Funchal is the capital city of Madeira, Portugal’s famous island archipelago. It’s a popular tourist destination for visitors from all around the world.
Beautiful gardens combine with enchanting streets and delicious cuisine to create a unique and wonderful holiday destination.
If you want somewhere where you can relax and switch off from the rest of the world, this could be the perfect place for you.
Here’s a list of the most popular things to do in Funchal…
Ride In The Madeira Cable Car
One of the best and most exciting ways to explore Funchal is by cable car. There are two separate cable car services, one of which is the Madeira Cable Car which takes you from the Old Town of Funchal right up to the mountain town of Monte.
You’ll fly past some gorgeous views and be able to see the city from a unique perspective. Be sure to bring a camera along, then just sit back and enjoy the ride above bustling streets and hustling tourists.
Ride In The Botanic Cable Car
The second cable car option is the Botanic Cable Car, this route takes you from a station next to the Botanic Gardens to Monte. It’s a slightly shorter trip that takes around 10 minutes, but the views are unbeatable.
You’ll pass by the colorful roofs of buildings below, through hills and over valleys, and even through the Laurissilva Forest, one of Madeira’s UNESCO sites. Forget taxis, buses, and even going by foot, if you want to travel around and outside of Funchal, a cable car is a way to go.
Take A Ride In A Wicker Basket Sled
Funchal’s most unique way to travel is of course by traditional wicker toboggan. You’ve likely seen videos of merrily screaming tourists as they fly around hairpin corners, carefully guided by the locals in classic straw hats who look vaguely reminiscent of the gondoliers in Venice.
This thrilling ride takes you downhill for about 2km and is one of the most popular attractions in Madeira. The prices are very reasonable at around £25 per person, and it’s sure to be among the most memorable moments of your trip.
Visit The Monte Palace Tropical Gardens
The Monte Palace Tropical Gardens are a haven of lush greenery and beautiful structures. Here you can enjoy wandering through these incredible gardens, past towering water features and terraced islands, surrounded by lush fronds and the gentle sound of nature.
If you’re looking for an escape from the busy city, this is the perfect place to visit. You’ll be absolutely enchanted by the fairytale-like beauty of these exotic gardens.
Visit The Madeira Botanic Gardens
The Madeira Botanic Gardens are another of Funchal’s horticulture marvels. This vast park first opened to the public back in 1960, and before that, it was owned by the estate of William Reid, who famously founded Reid’s Hotel.
The gardens are famous for their colorful patchwork design, showcasing patterns and geometric shapes in different colors made by carefully planting and maintaining every flower and shrub.
Visit Funchal Cathedral
Funchal Cathedral is one of the city’s most iconic landmarks. Unlike other cathedrals and churches, this one is not overly grand or ornate, but instead has a modest design that reflects the time period and culture.
Inside, the seats are plain wood and the walls are ordinary, but there are a few areas covered in gold that grab your attention as you wander through this old building. The cathedral is located centrally, so you can easily fit it into a day of sightseeing.
Hike Pico do Arieiro
Pico do Arieiro is the third highest mountain in Madeira, and one of the most popular with tourists. From the summit, you’ll see some truly amazing views, and even on a cloudy day, it’s a very atmospheric place to be.
The mountain is fairly steep, so you’ll want to wear comfy shoes and bring some water and snacks with you. Many visitors choose to start their trek early in the morning so they can enjoy the sunrise as it slowly climbs over the horizon.
Taste Madeira’s Famous Wine
Madeira has long been famous for its export of wines, so it’s no surprise that you’ll find a number of wine tours available in Funchal. From the fascinating history of wine pressing to the economic impact and, of course, the casual wine tasting, you’re sure to enjoy one of Funchal’s popular wine tours.
Most experiences will end conveniently at a shop where you can stock up on your favorite wines, either to enjoy on holiday or to take back home as the perfect souvenir.
Try Madeira’s Signature Cake
One of Madeira’s most popular (and famous) delicacies is Madeira Cake. Like most foods, you can buy them in just about any supermarket, but it never tastes the same as when you can enjoy a slice in an authentic cafe in Madeira’s capital.
You’ll find plenty of bakeries and cafes serving this delicious treat, which is popular with locals and tourists alike. There are plenty of lesser-known foods to try of course, but the classic Madeira cake is virtually a right of passage when visiting this beautiful country.
Visit Santa Catarina Park
Craving even more greenery and nature? Santa Catarina Park is the answer. This lush area is the largest park in Funchal, and one of the most peaceful places to enjoy a walk or even a picnic.
The entire park centers around a lake that glistens in the sunlight, creating the perfect photo backdrop. Like most places in Funchal, you’ll see beautiful, ornate water features taking center stage, as well as tropical plants and artistic landscaping.
CR7 Museum
A slightly less obvious attraction is the CR7 Museum, which is devoted entirely to Portuguese football player Cristiano Ronaldo’s trophies. Funchal is the place where Ronaldo was born, hence the museum is located here.
Football fans are sure to find the exhibitions interesting, and if you know nothing about football it’s the perfect opportunity to learn. Entrance costs less than 10 euros per person, and you can stay as long as you like.
Shop At The Local Market
The Funchal Farmers Market is popular with locals and tourists alike. It’s a great opportunity to see real, everyday life in Funchal as well as to enjoy the freshest fresh produce. You’ll find basket upon basket overflowing with fresh fruits and vegetables, along with traditional cheeses and jams, and more.
If you’re wondering where to go for lunch, why not skip the restaurants and make yourself a small picnic with foods from the farmers market? Then just find a shady spot and enjoy this authentic taste of Madeira.
Explore Caravel Art Centre
The Caravel Art Centre and Gift Shop is a lovely place to look around. It is the largest art gallery in Madeira and houses both international and local artists’ works. There is also a space for aspiring young artists to showcase their artworks.
There’s plenty to browse, but you can also buy the pieces displayed at Caravel Art Centre. They offer international shipping so you can enjoy your holiday and go home to find your new art acquisition waiting for you.
Tour Sao Tiago Fort
The Sao Tiago Fort can be found in the central historical district (Zona Velha) of Funchal. The fort was originally built in the 16th century to protect and warn the city of pirates. Throughout history, the fort has served many different uses, including housing the British army during the Peninsular war.
The outside of the fort is painted a cheerful, bright yellow color making it easy to spot. If you ever feel lost walking along the outskirts of the city, just look for the big yellow building.
Relax At The Lido Bathing Complex
The Lido Bathing Complex, officially known as an ‘Aquatic Centre’ is one of Funchal’s most popular places to swim and sunbathe. The only downside to the bathing complex is that it is a favorite for locals and tourists alike, so it tends to get very busy.
If you don’t mind the crowds though, or if you can find a quiet day, the Lido Bathing Complex is a lovely place to relax and enjoy the crystal clear water and warm sunshine. There are restaurants and cafes nearby, so you can easily spend the whole day in and around the pool.
