How to Get to Funchal from Most Parts of the World

Funchal is the capital of Madeira, a Portuguese island that rests off the coast of Morocco. Funchal has become quite the tourist favorite amongst Europeans, especially those in search of mild climates and sandy beaches. But what is the best way to get to this delightful city? Well, there are numerous routes available, and each one is suited to a different type of traveler. In this guide, we will discuss how you can travel to Funchal from most parts of the world.

Arriving by Air

The best way to get to Funchal is usually by plane. The main airport serving the island is Funchal Airport (FNC), which operates flights to and from several cities around the world. Some of the most popular routes from the airport include Norwegian Air flights from London (LGW), British Airways flights from Manchester (MAN), and TAP Portugal flights from Lisbon (LIS). In addition to these direct flights, you can also connect to Funchal via other cities in Portugal, such as Porto and Faro. The most convenient way to find a flight to Funchal is to use an online flight search engine like Skyscanner, which can help you compare flight prices from multiple different airlines and find the best deal.

Arriving by Ferry

Funchal is also served by several ferry lines, with regular departures between the island and a handful of Spanish ports near the Canary Islands. The most popular routes include ferry trips between Funchal and Las Palmas and Valencia. You can book these ferries in advance on websites like Direct Ferries. However, be aware that these ferry routes are only available during certain times of the year, so you’ll want to double check before making any travel plans. Additionally, ferry rides from the mainland aren’t exactly quick—they can last anywhere from 6-13 hours depending on the port city you depart from and where your final destination is on the island. You should also plan for any transportation you’ll need once you arrive at your final port, as well as any accommodation that may be necessary if your ferry ride happens to take multiple days.

Arriving by Cruise Ship

If you’re looking for a more luxurious experience, you can also travel to Funchal via cruise ship. Most major cruise lines offer itineraries that stop in the city’s port, so it shouldn’t be too hard to find one that fits your travel plans. Cruise ships usually dock at either the “Cruise Pier” or “Nobre Pier” in Funchal’s old harbor—both of which are conveniently located fairly close to the city center. But before you book a cruise, be sure to keep in mind that trips can take anywhere from two days for shorter cruises to up to two weeks for longer ones. So if you’re short on time or just don’t feel like spending two weeks at sea, you may want to look into one of the other options we discussed earlier.

Conclusion

As you can see, there are a variety of ways you can get to Funchal from just about anywhere in the world. Whether you’re traveling on a budget or looking for something a bit more luxurious, there’s an option that fits your lifestyle and preferences. So why not make Funchal your next vacation destination? We guarantee it won’t disappoint!

An Insider’s Guide to Funchal, Madeira

Are you planning a trip to Funchal, Madeira? This stunning island city located off the coast of Portugal is an ideal destination for travelers who wish to experience natural beauty, history, and culture. Funchal is a vibrant and bustling city that welcomes visitors from all over the world. In this insider’s guide, we will highlight some of the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for tourists visiting Funchal.

Local Attractions

Funchal is undoubtedly a destination full of stunning natural beauty, and there are plenty of local attractions that showcase this. The city offers a wide variety of things to see and do, from water sports to mountain hiking, and the oceanfront promenade is an excellent place to start. Walk down the historic cobblestone promenade and take in the beautiful views of the Atlantic Ocean. The Farmers’ Market is also a must-visit attraction, where you can sample delicious, locally grown produce and even buy souvenirs. Don’t forget to visit Monte Palace Tropical Garden, a beautiful oasis located just outside the city, where you can explore the flora and fauna while enjoying breathtaking views over the city and the bay.

Dining Spots

Funchal is a gastronomical paradise, and the local cuisine is heavily influenced by Portuguese, African, and Caribbean flavors. The city is home to some of the best seafood restaurants in Portugal, and the tuna steaks, grilled sardines, and octopus salads are a must-try. There are plenty of restaurants specializing in traditional Madeiran cuisine too, such as espetada, a savory beef skewer, and bolo do caco, a garlic bread that complements nearly every dish. Explore the side streets and alleys for delightful cafes and enjoy them with a custard tart and bica, Portuguese espresso.

Cultural Experiences

In addition to natural beauty, Funchal also has a rich cultural heritage. The city is home to historic churches, museums, and art galleries showcasing the work of local and international artists. Don’t miss the Sao Lourenco Palace, a historic building that houses the Presidential Palace and the Museum of Contemporary Art. The Funchal Sacred Art Museum presents the history of Christian art in the archipelago. Also, attend a live fado concert to experience Portugal’s intriguing music and interact with its passionate culture.

Local History

Funchal has a fascinating history, and there are many places in the city that reflect its past. Visit the city’s historic district, where you can see the original houses built by settlers in the 15th century. The Frederico de Freitas Museum is a go-to museum for tourists who wish to explore the island’s past and cultural heritage that go beyond Madeira’s wine and flowers. The Museum of Electricity offers visitors a glimpse into the electrification of Madeira during the 20th century. Embark on a three-hour journey to observe natural volcanic pools and other historical remnants with breathtaking views through the islands by the North Coast Jeep Tour.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

If you want to experience Funchal’s quieter side, there are plenty of off-the-beaten-track suggestions. Take a leisurely hike to the Levada da Serra do Faial, a water channel renowned for its stunning landscape, and breathtaking views. You’ll enjoy trekking through some thick forests of Laurels in Funchal. The Parque Ribeira Primeira Natural Park is full of flora and fauna, and its mineral waterfalls, pools, and footpaths are very refreshing. Head to Sao Vicente for a great escape from the hustle and bustle of the city and discover the Caves and Volcanism Centre in Madeira. Going off-road up to the Skywalk is an exhilarating experience that takes roughly an hour if you want an adventure.

In conclusion, Funchal, Madeira is an exciting destination that attracts tourists from all over the world while also an Atlantic Ocean hub. Once you arrive, you never want to leave. This insider’s guide highlights some of the best attractions, dining spots, cultural experiences, local history, and off-the-beaten-path suggestions for tourists visiting Funchal. It guarantees that you’ll experience the best of the city while creating memories that last a lifetime.