What are the Best Things to Do in Funchal, Portugal?

Funchal is the capital of Madeira, an autonomous region of Portugal located in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean. Located along the southern coast of the island, Funchal is an exciting tourist destination where visitors can explore everything the city has to offer. It is rich in history, culture and scenic beauty, making it an ideal vacation spot. So what can you do in Funchal? Here are some of the best things to do while visiting Funchal.

Explore Old Town

The best way to get a taste of local life in Funchal is to explore its old town. This old district, which has been inhabited since at least the 15th century, is full of character and history. Visitors can wander around the cobblestone streets that pass through the small neighborhoods, exploring the many churches, historical buildings and grand mansions. There are plenty of restaurants, cafes and shops here to visit, as well as galleries and museums.

Cable Car Ride

Funchal’s cable car ride is a great way to take in all that the city has to offer. This cable car ride is one of the best tourist attractions in Funchal, offering visitors incredible views of the city from high above. The cable car also stops at several points along the route, where visitors can get off and explore the area. From here, you can get a bird’s eye view of some of Funchal’s historic landmarks such as Monte Palace Gardens, the Bay of Funchal and Madeira Stadium.

Visit Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Monte Palace Tropical Garden is one of the most popular attractions in Funchal. Situated on a hillside, this stunning family garden was built in 1892 by banker and philanthropist José Almeida Bacalhoa. This beautiful account is full of exotic plants from around the world, including species from Africa, Asia, America and Europe. There are also sculptures and several terraces with captivating views of Funchal and the harbor.

São Vicente Caves

Just a short distance from Funchal is a complex of lava caves called São Vicente Caves. These stunning caves were formed by eruption 10-15 million years ago and are home to unique rock formations, underground lakes and spectacular limestone formations. The caves are very popular with tourists and offer several guided tours for visitors who want to learn more about these fascinating geological wonders.

Take a Boat Trip

Funchal’s port is a great place to take a boat trip. There are several operators offering regular trips to the island of Porto Santo and other nearby attractions. A cruise around Funchal Bay offers visitors the opportunity to take in breathtaking views of the city’s skyline as well as spectacular views of the surrounding islands. Many boat trips also offer passengers the chance to do some fishing or whale watching.

Eat Fresh Fish and Seafood

If you love seafood then you are in for a treat in Funchal! The city has plenty of restaurants serving grilled fish or a variety of seafood dishes such as caldeirada or corvina. Most restaurants serve freshly caught fish from local markets, meaning you will always be getting fresh seafood!

These are just some of the best things to do while visiting Funchal. Be sure to explore all that this beautiful city has to offer – you will be sure to have an amazing time! For more information about tours, activities and attractions in Funchal, visit Madeira Evasions, where you will find all the necessary information.

An Insider’s Guide to Funchal, Portugal

Funchal is the capital and largest city of Madeira, an archipelago located off the west coast of Morocco. It is well-known for its beautiful landscapes, historical landmarks, and vibrant culture. If you are planning to visit this beautiful city, this insider’s guide will give you an idea of the best things to do and see in Funchal.

Attractions

Funchal is brimming with spectacular attractions some that include:

– Monte Palace Tropical Garden: it is situated on a hilltop and boasts numerous varieties of trees, plants and waterfalls which makes it a perfect spot for nature lovers.

– Santa Catarina Park: Featuring unique flora, this beautiful park is a popular spot for joggers, walkers, and folks seeking a peaceful sunny spot.

– Mercado dos Lavradores: This is a bustling marketplace showcasing fresh fish, traditional crafts, and a vast array of exotic fruits unique to Madeira.

Dining Spots

Funchal also boasts some of the most unique dining spots that include:

– Riso: a relatively new restaurant popular for its innovative ‘tasting menu’ which is cooked right in front of diners, and its relaxed atmosphere.

– Mumbai Palace: This Indian restaurant is famous for its rich flavorful cuisine consisting of vegetarian and non-vegetarian dishes.

– O Tapassol: This casual spot offers a wide range of traditional Portuguese dishes and mouth-watering tapas that guarantee to delight every kind of foodies’ palates.

Cultural Experiences

Funchal is filled with plenty of opportunities to immerse oneself in the local culture:

– Museu CR7: this museum is dedicated to the famous football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo’s life and career and includes numerous mementos such as trophies, medals and photographs.

– Zona Velha: this historic quarter is home to numerous local bars, restaurants, and artisanal shops – ideal to shop for souvenirs.

– Funchal Fort: situated on a cliff overlooking the harbor, this fort was built in the 1600s to protect the area from pirates and corsairs.

Local History

Funchal is an island endowed with incredible historical landmarks in areas such as:

– Cathedral of Funchal: This grand cathedral that dates back to the 15th century is considered one of the most fascinating churches in Madeira.

– Blandy’s Wine Lodge: a perfect spot to learn the history and art of wine-making in Madeira.

– Quinta das Cruzes Museum: it is a 500-year-old villa that captures the island’s rich history and culture.

Off-the-Beaten-Path Suggestions

For those seeking to explore the unexplored:

– Caminho Real da Madeira: This ancient walking trail dates back to the 1500s that traverses Laurel Forest and pine tree forests.

– Pico do Arieiro: standing tall at 1,810 meters, this peak is the third-highest peak in Madeira and offers stunning views of the island.

– Levada Walks: The island is renowned for its access to the ancient levada waterway which offers a network of awesome trails and paths, perfect for hiking enthusiasts.

Funchal is a destination that offers an array of activities to suit a diverse range of travelers. This guide provides tourists with insights for what to highlight on their itinerary. The next time you’re planning a trip to Portugal, be sure to include Funchal in your itinerary and enjoy the plentiful attractions and activities that this magnificent island has to offer.