Find hotels in Santa Maria Maior from £68

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria Maior

• Charming Streets: Stroll through picturesque streets filled with vibrant markets and enchanting architecture, immersing yourself in local culture.
• Cultural Attractions: Visit captivating sites like the Santa Maria Maior Church, botanical gardens, and art museums for a rich cultural experience.
• Stunning Coastal Views: Enjoy breathtaking coastal scenery and family-friendly beaches perfect for relaxation and sun-soaked days.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in outdoor pursuits such as golf and walking tours, catering to adventure seekers and families alike.
• Welcoming Accommodations: Choose from a range of inviting guesthouses and hotels, many offering pet-friendly options and excellent amenities.

Find great hotels near Santa Maria Maior

In the charming neighbourhood of Santa Maria Maior, Funchal, you’ll discover a delightful selection of accommodations, ranging from inviting guesthouses to well-equipped hotels. Ideal for adventurers and business travellers alike, many establishments offer pet-friendly options and a variety of amenities to enhance your stay. Whether you’re seeking a residential experience or a holiday rental, Santa Maria Maior has something to suit every preference and budget.

• Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature: This luxurious 5-star hotel, rated 9.6, offers an exquisite spa-themed experience just 3.2km from Santa Maria Maior. The Savoy Palace is perfect for eco-conscious travellers, featuring pet-friendly policies for pets up to a certain weight. Guests can indulge in a full-service spa, unwind by the pool with a poolside bar, or enjoy treatments in dedicated treatment rooms. The hotel’s commitment to sustainability and comfort provides a serene retreat where relaxation meets elegance.
• The Vine: A vibrant 5-star accommodation rated 9.4, The Vine is an exceptional choice for families seeking adventure and recreation. Located 3.2km from Santa Maria Maior, this hotel caters to thrill-seekers with nearby activities such as mountain biking, waterskiing, and sailing. Family-friendly amenities include childcare services and a first aid kit, ensuring a safe and enjoyable stay for children. The Vine embodies a lively atmosphere, making it an ideal base for families looking to explore Madeira’s outdoor offerings.
• NEXT - Savoy Signature: This inviting 4-star hotel, rated 9.0, is just 3.2km from Santa Maria Maior and appeals to those seeking a blend of spa relaxation and eco-conscious living. NEXT - Savoy Signature welcomes pets and features facilities like a swim-up bar and a poolside bar, ensuring that guests can unwind in style. The hotel’s eco-certification guarantees a responsible stay, while the spa services, including massages, promise rejuvenation amidst a peaceful environment, making it a charming choice for your Madeira getaway.

Where to stay in Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior, nestled in Funchal, Madeira, offers a delightful blend of historical charm and tropical relaxation. Explore its picturesque streets filled with friendly locals, vibrant markets, and enchanting architecture. Nearby, you can enjoy stunning coastal views and family-friendly beaches that invite sun-soaked days. Discover the romantic atmosphere of neighbourhoods like Santa Maria, where the essence of Madeira truly comes to life, making it an ideal destination for an unforgettable getaway.

• Funchal: Nestled in the heart of Madeira, Funchal is the vibrant capital city offering a delightful blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. With a year-round temperate climate, it attracts visitors for outdoor activities, beach relaxation, and family adventures. Explore the local markets, where you can savour fresh produce and unique crafts, or visit the marina for stunning views. Funchal is also home to picturesque beaches and a thriving aquatic centre, making it perfect for water enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to wander through the charming streets of Santa Maria Maior, which is rich in history and character.
• Old Town Funchal: Just a stone's throw from Santa Maria Maior, Old Town Funchal is a historical gem that invites visitors to step back in time. This charming neighbourhood is renowned for its cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and vibrant street art. The area sees a peak in visitors during the summer months, particularly in July and August, making it a lively spot for outdoor dining and entertainment. Visitors can enjoy various activities, including exploring local markets and the nearby beach, which is perfect for families. Old Town Funchal also offers an array of restaurants and cafés where you can indulge in traditional Madeiran cuisine while soaking up the lively atmosphere.
• Sao Goncalo: Located 1.6km away from Santa Maria Maior, Sao Goncalo is a tranquil parish that offers an oasis for outdoor and sports enthusiasts. With its stunning golf course and lush botanical gardens, this area is ideal for those seeking a bit of adventure or relaxation amidst nature. The region attracts visitors primarily during the summer months, particularly in July and August, and provides ample opportunities for beachgoers to enjoy the sun and surf. Nearby attractions, including a marina and beautiful beaches, make Sao Goncalo a perfect complement to your Funchal experience, allowing for a mix of leisure and exploration.

Things to do in Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior offers a delightful blend of outdoor and family-friendly activities, perfect for a memorable holiday. Visitors can enjoy the local aquatic centre, or hit the golf course for a round of golf. For a more immersive experience, consider exploring Funchal through walking tours, where you can discover the vibrant local culture and indulge in refreshing drinks at various establishments.

Shopping

In Santa Maria Maior, explore local shops for unique souvenirs, while the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores offers fresh produce and artisanal goods. If you're up for a drive, head to Madeira Shopping Centre for a wider range of brands and dining options, about 16.1km away.

Recreation

The Spa at Belmond Reid's Palace offers luxurious treatments in a stunning ocean-view setting, combining traditional techniques with modern therapies. Enjoy serene moments in the saltwater pool or indulge in revitalising massages, ensuring a truly rejuvenating experience during your stay in Santa Maria Maior.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant streets of Santa Maria Maior, renowned for its colourful street art and charming architecture. Embark on a thrilling hike along the Levada do Norte, offering stunning views of the island's lush landscapes and dramatic cliffs, perfect for adventure enthusiasts.

Nightlife

In Santa Maria Maior, Funchal, the nightlife buzzes with vibrant bars and live music venues. Enjoy a lively atmosphere at The Royal Pub, or savour cocktails at the trendy Bar do Mercado. The charming streets come alive with locals and tourists alike, making for an unforgettable evening.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria Maior

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Maria Maior are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Santa Maria Maior about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Maria Maior is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Maria Maior is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia's search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. To uncover the best prices and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Santa Maria Maior with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior in Funchal, Madeira, offers a delightful vacation for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Visitors can explore captivating attractions such as botanical gardens, picturesque squares, and art museums. This vibrant area caters to those seeking cultural experiences, romance, and adventure. Don't miss the chance to visit local highlights like the Santa Maria Maior Church and the charming city of Funchal, ensuring a memorable holiday filled with exploration and relaxation.

• Madeira Botanical Garden: Experience the stunning array of plant species from around the world in this enchanting botanical garden. Set within Santa Maria Maior, it offers a romantic atmosphere, perfect for families and nature lovers alike, with winding paths and breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
• Town Square: Located a mile from Santa Maria Maior, this vibrant piazza is the heart of local culture. Enjoy the lively atmosphere as you explore quaint cafés, shops, and cultural events, immersing yourself in the city's unique charm.
• Se Cathedral: Just 1.6km away, this magnificent cathedral showcases beautiful Gothic architecture and rich history. Its serene environment offers a glimpse into Madeira's cultural heritage, making it a must-visit for history enthusiasts.

Best time to go to Santa Maria Maior

The best time to visit Santa Maria Maior can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Maria Maior falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Maria Maior falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria Maior

When visiting Santa Maria Maior in Funchal, Madeira, the primary airport is Funchal (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo), located 11.3km away. Nearby, you can find excellent accommodation options such as the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, just 322m from the airport. Other notable hotels include the Savoy Palace and The Cliff Bay, both offering various transportation services, including airport shuttles available on request. Alternatively, you can fly into Porto Santo (PXO), situated 67.6km from Santa Maria Maior, with hotels like the Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa only 3.2km from the airport, ensuring convenient access for your stay.