Things To Do
in Funchal
Funchal is the capital city of the Portuguese island of Madeira, known for its picturesque setting surrounded by mountains and the Atlantic Ocean. The city is famous for its colorful flower markets, historic cathedrals, and charming cobblestone streets. Funchal offers a blend of traditional and modern influences, with a variety of restaurants, cafes, and shops to explore.
Outdoor enthusiasts can enjoy activities such as hiking, whale watching, and swimming in the crystal-clear waters of the nearby beaches.
- "olá" - hello
- "obrigado" - thank you
- "por favor" - please
- "desculpe" - excuse me/sorry
- "até logo" - see you later
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $50 - $150
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $10 - $30
- ☕ Coffee: $1.50 - $4
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $40 - $80
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $60
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a stroll along the beautiful promenade of Funchal, enjoying the sea breeze. Stop for coffee at a local café and admire the scenic views.
Visit the famous Mercado dos Lavradores to experience the vibrant local market. Sample delicious fruits and traditional pastries while interacting with local vendors.
Enjoy dinner at a waterfront restaurant, where you can savor fresh seafood. End the day with a leisurely walk along the coastline, soaking in the sunset.
Take a hike in the stunning Levada do Caldeirão Verde, surrounded by lush greenery and waterfalls. Breathe in the fresh air and enjoy the serene atmosphere.
Explore the UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest and discover its unique ecosystem. Capture incredible nature photos as you trek through beautiful landscapes.
Return to Funchal and unwind with some light tapas at a local bar. Spend the evening sharing your favorite moments from the hike with fellow travelers.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery with mountains and coastline
- Mild climate year-round
- Rich culture and history
- Excellent local cuisine and wine
- Vibrant botanical gardens
- Accessible outdoor activities like hiking and whale watching
- Limited public transportation options
- High cost of living compared to mainland Portugal
- Tourist crowds during peak seasons
- Some areas can be steep and challenging for mobility
- Geographic isolation can lead to limited availability of goods
- Potential for natural disasters such as landslides
Best Activities in Funchal
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful network of levadas (irrigation channels) while hiking through lush landscapes.
Experience the thrilling traditional toboggan ride from the village of Monte down to the city of Funchal.
Stroll through the enchanting Botanical Garden filled with diverse plant species and stunning views of Funchal.
Enjoy panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding area while riding the cable car to the village of Monte.
Tours
Uncover the best of Funchal with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Funchal
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding area
Beautiful botanical garden with picturesque views of Funchal and the ocean
Scenic viewpoint with excellent photo opportunities of Funchal and the coastline
Food in Funchal
Funchal Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
This is a traditional Madeiran dish featuring skewered, seasoned beef that is grilled to perfection. The succulent meat is typically served with bolo do caco, a local bread.
Must-Try!
A famed dish from Madeira, this consists of fillets of black scabbard fish, a deep-sea delicacy, which are often served with banana and a side of passion fruit.
Lapas, or limpets, are a popular seafood in Madeira. They are often prepared with a garlic and butter sauce, creating a rich and savory taste.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Funchal better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
This vibrant market is a treasure trove of fresh produce, seafood, and local specialties. Visitors can sample and purchase an array of fruits, exotic flowers, and regional crafts. In addition, the market's open-air section offers a variety of street food, including espetada and traditional bolo do caco.
This bustling street market offers a wide range of street food, from freshly grilled sardines to bolo do caco with garlic butter and parsley, making it an ideal spot to savor authentic local flavors.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
It is important to be punctual in Funchal, as lateness can be seen as disrespectful. Arriving on time for social gatherings, meetings, and appointments is highly valued.
In Funchal, people value personal space and tend to stand at a comfortable distance from others during conversations. It's important to be mindful of personal boundaries and avoid standing too close to someone.
Greetings are an important part of social interaction in Funchal. It's customary to greet people with a handshake and maintain polite behavior. Saying 'please' and 'thank you' is also highly regarded.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Funchal with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Funchal
Ensure a smooth experience
In Funchal, Portugal, tipping is not obligatory but appreciated. It is common to leave a 5-10% tip at restaurants if a service charge is not included in the bill. Tipping for other services such as taxi rides and hotel staff is also appreciated but not mandatory.
Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in Funchal, Portugal, especially in tourist areas, restaurants, and larger stores. However, it's advisable to carry some cash, especially for smaller establishments and markets. ATMs are readily available for cash withdrawals.
Top Things To Do
Engage in these activities to dive deeper into Funchal.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Spring is a great time to visit Funchal, as the weather is mild and the famous Funchal Flower Festival takes place in late April to early May. The city is in full bloom with vibrant colors and the festival brings a lively atmosphere to the streets.
Summer is peak tourist season in Funchal, with warm and sunny weather perfect for beach activities and outdoor excursions. The city comes alive with music festivals, outdoor markets, and events, making it an ideal time to experience the lively atmosphere.
Autumn in Funchal brings pleasant temperatures and fewer crowds, making it a great time to visit for a more relaxed experience. The Madeira Wine Festival in September is a major highlight, featuring wine tastings, parades, and traditional performances.
Winter is the off-peak season in Funchal, offering mild weather and a quieter atmosphere. This is a great time to explore the city's cultural attractions, enjoy winter sports in the nearby mountains, and experience traditional Christmas and New Year celebrations.
Funchal at Night
Hiking in Funchal
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
A stunning hike that takes you through lush forests and alongside beautiful levadas, leading to the spectacular Caldeirão Verde waterfall.
The third highest peak in Madeira, offering breathtaking views and a challenging trail that connects to Pico Ruivo, the highest peak on the island.
A shorter hike with a dramatic viewpoint over one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe, featuring a glass skywalk for exhilarating views.
An easy and family-friendly trail that takes you to a viewpoint overlooking the valleys and peaks of Madeira, perfect for observing the island’s lush nature.
A scenic trail along a levada that leads to the iconic 25 Fontes waterfalls, surrounded by a rich array of flora and fauna.
Unforgettable Journeys
Delve deeper into Funchal through these rare and unique activities.
Aiports
How to reach Funchal by plane.
The main airport serving Funchal, located about 13 km from the city center.
Another name for Madeira Airport, named after the famous footballer, located in Santa Catarina.
Portugal's main international airport located approximately 1,200 km away from Funchal in Lisbon.
An international airport in Seville, Spain, about 200 km away from Funchal.
An international airport located in Gran Canaria, Canary Islands, roughly 700 km from Funchal.
Located on the island of Tenerife, this airport is about 300 km from Funchal.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The majority demographic group in Funchal, consisting mainly of ethnic Portuguese nationals.
Residents hailing from the Madeira archipelago, with a distinct cultural and linguistic identity.
A significant community due to historical connections and migration, comprising individuals from various regions in Brazil.
A notable expatriate group, many of whom have retired or reside in Funchal for its climate and lifestyle.
Includes various nationalities from wider Europe, such as Germans, French, and Italians, drawn by tourism and residence.
Includes immigrants from African countries, contributing to the multicultural landscape of Funchal.
The Soul of Funchal
Discover the essence of Funchal through these truly unique experiences.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
Football is the most popular sport in Funchal, with teams like CS Marítimo and CSD União popular among locals.
Basketball enjoys a strong following in Funchal, with local clubs participating in national leagues.
Athletics is popular, with various running events and competitions held throughout the year.
Due to its coastal location, Funchal offers activities like surfing, diving, and sailing.
Cycling is increasingly popular, with scenic routes available for both recreational and competitive cyclists.
Tennis has a considerable following, with several courts and clubs available in the area.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Funchal.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
While traditional Madeiran cuisine prominently features seafood and meat, many restaurants and cafes in Funchal offer vegetarian and vegan alternatives. Dishes such as vegetable espetada and creative salads are often available, and establishments are generally accommodating to these dietary preferences.
In recent years, there has been an increase in awareness of gluten-free dining. Many restaurants now provide gluten-free versions of traditional dishes, and some offer dedicated menus or can tailor meals to accommodate gluten-free requirements upon request.
Cultural Immersions
Experience the heart and soul of Funchal with these cultural adventures.
