte church
Address: 9050-288 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Igreja do Monte church
Opening hours: Tue - Sat: 9am - 7pm (closed on Sun & Mon)
Price: Free
12. Explore the museum dedicated to the legend Cristiano Ronaldo
Football fanatic or not, Museu CR7 is a must-visit museum that is dedicated to Madeira’s all-time famous football player — Cristiano Ronaldo. The museum isn’t just about Ronaldo as a person, but it’s more about his achievements — his trophies, memorabilia, medals, and life-size statues of the football legend. This is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, so grab it.
Museu CR7
Address: Praça do Mar, Av. Sá Carneiro, 9004-518 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Museu CR7
Opening hours: Mon - Sat: 10am - 6pm (closed on Sunday)
Price: 5 USD
13. Take inspiration from the street art of Rua Santa Maria
Once a region that suffered from massive floods, Rua Santa Maria today is a fine example of how a bit of creativity and imagination can bring the quality and vibrancy of a city back to life. Arte de Portas Abertas, a public art program has transformed a scruffy area of Funchal’s Old Town into a vibrant art gallery. To this day, this place is home to over 200 works of art. And you won’t fail to notice the cool art on the doors while you walk around this sweet little town.
Rua Santa Maria
Address: 9060-291 Funchal, Portugal
Opening hours: 24/7
Price: Free
14. Experience the culture at Madeira Story Centre
One of the first things that most tourists end up doing is visiting this museum to explore the history and culture of the Madeira archipelago. Made in a way that’s engaging and entertaining for all, this museum is a themed exhibition of objects and artifacts going back to the periods of the Portuguese explorers and the pirates. Along with this, the visitors can also interact with each subject through sound, vision, and other state-of-the-art multimedia technology.
Madeira Story Centre
Address: Rua D. Carlos I 27, 9060-051 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Madeira Story Centre
Opening hours: 10am - 7pm (daily)
Price: 5 USD
15. Treat your taste buds at Barreirinha Bar Cafe
Good music, good food, good atmosphere, and truly amazing locals define Barreirinha Bar café. Unlike any other bars on the island, this café overlooks the sea from the best vantage point and is perfect for a pre-evening meal while watching the sun go down. Have fun galore in Funchal.
Barreirinha Bar Cafe
Address: Largo do Socorro, 9060-019 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Barreirinha Bar Cafe
Opening hours: Sun - Thu: 9am - 12am; Fri - Sat: 9am - 2am
Price: 120 USD onwards
16. Get into the football craze at Estádio do Marítimo stadium
A multi-purpose stadium in Funchal, Estádio do Marítimo is used mostly now for football matches and can hold up to 8,922 people. Constructed into a Funchal hillside, the stadium is famous for its distinctive design and shape and offers pristine views of the bay, city, and the rising Madeiran Mountains.
Estádio do Marítimo
Address: Caminho da Nazaré 39, 9000-160 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Estádio do Marítimo
17. Have a sip of tea at the marvelous Belmond Reid's Palace
One of the most famous hotels dating back to 1890s have been a host to Winston Churchill, and Roger Moore to name just a few. Now, it’s not necessary to be staying there, but you can always hop in for afternoon tea to witness the gorgeous panoramic views. SIp and soak in the fascinating views from the hotel.
Belmond Reid's Palace
Address: Estrada Monumental 139, 9000-098 Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
Website: Belmond Reid’s Palace
Opening hours: 24/7
Price: 15 USD onwards
18. Educate yourself over dolphin- and whale-watching sessions (from USD 54.22)
With Madeira’s location well placed around the Atlantic Ocean, it becomes a great spot for whale and dolphin watching. Spend your day doing a rewarding activity and educating yourself about the marine life in their natural habitat at close quarters, and how they impact the eco-system in one of the most memorable ways.
Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Cruise
Duration: 2.0 hour
19. Discover hidden gems of Madeira Island on a jeep (from USD 58.56)
If you’re among the few who love exploring the beautiful, off-beaten path that most of them aren’t aware of, this jeep tour is best suited for you. The main goal here is to have all the fun in the world and witness one of the most incredible views of Madeira Island that you wouldn’t be able to discover if you were on your own.
From Funchal: Full-Day Jeep Safari Tour
Duration: 8.0 hour
20. Befriend locals at Restaurante Zarcos
This one is for all the steak lovers out there! The retro website might cut you off, but never judge a book by its cover. Offering best steaks in taste and portions in Madeira, Zarcos is always filled with locals and has a great atmosphere to it. And this gives it a great reason for you to talk to the locals and befriend them. You never know, they might spill in on some country treasures, which are on the off-beaten path that no one knows about.
Restaurante Zarcos
Address: R. Conde Carvalhal 136, 9060-327 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Restaurante Zarcos
Opening hours: 11am - 12am (daily)
Price: 10 USD onwards
21. Set up your picnic base at Santa Catarina Park
A central meeting place in Funchal, Santa Catarina Park, famously known for its dog-walking spot, is also popular for its picnic spot. Nothing feels better than setting up a picnic amidst the greenery and spending much needed time with nature and of course, your loved ones.
Santa Catarina Park
Address: Av. Sá Carneiro 3, 9000-015 Funchal, Portugal
Website: Santa Catarina Park
Opening hours: 7am - 7pm (daily)
Price: Free entry
22. Feed your adventure soul with a canoeing experience (from USD 71.53)
It’s never too late to discover a world filled with new adventures. This is even more true when you decide to go on a canoeing adventure. Soak up in Madeira Island’s floral diversity and lush landscape while being accompanied by a team of professionals. Make it a perfect holiday with friends or family or both together.
Ribeiro Frio: Beginners 3-Hour Canyoning Experience
Duration: 3.0 hour
23. Soak in the mesmerizing views surrounding Pico Ruivo peak (from USD 47.71)
Located at 1818 meters (5964 ft) of altitude, Pico de Ruivo makes you feel you’re floating in the clouds when you walk over the trails from Poiso to Pico do Areeiro. When you get to the top, you’ll first want to take a deep breath and stand still to soak in all the magical beauty that it offers.
Madeira: Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo Hike
Duration: 8.0 hour
24. Indulge in good food and traditional nightlife of Madiera (from USD 43.37)
Want to experience how the typical night in Madeira is like? Look no further. Choose this amazing tour and get to experience the magical and a colorful night with traditional entertainment and local cuisine. Witness a dance performance in a traditional costume and devour local specialties like seasoned beef and flatbread.
Madeira by Night with Traditional Dinner
Duration: 4.0 hour
25. Witness the island's culture in a film roll at the Madeira Film Experience (from USD 6.0)
True to what the name stands for, Madeira Film Experience is a place where you’ll get to experience and a witness a film that covers around 600 years of the history and culture of the Madeira Island. The film is 30 minutes long and is available in five languages: Portuguese, English, French, Dutch, and German.
Madeira Film Experience Ticket
Duration: 30 minutes
26. Walk around the historical Madeira Botanical Garden (from USD 38.0)
Dating back to the 1880s, Madeira Botanical Garden is a privately owned garden located on a hill up above Funchal with spectacular views. Featuring a variety of styled gardens, including French and Japanese gardens, this property also boasts tiny Madeira houses and a natural history museum. This is one of the most fascinating gardens with an awe-inspiring collection of plants. It was created by the Reid family in 1881.
Monte & Botanical Garden Tour
Duration: 4 hours
Experience it all at Funchal
You could be a seasoned traveler, occasional traveler, or traveling for work, there is always a good amount of research done no matter what category of traveler you fall under. And when you research and exploring your options, you soon realize that everything about Funchal will make you fall in love with the city. Nature, the architectural gems, the people, the food and the culture will leave you speechless. Funchal should definitely be on your list.
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