Guide to Funchal – A Fantastic Portuguese City to Visit

Are you looking for an exciting destination to take your next vacation? Funchal, the capital of Madeira on the Portuguese island of Madeira, is the perfect place for a relaxing getaway. There’s something for everyone in this beautiful and vibrant city – from gorgeous beaches and parks, to fascinating culture and architecture, to delicious local cuisine. In this guide, we’ll explore the highlights of Funchal so you can plan an unforgettable trip.

Things to See in Funchal

Funchal is a city filled with stunning attractions, both natural and man-made.

Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption

The impressive Gothic-style Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption is one of the city’s oldest buildings and is a must-visit. The cathedral boasts important religious artworks and prints, as well as stunning views across Funchal Bay. It is open daily from 8am to 8pm, and admission is free.

Jardim Municipal do Funchal

This picturesque park, located in the heart of the city, is a great place to spend an afternoon. Here you can find colorful flower beds, ponds filled with water lilies, cascading fountains, and more. It’s also a great spot for a picnic or a romantic stroll with your partner. Admission to Jardim Municipal do Funchal is free.

São Tiago Fort

São Tiago Fort is located on the southern coast of the island and was built by the Spanish in the 16th century. It is one of the best-preserved monuments from Madeira’s colonial past, and is known for its breath-taking views across the Atlantic Ocean to Africa. Admission to São Tiago Fort is free.

Activities in Funchal

Funchal has something for everyone. Whether you’re looking for relaxation or adventure, there’s something in Funchal to suit your tastes.

Sailing

The warm waters of the Atlantic make for excellent sailing conditions year-round in Funchal. Sailing trips of varying lengths can be booked through local companies.

Golf

The mild climate in Funchal makes it an ideal place to play a round of golf. There are several courses located close to the city, including the spectacular Santo da Serra Golf Course, which is often considered one of Europe’s best golf courses.

Whale Watching

Funchal is one of the best places in Europe for whale watching. Tours take place year-round and are a must-do for visitors to the city.

Where to Stay in Funchal

Funchal is full of high-quality hotels that cater to all budgets and tastes. The downtown area has its fair share of 5-star luxury hotels and boutique accommodations, while more affordable options can be found further away from the centre.

Hotel Quinta da Bela Vista

Hotel Quinta da Bela Vista is a 4-star hotel located close to Funchal’s city centre. It boasts stunning views across the ocean and is home to several excellent restaurants and bars. Rooms start from €70 per night. For more information about Hotel Quinta da Bela Vista, visit: belavista-madeira.com.

Casa Amelia Guest House

Casa Amelia Guest House is a charming guest house located in a tranquil area close to Funchal’s old town. It has a selection of comfortable rooms as well as two outdoor swimming pools and a sun terrace. Rooms start from €60 per night. For more information about Casa Amelia Guest House, visit: casamelia.pt/en/.

Conclusion

With its stunning natural beauty, delicious local cuisine, and fascinating culture and history, Funchal is an unforgettable destination for your next vacation. With this guide, you can plan a perfect trip that will have something for everyone in your party – from sailing trips and whale watching adventures to relaxing on one of Funchal’s many beaches. With so much to see and do, you won’t be disappointed!

Discovering Funchal – An Insider’s Guide

Funchal is a charming city located on the island of Madeira, Portugal. Known for its natural beauty and warm climate, Funchal offers visitors a unique blend of old-world charm and modern-day luxury. Here is an insider’s guide to exploring the hidden gems, the local culture, and the off-the-beaten-path experiences you won’t want to miss.

Local Attractions

Of course, no visit to Funchal is complete without a stroll through the Mercado dos Lavradores. While this market is a popular destination for visitors, locals also frequent the market for its fresh fish, exotic fruits, and locally made crafts. For a more authentic experience, venture out to the nearby localities such as Porto da Cruz, Camacha, and Santana, where you’ll find hidden caves, breathtaking hilltops, and stunning natural landscapes.

Dining Spots

Food is an essential part of the Madeiran culture, and Funchal has no shortage of dining options. Sample traditional dishes such as Espetada, a skewer of beef or pork cooked over hot coals, or Bolo do Caco, a flatbread made with sweet potato, garlic, and olive oil. For an unforgettable culinary adventure, head to local street food joints and try their Loureiro’s Beefroll, fresh scabbardfish, or some alheira, a breaded and fried sausage originally developed by Portuguese Jews seeking to blend in with Catholic society.

Cultural Experiences

Experience Funchal’s vibrant culture by attending one of their many festivals. “Festa da Flor” pays homage to the island’s colorful flowers, where vendors will offer a vast array of blooms, plants, and gardening supplies. The “Festa do Vinho” is a celebration of the island’s wine-making tradition and features tasting sessions of delicious Madeiran wine. By visiting the Sacred Art Museum, you can learn about and admire the island’s religious culture.

Local History

Experience Funchal’s rich history by visiting the historic Old Town – a UNESCO world heritage site with picturesque walks through its cobblestone streets. During the tour, you’ll learn the city’s history, including stories of the 17th century pirates who plagued Funchal’s shores, or the development of the island’s sugarcane industry.

Off-the-Beaten-Path

Venture off-the-beaten-path, and you’ll discover plenty more hidden Funchal hotspots. Take the scenic cable car to the hilltop suburb of Monte, where you can visit the beautiful church of Monte and be awed by its impressive façade. For an adventure, consider Coasteering, a mix of swimming, jumping, and climbing that will have you experience the island’s natural beauty like never before.

In conclusion, Funchal is a vibrant city filled with a rich history and culture combined with stunning natural beauty. With this insider’s guide, you can make your visit unforgettable by exploring its hidden gems, trying the local cuisine, experiencing its traditions, and exploring beyond the ordinary.