Funchal is the main city of the Portuguese island of Madeira, located in its southern part. On three sides, the administrative center is protected by mountains and hills, which create a pleasant climate in the city conducive to relaxation – warm winters and summers with a refreshing breeze blowing from the ocean. In Portugal, Funchal on Madeira is rightfully included in the list of the best places to relax at any time of year. This is the resort that will be discussed in our article.
General information
The resort was founded in the early 15th century and quickly became the economic and cultural center of Madeira. Today, Funchal is conventionally divided into two parts – historical and modern. Of course, the greatest interest to tourists is the old part of the island’s capital, you can walk along the narrow streets for days on end and discover something new every day, mentally moving to different historical eras.
Interesting fact! The name of the city in Madeira, Portugal comes from “funcho” – fennel, a spice that grows on the island in huge quantities.
Funchal in Madeira has many churches, museums, galleries, and parks and botanical gardens are especially impressive. Local markets are a special category of attractions, where you can feel the spirit of Madeira, buy exotic fruits, fresh seafood. The popularity of the resort is also due to the large selection of tourist entertainment – beaches with black sand , sea cruises, botanical parks and gardens.
Good to know! Be sure to try the local sweets – fennel candies.
Funchal in Portugal is the administrative center and port on the island of Madeira with a population of approximately 106 thousand people. The resort is also the capital of the autonomous region of the island and the center of the district of the same name. The southern part of the city is washed by the Atlantic Ocean. The urban landscape is easily recognizable by the white houses and bright red roofs surrounded by green parks and terraces.
Be sure to stroll along the main pedestrian street, try local coffee, take the funicular to the top of the mountain and admire the amazing views of the ocean and the city.
Interesting fact! You can go down the mountain on special wooden sleds. At the end of the 19th century, this was the main way of moving between the island’s settlements. The descent from the top takes about 20 minutes.
Attractions
Most of Funchal’s attractions are concentrated in the historical part of the city. Here are government buildings, luxurious mansions, temples and churches, the famous wine house Blandy’s. The botanical gardens, located on the outskirts of the city, contain exotic plants from all continents. To create the best route for you, look at our map of Funchal with attractions in Russian at the end of the article.
Monte Cable Car and Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Given the hilly and mountainous terrain of the island, there are many viewing platforms that can only be reached by funicular. A trip to the top of Monte Mountain is a great opportunity to admire Madeira from a bird’s eye view, take amazing photos and visit one of the most picturesque attractions of Funchal – the Monte Palace Park. The funicular consists of 40 cabins and has been operating since 2000.
- The cable car runs from the ocean shore to the top of the mountain, the journey takes 15-25 minutes.
- A one-way ticket costs 11 euros, a return ticket costs 16 euros, with a 50% discount for children aged 7-14.
- Opening hours: from 9:00 to 17:45.
- Official website: https://madeiracablecar.com/ru/
At the top of the mountain is the Monte Palace, the main attraction of which is the park, where peacocks roam freely and plants from the most distant corners of the world are collected. Different species of fish swim in the ponds, statues are installed, fountains work.
The tropical garden was opened to visitors in 1991, previously the territory was owned by a local businessman. Thanks to his efforts, the neglected and abandoned area was transformed into a luxurious, well-kept garden, in the center of which, in the palace, there are two exhibitions:
- “African Passion” is a collection of African sculptures;
- “Secrets of Mother Nature” is a collection of mineralogists from around the world.
The palace was built in the 18th century and in a short time turned into a luxurious estate. In the 19th century, the palace, reconstructed into a hotel, was a favorite place to relax for lovers of peace and quiet. However, in the middle of the 20th century, the owner of the palace dies, and the building and the adjacent territory fall into disrepair. Only by the end of the 20th century, the castle and garden were restored and turned into an amazing landmark of Funchal in Madeira.
Good to know! A small temple has been built on the top of the mountain, where thousands of believers make a pilgrimage every year.
There are several ways to get to Funchal’s natural attraction:
- by funicular – the station is located on the embankment (bus No. 93 goes to the station);
- by bus number 20, 21, 22 or 48.
- The cost of visiting the tropical park is 12.5 euros, children under 15 years old enter for free.
- You can ride around the garden in a special trailer, renting it costs 5 EUR.
- The garden is open daily from 9:30 am to 6:00 pm, and the museum is open from 10:00 am to 4:30 pm.
Jesuit College and Church in Funchal
The Jesuit Church or Church of São João Evangelista in Madeira, Portugal was built in the 17th century and is decorated in the Mannerist style. The church housed a college where for many centuries all comers were taught by representatives of the religious community. The college was well known and respected outside Portugal, and Ignatius believers came here to study and relax. The complex consisted of many buildings, but today many of them have not survived. Monarch Carlos used the building as infantry barracks.
The white and brown façade of the building, decorated with columns, statues and the royal coat of arms, is quite remarkable, but the interior of the church delights and fascinates with its wealth and luxury. The arched vaults are decorated with paintings and decorative plaster. The walls are lined with azulejo ceramic tiles and old paintings.
The interior of the temple is traditional for all Jesuit churches in Portugal – a nave, a transept and a chapel. Particular attention is drawn to the high altar made of marble, decorated with carvings. The interior of the temple will undoubtedly attract the attention of lovers of fine art, here you can see unique paintings from the 17th-18th centuries. The door is made of a special type of wood.
Good to know! There is an organ in the church and concerts are held regularly.
The temple is located in the central part of the city of Madeira, in the Municipal Square. Several excursion options are available to visitors:
- quick tour – held daily from 10:00 to 18:00, free tour of the church;
- excursion tour – held for groups of up to 15 people daily, except weekends, at 11:30, the excursion includes a visit to the church and college.
You can also purchase a brochure at the entrance with a detailed description of the most interesting places in the temple and college.
Santa Catarina Park
The park is undoubtedly one of the most beautiful attractions in Funchal, Madeira, Portugal. When you get here, you are immersed in an atmosphere of peace and harmony with nature. This is a man-made attraction, where everything blooms and smells sweet.
The park is located on a hill, from where you can admire the port and the ocean, in the center there is a pond where tame ducks and swans live. The landscape is complemented by fountains and statues. There is a playground with attractions for children. In Santa Catarina you can visit the oldest building in Funchal – the Church of Santa Catherine, dating back to 1425. Most often the park is quiet and calm, but sometimes noisy events are held here.
- The attraction welcomes guests daily until 21:00.
- The park area is located between two avenues – do Infante and Sa Carneiro.
Note! The most interesting sights on the whole island of Madeira are described on this page with photos .
Cristiano Ronaldo Museum (CR7 Museu)
Next to the Santa Catarina Park on the waterfront is another modern landmark of Funchal, which is visited by all football fans. This is a museum dedicated to the native of Madeira – the best Portuguese football player of all time Cristiano Ronaldo.
The museum first opened its doors to visitors in 2013. Here you can see all the club trophies that Cristiano has won, including five UEFA Champions League trophies, as well as his personal awards – the Golden Ball and Golden Boots. Other exhibits in the museum include letters, drawings, gifts from Ronaldo’s fans, etc.
Next to the museum on the street there is a bronze statue of the player, which has also become an important landmark of the city of Funchal. You can look at it and take a photo without going into the museum itself.
- Address: Praça CR7, Av. Sá Carneiro Nº27, 9004-518 Funchal, Portugal.
- Ticket price: 5 euros.
- Opening hours: weekdays from 10:00 to 17:00.
- Website: https://museucr7.com/.
Santa Maria Street
This street is considered the cradle of Funchal in Madeira, as it is the oldest in the capital. It is located in the old part of the city, closed to traffic. There are many coffee shops, restaurants and cafes, and souvenir shops.
Santa Maria was first mentioned in 1430, and today it is a wonderful mix of old-world charm and modern creativity. Many of the building facades have been restored, but the sidewalks remain paved. The doors of the houses are painted by local artists.
In the center of the street is Fort Santiago, today it houses a museum of modern art, and you can also visit a restaurant with a view of the ocean. You can also visit the Church of Santa Maria, the Chapel of the Holy Relics and the local market.
Blandy’s Winery
The winery has been operating for over two hundred years and is located in the very center of Funchal. The company’s wines are known far beyond Portugal and are highly appreciated by specialists and experts in Europe.
Today, the winery is run by Michael and Chris Blandy, father and son, representing the sixth and seventh generations. The winery offers fascinating tours, during which you can learn all about the winemaking process. Guests are also invited to visit the cellars and taste the drinks. The winery’s collection includes drinks dating back to 1940. Signature wines with original labels can be purchased in the shop located on the museum grounds.
Practical information:
- tour duration – 45 minutes;
- The cost of a standard excursion is 10.5 euros, for about 27.5 euros you can buy 10-year-old Madeira and try two types of drinks;
- Official website: www.blandyswinelodge.com.
Accommodation and meals
There are no problems with accommodation in the city, there are many options for every taste and budget. Madeiran hospitality is an art form anywhere on the island, so the standards of service are high. One of the most inspired creations of Madeira is the Reid’s Palace Hotel. Getting here is like traveling back in time. The hotel is the embodiment of the dream of William Reid, a Scotsman who came to Madeira with only five pounds in his pocket. He worked tirelessly to build one of the most luxurious hotels in Europe.
If you are interested in luxury hotels – four and five stars, pay attention to the western part of Funchal. A double room in an inexpensive three-star hotel in Funchal will cost from 50 EUR per night. The cost of accommodation in apartments and guest houses from 18 EUR.
Cafes and restaurants in Funchal are available to suit every taste and budget.
Where to eat in Funchal, Madeira, inexpensively and deliciously
| Name | Address | Working hours | Cost of main course, EUR | Peculiarities |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Golden Gate Grand Café | Av. Zarco 2A, 9000-900 Funchal, Portugal | Mon-Sat from 8:00 to 00:00, Sun — day off | 12-17 | The menu includes toasts, sandwiches, pasta, salads and especially delicious desserts. Drinks include tea and coffee, as well as sangria, Madeira and liqueurs. The service is excellent, the atmosphere is pleasant. |
| Jasmine Tea House | Caminho Preto, 40, Sao Goncalo | Every day from 10-00 to 17-00 | From 2 to 12 | A wonderful place, located in a cozy garden, you can get there from Funchal by bus number 47. The special feature of the tea house is the cats that hospitably greet visitors. |
| Le Bistrot Jacaranda | 28F Avenida do Infante, En face du casino | Daily from 10-00 to 00-00 | 12-20 | Located next to the Park Hotel Casino, they serve delicious pasta and make amazing sangria. The chef is French. |
How to get there. Transport on the island
The most convenient way to get to Funchal from Lisbon is by plane. Up to 16 flights depart daily from the capital of Portugal to the resort. Flights are operated by:
- EasyJet – British low-cost airline offers daily flights;
- Tap Portugal – The Portuguese airline also flies daily.
Tickets can be purchased on the official websites of air carriers.
A ticket on a British low-cost airline costs from 25 euros, baggage is paid for separately.
Good to know! By paying for your luggage online you can save up to 20 euros.
The minimum price for a ticket on the Portuguese air carrier is 50 euros. Baggage is paid separately.
There used to be a ferry service between Lisbon and Funchal, but the ferry company ceased operations in 2012.
Flights are received by Funchal Airport, located in the town of Santa Cruz on Madeira. You can get to the resort by taxi, rent a car or by bus. In Funchal, given its modest size, you can get around on foot. For travel by public transport, it is better to buy a card that gives the right to several trips – from 2 to 9. Paying for each trip separately will cost more.
Important to know! Local buses are painted orange.
Funchal in Madeira, Portugal is not only the capital of the island, but also a beautiful city with many attractions – historical, architectural and natural. Enjoy your holiday in Madeira, feel the spirit of Portugal and you will definitely want to come back here again.
Interesting facts
- Ernest Hemingway visited Madeira and Funchal itself. Here he rode the previously mentioned wooden sleds. He described this adventure as “one of the most exciting experiences of my life.”
- The village of Monte is where the former Emperor of Austria, Charles I, who was in exile in Madeira, is buried.
- The Flower Festival is one of the events that marks the arrival of spring on the island and attracts visitors from all over the world. Flower carpets are created to cover all the main streets of the center of Funchal, bringing color and fragrance to the city. The main attraction of the festival is the Cortejo Alegórico da Flor (magnificent flower parade) with dozens of decorated floats passing through streets decorated with flowers and people in costumes. The action usually takes place in the second half of April.
- The incredible New Year’s Eve fireworks display is one of the largest pyrotechnic displays in the world. In Madeira, Portugal, the tradition of setting off fireworks on New Year’s Eve began in the 18th century, when the British community living on the island would set off their own fireworks displays to celebrate the New Year. Madeiran banker João José Rodrigues Leitão revived the tradition, and since then the island’s wealthiest families have competed with each other in their own displays, resulting in a pyrotechnic display that can be seen far beyond Funchal. In 2006, the show gained international recognition when the Guinness Book of World Records officially listed it as the “world’s largest fireworks display”.
Video: a walk around Funchal and its attractions, useful tips and interesting facts about the city of Madeira in Portugal.
