Find hotels in Santa Maria Maior from £73

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria Maior

• Stunning Botanical Gardens: Explore the lush, beautifully landscaped botanical gardens that showcase Madeira's diverse flora.
• Vibrant Mercado Funchal: Experience the lively atmosphere of the local market, offering fresh produce, crafts, and local delicacies.
• Historic Architecture: Discover charming streets lined with historic buildings and the local mother church, reflecting the area's rich heritage.
• Wine Tours: Enjoy delightful winery tours, sampling exquisite Madeiran wines in picturesque settings.
• Outdoor Activities: Engage in a variety of outdoor pursuits, perfect for families or adventure enthusiasts.

Find great hotels near Santa Maria Maior

Discover a range of excellent accommodation options in Santa Maria Maior, Funchal, where adventure seekers and families alike can find their perfect getaway. From charming guesthouses to well-equipped hotels, this area offers a variety of lodgings to suit every traveller's needs. Enjoy the unique blend of local culture and modern amenities, with easy access to holiday rentals and the beautiful Madeira wineries nearby.

• Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature: Nestled just 1.2km from Santa Maria Maior, this 5-star gem embodies luxury and relaxation. Ideal for business and leisure travellers, the Savoy Palace features state-of-the-art conference facilities, including a Business Centre and Meeting Rooms, catering to all your professional needs. Guests can indulge in a full spa experience, complete with outdoor pools, poolside bars, and hot tubs, making it the perfect retreat for those seeking rejuvenation amidst a stylish setting.
• The Vine: Also located 1.2km from Santa Maria Maior, The Vine is a 5-star hotel that caters to adventurous families and luxury seekers alike. With a focus on outdoor activities, guests can enjoy nearby boat tours, mountain biking, and snorkelling, ensuring an exciting stay. The hotel is child-friendly, offering amenities such as cribs and babysitting services, making it an excellent choice for families looking to create unforgettable memories while enjoying the island's natural beauty.
• NEXT - Savoy Signature: Situated 1.2km from Santa Maria Maior, NEXT - Savoy Signature is a 4-star establishment that warmly welcomes LGBTQIA travellers while offering a blend of business and relaxation. The hotel features a chic coworking space for professionals and a serene spa with massage treatment rooms, ensuring a well-rounded experience. Guests can unwind by the outdoor pool, equipped with sun loungers and umbrellas, providing an inviting atmosphere to relax after a productive day.

Where to stay in and around Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior, nestled in Funchal, Madeira, offers a delightful blend of history and relaxation, perfect for family beach vacations. Explore the charming streets filled with friendly locals, or venture to nearby attractions for a romantic tropical escape. From the historic architecture to the lush landscapes of Madeira Island, every moment here promises to be enchanting. Discover the vibrant atmosphere and immerse yourself in the rich culture that surrounds this picturesque parish.

• Old Town Funchal: Nestled around Santa Maria Maior, Old Town Funchal is a vibrant neighbourhood that captures the essence of Madeira's rich history and culture. This charming area sees a steady stream of visitors year-round, peaking in the summer months of July and August, as well as November. The neighbourhood is perfect for outdoor enthusiasts and families, offering easy access to a public market, an aquatic centre, and beautiful beaches. Notable attractions include the picturesque marina and family-friendly beach, making it an ideal spot for leisurely strolls and delightful seaside experiences.
• Sé: Located 1.2km from Santa Maria Maior, the parish of Sé is a bustling hub that invites visitors to explore its lively atmosphere. With consistent tourist traffic throughout the year, Sé becomes particularly popular during the peak summer months and in November. This area is favoured for its outdoor activities and family-oriented experiences. Visitors can enjoy shopping at the local shopping centre and mall, and take advantage of the nearby aquatic centre. Sé is also home to significant landmarks such as the marina, beach, and various monuments that reflect the rich heritage of the region.
• São Martinho: Situated 1.9km from Santa Maria Maior, São Martinho is a delightful parish that offers a mix of relaxation and adventure. Like its neighbouring areas, it attracts a consistent flow of tourists, with peak seasons mirroring those in Old Town and Sé. São Martinho is ideal for families and outdoor lovers, boasting an aquatic centre and easy access to shopping centres. Visitors can unwind at the nearby family beach, explore the marina, and enjoy the breathtaking coastal views that this vibrant area has to offer.

Things to do in and around Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior is perfect for outdoor family and beach holidays, offering a variety of activities including a vibrant public market and an aquatic centre. Visitors can also enjoy winery tours in Funchal, sampling exquisite local wines. Whether you're exploring the market or relaxing by the beach, there's something for everyone in this charming area of Madeira.

Shopping

In Santa Maria Maior, you can explore the Funchal Farmers Market for local produce and souvenirs. La Vie Shopping Center, just 1.2km away, offers various shops and entertainment. If you're up for a drive, visit Centro Comercial Forum Madeira, located 2.5km away, for more shopping and family fun.

Recreation

The Lido Bathing Complex offers a family-friendly aquatic experience with pools and sunbathing areas, perfect for relaxation. Madeira Stadium provides a lively atmosphere for sports enthusiasts, while Palheiro Golf Club invites you to enjoy outdoor golfing amidst stunning landscapes, making it a delightful retreat for golf lovers.

Adventure

Experience the Funchal Cable Car to Monte Station for stunning views and an exhilarating ride. Explore the scenic beauty along the PR11 Vereda dos Balcões hiking trail, perfect for adventurers. Alternatively, take the Garajau Cable Car for a thrilling journey with panoramic vistas of the coastline.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Maria Maior is vibrant, with charming bars like the iconic Avenida do Mar offering stunning views. For lively music, visit the popular Casa do Povo. If you fancy a relaxed evening, try the quaint wine bars tucked away in the cobbled streets.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior is an excellent destination for budget-conscious travellers, offering free attractions such as the Town Square, Se Cathedral, and Sao Tiago Beach. To save on transport, consider walking or using the bus, while taxis can be avoided for shorter distances. The most economical months to visit are January to February and November. Aim to book your hotel about a month in advance for the best rates, particularly on Fridays. Consider using Expedia to find package deals that combine your hotel, flights, and activities for additional savings.

• 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santa Maria Maior is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay, though if you're late to the party, have a look at Expedia's last minute deals - the green banner below the hotel's price indicates a discounted rate.
• 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: Expedia’s search tool enables you to set your budget, choose your desired location, and more. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, allowing you to view the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you can refine your choices by hotel type; for instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are available for booking.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay 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, is perfect for outdoor family beach holidays, offering attractions like botanical gardens, vibrant squares, and private gardens. Culture enthusiasts can explore the local mother church, Mercado Funchal, and various points of interest that cater to all ages. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Santa Maria Maior provides a delightful blend of experiences to suit every traveller's needs.

• Madeira Botanical Garden: Immerse yourself in the enchanting Madeira Botanical Garden, where lush greenery and vibrant flowers create a romantic outdoor escape. Perfect for families, the garden offers stunning views and a tranquil atmosphere, making it a delightful spot to unwind and explore.
• Town Square: A short mile from Santa Maria Maior, the Town Square pulsates with city life and culture. This lively piazza is an ideal place to soak up the local atmosphere, featuring charming cafés and shops that celebrate Madeiran heritage.
• Se Cathedral: Also located 1.6km away, Se Cathedral is a remarkable architectural gem that showcases the rich cultural history of Funchal. Its stunning interiors and serene ambiance provide a perfect backdrop for contemplation and appreciation of local artistry.

Best time to go to Santa Maria Maior

The best time to visit Santa Maria Maior is dependant on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain (dry). February is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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	Slightly High	Average
April	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly High
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	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	Slightly Low	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria Maior

When planning your visit to Santa Maria Maior in Funchal, Madeira, you can fly into two major airports. Funchal Airport (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo) is situated 4.3km from Santa Maria Maior, with excellent nearby hotels such as the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, just 124m away, and Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel, 5.6km from the airport. For those considering Porto Santo Airport (PXO), located 26.1km away, notable hotels include the 5-star Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa, 1.2km from the airport, and the 4-star Torre Praia Hotel, just 621m away. Both airports offer convenient access to local accommodations.