15 Best Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira Right Now

Are you planning to visit Madeira? Chances are you will visit Funchal, Madeira’s capital city and the main port, exploring what it has to offer. I’ve just returned from a fabulous week-long solo trip to Funchal and have put together this guide to help you plan either 24 hours in Funchal or two days or even a longer Funchal itinerary. The guide is packed with all the best things to do in Funchal Madeira, including travel tips that are helpful to know. 

I visited Funchal, pronounced “Fuun-chaal”, intending to use it just as a base to do the famous Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike along with exploring the island’s many scenic walking trails, natural pools and other outdoorsy adventures which Madeira is known for. 

However, I was left with a warm appreciation for Funchal after having spent many days strolling through the city’s vibrant streets exploring its sights, feasting on the freshest seafood washed down with the richest and sweetest Madeira wine whilst also mingling with locals who were excited to share their fascinating culture and traditions.

One of the top things Funchal is known for and worth visiting in themselves are its popular festivals held all year round. The city’s festivals celebrate nearly everything from important religious events to some of the island’s famous products such as flowers and Madeira wine as well as music and dance.

I was lucky that my visit coincided with Funchal Carnival/Mardi Gras 2023 which made me fall in love with the city even more. I hope you appreciate Funchal as much as I did.

Let’s dive right in! Here is what to do in Funchal in Madeira

1. Take a Free Walking Tour of Funchal Old Town

Price: Tip Based (Offered in English and Spanish)

Start with a free guided walking tour of Funchal Old Town. I always recommend a walking tour as an introduction to a city as it’s an excellent way to orientate yourself and make exploring alone later on way easier. 

Guides will share with you helpful tips which you won’t find in most guides, yes, and even here such as where and what to eat in Funchal and how much it should cost, where to shop for the best souvenirs, the best transport options and so much more.

Since the walking tours are offered by locals, you’ll get to know the city’s fascinating insights and stories including wide local issues from a local’s perspective. 

I took the Free Walking Tours Funchal and learned interesting history about Funchal and Madeira as a whole from its inception as Portugal’s first colony in the early 15th century having been discovered by the Portuguese sailor João Gonçalves Zarco to the present day as an autonomous region. All told in a fun and engaging manner.

Since I was visiting Funchal alone, the walking tour also proved to be a nice way to meet and have fun with like-minded travellers. 

2. Wander the Old Town of Funchal 

The first port of call for most visitors to Funchal if exploring the city without a guide is to go for a wander in its Old Town or historic centre, known locally as Zona Velha.

This is where you’ll find Funchal’s most charming buildings and characterful streets which are home to the city’s famous historical sites and famous landmarks such as the 15th century Sé Cathedral of Funchal, 16th-century Palácio de São Lourenço and The Regional Legislative Assembly.

The Old Town is also home to museums such as the Natural History Museum and the Madeira Story Centre which showcases the city’s history and culture as well as beautiful gardens and parks, all of which are famous features of Funchal like Santa Catarina Park.

Check out the independent shops where you can bag some bargains, wine cellars such as the Old Blandy Wine Lodge which are perfect spots to sample the best of Madeira wines, and restaurants and bars where you can sample typical local cuisine and drinks.

Good to Know

The population of Funchal is just over 100,000, so it’s quite small. It’s a walkable city, especially around where most of its attractions are found. However, you’ll have to be content with steep hills once you start to move away from the city centre. Comfortable shoes and sun protection will come in handy, so prepare well. 

Funchal food and drink worth checking out:

• Prima Caju – One of the best restaurants in Funchal offering vegetarian and vegan breakfast and brunch in a cool place.

• Casa do Bolo do Caco – Don’t miss trying Bolo do Caco, the flatbread variation made from flour and sweet potato is the most favoured bread in Madeira and it’s easy to see why. It’s one of the best bread for delicious sandwiches though I prefer mine laddled with garlic butter. 

• Taberna Ruel and Taberna Madeira – Two lovely Funchal restaurants to enjoy traditional Madeira cuisine. 

• Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha – A tiny bakery on Santa Maria Street serving the most delicious traditional Portuguese and Maderian pastries such as pastel de nata, honey cake and sonhos (Portuguese doughnuts). 

• Rei da Poncha – the best bar to try Poncha, the most popular and traditional alcoholic drink in Madeira, made with rum, honey and fruits such as lemon and passion fruit.

• Old Blandy Wine Lodge – A popular stop for wine lovers and those keen to learn the history and production process of Madeira wine. Take the Blandy Wine Lodge’s highly-reviewed wine walking tour to taste some of the best Madeira wines, tour their cellars and learn about the history of the Blandy family and their role in the production of Madeira wine on the island.

3. Stop by the Sé Cathedral of Funchal

Price: Free 

Sé Cathedral de Nossa Senhora da Assunção, also The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a Roman Catholic church located right in the centre of Funchal Old Town. This church has stood at its site since the time Funchal was declared the capital of Madeira by Portugal’s King Manuel I during the late 15th century.

The three-nave Gothic-styled church has stood the test of time as it looks as good as new. Its facade is quite unassuming whilst the interior features a stunningly decorated Mudejar-styled wooden ceiling, a sophisticated altarpiece from the early 16th century, countless paintings and wooden craftworks. 

This is a church not to miss in Funchal even if you aren’t religious as it’s charming. It’s small, so it will be a brief stop. 

4. Marvel at the Street Art on Santa Maria Street 

The Street art known as Art of Open Doors or Arte Portas Abertas, found on the doors of the buildings along Santa Maria Street is part of Funchal Municipality’s initiative aimed at revitalising this part of Funchal Old Town which had become notorious and disused. 

The project has been hailed as a great success as it has become one of the most popular and unusual things to do in Funchal. Nearly every door on Santa Maria including adjacent streets is adorned with vivid and catchy paintings depicting mostly the lifestyle and cultural practices of the people who previously lived in the neighbourhood. 

Both professionals such as the celebrated Madeiran artist Mark Milewski together with amateurs from all over the world have contributed to the project which gives the whole experience authenticity. 

Santa Maria Maior, where Santa Maria Street is found, is the oldest neighbourhood in Funchal, so the area has a unique appeal in addition to its fascinating Street Art.

Most of the narrow stone streets in the area are in use as outdoor restaurants and bars making it one of the hubs for Funchal nightlife.

I found it more enjoyable to see the art in Santa Maria early in the day before the area became crowded with restaurant activities. However, don’t miss checking out the area at night as well. It’s a lovely place to hang out, awash with some of the best Funchal restaurants.

5. Explore Mercado dos Lavradores

Mercado dos Lavradores or the Farmers Market is Funchal’s central market, located in the Old Town and just around the corner from Santa Maria Street. The market is housed in an attractive two-storey building with a beautiful central courtyard. It’s a well-organised market with stalls that are grouped according to their offerings.

The market is well known for its absolutely beautiful fresh produce which includes a variety of colourful tropical fruits, vegetables, flowers and herbs.

The fish market which is separated by a lower floor is a great place to see some fascinating fish species as well as learn about Madeira’s strong seafood culture.

Don’t miss visiting the market if you’re keen to shop for decently-priced local souvenirs or are interested in trying out budget-friendly typical Madeiran food and drinks.

I’m told that Mercado dos Lavradores’ fruit and vegetable prices are inflated for the tourist market, however, I think you should certainly stop by, mainly to get a glimpse of what’s eaten on the island.  

6. Take a stroll along Avenida do Mar in Funchal

If you enjoy long strolls by the waterfront, you’ll definitely adore Avenida do Mar. Avenida do Mar is the city’s long promenade which runs along the Marina in Funchal connecting the south and west ends of the city.

The promenade allows easy access to some of Funchal’s top attractions while enjoying the awesome views of the Atlantic Ocean and massive ships and cruise liners that dock on the marina every day. 

From the promenade, you can also reach Funchal Old Town including the Sé Cathedral through the numerous sidewalks leading to the city centre. Along Avenida do Mar, you’ll also find the historic 16th-century Palácio de São Lourenço and Fort of São Tiago Funchal. Both are the only remains of the old city walls and fortifications.

Funchal Cable Car Station which connects Funchal and Monte Village can be found towards the south whilst the famous Cristiano Ronaldo Museum or CR7 Museum is at the west end of the promenade.

The promenade itself has a good balance of great things to do from end to end. Some of the things to enjoy along the promenade are numerous artistic works which include impressive sculptures, decorated gardens, lovely seating arrangements which are perfect for people-watching, food trucks, tuckshops and bars. 

The promenade is also a centre for many of Funchal’s festivities such as the famous New Year’s Eve Festival, Carnival and Atlantic Festival Fire Show, so it’s quite a happening place in town. 

Some of my fond memories of Funchal were taking late-night walks along the promenade. It was one of my favourite things to do in Funchal at night which I highly recommend if this sounds like your kind of fun. 

Good to Know

• A Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour is a popular day excursion in Funchal. Several tours start from Funchal Harbour, so if you’re interested stop by their huts along the promenade to enquire or book ahead online.

• Choose to take a Sightseeing Bus Tour from the promenade to get to some of the popular tourist destinations that are difficult to reach on foot in case you’re visiting Funchal without a car. The buses stop at popular tourist attractions outside Funchal such as the famous Monte Village, Cabo Girão Skywalk, Picos dos Barcelo viewing point and Lido Marina (where you can find good public swimming facilities such as Praia Formosa Beach).

• Equally, several private car and bike rentals are also available from the shops opposite the promenade in case you wish to take excursions
  independently. 

• Local buses also run close to the promenade. They are a budget-friendly option to get to most of the popular tourist attractions around Funchal.

7. Explore Monte Palace Tropical Garden 

Price: €12.50 Adults 

Monte Palace Tropical Garden is an absolutely superb place to visit whilst in Funchal. The garden is set on the hills of Monte Village, located 500m above Funchal city centre. 

The garden initially existed as an 18th-century private residence and a hotel in the early 20th century. It opened in the 90s to the public after it was acquired and developed into a tropical garden by a businessman and art collector from the area.

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden stretches across 70 00 square metres and is home to various themed gardens which are home to a wide range of both native and beautiful exotic flowers and plants from countries such as South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Japan and China.

A labyrinth of beautifully designed walkways opens up to lush green spaces, attractive waterfalls and lakes which are home to exotic birds, stunning sculptures and huts, some with oriental themes and various peaks to enjoy some lovely views of Funchal and beyond.

Interestingly, complementing the garden are stunning Portuguese Tile Art from the 15th and 20th centuries, the three-floored Monte Palace Museum which has on show Sculptured Art from Zimbabwe from 1966-69 and a rich collection of minerals from various continents.

The Greenhouse Coffee Roaster in the garden is worth a quick stop for coffee and the most delicious vegan cakes in Funchal, so don’t miss it. 

How to get to Monte Palace Gardens

• Funchal Cable Car or Monte Cable Car is the most popular choice for visitors to navigate from the lower section of Funchal to the upper section, especially to explore Monte Palace Gardens. The cable car is popular probably due to the lovely views of Funchal and the sea which are to be enjoyed during the ride. Its station in Funchal centre is located along Avenida do Mar in the Old Town whilst the station in Monte is just around the corner from the garden’s entrance (Price €18 Return). The ride takes about 15-20min each way. 

• The botanical garden cable car is a separate cable car route connecting the village of Monte with the Madeira Botanical Garden. It might be the most efficient way to visit the two places especially if you’ve no access to a car. The ride takes 9 min each way and a return ticket costs €15.

• Local bus routes 20, 21 and 48 make the journey within 30-40 mins from Avenida do Mar.

• Driving or a taxi ride should take you about 20 mins.

• Both the Red and Yellow Sightseeing Buses stop in Monte. 

8. Explore Monte 

Plan to spend some time in Monte where the Monte Palace Tropical Garden is located as it’s a pretty little village. Monte village’s landscape is stunningly lush green with a high altitude that affords a gorgeous view of Funchal.

Church of Our Lady of the Mount (Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte), the church at the centre of the village, has roots which go back to the 15th century though the current iteration was completed during the 19th century. It’s a small church but it’s full to the brim with attractive altars and religious paintings.

Our Lady of the Mount is said to house the remains of the last Emperor of Austria Charles I who died whilst in exile on the island, so if this interests you, then, don’t miss it.

The views from the church are just incredible, however, you’ll need to negotiate over 50 steep steps, so this might not suit you if your mobility is limited.

Around the corner from Our Lady of the Mount, you can take a ride on the famous traditional Monte Toboggan Ride for some fast-moving fun. The toboggans are entirely made from wicker baskets and slide down 2km aided by two skilled drivers or “Carreiros”

It’s fascinating to know that at some point in history, the taboggans were the locals’ only type of transport to navigate Funchal’s steep streets. 

Prepare to wait in line if you plan to take the Toboggan Ride. It’s a popular tourist activity in Funchal (Price from €25 for a Single).

9. Explore Madeira Botanical Garden 

Price: €6 Adults (Discounts for Children)

If you’re someone who loves plants or is fascinated by gardens, then, you’re in for a treat as Madeira Botanical Garden is another excellent botanical garden in Funchal that you’ll love. 

Similar to Monte Palace Gardens, the Madeira Botanical Gardens initially existed as a private estate. It opened in 1960 to the public after government acquisition and it’s now one of the must-see places on the island. 

The garden has on display a rich collection of indigenous and exotic plant species some of which are endemic to Madeira and also from all around the world. The plants are grouped according to their similarities which include, medicinal, edible, Madeiran native, desert plants and much more.

Nicely manicured walkways in the garden open up to a series of scenic lookouts, a lake with numerous turtles and a charming traditional Madeiran farmhouse. 

The gardens are a perfect place to unwind and relax whilst taking in some inspiration for your own gardening adventures back home. 

I thought the cactus collection was really impressive. I also liked the idea that all the plants in the garden were clearly named and easy to read, so the visit was like a mini botany class. 

How to Get to the Madeira Botanical Garden 

• Car/Taxi – The garden is located on the outskirts of Funchal, about an 8 min drive. Free parking is widely available in a parking lot close to the garden.

• Local Bus, route 31, leaves from Funchal Centrum and takes about 20 minutes.

• Botanical Garden Cable Car leaves from Monte and takes 15-20 mins (€15 return ticket).  

10. Relax at Santa Catarina Park

Price: Free

Santa Catarina Park is one of Funchal’s largest public parks, conveniently located on a slight hill at the western end of the main street in the city. 

This is one of the best free things to do in Funchal which is also a great alternative to the popular Monte Palace Tropical Gardens and Madeira Botanical Gardens which are both difficult to navigate if you’ve limited mobility or travelling on a tight itinerary. 

You can enjoy wonderfully manicured grounds, gardens of varying themes including cactus, Japanese and rose gardens, a large lake which is home to several water birds and plenty of seating which is perfectly positioned to enjoy the view of the Atlantic Sea which the park overlooks. 

Santa Catarina comes with a good selection of good facilities which include a small, but highly reviewed children’s playground, food trucks as well as cafes with incredible views.

11. Stop by Madeira Story Center 

Price: €5 Adults, €3 Children

The Madeira Story Center is located in the Old Town in a historic building which was once a sugar cane factory. It’s a good place to visit to get to know the history and culture of Madeira.

The museum’s permanent exhibition focuses on the geography of the island, its history as a colony and the effects of immigration on the island. The exhibition aims to be interactive by presenting the information through audio guides, digital displays, video projections and various other media techniques.

It’s a small museum, but if you’ve got kids with you or you’re a history buff, you’ll definitely appreciate a visit to the Madeira Story Center. It’s also one of the best things to do in Funchal when it rains!   

12. Check the CR7 Museum

Price: €5

Visiting the CR7 Museum (Christiano Ronaldo Museum) is a top must-do thing in Fuchal for fans of the soccer superstar. The museum is devoted to the life and career achievements of Ronaldo who was born in Funchal’s São Pedro neighbourhood.

On display are trophies, medals, awards and jerseys Christiano Ronaldo has amassed throughout his career. Digital exhibits in the museum offer some interesting insights into the life and career of this famous soccer star. 

The CR7 Museum is located at the harbour close to the cruise liner docks. It’s hard to miss as an imposing bronze statue of the soccer star graces the museum’s front. 

13. Visit Santa Clara Convent 

The Santa Clara Convent is one of the most important buildings in Funchal with a history that goes back to the 15th century. The convent is surrounded by a beautiful garden with exotic flowers and trees.

The convent runs an exhibition which features religious paintings, sculptures and valuable artefacts.

Santa Clara Convent guided tours are quite popular as they offer interesting perspectives on the history and culture of Madeira. Learn more here.

14. See the Sunrise from Pico do Ariero

Heading to Pico do Ariero to experience Madeira’s stunning sunrise or sunset is one of the most awesome things to do in Funchal which you shouldn’t miss. 

Pico do Ariero is the third-highest peak in Madeira, so it affords gorgeous views as the sun rises or sets whilst lighting up in fascinating colours above the high and impressive Central Mountain Range of Madeira.

How to Get to Pico do Ariero from Funchal 

There are a few options to get to Pico do Ariero from Funchal. I visited Madeira with a rental car which made getting to Pico do Ariero super easy though the drive was steep and narrow in some areas, requiring extra caution. 

• Pico Transfers offers a reasonably priced pick-up and drop-off service around Funchal, so it’s worth checking out if you’ve no access to a private car.

• Taxis are also ideal and reasonable but prior booking through the Bolt App is recommended.

NB – These transport options are also relevant if you plan to do the popular Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike. Pico do Arieiro stands at 1,818m, so prepare well for harsh weather regardless of whether you are visiting just for the sunrise/sunset or intend to do some hiking.

See the accurate Madeira Funchal Weather forecast. 

15. Taka a day trip to Porto Santo Island

It’s fair to say that Funchal beaches are nothing to brag about, however, if your stay is long and eager to spend a day at a sandy beach surrounded by beautiful landscape, consider taking a day trip from Funchal to Porto Santo Island. It’s also a perfect holiday destination, especially during the summer, so it’s also ideal for a longer visit.

The island is located 40km northeast of Madeira Island. It’s famously known for having long peaceful stretches of sandy beaches, clear waters which are perfect for a wide variety of water sports as well as a stunning landscape ideal for many adventures in nature. 

Porto Santo Line ferry service offers the most affordable way to get to Porto Santo though it takes over 2 hours from Funchal Port. Several flights from Funchal Airport in Santa Cruz are also available (25 mins duration) as well as from Lisbon Airport (1hr 45mins).

See Port Santo Holidays here

Funchal FAQ’s

What is the best time to visit Madeira and Funchal? 

Madeira’s climate is classified as sub-tropical which means the island experiences sunny summers (June-Sept) and mild temperatures throughout the winter months (Dec-Feb) with some high levels of rain. 

Different locations on the island tend to experience varied climates. However, the island’s southern coast where Funchal is located is privileged with some of the best weather on the island making it one of Madeira’s best all-year-round destinations.  

How to Get Around Funchal?

As mentioned previously, it’s possible to get around Funchal Old Town on foot where most of the historical sites are located. However, other areas outside the centre tend to be hilly and steep which can be strenuous even for the fittest person.

While car hire isn’t necessary to explore Funchal centre, I’d highly recommend it if you plan to visit sights around Funchal’s outskirts and explore the island at length. Ribeira Brava, Camara de Lobos and Porto Moniz are other lovely places worth checking out when in Madeira.

Car hire companies are widely available at Funchal Madeira Airport. Rentalcars.com is a great platform for finding reasonably priced car hire options in Madeira.   

What are the best places to stay in Funchal Portugal?

Choosing where to stay in Funchal depends on your budget, what you intend to focus on whilst in Funchal as well as the length of your stay. The Old Town area is ideal for short breaks and if you wish to explore Funchal’s historic sites and surrounding gardens. It’s also a great choice to use as a base to explore the rest of the island especially if you’ve access to a car.

The areas along the coast such as São Martinho are packed with hotels, resorts and apartments. They’re ideal for a longer stay and if you wish to be close to the beach and sea views. 

Airbnb Funchal and Booking.com are great resources for finding Funchal hotels, hostels, and self-catering holiday homes and apartments for all budgets.

The Views Monumental, located on Estrada Monumental, Savoy Palace Funchal, The Cliff Bay Hotel, Reids Palace and Quinta Jardins do Lago in São Pedro are some of the highly-rated Funchal hotels on Booking.com worth giving a quick look.

If you’re travelling alone, 29 Madeira Hostel, Hostel Santa Maria and Jaca Hostel Funchal are also great and budget-friendly options available on Booking.com which are conveniently located in the Old Town Funchal.

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I hope you enjoy your trip to Funchal!

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