If you’re visiting Madeira and you only have one day for Funchal, you’re in the right place! Here’s a perfect plan for spending a perfect day in the capital of Madeira.
Madeira’s popularity has skyrocketed in the last few years, with more and more tourists discovering the beauty of this portuguese island. I visited this lovely city by cruise, so I know how pressed for time you can be on your travels. That’s why I am giving you this detailed guide for an absolutely perfect day in Funchal.
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WHERE IS FUNCHAL?
Funchal is the biggest and capital city of Madeira, an island in the Atlantic ocean belonging to Portugal. It’s an island popular for stunning nature, lovely hiking trails, and gorgeous beaches. Funchal, being the biggest city on the island, is the tourist centre of the island and it’s a location you can’t skip when visiting Madeira.
Read more >>> HOW TO SPEND ONE DAY IN LISBON, PORTUGAL
WHEN IS THE BEST TIME TO VISIT FUNCHAL?
Anytime, literally! Madeira’s climate makes it a year-round destination. If you prefer milder temperatures and fewer crowds, consider visiting during the shoulder seasons of spring and autumn. However, if you enjoy warmer weather and the lively atmosphere of peak tourist season, summer might be the best time for you. Funchal was our cruise stop in mid November and the temperatures were around 25 degrees Celsius.
WHAT TO SEE AND DO IN FUNCHAL
Madeira is a place where you could spend weeks and not see everything! Nature is the real star of the show on this gorgeous island. For Funchal, a day is more than enough to see the key attractions this city offers. Here are our favourite things we’ve done and seen!
FUNCHAL CABLE CAR (FUNICULAR)
Funchal has one of the most beautiful cable cars in the world. The gorgeous ride takes you to the top of the city, all the way to the incredible Monte Palace garden. The cable car is open from 9 to 5:45 p.m. and the serene ride up is one of the most memorable things to do in Funchal. The price for the cable car ride is 12,5 euros one way or 18 euros round trip. Although it’s a little pricey, it’s an experience you really shouldn’t miss out on!
MONTE PALACE TROPICAL GARDEN
My absoulte favourite place we’ve visited in Funchal is the Monte Palace tropical garden. It’s been named one of the 13 most beautiful botanical gardens in the world, and once you enter the magical garden you’ll see why. The gorgeous garden covers an area of 70,000 m2 and is home to many exotic plants from all over the world. The park is huge, and it will take you at least 2 hours to explore it completely. The entrance ticket is 12,5 euros and in my opinion, it’s totally worth the money.
CHURCH OF OUR LADY OF THE MOUNT
Right next to the tropical garden you’ll find a very interesting church. Perched on a hill with panoramic views, the Church of Our Lady of the Mount provides a picturesque setting for worship and reflection. The beautiful black and white church is a blend of traditional Portuguese design with influences from the island’s unique cultural heritage, and it’s a landmark you should visit.
TOBOGGAN RIDE
Toboggan rides in their traditional baskets are extremely popular in Funchal. This experience dates back to the 19th century and it’s the most unique experience you can have in Madeira. The rides start exactly below the Church of Our Lady of the Mount and take you down many winding streets of Funchal. The rides are quite expensive, 35 euros for 2 people, but it’s a unique experience you can’t have anywhere else so give it a try!
SANTA MARIA STREET
Once you’re down and back in the city, go visit the lively Santa Maria Street. The street is one of the oldest streets in Funchal, offering a delightful blend of history, culture, and charm. What truly distinguishes Santa Maria Street are its vibrant and artfully adorned facades. From coloured murals to painted doors, Santa Maria Street will captivate you!
THE FARMERS’ MARKET
The Farmers’ Market in Funchal, known as “Mercado dos Lavradores,” is a vibrant and bustling hub that encapsulates the essence of Madeira’s agricultural abundance. Once you step in the market, you’ll be surrounded by many colours, aromas, and flavours, all calling your name. You’ll have a chance to try many fruits, buy leather or wicker goods, or just buy some souvenirs. However, the Farmers’ Market is not just a shopping destination; it’s a cultural experience.
CITY CENTER
The modern part of Funchal is also worthy of a visit. The city has many parks, cafes, bars and restaurants where you can enjoy some more modern and international dining or drinking options. It’s gorgeous to look at, so even just taking a walk around the city is a great option.
ADDITIONAL ACTIVITIES AND TOURS IN FUNCHAL:
If you’re staying for a longer period of time or just want more options on what to do in Funchal, here are a few activities and tours you can book on GetYourGuide and have an incredible time.
