Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, Portugal, is a charming coastal city known for its mild climate, breathtaking landscapes, rich history, and fantastic cuisine. Nestled between mountains and the Atlantic Ocean, Funchal offers a mix of adventure, relaxation, culture, and gastronomy, making it a must-visit destination for all types of travelers. From strolling through botanical gardens to riding the iconic Monte toboggan sleds, here are some of the top things to do in Funchal.
Things to Do in Funchal
1. Take a Cable Car Ride to Monte
One of the best ways to see Funchal is from above. The Funchal Cable Car takes you from the city center to Monte, a hilltop area offering stunning panoramic views of the city and the coastline.
- Location: Teleférico do Funchal, Almirante Reis Park
- Duration: 15-20 minutes
- Price: Approx. €12 one-way / €18 round trip
Why Visit?
- Breathtaking aerial views
- A peaceful ride above Funchal’s red-roofed houses and lush greenery
- A great way to reach attractions like Monte Palace Tropical Garden
2. Visit Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Once you reach Monte, step into a world of exotic plants, waterfalls, and stunning tilework at the Monte Palace Tropical Garden. This lush paradise is home to rare plant species from around the world, koi ponds, sculptures, and Japanese-style gardens.
- Location: Caminho do Monte, 174
- Opening Hours: 9:30 AM – 6:00 PM
- Entry Fee: Approx. €12
Why Visit?
- Peaceful escape with tropical plants and flowers
- Stunning azulejo (Portuguese tile) panels depicting Madeira’s history
- Beautiful scenery with bridges, lakes, and pagodas
3. Experience the Monte Toboggan Ride
One of Funchal’s most unique experiences is the Monte toboggan ride. After visiting Monte, skip the walk back and ride down the hill in a wicker sled, pushed by two men in traditional white uniforms and straw hats.
- Starting Point: Church of Our Lady of Monte
- Duration: 10-15 minutes
- Price: Approx. €25 per person
Why Try It?
- A thrilling, historic ride down the steep streets of Funchal
- Operated by Carreiros do Monte, a tradition dating back to the 19th century
- A fun and unique way to descend from Monte
4. Wander Around Funchal’s Old Town (Zona Velha)
Funchal’s Old Town (Zona Velha) is a lively and colorful area filled with historic buildings, vibrant street art, and charming restaurants. One of the highlights is the painted doors project, where local artists have turned doors into works of art.
- Location: Rua de Santa Maria
Why Visit?
- Experience Madeira’s culture and history
- Try traditional Madeiran dishes like espada (black scabbard fish) and espetada (beef skewers)
- Explore Rua de Santa Maria, a street famous for its painted doors
5. Explore Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market)
For a taste of Madeira’s freshest produce, visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, a bustling market where you can find tropical fruits, fresh fish, flowers, and local delicacies.
- Location: Rua Brigadeiro Oudinot
- Opening Hours: Monday to Saturday, 7:00 AM – 7:00 PM
Why Visit?
- Try exotic fruits like passion fruit banana and anona (custard apple)
- Buy handmade souvenirs and crafts
- See the lively fish market with Madeira’s famous black scabbardfish
6. Walk Along Funchal’s Seaside Promenade
Take a leisurely stroll along the Funchal Marina and promenade, enjoying beautiful ocean views, palm trees, and fresh sea air. Along the way, you’ll find:
- CR7 Museum – Dedicated to football legend Cristiano Ronaldo, who was born in Madeira
- Fortaleza de São Tiago – A yellow fortress from the 1600s, now housing a museum
- Santa Catarina Park – A peaceful green space with ocean views
Why Visit?
- A relaxing walk with scenic views
- Plenty of restaurants, cafés, and bars along the way
- A chance to learn about Cristiano Ronaldo’s career at the CR7 Museum
7. Go Dolphin and Whale Watching
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Madeira is one of the best places in Europe to spot dolphins and whales in their natural habitat. Boat tours from Funchal take you out to sea, where you can see sperm whales, dolphins, and even sea turtles.
- Departure: Funchal Marina
- Duration: 2-3 hours
- Price: Starting from €40 per person
Why Try It?
- A once-in-a-lifetime experience to see marine life up close
- Relaxing boat rides with stunning coastal views
- Some tours offer snorkeling stops and sunset cruises
8. Hike the Levada Trails
For adventure lovers, Madeira is famous for its levadas—man-made irrigation channels that double as scenic hiking trails. Some of the best near Funchal include:
- Levada do Bom Sucesso – A short, easy trail starting near Monte
- Levada dos Tornos – A beautiful moderate hike through forests and waterfalls
Why Try It?
- Enjoy lush nature and waterfalls
- Perfect for nature lovers and photographers
- Some trails offer views of the Atlantic Ocean
9. Try Traditional Madeiran Food
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No trip to Funchal is complete without indulging in local cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:
- Espetada – Grilled beef skewers
- Bolo do Caco – Traditional garlic butter bread
- Lapas – Grilled limpets with garlic and butter
- Poncha – A strong local drink made with sugarcane rum, honey, and lemon
Best Restaurants to Try:
- O Tasco – Local seafood and grilled meats
- Armazém do Sal – Modern Madeiran cuisine
- Restaurante Do Forte – Fine dining inside an old fortress
10. Watch the Sunset from Cabo Girão Skywalk
For an unforgettable view, head to Cabo Girão, one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs, standing at 580 meters above sea level. The glass skywalk lets you look straight down at the ocean.
- Location: 15 km from Funchal
- Entry Fee: Free
Why Visit?
- Breathtaking sunset views over the Atlantic
- A thrilling glass-bottom skywalk experience
- Perfect photo spot for travelers
Frequently Asked Questions About Things to Do in Funchal
1. What are the top attractions in Funchal?
Funchal offers a mix of natural beauty, history, and adventure. Some top attractions include:
- Monte Cable Car & Toboggan Ride
- Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market)
- Madeira Botanical Garden
- CR7 Museum (Cristiano Ronaldo Museum)
- Blandy’s Wine Lodge
- Santa Catarina Park
- Funchal Cathedral
2. What are some fun outdoor activities in Funchal?
Funchal is a great place for outdoor enthusiasts. Popular activities include:
- Hiking in the nearby mountains and levada trails
- Whale and dolphin watching tours
- Exploring the coastline by boat or kayak
- Swimming and snorkeling at Formosa Beach
- Paragliding for stunning aerial views
3. Is Funchal a good destination for food lovers?
Yes! Funchal has a fantastic culinary scene with a mix of local and international cuisine. Some must-try dishes include:
- Espetada (grilled beef skewers)
- Bolo do Caco (Madeiran garlic bread)
- Lapas (grilled limpets)
- Black scabbardfish with banana
- Passionfruit and poncha (a traditional Madeiran drink)
4. What is the best way to explore Funchal?
The best ways to get around Funchal include:
- Walking: The city center is compact and pedestrian-friendly.
- Public buses: An affordable way to explore further areas.
- Tuk-tuks: A fun and convenient way to see the sights.
- Rental cars: Ideal if you want to explore Madeira beyond Funchal.
- Cable cars: Perfect for reaching Monte and enjoying panoramic views.
5. What are the best viewpoints in Funchal?
For breathtaking views of the city and coastline, check out:
- Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos
- Monte Palace Gardens viewpoint
- Cabo Girão Skywalk (just outside Funchal)
- Fortaleza do Pico
Final Thoughts
Funchal is a dream destination that blends nature, adventure, history, and gastronomy into one unforgettable experience.
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