Madeira’s cultural capital offers museums and shopping districts on the doorstep of extraordinary natural wonders.
Stroll through lush botanical gardens, spot dolphins and savour warm Portuguese pastries along cobbled laneways in Funchal. Madeira's capital city is a thriving hub of art galleries and picturesque squares lined with restaurants, along with gift shops and ever-tempting bakeries. After exploring the city, take tours to snorkel in magical underwater worlds and hike through mystical forests.
The Madeira archipelago bathes in warm weather year round so pack for sun-kissed beach days. Visit Funchalat the end of summer to celebrate with locals at the Madeira Wine Festival during grape harvesting season. In February, streets are enlivened with the colour and music of Carnival parades.
Things to do in Funchal
Start your Funchal holidaywith the thrill of Monte Sledges. Created in the 19th century, the hand-made, wicker and wood sledges are pushed by costumed drivers. You’ll zip down the route from Monte to Livramento in about 10 minutes, with sweeping views along the way. Take the Botanical Garden Cable Car for more panoramic views, then explore the Madeira Botanical Gardens, where you’ll see magnificent floral displays and endangered plant species.
The Natural History Museum of Funchal is home to fascinating marine fossils, along with minerals and rocks from across the archipelago. Admire art collections of paintings, engravings, sculpture and more at the Casa Museu Frederico de Freitas. Football fans flock to the CRZ Museum to learn all about the life of Cristiano Ronaldo.
Shop along lively Avenida Arriaga, a pedestrian walkway paved with traditional Portuguese calçada (cobblestones) and lined with historical buildings. It’s likely you’ll walk the scenic Funchal Seaside Promenade many times while visiting Funchal. Enjoy the water views as you stroll along this esplanade that leads to the Ponta Gorda Bathing Complex for a refreshing dip, and the Marine Biology Station.
Outdoor activities in Funchal
Take an exciting boat trip from the Funchal Marina to spot whales and dolphins year round. Divers and snorkellers can discover the Garajau Nature Reserve among giant anemones and barracudas. Just a 10-minute drive outside the city centre, the black sand and pebble Formosa Beach is a family favourite with playgrounds and beach bars for a cool drink after swimming.
From trail running to canyoning and off-road bike tours, the action off the water is just as thrilling. Framed by green mountains and teeming with wildlife such as the Madeira pigeon, the Ribeiro Frio Forest Park is a hiker’s paradise. On a day trip, visit Rabaçal and the Laurissilva forest. Hike a series of trails leading to spectacular viewpoints and the enchanting Risco Waterfall.
Dining and nightlife in Funchal
Try laurel branch grilled skewers and black scabbardfish paired with local wine while sampling Funchal’s acclaimed dining scene. Shop for fresh produce within the bustle of Mercado dos Lavradores. The Old Town, Zona Velha, is packed full of restaurants lining cobbled streets, along with buzzing nightlife venues. Find fine dining restaurants in luxury hotels and oceanfront venues along the promenades.
Downtown Funchal is a hub of late-night bars and clubs along Rua Imperatriz D. Amélia and Rua das Fontes. Try your luck at Casino Madeira, an entertainment complex with restaurants, bars and dazzling shows. You’re spoilt for choice regarding pre- and post-theatre dinner and drinks along Avenida Arriaga, which is home to the Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias.
Getting around Funchal
To visit Funchal, fly into Madeira Airport International Cristiano Ronaldo then get to the city centre by taxi, bus, airport shuttle or rental car in around 30 minutes. An efficient bus network helps you get around the island, along with tuk-tuks and cable cars. Rent bikes and scooters or take advantage of excellent boat tours to explore. Fantastic hotels in Funchal are located within steps of the ocean, shops and restaurants.
