What are the Best Places to Visit in Funchal?

Funchal is an idyllic Portuguese city situated on the gorgeous island of Madeira. Boasting a mild climate and abundant natural beauty, Funchal offers an amazing array of sights and activities for visitors of all ages. From its quaint Old Town to its spectacular churches and gardens, Funchal has something to offer everyone.In this guide, we’ll go over some of the top places to visit in Funchal, Portugal. Whether you’re visiting for the beaches, monuments, or culture, there’s something to be found here. Keep reading to find out more.

Old Town

One of the best places to visit in Funchal is the Old Town, or “Cidade Velha” as it’s known locally. This historic district is full of cobblestone streets, quaint buildings, and unique shops. Here you can find everything from fresh produce to handmade souvenirs, making it a great place for window-shopping and souvenir-hunting. The Old Town is also home to many restaurants and cafes, providing the perfect place to stop for lunch or a leisurely coffee or pastry. Head over to Casa do Leão for some of the city’s best seafood, or Ruy’s Bar for a quick snack or drink after a long day of sightseeing.

São Lourenço Palace

Travel a bit out of Old Town and you’ll find yourself at São Lourenço Palace, a stunning Rococo-style residence dating back to 1779. Even if you don’t plan on touring the palace’s interior, its exterior is worth the trip, especially when lit up at night. The palace is situated in a lush garden, complete with exotic plants and trees, ornamental fountains, and sculptures. There’s also a large pond with a floating restaurant on it, making this spot a great place to take in Funchal’s natural beauty while enjoying a nice meal.

Monte Palace

Just a few miles from the city center you’ll find Monte Palace, a 500-acre estate with sweeping views of the Atlantic Ocean. It’s an amazing place to wander through, especially if you get there early in the morning or late in the evening when the gardens are empty. For those looking for more than just a stroll around the grounds, there are plenty of guided tours and activities at Monte Palace that can help you learn about its history and explore its landscape. Visitors can take part in activities such as jeep safaris and wine tasting tours to fully enjoy this part of Funchal.

Cable Car

If you’re looking for stunning vistas of Funchal and its surroundings, then taking a cable car ride up to Monte should be at the top of your list. This funicular railway is one of the most popular attractions in the entire city, taking passengers on a unique journey up 750 meters (2,460 feet) high above the city streets. Along the 4-minute ascent, visitors can enjoy fantastic views of the Atlantic Coast, huge volcanic cliffs, and dramatic green valleys. At the top of Monte, passengers can enjoy an array of restaurants and cafes before taking the cable car back down to Funchal’s city center.

Cathedral of Funchal

First constructed in 1514 and then later rebuilt in 1788, the Cathedral of Funchal is one of the oldest churches on the island of Madeira. Featuring Baroque style architecture and plenty of imposing statues, this beautiful building stands out among the other monuments throughout the city. Inside the cathedral, visitors can find many historic artifacts both religious and secular, making it an interesting place to discover Funchal’s past. Outside is a peaceful plaza surrounded by shops, cafes, and other attractions, providing plenty to explore in the immediate area.

Jardim Botânico do Funchal

In terms of nature and landscapes, few places in Funchal come close to Jardim Botânico do Funchal. This 18th-century botanical garden features rare flora from all corners of the globe, from native Madeiran plants to exotic species from Africa and South America. Simply walking around through the garden’s winding paths is a great way to relax, but there are also plenty of guided tours available for those eager to learn more about the local vegetation. Wander around the lake, admire some exotic blossoms, or even catch an outdoor concert–whatever your interests, Jardim Botânico do Funchal offers something special for everyone.

Conclusion

Through its rich culture and vibrant atmosphere, Funchal has something exciting to offer everyone. From its historic Old Town to its beautiful gardens and palaces, this Portuguese city is packed with amazing attractions that should not be missed. No matter what you’re looking for–adventure or leisure–Funchal has something special waiting for you. For more information on travel planning in Funchal, make sure to visit visitmadeiraislands.com for more information on travel planning in Funchal.