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Shopping in Funchal

There are several large shopping centres in the city where you can find a wide variety of shops, restaurants, hypermarkets, cinemas, and even gyms. In places like Shopping center Madeira Shopping, Shopping center Fórum Madeira or Shopping center Plaza Madeira, elegance and comfort are guaranteed. Visit a shopping centre in Funchal and take great souvenirs back home with you!

The 27 best shopping and stores in Funchal

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1 Farmers' Market

2 Forum Madeira

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4 plaza madeira.

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6 Fábrica Santo Antonio

7 esperança bookshop, 8 lillie ceramics, 9 patrício & gouveia sucessores lda, 10 bordal houses, 11 blandy's wine lodge, 12 art center caravel gallery and gift shop, 13 saudade madeira - arte e café, 14 armazém do mercado, 15 funchal city center.

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26 RESTOCK galeria/gallery

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Explore nearby places

• Sao Martinho
• Camara De Lobos
• Estreito de Camara de Lobos
• Santo Antonio da Serra Machico
• Santo da Serra
• Ribeira Brava
• Porto da Cruz
• Ponta Do Sol
• Arco de Sao Jorge
• Ponta Delgada
• Sao Vicente
• Arco da Calheta
• Ribeira da Janela
• Paul do Mar
• Porto Moniz
• Achadas da Cruz
• Ponta do Pargo

All related maps of Funchal

• Map of Funchal
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• Map of Levadas
• Map of Santo Antonio da Serra Machico
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• Map of Campanario
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• Map of Ribeira Brava
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• Map of Canical
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• Map of Boaventura
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• Map of Prazeres
• Map of Ribeira da Janela
• Map of Paul do Mar
• Map of Porto Moniz
• Map of Achadas da Cruz
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Funchal throughout the year

• Funchal in January
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Get inspired for your trip to Funchal with our curated itineraries that are jam-packed with popular attractions everyday! Check them out here:

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Best attractions in nearby cities

• Top things to do and attractions in Calheta
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• Top things to do and attractions in Camara De Lobos
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Best restaurants in nearby cities

• Where to eat: the best restaurants in Calheta
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Funchal, Madeira might not be a city known for fashion such as Lisbon or even Porto , but due to the quality of the island’s infrastructures and rich history, there are plenty of large shopping malls, as well as smaller traditional streets that have always played a large role in Funchal’s commerce. From brands such as Zara and H&M to second-hand auction houses and charity shops, living in Funchal allows you to live the island life in style. Wondering where the best places are for shopping in Funchal? This shopping guide to Madeira has everything you need to know so you are ready for your next fashion spree, such as the best shopping malls and shopping streets.

Guide to Funchal

Best Shopping Malls in Madeira

Forum madeira.

Located at the entrance of Funchal, Forum Madeira opened on April 5th, 2005, close to a residential area and the best hotels in the city. With 20,000 m2 of commercial area with 60 stores, and three floors, as well as a food court with 6 restaurants and 450 seats. The shopping center has an “outdoor” concept surrounding around a central square and features an extensive green area. You can find stores such as H&M, Massimo Dutti, Zara, and more at Forum Madeira.

La Vie Shopping Center

Located in the heart of Funchal, close to the Casino, La Vie Shopping Center features a large supermarket, an extensive food court, as well as multiple stores from fashion, interior design, and more. The shopping also features a kids club called O Petite La Vie where you can leave your kids to play under supervision while you go shopping. You can find a variety of stores such as Lanidor, Pepe Jeans, Tous, and more.

Madeira Shopping

The largest shopping mall in Madeira, Madeira Shopping is located in Funchal and features 106 stores in an area of around 26,600 m2. The space also features 16 restaurants and 7 cinema rooms. Along with stores, you can find various services such as a post office, laundry mat, and pharmacy. You can find stores such as Zara, Fnac, Bershka, and more at Madeira Shopping.

Anadia Shopping

Located in the heart of Funchal close to the Lavradores market, Anadia Shopping has 48 commercial stores, a cinema, and a large supermarket. You can find stores such as Loja do Vidro, Ale Hop, Rhode Island Surf Shop, and more.

Best Shopping Streets in Madeira

Rua do aljube.

Close to the cathedral, Rua do Aljube once catered to the upper class of Madeira, featuring expensive stores such as Maison Blanche and Phoebus, the latter still being open to this day. Today, the street features a variety of stores such as Zara, Douglas, and more.

Rua Fernão de Ornelas

With 200 meters long, Rua Fernao de Ornelas is one of the most iconic shopping streets in Funchal. There are only a few stores still that are over 20 years, with most of these now gone. You can find stores such as Parfois, Massimo Dutti, Intimissi, Natura, and more.

Rua dos Ferreiros

One of the longest streets in Funchal, Rua dos Ferreiros was one of the busiest in the XX century. You will find many iconic buildings close by such as Palácio de Torre Bela and traditional stone floors. Today, it is home to various fashion stores such as Catita Kids, Mango, Women’s Secret, Lacoste, and more.

Second-Hand Shopping in Madeira

3 best vintage stores in madeira.

Estimei is essentially a charity shop that sells second-hand clothing and furniture that has been donated. From winter coats, jeans, and shirts, you can find many clothing pieces at Estimei. The store also features an atelier where materials are transformed and reutilized into products. The prices are incredibly cheap and you can find some real bargains here. The store also sells books that will be exchanged for school textbooks to support young people.

2. Leodecor

Looking for some vintage pieces for your home? Leodocor has everything you could wish for when it comes to antiques, from sculptures, paintings, large clocks, and lighting. Most pieces here are not necessarily cheap, but they are the kind of objects that will brighten and add flare to your home, as well as last you a lifetime.

3. Seculo Passado Leilões e Antiguidades

Founded in 2017, this place hosts multiple auctions for a diverse range of second-hand pieces, from furniture, clothing, watches, and even electrical appliances. The shop hosts auctions both online and in-person and they will also evaluate any piece you own at home if you would like to put it up for auction. Prices will obviously vary on the quality of the product, but you can be lucky enough to find a real bargain.

⬇️Please share your favorite places for shopping in Funchal in the comments below ⬇️

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THE BEST Funchal Shopping Malls

Shopping malls in funchal.

• Gift & Specialty Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Shopping Tours
• Antique Stores
• Department Stores
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• Budget-friendly
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• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Mercado dos Lavradores

2. Forum Madeira

3. La Vie Funchal Shopping Center

4. Galerias São Lourenço, Funchal

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Funchal Shopping – Shops, Stores, Best Buys & Inside Tips

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Funchal Shopping

Funchal is the largest city in Portugal, which makes it a hot spot for tourists. Vendors from all over the country bring their best items to Funchal looking to sell in traditional stores and open markets.

Funchal Shopping – Shops & Stores

There are essentially two kinds of shopping experiences in Funchal . There is the traditional shopping mall with lots of different shops and name-brand items. Then, there are open markets that bring together the best local vendors selling unique products.

If you want to experience a traditional shopping experience first, you should visit La Vie Shopping Center in Funchal . This is a sizable place with a huge range of shops, plus eating and drinking establishments. You can find just about anything that you need. Plus, it is spotlessly clean and looks very modern.

For grocery items, you should visit Continente Supermarket. It is a sizeable store and has everything that you require on your trip. The best part is the prices are reasonable. The supermarket stocks the usual name brands that you are familiar with, plus their own brand products that are equally good.

Funchal Shopping – Best Buys

The prices at the shopping mall and supermarket are fixed prices. But, if you want to find the best buys in Funchal , you will head to the open market, specifically Mercado Dos Lavradores (the Farmer’s Market), which is located in the center of Funchal .

These local vendors are willing to negotiate prices in order to sell their products. You can find wine, fresh meat, candies, leather bags, milk products, and more items. Plus, in the back of the building is a fish market, where fish arrive and are cleaned on the spot. This colorful place is great for finding local items at reasonable prices – if you know how to negotiate.

Inside Tips on Shopping in Funchal

The key to a successful shopping experience in Funchal is knowing how to negotiate. If you act like a tourist, you’re going to end up paying the asking price at the farmer’s market. But, if you act like you belong and know how to negotiate, you can buy some amazing items at reasonable prices.

The fresh food available in Funchal is exceptional. So, take advantage of the stand owners engaging in direct and personalized sales of their day-to-day products. The vendors do not want to go home with products, so make sure you understand how to relieve them of their items at a reasonable price.

Editor’s Note: The information contained on this page was compiled using real traveler reviews about shopping in Funchal .

We hand-pick everything we recommend and select items through testing and reviews. Some products are sent to us free of charge with no incentive to offer a favorable review. We offer our unbiased opinions and do not accept compensation to review products. All items are in stock and prices are accurate at the time of publication. If you buy something through our links, we may earn a commission.

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Discover Funchal, Madeira in 2024: an independent travel guide

Funchal is the likeable capital city of Madeira. It is a historic and characterful city, which sits in a natural amphitheatre, with all districts facing down towards the waterfront and historic centre.

Funchal has an extensive history and an abundance of Portuguese charm, along with a wide variety of tourist attractions, including castles, gardens and cable cars.

Being the largest city on the island, it is also the centre for culture and tourism, and Funchal excels at both of these. There are world-class hotels, fascinating museums, fine restaurants along with buzzing nightlife.

Funchal may have a population over 100,000, but it has a small-town atmosphere, which is very safe and easy to explore on foot. This article will provide an introduction to Funchal, either for your holiday or as a day trip. Related articles: Introduction to Madeira – Madeira top 10 - 1 week in Madeira

Highlights of Funchal

Historic centre of Funchal, with its traditional buildings, ancient cathedral and two forts.

The sledge ride down Monte hill in what is little more than a wicker chair, steered by two men dressed in white

The Jardins tropical, boasting diverse plant life set around delightful water features and imposing statues

An overview of Funchal for tourists

There are three areas of Funchal of interest to visitors; the historic centre and waterfront, the hilltop district of Monte, and the coastal area of São Martinho where the majority of the hotels are situated.

The historic centre includes the main shopping street of Avenida Arriaga, the Lavradores market, Tiago fort, São Lourenço fort, the Se Cathedral and the cobbled streets of the Zona Velha. This area extends around the waterfront which overlooks the harbour and cruise terminal, and is where the majority of a day trip is spent - A suggested day trip and map is provided later in this article.

Monte is situated up in the hills above the city, and has a slightly cooler and wetter microclimate. Within Monte are three wonderous gardens, a beautiful church and the thrilling wicker sledge ride down to the centre of Funchal. Monte is easily combined in a day trip with Funchal, as there is a cable car between the harbour and Monte.

São Martinho is to the west of Funchal and is centred around the pebble beach of Praia Formosa and the Lido swimming complex. This is the area where the majority of the larger-hotels are based, and is a modern district offering great tourist facilities, such as bars, shops & restaurants.

Looking up from Funchal waterfront up to the Fortaleza de São João Baptista

Funchal for your holiday

There are many good reasons to be based in or near Funchal for your holiday. Funchal has the widest selection of restaurants, shops and bars, along with being the hub for all public transport. Being based here means you will always feel close to the buzz of the city - there are many places on Madeira which are beautiful but do feel quite remote and distant from anything.

Funchal has the added bonus of having some of the best weather on Madeira, and has significantly less rain than the north or west, while being sheltered from the strong easterly winds.

Funchal may be a major city, but it is a very safe destination. There is almost no crime or significant issues, and is suitable for families or older visitors.

The area of Estrada Monumental (south São Martinho) has the atmosphere of a resort town, with streets packed with hotels, restaurants and tourist shops, but it is only a short bus ride to the centre of Funchal. Our opinion: When friends or family who are new to Madeira are considering it for a holiday, we always advise them to be based in or close to Funchal.

The Se cathedral in Funchal

Funchal for Cruise ship passengers

Madeira is a popular stop for cruise ships, and Funchal is a beautiful city to moor at. The cruise terminal is right at the centre of the city, and the historic centre can be easily walked to from the cruise port.

Funchal can be easily explored without the need of an expensive tour organised through the cruise company, and for a complete guide for a day trip to Funchal as a cruise ship passenger, please read this guide .

A day trip to Funchal

The interactive map below shows a typical day trip to Funchal. The suggested day would be divided between the historic centre and Monte, with riding the cable car up to Monte and catching the sledge back to Funchal.

Sights of the day trip 1) Avenida Arriaga 2) Praça do Município 3) Se cathedral 4) Palácio de São Lourenço 5) Lavradores market 6) Arte Portas Abertas (along the Rua de Santa Maria) 7) Forte de São Tiago 8) Funchal-Monte cable car 9) Monte Palace Tropical Gardens 10) Jardim Botânico (optional) 11) Senhora do Monte church 12) Monte sledge ride

Advice: The sledge ride ends 2km from the centre of Funchal, and it is either a walk, bus ride (ever 30-40minutes) or expensive taxi. The taxi drivers know they can rip off tourists and will demand as high as €30 for the 10-minute ride. Uber is a much cheaper option. If you would prefer a guided tour of Funchal’s Old Town, these start from €12.90 for a 2-hour tour .

Being the largest city on Madeira means that all of the tours of the island depart from here. An organised tour is the best way to discover Madeira, and these tours provide knowledgeable guides, while removing the hassle of public transport. We have worked with GetYourGuide for the past five years and some of their best tours of Madeira include: • The best of western Madeira, full day coach tour (€29) • Best of the east of Madeira, full day coach tour (€29) • Cliff top Skywalk and Porto Moniz Volcanic Pools small group tour (€55) • Madeira Peaks tour by Open 4x4 (€49)

Sights of Funchal

The gardens.

Madeira is known as the island of the eternal spring and nowhere is this more evident than in the flower gardens found in hills above Funchal.

The most famous is the Botanical Garden, which was created to protect the indigenous plants of Madeiran, and now has expanded to include over 2,500 species. Included in the complex is an exotic bird park, a small Natural History Museum and the much-photographed Jandins Coreografados. https://telefericojardimbotanico.com/room/jardim-botanico/

The patterned gardens of the Jardins Coreografados

The Tropical Gardens are situated up the Monte district, and are the most enjoyable for a day trip. Within these varied gardens are an extensive selection of plants and water features, along with an art gallery dedicated to contemporary Zimbabwean sculpture and sculptures from the Berardo Foundation collection. https://montepalacemadeira.com/

The Tropical Gardens in Monte

Rua de Santa Maria doorway art (Arte Portas Abertas)

The Rua de Santa Maria has been converted into an outdoor art gallery, with the doorways of abandoned buildings being repurposed as permanent art features.

This wonderful project has breathed new life into the area and includes over 200 works of art and murals from local artists. Further details can be found on the project's website: www. arteport asabertas .com/

Insight: This area livens up at night with some of Madeira's best tourist-focused restaurants, and there is a great atmosphere, but the waiters can be very pushy to get customers. If you purely want to see the art visit early in the morning.

The Mercado dos Lavradores

The Mercado dos Lavradores (Workers' Market) is one of the highlights of Funchal. This covered market sells fresh produce and handicrafts, along with having a bustling fish market.

The Mercado dos Lavradores is always a hive of activity and a great location to find a bargain

Discover Madeiran wine

Madeira is famed for its wine, and over 200 years of this heritage can be experienced (and tasted) at the wine cellars of Blandy's Wine Lodge. https://www.blandyswinelodge.com/

Santa Maria de Colombo

Moored in Funchal harbour is a replica of the Christopher Columbus ship the Santa Maria, which provides 3-hour guided tours (€38 / €17.50 adult/child) along the coastline - Ticket can be purchased here .

The replica of the Santa Maria is dwafed by the cruise ships which moor in Funchal’s harbour

Wicker Sledge from Monte

The wicker sledge ride down Monte hill, is the most touristy gimmicky activity of Madeira, but it is unique and fun. Historically the wicker sledges (known as Carreiros) transported goods from the top of Monte to the lower districts of Funchal, but since the 1910s tourists have been the main cargo!

The sledges do not follow special rails but zip down roads, with the drivers using their feet to steer, running to push over the flat sections and spotters keeping traffic safely out of the way. The Carreiros depart from the Nossa Senhora do Monte church in Monte a hillside town above Funchal.

The wicker sledges that slide down the roads

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THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in Funchal

Shopping in funchal.

• Gift & Speciality Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Shopping Tours
• Antique Stores
• Department Stores
• Flea & Street Markets
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Caravel Art Center

2. 3d Fun Art Museum

3. Mercado dos Lavradores

4. Forum Madeira

5. La Vie Funchal Shopping Center

6. Restock Galeria Gallery

7. Lillie Ceramics

8. Galeria BELA 30

9. Bordal - Bordados da Madeira

10. ART MALL Gallery

11. MAMMA - Museum of Modern Art of Madeira

12. Seculo Passado Leilões e Antiguidades

13. Kunstgalerie - Wolfgang Lass

14. Art 4 Madeira, Funchal

15. Galeria Marca de Agua

16. Charlotte's Place

17. Fabrica Santo Antonio

18. Galerias São Lourenço, Funchal

19. Loja Dos Frutos Secos

20. Ricardo Andrade Galeria de Art

21. Fundacao Livraria Esperanca

22. Madeira Tradicional

23. Cbweed Madeira

24. Madeira Shopping

25. Dona Nita

26. Livraria Setima Dimensao

27. Portugal Labels

28. Orchid Gifts of Madeira

29. Wine Prosa

30. Flower Power from Madeira

What travellers are saying.

• Mercado dos Lavradores
• Forum Madeira
• La Vie Funchal Shopping Center
• Caravel Art Center
• 3d Fun Art Museum
• Fabrica Santo Antonio
• Madeira Shopping
• Charlotte's Place
• Lillie Ceramics
• Fundacao Livraria Esperanca
• Restock Galeria Gallery

MADEIRA’S no 1 OFFICIAL GUIDE since 1997

• Shopping Centres

Madeira Shopping Centres

Plaza Madeira Shopping Centre (formerly La Vie) This is Funchal’s latest addition to the shopping scene. It has an excellent central location in downtown Funchal, next to the Santa Caterina Park, just 2 minutes away from the Marina and behind the main road Avenida de Arriaga. It is a large, modern mall with around 70 shops (Massimo Dutti, Cortefiel, Claire's, Tous, among others) as well as a tasty food court offering anything from Burger King to Kebabs and Italian food. There is also a Health Club and a large Pingo Doce Supermarket and all this is serviced by a spacious car park that has a capacity for 900 cars. On the streets that circle the centre you will find many small boutique shops and one off designer establishments. Above the shopping mall is The Vine Hotel , a design hotel and a stunning place that overlooks all of Funchal. Lunches and coffees are reasonably priced and combined with the view from the outside terrace and the beauty of the infinity pool you will find that it complements the food perfectly.

Forum Madeira If its al fresco shopping and eateries you like then The “Forum Madeira” is the mall for you. It is situated within the tourist and hotel zone on the west of Funchal (Lido/Ajuda), With its modern and airy gallery-style architecture on several levels grouping around a central tower and open square, the Forum Madeira also boasts an attractive roof garden from where visitors can enjoy stunning views over the Atlantic Ocean. With 86 shops (among them Zara, H&M, C&A, Massimo Dutti, Saccoor and Women' Secret), including restaurants, cafés and snack bars, 6 cinemas and a hypermarket, the Forum Madeira provides everything for a modern and extremely pleasant shopping experience. There are around 800 underground parking places available. One street up you will find a great selection of smaller shops including the exclusive shop that is attracting many tourists due to its famous connections ‘CR7’ owned by the sister of world class footballer Cristiano Ronaldo and adorned with photos and images of the local hero and superstar.

Madeira Shopping This is another large shopping centre away from the main belt of Funchal in Santa Quitéria. Built in an attractive modern style blending with typical Madeiran features, this spacious shopping centre offers more than 100 shops (including Zara, Bershka, Massimo Dutti, Stradivarius, Lion of Porches, Natura, Cortefiel, Tiffosi and Gant), restaurants, coffee shops, snack bars and 7 cinemas (in Portugal films are shown in their original language with Portuguese subtitles). Again, it caters for all types of shoppers and offers some great views of Madeira. Try the ice cream parlour, always great on a hot summers day. In total, there are around 1060 free parking spaces available both an open parking terrace and an underground garage.

Smaller shopping centres worth a mention include:

Marina Shopping Situated on ‘Avenida Arriaga’ opposite the marina.

Then a few steps further along towards the Cathedral, you’ll find to the right the

Galerias de São Lourenço A small but attractive shopping mall.

Arcadas de São Francisco Connected to the Madeira Wine Company (or Blandy’s Wine Lodge), which you can visit at the same time. But be careful if you’re the driver...!

Anadia Shopping Found on ‘Rua Fernão Ornelas’ opposite the traditional Madeiran Market.

Also, the back streets of Funchal offer a myriad of different shops sporting new looks and individuality. It is a great area to browse and it’s amazing what ‘finds’ are to be had. ‘Rua dos Tanoeiros’ is a street worth mentioning because of its shoe shops, all of which have the latest trends at a fraction of ‘high street’ prices. However, Rua Dr. Fernão de Ornelas in Funchal is the street with more shops and services.

Anadia Shopping , which you will find to the left at the end of the street ‘Rua Fernão Ornelas’, opposite the local market in the old town is a smaller centre with a more local feel.

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15 Best Things to Do in Funchal, Madeira Right Now

Are you planning to visit Madeira? Chances are you will visit Funchal, Madeira’s capital city and the main port, exploring what it has to offer. I’ve just returned from a fabulous week-long solo trip to Funchal and have put together this guide to help you plan either 24 hours in Funchal or two days or even a longer Funchal itinerary. The guide is packed with all the best things to do in Funchal Madeira , including travel tips that are helpful to know. 

I visited Funchal, pronounced “Fuun-chaal” , intending to use it just as a base to do the famous Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike along with exploring the island’s many scenic walking trails, natural pools and other outdoorsy adventures which Madeira is known for. 

However, I was left with a warm appreciation for Funchal after having spent many days strolling through the city’s vibrant streets exploring its sights, feasting on the freshest seafood washed down with the richest and sweetest Madeira wine whilst also mingling with locals who were excited to share their fascinating culture and traditions.

One of the top things Funchal is known for and worth visiting in themselves are its popular festivals held all year round. The city’s festivals celebrate nearly everything from important religious events to some of the island’s famous products such as flowers and Madeira wine as well as music and dance.

I was lucky that my visit coincided with Funchal Carnival/Mardi Gras 2023 which made me fall in love with the city even more. I hope you appreciate Funchal as much as I did.

Let’s dive right in! Here is what to do in Funchal in Madeira

1. Take a Free Walking Tour of Funchal Old Town

Price : Tip Based (Offered in English and Spanish)

Start with a free guided walking tour of Funchal Old Town . I always recommend a walking tour as an introduction to a city as it’s an excellent way to orientate yourself and make exploring alone later on way easier. 

Guides will share with you helpful tips which you won’t find in most guides, yes, and even here such as where and what to eat in Funchal and how much it should cost, where to shop for the best souvenirs, the best transport options and so much more.

Since the walking tours are offered by locals, you’ll get to know the city’s fascinating insights and stories including wide local issues from a local’s perspective. 

I took the Free Walking Tours Funchal and learned interesting history about Funchal and Madeira as a whole from its inception as Portugal’s first colony in the early 15th century having been discovered by the Portuguese sailor João Gonçalves Zarco to the present day as an autonomous region. All told in a fun and engaging manner.

Since I was visiting Funchal alone, the walking tour also proved to be a nice way to meet and have fun with like-minded travellers. 

2. Wander the Old Town of Funchal 

The first port of call for most visitors to Funchal if exploring the city without a guide is to go for a wander in its Old Town or historic centre, known locally as Zona Velha .

This is where you’ll find Funchal’s most charming buildings and characterful streets which are home to the city’s famous historical sites and famous landmarks such as the 15th century Sé Cathedral of Funchal , 16th-century Palácio de São Lourenço and The Regional Legislative Assembly .

The Old Town is also home to museums such as the Natural History Museum and the Madeira Story Centre which showcases the city’s history and culture as well as beautiful gardens and parks, all of which are famous features of Funchal like Santa Catarina Park .

Check out the independent shops where you can bag some bargains, wine cellars such as the Old Blandy Wine Lodge which are perfect spots to sample the best of Madeira wines, and restaurants and bars where you can sample typical local cuisine and drinks.

Good to Know

The population of Funchal is just over 100,000, so it’s quite small. It’s a walkable city, especially around where most of its attractions are found. However, you’ll have to be content with steep hills once you start to move away from the city centre. Comfortable shoes and sun protection will come in handy, so prepare well. 

Funchal food and drink worth checking out:

• Prima Caju – One of the best restaurants in Funchal offering vegetarian and vegan breakfast and brunch in a cool place.

• Casa do Bolo do Caco – Don’t miss trying Bolo do Caco, the flatbread variation made from flour and sweet potato is the most favoured bread in Madeira and it’s easy to see why. It’s one of the best bread for delicious sandwiches though I prefer mine laddled with garlic butter. 

• Taberna Ruel and Taberna Madeira – Two lovely Funchal restaurants to enjoy traditional Madeira cuisine .  

• Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha – A tiny bakery on Santa Maria Street serving the most delicious Portuguese and Maderian pastries such as pastel de nata, honey cake and sonhos (Portuguese doughnuts). 

• Rei da Poncha – the best bar to try Poncha , the most popular and traditional alcoholic drink in Madeira, made with rum, honey and fruits such as lemon and passion fruit.

• Old Blandy Wine Lodge – A popular stop for wine lovers and those keen to learn the history and production process of Madeira wine. Take the Blandy Wine Lodge’s highly-reviewed wine walking tour to taste some of the best Madeira wines, tour their cellars and learn about the history of the Blandy family and their role in the production of Madeira wine on the island.

3. Stop by the Sé Cathedral of Funchal

Price : Free  

Sé Cathedral de Nossa Senhora da Assunção , also The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption, is a Roman Catholic church located right in the centre of Funchal Old Town. This church has stood at its site since the time Funchal was declared the capital of Madeira by Portugal’s King Manuel I during the late 15th century.

The three-nave Gothic-styled church has stood the test of time as it looks as good as new. Its facade is quite unassuming whilst the interior features a stunningly decorated Mudejar-styled wooden ceiling, a sophisticated altarpiece from the early 16th century, countless paintings and wooden craftworks. 

This is a church not to miss in Funchal even if you aren’t religious as it’s charming. It’s small, so it will be a brief stop. 

4. Marvel at the Street Art on Santa Maria Street 

The Street art known as Art of Open Doors or Arte Portas Abertas , found on the doors of the buildings along Santa Maria Street is part of Funchal Municipality’s initiative aimed at revitalising this part of Funchal Old Town which had become notorious and disused. 

The project has been hailed as a great success as it has become one of the most popular and unusual things to do in Funchal. Nearly every door on Santa Maria including adjacent streets is adorned with vivid and catchy paintings depicting mostly the lifestyle and cultural practices of the people who previously lived in the neighbourhood. 

Both professionals such as the celebrated Madeiran artist Mark Milewski together with amateurs from all over the world have contributed to the project which gives the whole experience authenticity. 

Santa Maria Maior , where Santa Maria Street is found, is the oldest neighbourhood in Funchal, so the area has a unique appeal in addition to its fascinating Street Art.

Most of the narrow stone streets in the area are in use as outdoor restaurants and bars making it one of the hubs for Funchal nightlife.

I found it more enjoyable to see the art in Santa Maria early in the day before the area became crowded with restaurant activities. However, don’t miss checking out the area at night as well. It’s a lovely place to hang out, awash with some of the best Funchal restaurants.

5. Explore Mercado dos Lavradores

Mercado dos Lavradores or the Farmers Market is Funchal’s central market, located in the Old Town and just around the corner from Santa Maria Street. The market is housed in an attractive two-storey building with a beautiful central courtyard. It’s a well-organised market with stalls that are grouped according to their offerings.

The market is well known for its absolutely beautiful fresh produce which includes a variety of colourful tropical fruits, vegetables, flowers and herbs.

The fish market which is separated by a lower floor is a great place to see some fascinating fish species as well as learn about Madeira’s strong seafood culture.

Don’t miss visiting the market if you’re keen to shop for decently-priced local souvenirs or are interested in trying out budget-friendly typical Madeiran food and drinks.

I’m told that Mercado dos Lavradores’ fruit and vegetable prices are inflated for the tourist market, however, I think you should certainly stop by, mainly to get a glimpse of what’s eaten on the island.  

6. Take a stroll along Avenida do Mar in Funchal

If you enjoy long strolls by the waterfront, you’ll definitely adore  Avenida do Mar . Avenida do Mar is the city’s long promenade which runs along the Marina in Funchal connecting the south and west ends of the city.

The promenade allows easy access to some of Funchal’s top attractions while enjoying the awesome views of the Atlantic Ocean and massive ships and cruise liners that dock on the marina every day. 

From the promenade, you can also reach Funchal Old Town including the Sé Cathedral through the numerous sidewalks leading to the city centre. Along Avenida do Mar, you’ll also find the historic 16th-century Palácio de São Lourenço and Fort of São Tiago Funchal . Both are the only remains of the old city walls and fortifications.

Funchal Cable Car Station which connects Funchal and Monte Village can be found towards the south whilst the famous Cristiano Ronaldo Museum or CR7 Museum is at the west end of the promenade.

The promenade itself has a good balance of great things to do from end to end. Some of the things to enjoy along the promenade are numerous artistic works which include impressive sculptures, decorated gardens, lovely seating arrangements which are perfect for people-watching, food trucks, tuckshops and bars. 

The promenade is also a centre for many of Funchal’s festivities such as the famous New Year’s Eve Festival , Carnival and Atlantic Festival Fire Show , so it’s quite a happening place in town. 

Some of my fond memories of Funchal were taking late-night walks along the promenade. It was one of my favourite things to do in Funchal at night which I highly recommend if this sounds like your kind of fun. 

• A Dolphin and Whale Watching Tour is a popular day tour in Funchal. Several tours start from Funchal Harbour, so if you’re interested stop by their huts along the promenade to enquire or book ahead online.
• Choose to take a Sightseeing Bus Tour from the promenade to get to some of the popular tourist destinations that are difficult to reach on foot in case you’re visiting Funchal without a car. The buses stop at popular tourist attractions outside Funchal such as the famous Monte Village, Cabo Girão Skywalk, Picos dos Barcelo viewing point and Lido Marina (where you can find good public swimming facilities such as Praia Formosa Beach).
• Equally, several private car and bike rentals are also available from the shops opposite the promenade in case you wish to explore independently. 
• Local buses also run close to the promenade. They are a budget-friendly option to get to most of the popular tourist attractions around Funchal.

7. Explore Monte Palace Tropical Garden 

Price : €12.50 Adults 

Monte Palace Tropical Garden is an absolutely superb place to visit whilst in Funchal. The garden is set on the hills of Monte Village, located 500m above Funchal city centre. 

The garden initially existed as an 18th-century private residence and a hotel in the early 20th century. It opened in the 90s to the public after it was acquired and developed into a tropical garden by a businessman and art collector from the area.

The Monte Palace Tropical Garden stretches across 70 00 square metres and is home to various themed gardens which are home to a wide range of both native and beautiful exotic flowers and plants from countries such as South Africa, New Zealand, Australia, Japan and China.

A labyrinth of beautifully designed walkways opens up to lush green spaces, attractive waterfalls and lakes which are home to exotic birds, stunning sculptures and huts, some with oriental themes and various peaks to enjoy some lovely views of Funchal and beyond.

Interestingly, complementing the garden are stunning  Portuguese Tile Art  from the 15th and 20th centuries, the three-floored Monte Palace Museum which has on show  Sculptured Art  from  Zimbabwe from 1966-69  and a rich collection of minerals from various continents.

The Greenhouse Coffee Roaster in the garden is worth a quick stop for coffee and the most delicious vegan cakes in Funchal, so don’t miss it. 

How to get to Monte Palace Gardens

• Funchal Cable Car is the most popular choice for visitors to navigate from the lower section of Funchal to the upper section, especially to explore Monte Palace Gardens. The cable car is popular probably due to the lovely views of Funchal and the sea which are to be enjoyed during the ride. Its station in Funchal centre is located along Avenida do Mar in the Old Town whilst the station in Monte is just around the corner from the garden’s entrance (Price €18 Return ). The ride takes about 15-20min each way. 

• The botanical garden cable car is a separate cable car route connecting the village of Monte with the Madeira Botanical Garden. It might be the most efficient way to visit the two places especially if you’ve no access to a car. The ride takes 9 min each way and a return ticket costs €15.
• Local bus routes 20, 21 and 48 make the journey within 30-40 mins from Avenida do Mar.
• Driving or a taxi ride should take you about 20 mins.
• Both the Red and Yellow Sightseeing Buses stop in Monte. 

8. Explore Monte 

Plan to spend some time in Monte where the Monte Palace Tropical Garden is located as it’s a pretty little village. Monte village’s landscape is stunningly lush green with a high altitude that affords a gorgeous view of Funchal.

Church of Our Lady of the Mount (Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte), the church at the centre of the village, has roots which go back to the 15th century though the current iteration was completed during the 19th century. It’s a small church but it’s full to the brim with attractive altars and religious paintings.

Our Lady of the Mount is said to house the remains of the last Emperor of Austria Charles I who died whilst in exile on the island, so if this interests you, then, don’t miss it.

The views from the church are just incredible, however, you’ll need to negotiate over 50 steep steps, so this might not suit you if your mobility is limited.

Around the corner from Our Lady of the Mount, you can take a ride on the famous traditional Monte Toboggan Ride for some fast-moving fun. The toboggans are entirely made from wicker baskets and slide down 2km aided by two skilled drivers or “Carreiros”

It’s fascinating to know that at some point in history, the taboggans were the locals’ only mode of transport to navigate Funchal’s steep streets. 

Prepare to wait in line if you plan to take the Toboggan Ride. It’s a popular tourist activity in Funchal (Price from €25 for a Single).

9. Explore Madeira Botanical Garden  

Price: €6 Adults (Discounts for Children)

If you’re someone who loves plants or is fascinated by gardens, then, you’re in for a treat as Madeira Botanical Garden is another excellent botanical garden in Funchal that you’ll love. 

Similar to Monte Palace Gardens, the Madeira Botanical Gardens initially existed as a private estate. It opened in 1960 to the public after government acquisition and it’s now one of the must-see places on the island. 

The garden has on display a rich collection of indigenous and exotic plant species some of which are endemic to Madeira and also from all around the world. The plants are grouped according to their similarities which include, medicinal, edible, Madeiran native, desert plants and much more.

Nicely manicured walkways in the garden open up to a series of scenic lookouts, a lake with numerous turtles and a charming traditional Madeiran farmhouse. 

The gardens are a perfect place to unwind and relax whilst taking in some inspiration for your own gardening adventures back home. 

I thought the cactus collection was really impressive. I also liked the idea that all the plants in the garden were clearly named and easy to read, so the visit was like a mini botany class. 

How to Get to the Madeira Botanical Garden 

• Car/Taxi – The garden is located on the outskirts of Funchal, about an 8 min drive. Free parking is widely available in a parking lot close to the garden.
• Local Bus , route 31 , leaves from Funchal Centrum and takes about 20 minutes.
• Botanical Garden Cable Car leaves from Monte a nd takes 15-20 mins (€15 return ticket) .  

10. Relax at Santa Catarina Park

Price: Free

Santa Catarina Park  is one of Funchal’s largest public parks, conveniently located on a slight hill at the western end of the main street in the city. 

This is one of the best free things to do in Funchal which is also a great alternative to the popular Monte Palace Tropical Gardens and Madeira Botanical Gardens which are both difficult to navigate if you’ve limited mobility or travelling on a tight itinerary. 

You can enjoy wonderfully manicured grounds, gardens of varying themes including cactus, Japanese and rose gardens, a large lake which is home to several water birds and plenty of seating which is perfectly positioned to enjoy the view of the Atlantic Sea which the park overlooks. 

Santa Catarina comes with a good selection of good facilities which include a small, but highly reviewed children’s playground, food trucks as well as cafes with incredible views.

11. Stop by Madeira Story Center  

The Madeira Story Center is located in the Old Town in a historic building which was once a sugar cane factory. It’s a good place to visit to get to know the history and culture of Madeira.

The museum’s permanent exhibition focuses on the geography of the island, its history as a colony and the effects of immigration on the island. The exhibition aims to be interactive by presenting the information through audio guides, digital displays, video projections and various other media techniques.

It’s a small museum, but if you’ve got kids with you or you’re a history buff, you’ll definitely appreciate a visit to the Madeira Story Center. It’s also one of the best things to do in Funchal when it rains!   

12. Check the CR7 Museum

Visiting the CR7 Museum (Christiano Ronaldo Museum) is a top must-do thing in Fuchal for fans of the soccer superstar. The museum is devoted to the life and career achievements of Ronaldo who was born in Funchal’s São Pedro neighbourhood.

On display are trophies, medals, awards and jerseys Christiano Ronaldo has amassed throughout his career. Digital exhibits in the museum offer some interesting insights into the life and career of this famous soccer star. 

The CR7 Museum is located at the harbour close to the cruise liner docks. It’s hard to miss as an imposing bronze statue of the soccer star graces the museum’s front. 

13. Visit Santa Clara Convent 

The Santa Clara Convent is one of the most important buildings in Funchal with a history that goes back to the 15th century. The convent is surrounded by a beautiful garden with exotic flowers and trees.

The convent runs an exhibition which features religious paintings, sculptures and valuable artefacts.

Santa Clara Convent guided tours are quite popular as they offer interesting perspectives on the history and culture of Madeira.

NB – Santa Clara Convent is currently closed for renovations but is due to open in 2023, so check before you visit. 

14. See the Sunrise from Pico do Ariero

Heading to Pico do Ariero to experience Madeira’s stunning sunrise or sunset is one of the most awesome things to do in Funchal which you shouldn’t miss. 

Pico do Ariero is the third-highest peak in Madeira, so it affords gorgeous views as the sun rises or sets whilst lighting up in fascinating colours above the high and impressive Central Mountain Range of Madeira.

How to Get to Pico do Ariero from Funchal 

There are a few options to get to Pico do Ariero from Funchal. I visited Madeira with a rental car which made getting to Pico do Ariero super easy though the drive was steep and narrow in some areas, requiring extra caution. 

• Pico Transfers offers a reasonably priced pick-up and drop-off service around Funchal, so it’s worth checking out if you’ve no access to a private car.
• Taxis are also ideal and reasonable but prior booking through the Bolt App is recommended.

NB – These transport options are also relevant if you plan to do the popular Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo hike . Pico do Arieiro stands at 1,818m, so prepare well for harsh weather regardless of whether you are visiting just for the sunrise/sunset or intend to do some hiking.

See the accurate Madeira Funchal Weather forecast. 

15. taka a day trip to porto santo island.

It’s fair to say that Funchal beaches are nothing to brag about, however, if your stay is long and eager to spend a day at a sandy beach surrounded by beautiful landscape, consider taking a day trip from Funchal to Porto Santo Island . It’s also a perfect holiday destination, especially during the summer, so it’s also ideal for a longer visit.

The island is located 40km northeast of Madeira Island. It’s famously known for having long peaceful stretches of sandy beaches, clear waters which are perfect for a wide variety of water sports as well as a stunning landscape ideal for many adventures in nature. 

Porto Santo Line ferry service offers the most affordable way to get to Porto Santo though it takes over 2 hours from Funchal Port. Several flights from Funchal Airport in Santa Cruz are also available (25 mins duration) as well as from Lisbon Airport (1hr 45mins).

See Port Santo Holidays

Funchal FAQ’s

What is the best time to visit madeira and funchal .

Madeira’s climate is classified as sub-tropical which means the island experiences sunny summers (June-Sept) and mild temperatures throughout the winter months (Dec-Feb) with some high levels of rain. 

Different locations on the island tend to experience varied climates. However, the island’s southern coast where Funchal is located is privileged with some of the best weather on the island making it one of Madeira’s best all-year-round destinations.  

How to Get Around Funchal?

As mentioned previously, it’s possible to get around Funchal Old Town on foot where most of the historical sites are located. However, other areas outside the centre tend to be hilly and steep which can be strenuous even for the fittest person.

While car hire isn’t necessary to explore Funchal centre, I’d highly recommend it if you plan to visit sights around Funchal’s outskirts and explore the island at length. Ribeira Brava , Camara de Lobos and Porto Moniz are other lovely places worth checking out when in Madeira.

Car hire companies are widely available at Funchal Madeira Airport. Rentalcars.com is a great platform for finding reasonably priced car hire options in Madeira.   

What are the best places to stay in Funchal Portugal?

Choosing where to stay in Funchal depends on your budget, what you intend to focus on whilst in Funchal as well as the length of your stay. The Old Town area is ideal for short breaks and if you wish to explore Funchal’s historic sites and surrounding gardens. It’s also a great choice to use as a base to explore the rest of the island especially if you’ve access to a car.

The areas along the coast such as São Martinho are packed with hotels, resorts and apartments. They’re ideal for a longer stay and if you wish to be close to the beach and sea views. 

Airbnb Funchal and Booking.com are great resources for finding Funchal hotels, hostels, and self-catering holiday homes and apartments for all budgets.

The Views Monumental , located on Estrada Monumental, Savoy Palace Funchal , The Cliff Bay Hotel , Reids Palace and Quinta Jardins do Lago in São Pedro are some of the highly-rated Funchal hotels on Booking.com worth giving a quick look.

If you’re travelling alone, 29 Madeira Hostel , Hostel Santa Maria and Jaca Hostel Funchal are also great and budget-friendly options available on Booking.com which are conveniently located in the Old Town Funchal.

I hope you enjoy your trip to Funchal!

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Reader Interactions

November 26, 2023 at 9:36 am

Lovely review thanks .

November 26, 2023 at 7:52 pm

Thanks Pete

January 3, 2024 at 2:03 pm

Herzlichen Dank für die ausführlichen Informationen. Hoffe ,dass meine 7 Tage Aufenthalt reichen ,um alles zu erkunden. LG Kirsten

January 31, 2024 at 11:40 pm

Thanks Kirsten for the feedback. I hope you had a lovely time in Madeira!

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16 Top-Rated Tourist Attractions in Funchal

Written by Paul Bernhardt Updated Dec 27, 2023 We may earn a commission from affiliate links ( )

Funchal is the vibrant capital of Madeira, a subtropical island in the Atlantic Ocean around 960 kilometers southwest of Lisbon. Framed by a dramatic backdrop of towering, cloud-tipped mountains on the island's south coast, the city unfolds over a series of steep hills and flattened terraces, a landscape that helps define the character of this extraordinary destination.

Funchal has much to offer the visitor. Its wealth of historic monuments range from cherished convents and sturdy sea forts to venerable museums and a cathedral that dates back to the early days of the island's colonization.

Madeira's abundance of colorful and exotic flora is apparent in the parks and gardens that enliven the city's urban fabric. The daily market tempts with ripe, succulent fruit and vegetables and the freshest of fish and seafood.

Wander the Old Town for an authentic glimpse into the past before taking a cable car for a stunning overview of the city - a truly uplifting sightseeing excursion. Later, head for the harborside promenade and marvel as twilight Funchal begins to sparkle as if sprinkled with diamonds.

For ideas on other worthwhile places to visit, see our list of the top tourist attractions in Funchal.

See also: Where to Stay in Funchal

1. Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden)

2. levada walks, 3. madeira story centre, 4. teleférico do funchal, 5. museu da quinta das cruzes, 6. convento de santa clara, 7. mercado dos lavradores, 8. whale and dolphin watching, 9. quinta do palheiro (palheiro gardens), 10. sé (cathedral), 11. madeira film experience, 12. museu de arte sacra (sacred art museum), 13. zona velha (old town), 14. monte toboggan run, 15. jardim tropical monte palace (monte palace tropical gardens), 16. museu cr7, where to stay in funchal for sightseeing, frequently asked questions, what are the best golf courses near funchal, what are the best beach resorts near funchal, what are some other must-see destinations near funchal, map of tourist attractions in funchal, funchal, portugal - climate chart.

About four kilometers northeast of Funchal city center is one of Madeira Island's greatest tourist attractions, the Botanical Garden. Draped over the slopes of the Quinta do Bom Sucesso estate, the garden dazzles with its rich and diverse subtropical flora. Thousands of indigenous plants, trees and flowers share the grounds with other exotic species from around the world.

A manor house that used to belong to the estate's original owners is now the Natural History Museum, which is situated near the entrance. The western edge of the garden affords spectacular views across Funchal bay, and a novel way of reaching the estate is by the Teleférico do Funchal cable car.

Address: Quinta do Bom Sucesso, Caminho do Meio, Funchal, Madeira

Of all the recreational things to do in Madeira, walking the levada footpaths is arguably the most popular activity. Hiking across the island following these narrow man-made irrigation channels is one of the great pleasures afforded to visitors, and there are dozens of these unique channels to explore.

The levadas of Madeira carry water to all four corners of the island, the channels collecting rainwater throughout the year. Maintenance paths run alongside the levadas , providing a network of scenic footpaths reaching into remote parts of the island. Some skirt the coast.

You can tread a path alone, but to get the most out of a hike, it's better to sign up for a guided walking tour. This way, you'll enjoy the company of other like-minded individuals and benefit from the expertise of a seasoned local with expert knowledge of the outdoors.

One of the first things to do in Funchal is visit this excellent museum near the Teleférico do Funchal, which charts the history and culture of the Madeira archipelago in an engaging and highly entertaining manner.

Themed exhibitions are arranged according to periods in the islands' history, and visitors are able to interact with each subject through sound, vision, and other state-of-the-art multimedia technology. There are even special smell boxes that recreate the fragrance of a particular environment. An on-site shop stocks a quirky array of gifts and locally made artifacts.

Address: Rua Dom Carlos I, Funchal, Madeira

Official site: http://www.madeirastorycentre.com/

The Madeira Cable Car is one of Funchal's most popular sightseeing attractions. Passengers are taken on a 15-minute "flight" over the Madeiran capital and up into the surrounding hills. Specially designed cabins afford outstanding 360-degree views of the town below, the dramatic mountain landscape, and a shimmering blue Atlantic Ocean.

At its highest point, the cable car glides 560 meters above sea level. Departing from the esplanade near the Zona Velha, passengers can alight at Jardim Botânico or continue towards Jardim Tropical Monte Palace, the final destination. From here, a novel way of returning to the city center is by the Monte Toboggan.

Address: Caminho das Babosas, Funchal, Madeira

Official site: http://www.telefericodofunchal.com

The Quinta das Cruzes estate crowns a steep rise behind Funchal town center. The lush, verdant grounds encompass an excellent museum housed in a mansion that used to be the family residence of Portuguese navigator João Gonçalves Zarco who, together with Tristão Vaz Teixeira, discovered Madeira in 1419.

The museum displays decorative artworks that poignantly evoke the period in which Zarco lived and provides a suitable introduction to the history behind the island's early pioneers. A tea house set in the landscaped gardens offers tourists light refreshments.

Visitors can combine an excursion to the Quinta with a visit to the nearby Convento de Santa Clara .

Address: Calçada do Pico 1, Funchal, Madeira

Official site: https://mqc.madeira.gov.pt/en/

A short walk from the Museu da Quinta das Cruzes is the serene Santa Clara Convent. Founded in 1476, the convent was last occupied by nuns in 1890. Today, visitors can meander through the simply furnished Upper and Lower Choir rooms before wandering the elegant cloisters, which provided access to chapels and oratories.

The convent's bell tower is noted for its Moorish-style cupola, decorated with a chessboard of blue, white, and gold ceramic tiles. Neighboring the convent is Santa Clara Church, completed in 1493 and equally celebrated for its beautiful and intricate tile work.

Address: Calçada de Santa Clara 15, Funchal, Madeira

One of the most memorable things to do in Funchal is to spend a morning at the colorful and animated farmers market. Located east of the Se , this is the island's largest market, where stallholders sell huge bunches of flowers and a vast array of fresh fruit and vegetables in a handsome Art Deco hall.

An assortment of fish and seafood landed the same day lures shoppers to the basement - tuna and espada (scabbardfish) are favorite purchases. The first-floor is a warren of independent retail outlets specializing in local handicraft, wicker, and leatherwork. The market is at its busiest on Friday and Saturday mornings when farmers bring in their produce from surrounding villages.

Address: Rua Profetas, Funchal, Madeira

Madeira's position in the Atlantic Ocean makes it a prime location for whale and dolphin watching. An excursion to see these beautiful and majestic creatures in their natural habitat is always a memorable activity, and one of the most rewarding things to do in Funchal.

Indeed, a dolphin and whale watching cruise on a luxury catamaran from Funchal provides some wonderful opportunities to observe these playful mammals at close quarters and combines a fun day out with an educational and environmental awareness program.

Madeira whale and dolphin watching operations prioritize the welfare of mammals and other sea life and are run by expert guides. The cruises are suitable for all ages and are especially beneficial for youngsters.

Rich in color and scent, the carefully nurtured Palheiro Gardens are divided into several distinct habitats: The Stream Garden, Sunken Garden, Rose Garden, Lady's Garden, and the wild and deliberately overgrown Hell's Valley. Tourists from around the world are drawn to Palheiro's astonishing collection of flowers, displays that include rare and delicate orchids and camellias.

The gardens, created by a wealthy nobleman in 1801, are also renowned for their tropical trees, abundance of plant life, and fauna - more than 290 different species of birds have been observed around the estate.

Address: Caminho da Quinta do Palheiro 32, São Gonçalo, Funchal, Madeira

Official site: http://www.palheirogardens.com

Funchal's cathedral was consecrated in 1514 and is a functioning religious building. Its rather austere façade belies a rich interior that features an early 16th-century gilded altarpiece and richly carved sanctuary.

A fabulous ceiling of white cedar with ivory inlay further heightens the ornate Gothic woodwork. Its knotwork style blends Moorish and European architectural elements, and is one of the finest examples of its kind in Portugal.

The cathedral remains a focus of Funchal society, and while it's free to enter, sightseeing should be timed between church services.

Address: Largo da Sé, Funchal, Madeira

Six hundred years of Madeira's fascinating, intriguing, and often turbulent history is brought to vivid life in a 30-minute animated film that takes viewers through the main periods of the island's past.

A stunningly produced audiovisual treat, this mini-documentary tells the struggle of early settlers as they faced revolution, war, famine, and isolation. It also celebrates the islanders' singular resolve in adapting to such a harsh and difficult climate, and their eventual success in transforming a speck of land in the Atlantic Ocean into the idyllic destination it is today.

Screened in continuous sessions with a soundtrack in several languages, the film is an ideal and suitably dramatic introduction to Madeira and its culture and people.

Address: Marina Shopping, Store 223, Rua Conselheiro José Silvestre, Funchal

Official site: http://www.madeirafilmexperience.com

Funchal's Sacred Art Museum enjoys a stately presence in the former bishop's palace, a building dating from 1600. The rich cache of rare paintings and statues, illuminated books, and gold-embroidered vestments are arranged chronologically between the 15th and 19th centuries over two floors.

The exhibits reflect the propensity by Madeiran merchants to spend profits generated from the island's lucrative sugar trade on commissioning works of religious art to secure their salvation in the afterlife.

The palace itself is of considerable architectural merit and the museum makes for a quiet and contemplative diversion.

Address: Rua do Bispo, Funchal, Madeira

Official site: http://www.museuartesacrafunchal.org

As the name indicates, Funchal's "Old Town" is the city's oldest neighborhood and is where some of the earliest streets and buildings are located. An imaginative urban regeneration initiative has seen the doors in Rua Santa Marta and other nearby roads painted by Portuguese and international artists as part of the Arte Portas Abertas (Art Open Doors) project.

The many different and striking designs have effectively created an open-air gallery, where tourists can wander the area at leisure and admire this extraordinary urban canvas.

Location: Rua Santa Marta and environs

Official site: http://www.arteportasabertas.com

Ernest Hemingway once described the Monte Toboggan run as "exhilarating" such was the great writer's sense of amazement after being whisked down a steep hill in a wicker basket.

Originating in the 19th century as a rudimentary form of public transport, the tradition continues whereby passengers seated in a wooden sled mounted on wooden runners are steered downhill by carreiros - two men dressed in white and wearing straw boaters - who use their rubber-soled boots as brakes to negotiate the four-kilometer descent from Monte to Funchal in 20 minutes.

Address: Caminho de Ferro, Monte, Madeira

Easily reached by cable car from Funchal , the luxuriant oriental-styled Monte Palace Tropical Gardens offer tranquil respite from the hustle and bustle of Funchal.

Set 600 meters above the city, the landscaped gardens are frequented by free-roaming heron, peacock, and black swan, among other wildlife. Plump koi patrol the estate's crystal-clear lakes, the borders of which are decorated with Art Deco scenic panels.

Within the grounds is the Monte Palace Museum, which houses one of the most comprehensive collections of Zimbabwean sculpture found in Europe. Another wing is devoted to an astonishing display of minerals and gems.

Address: Caminho do Monte, Monte, Madeira

Official site: http://www.montepalace.com

A must-see for any football fan and a positive pilgrimage for admirers of Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo , the CR7 Museum is one of the most popular visitor attractions in Funchal.

Named after his initials and national team shirt number, the museum is essentially a swanky depository for the numerous cups, winner's medals, man-of-the-match and player-of-the-year awards, and golden boot trophies the Madeira-born footballing superstar has collected throughout his glittering career.

Fan letters from around the world also form part of the exhibition, as well as a display of shirts and other sporting paraphernalia connected to the man many regard as the world's greatest footballer.

Address: Avenida Sá Carneiro, Praça do Mar 27, Funchal

Official site: https://museucr7.com/#

Many of Funchal's main tourist attractions cluster in the Old Town close to the waterfront. Here, you'll find most of the churches and museums and the colorful market. Along the coast to the west is the Porto Bay area and the village of Câmara de Lobos, from which shuttle buses run to the main square. Attractions on the hills above are reached by cable cars, so most locations are handy for sightseeing. Here are some highly rated hotels in Funchal:

• Luxury Hotels : Most luxury hotels sit above the town center but within easy reach. Elegant teas on the terrace, two pools, sea views, and impeccable service make Belmond Reid's Palace a Madeira legend. The stylish modern architecture of boutique Quinta da Casa Branca sits amid gardens, with a beautiful pool. Family-run Quintinha Sao Joao , whose balconies overlook gardens a short walk from the town, has a country house feel (and a pool).
• Mid-Range Hotels: All these midrange hotels are in Porto Bay, within walking distance or a shuttle ride (often free) from the Old Town. Porto Mare Hotel is a full-service resort with multiple pools, set in subtropical gardens next to the seaside promenade. Farther along the coast, Madeira Regency Cliff offers a free breakfast, indoor and outdoor pools, and sea views from every room. Suite Hotel Eden Mar is a resort with multiple pools set in gardens.
• Budget Hotels: In the center of the Old Town near the cathedral, museums, and restaurants, Hotel Madeira has a rooftop pool. Also in the Old Town and with mountain views from its rooftop pool, the small Hotel do Carmo has rooms with balconies. Near restaurants and the bus station, Hotel Orquidea offers basic rooms in the city center, along with free breakfast and views from its rooftop terrace.

Palheiro Golf : A 10-minute drive east out of Funchal is Palheiro Golf Course, one of the top golf courses in Portugal . Set at nearly 500 meters above sea level overlooking the city, this is one of Europe's most beautiful golf courses . The views alone are simply breathtaking!

The 18-hole, par 72 layout was designed by Cabell B. Robinson and makes full use of the hilly terrain.

Play is challenging, with often narrow fairways, strategically placed bunkers, and fast undulating greens requiring patience and accuracy. Lofty plane trees and fragrant Monterey pine provide further, albeit scenic, hazards for the wayward golfer.

The back nine feature one of the toughest holes on the course, the 17 th , approached from a sloping fairway and set on an elevated green. Come in under par at Palheiro, and you'll be left feeling on top of the world!

Address: Rua do Balancal 29, Funchal

Santo da Serra : Not one but three layouts constitute the Santo da Serra Golf Course, set in Madeira's tranquil interior 25 kilometers northeast of Funchal.

Santo da Serra is a 27-hole, par 72 challenge comprising three nine-hole courses: Machico, Desertas, and Serra. The Madeira Island Open is hosted here, played as an 18-hole tournament across the demanding Machico and Desertas golf courses. In fact, the 3 rd and 4 th on Machico are considered signature holes.

While the terrain characterizing the Serra course is a little flatter and more forgiving in places, the layout nonetheless requires a high level of concentrated play.

But you still might get distracted. Santo da Serra wows with its lofty location, and the views for golfers are fantastically panoramic.

But the scenery is not the only thing that can blow you away. The course is subject to variable winds that can play havoc with the score on any hole.

Address: Santo António da Serra, Machico

Saccharum : The double-sided, artificially created sandy beaches of Calheta add a tantalizing dimension to the upscale leisure facilities provided by Saccharum .

Located at Arco da Calheta, a village hugging Madeira's south coast 35 kilometers west of Funchal, the resort, described as a hedonist's retreat, is set in a sheltered bay between the sea and the mountains.

Meliá Madeira Mare : With direct access to Praia do Gorgulho, a small pebble beach fronting the esplanade, the Meliá Madeira Mare resort hotel provides its guests with the option of indulging in some seaside fun without straying too far from their rooms.

The hotel, an eye-catching and contemporary property located on Funchal's Lido, is just a 30-minute walk from the center of town.

Pestana Porto Santo : You'll need to catch a flight or board a ferry to reach the all-inclusive Pestana Porto Santo . The resort is found on Porto Santo, Madeira's sister island, anchored 40 kilometers northeast of Funchal.

The hotel property can truly be described as a beach resort, as it skirts the archipelago's finest beach - a nine-kilometer band of soft, golden sand that draws beachgoers from across Europe.

Curral das Freiras : Hidden away in Madeira's mountainous interior is this beautiful little village nestling in a deep valley, a world away, it seems, from the 21 st -century.

Once a 16 th -century refuge for nuns fleeing from pirate attacks along the coast, Curral das Freiras is no more than an enchanting collection of quaint houses, shops, and cafés.

The small community is dwarfed by a truly awesome environment of precipitous rock, textured by chestnut woods and the tears left by tumbling waterfalls.

Câmera de Lobos : Drive 10 kilometers west out of Funchal, and you'll reach Câmera de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village famous for its association with Sir Winston Churchill.

The great statesman visited often, capturing colorful and vibrant harbor scenes on canvas while puffing on his trademark cigar.

The fishermen's boats are still here, and the destination still exudes vintage charm.

More on Portugal

THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in Funchal

Shopping in funchal.

• Gift & Speciality Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Shopping Tours
• Antique Stores
• Department Stores
• Flea & Street Markets
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Caravel Art Center

2. 3d Fun Art Museum

3. Mercado dos Lavradores

4. Forum Madeira

5. La Vie Funchal Shopping Center

6. Restock Galeria Gallery

7. Lillie Ceramics

8. Galeria BELA 30

9. Bordal - Bordados da Madeira

10. ART MALL Gallery

11. MAMMA - Museum of Modern Art of Madeira

12. Seculo Passado Leilões e Antiguidades

13. Kunstgalerie - Wolfgang Lass

14. Art 4 Madeira, Funchal

15. Galeria Marca de Agua

16. Charlotte's Place

17. Fabrica Santo Antonio

18. Galerias São Lourenço, Funchal

19. Loja Dos Frutos Secos

20. Ricardo Andrade Galeria de Art

21. Fundacao Livraria Esperanca

22. Madeira Tradicional

23. Cbweed Madeira

24. Madeira Shopping

25. Dona Nita

26. Livraria Setima Dimensao

27. Portugal Labels

28. Orchid Gifts of Madeira

29. Wine Prosa

30. Flower Power from Madeira

What travellers are saying.

• Mercado dos Lavradores
• Forum Madeira
• La Vie Funchal Shopping Center
• Caravel Art Center
• 3d Fun Art Museum
• Fabrica Santo Antonio
• Madeira Shopping
• Charlotte's Place
• Lillie Ceramics
• Fundacao Livraria Esperanca
• Restock Galeria Gallery

The old lanes, wide 20th-century boulevards and pretty squares of central West Funchal are where you’ll find some of Madeira’s top experiences, its best shopping and most interesting museums. It’s also the busiest part of the island with yellow buses, street cafes and shoppers from outside Funchal packing the streets from morning until sundown.

Leave the planning to a local expert

Experience the real Funchal. Let a local expert handle the planning for you.

Attractions

Must-see attractions.

Quinta das Cruzes

Now a museum, the Quinta das Cruzes is a quintessential old Madeiran manor house complete with gardens and a private chapel. Originally the home of João…

Once a run-down area between the Mercado dos Lavradores and the Fortaleza de Santiago, in recent years the 'Old Zone' of merchant's houses and 19th…

Mercado dos Lavradores

Built in 1940 by architect Edmundo Tavares, Funchal's art deco market is one of its top attractions as well as still serving as the island's best fresh…

Funchal's 16th-century cathedral once oversaw the world's largest diocese – all of Portugal’s overseas territories from Madeira to Brazil to Angola – and…

Praia Formosa

Anyone who says Madeira has no beaches should hop on bus 1 or 43 to the boulders and browny-black sand of this wild strand in Funchal's western suburbs…

Jardins Botânicos da Madeira

One of the island's top tourist attractions, Madeira's famous botanical gardens are a must for most visitors. Extending over 80,000 sq metres, the gardens…

Pereira D'Oliveira

Run by the fifth generation of the D'Oliveira family, this is Funchal's most easily accessible wine experience. Anyone can enter the strongly aromatic…

High above Funchal, the villa neighbourhood of Monte is one of the most popular half-day trips from Funchal seafront. The Igreja da Nossa Senhora and the…

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Book popular activities in Funchal

Purchase our award-winning guidebooks.

Get to the heart of Funchal with one of our in-depth, award-winning guidebooks, covering maps, itineraries, and expert guidance.

THE 10 BEST Places to Go Shopping in Funchal

Shopping in funchal.

• Gift & Speciality Shops
• Art Galleries
• Shopping Malls
• Shopping Tours
• Antique Stores
• Department Stores
• Flea & Street Markets
• 5.0 of 5 bubbles
• 4.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• 3.0 of 5 bubbles & up
• Good for a Rainy Day
• Budget-friendly
• Good for Couples
• Good for Kids
• Hidden Gems
• Good for Big Groups
• Adventurous
• Honeymoon spot
• Good for Adrenaline Seekers
• Things to do ranked using Tripadvisor data including reviews, ratings, photos, and popularity.

1. Caravel Art Center

2. 3d Fun Art Museum

3. Mercado dos Lavradores

4. Forum Madeira

5. La Vie Funchal Shopping Center

6. Restock Galeria Gallery

7. Lillie Ceramics

8. Galeria BELA 30

9. Bordal - Bordados da Madeira

10. ART MALL Gallery

11. MAMMA - Museum of Modern Art of Madeira

12. Seculo Passado Leilões e Antiguidades

13. Kunstgalerie - Wolfgang Lass

14. Art 4 Madeira, Funchal

15. Galeria Marca de Agua

16. Charlotte's Place

17. Fabrica Santo Antonio

18. Galerias São Lourenço, Funchal

19. Loja Dos Frutos Secos

20. Ricardo Andrade Galeria de Art

21. Fundacao Livraria Esperanca

22. Madeira Tradicional

23. Cbweed Madeira

24. Madeira Shopping

25. Dona Nita

26. Livraria Setima Dimensao

27. Portugal Labels

28. Orchid Gifts of Madeira

29. Wine Prosa

30. Flower Power from Madeira

What travellers are saying.

• Mercado dos Lavradores
• Forum Madeira
• La Vie Funchal Shopping Center
• Caravel Art Center
• 3d Fun Art Museum
• Fabrica Santo Antonio
• Madeira Shopping
• Charlotte's Place
• Lillie Ceramics
• Fundacao Livraria Esperanca
• Restock Galeria Gallery

Jetsetting Fools

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Madeira Food: What and Where to Eat in Funchal

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Indulging in local Madeira food is a highlight of any trip to this tropical island in Portugal. Uniquely different from mainland Portuguese fare, the cuisine on Madeira Island is fresh, local and absolutely delicious!

During our stay, we enjoyed an array of traditional Madeiran foods and sought out some of the best restaurants in Funchal that are known for serving local dishes.

Therefore, we are not only detailing what to eat in Madeira, but we are sharing where to find the best food in Funchal. For each of the recommended Madeiran foods that we suggest, we share a restaurant in Funchal where you will find that particular item on the menu.

Madeira Food FAQs

Before we get to our list of the best Madeira foods, we want to answer a few of the commonly asked questions about the local cuisine in Funchal.

What Food is Madeira Famous For?

Although Madeira is small and isolated, the island is well known for quite a few different kinds of food. The most popular Madeira dishes are seafood specialties, hearty meats and sweet treats. Madeira is also known for making a few unique beverages – including island wine, rum punch and sparkling fruit juices.

On our list of things to eat in Madeira, we detail the most iconic dishes, bakery treats and local drinks.

Need tips on things to do beyond eating and drinking? Use our detailed list of Things To Do in Funchal , which outlines the best sights and attractions!

Is There a Madeira National Dish?

Madeira is a Portuguese island sitting an astounding 600 miles from the mainland. Since the island is not a nation, there is not a ‘National Dish’ of Madeira, per se.

That said, Bacalhau – a dried and salted cod fish – is the national dish of Portugal and it’s a Madeira typical food, too. We took a liking to Bacalhau when visiting Porto and feature it in our Must-Eat Porto Food list.

While you will find it on Funchal menus, it’s not a dish that we consider a must-eat in Madeira – as there isn’t a special island recipe…and there are just so many unique Madeira foods to eat! That said, travelers who are only visiting Madeira – and not the Portuguese mainland – should try Bacalhau while visiting Madeira.

Is There Madeira Vegetarian Food?

Traditional Madeiran cuisine typically features meat, fish and eggs – and vegans and vegetarians might struggle to find meatless meals in Funchal. That said, there is vegetarian food in Madeira – it just takes a little bit of effort to seek it out. 

Before ordering any dish, inquire with the waitstaff, as even vegetable side dishes and soups are sometimes enhanced with a meaty garnish.

Later in the article, we feature some of the top-rated Funchal vegetarian restaurants that are dedicated to meat-free Madeira foods.

What is the Cost of Eating Out in Funchal, Madeira?

Madeira food prices tend to be quite affordable – but the cost of eating in Funchal restaurants depends on where you dine.

At tourist restaurants, the Madeira food and drink prices are much higher than at local, family-run establishments. For example, Funchal restaurant prices at eateries along the popular Rua de Santa Maria tend to be much higher than at local restaurants in Santa Luzia, north of the Funchal Old Town.

As budget-conscious travelers, we made an effort to dine at places that offered the best value and a local experience – and our personal list of Funchal Best Restaurants reflects that.

Can I Join a Funchal Food Tour?

Yes! A Madeira food tour is an excellent way to get a taste of the local cuisine and a fun activity to include on your Madeira Itinerary . There are several Funchal food tours to choose from – and we are highlighting two that consistently get high ratings from fellow travelers.

Culture and Food Tour Madeira

One of the most popular Madeira food tours, the engaging, 4-hour walking tour includes 7 stops for specialty food tastings and local drinks. Read the rave reviews and book your space!

Funchal Food and Wine Tour

A spectacular Madeira foodie tour, participants get to taste 11 different foods and 6 drinks – plus it includes a guided visit to the Funchal Food Market. Get more details and reserve your spot!

BEST FOOD MADEIRA: 21 PLACES TO EAT AND DRINK

Now that we have covered the basics, it’s time to get to our list of Best Madeira Food and Drink – plus a recommended restaurant for where you can order the typical food in Funchal.

Save, Pin or Bookmark this Madeira Food Guide to plan your trip to Portugal!

#1 Espetada: Must-Try Food in Madeira

Hailed by many travelers (including us!) as the best food in Funchal, Espetada is a must-try dish during your trip to Madeira. Espetada is a meal of skewered beef that is cooked over coals and then served – still skewered – hanging from a hook.

Popular throughout Portugal and Brazil (where it is called Espetinho), Espetada is believed to have originated on the Island of Madeira in Camara de Lobos (just west of Funchal) and features a special Madeira recipe.

To prepare this Madeiran food, the beef is cut into large cubes and is liberally seasoned with salt, pepper, garlic and bay leaf. The cubes are then speared onto skewers (local bay laural wood branches are traditionally used, as it adds flavor to the meat as it cooks). The meat is then grilled over hot coals.

Once cooked, the skewer is hung from a hook – and sometimes a pat of butter is added to the top so that it drizzles down the meat. To eat it, just remove the lowest hanging piece of beef from the skewer by hand – and eat it with your fingers!

The traditional way to make Madeiran Espetada is with beef, however, some restaurants now make the dish with chicken, squid, shrimp and fish – as well as other accompaniments, such as Portuguese sausage and bell peppers.

Best Restaurants in Funchal for Espetada

Several Funchal, Madeira restaurants feature menus with Espetada – so it doesn’t take a lot of effort to find the local specialty.

We truly enjoyed eating Espetada at Infinito Wine Bar, one of the fun and unique restaurants in Funchal. Rather than offering a standard menu, the owner displays the meat and fish he has available for the day and chats with you about what you prefer. The Espetada we ate at Infinito Wine Bar was on point and came at an affordable price.

The said, Restaurante Santo Antonio in Camara de Lobos specializes in Espetada. It is regularly ranked as one of the best restaurants in Madeira – and Espetada is the star of the menu.

#2 Bolo do Caco: Staple of Madeira Food

The French have the baguette, the Italians have focaccia and Madeira has Bolo do Caco. The flat, round bread is, perhaps, the most traditional food in Madeira and a staple of the local cuisine.

The history of Bolo do Caco can be traced to the 15th century when wheat was sparse on the island. To compensate for the lack of flour, bakers started adding sweet potato to their bread recipes, which gives it a dense and chewy texture – and it is how Bolo do Caco is still made today.

Traditionally, this famous Madeiran bread is baked on a hot stone over burning embers, but in modern times a cast iron skillet on the stovetop is often used.

Bolo do Caco is served with most meals, often as a starter and sometimes as a side dish. The round loaf is cut lengthwise, slathered with garlic butter, sprinkled with parsley and then toasted like a sandwich. Next, it is cut into triangles and served warm. And, it’s heavenly!

Best Restaurants Funchal Old Town serving Bolo do Caco

To be perfectly honest, we would be hard pressed to find Bolo do Caco that we didn’t like – from the grocery store to the best local haunts. Of the bread that we consumed in Funchal (and we ate more than our fair share), it was all delicious.

We highly recommend ordering it with every meal – and as a meal in the form of a sandwich (which we get to next on our list).

That said, two Old Town establishments are regularly touted as the Best Bolo do Caco Restaurants Funchal, Madeira – Casa do Bolo do Caco and Bolo do Caco Gelados – and we whole-heartedly agree.

Both restaurants serve fresh baked Bolo do Caco with a butter spread or as a sandwich.

#3 Prego Especial: Classic Madeira Cuisine

Whether you are looking for comfort cuisine, quick Madeira street food or budget eats, the Prego Especial will surely satisfy. The not-so-little sandwich punches above its weight as a delectable any-time-of-day meal.

The first time we tasted a Prego sandwich was in Porto – and it was love at first bite. So, it was with great anticipation that we tried the Madeira Especial version…and it didn’t disappoint!

The classic Madeira sandwich starts, naturally, with the Bolo do Caco bread. The inside is smeared with the signature garlic butter spread, then topped with thinly sliced steak, lettuce, tomato, cheese, ham and bacon – and a fried egg can be added, for good measure.

Best of all, a Prego Especial is incredibly inexpensive – which is why it has earned praise by many as the Best Food Madeira.

Note that there are a few different versions of the Madeiran Prego sandwich – the loaded Especial just happens to be our favorite. The Prego Normal, for example, is just steak and bread, while others omit the egg or the extra meats.

Funchal Best Restaurants for Prego Especial

Nearly every snack bar and café in Funchal makes Bolo do Caco Prego sandwiches – and there are definitely a few that excel at it.

Our top pick for an exceptional Especial is Casa do Bolo do Caco Funchal Restaurant. Located on the jovial Rua Dr. Fernao de Ornelas Street, the small restaurant cranks out Prego sandwiches at a steady pace for hungry patrons.

For a more local Prego Especial experience, however, head to Bela 5 Snack Bar. It can get crowded and hot, but every bite is worth it!

#4 Grilled Limpets: Top Madeira Seafood

A local delicacy of Madeira, Grilled Limpets are a favorite seafood appetizer or afternoon snack to eat alongside a glass of wine.

Limpets – also called Lapas – are mollusks that live in cone-shaped shells and cling to rocks under the sea. They are found in abundance in the North Atlantic Ocean waters that surround Madeira Island, so it is not surprising that they are part of the local cuisine.

Grilled Limpets are seasoned with butter, garlic, lemon and paprika. They are served in their shells, piping hot, usually with bread. The tasty little morsels can be eaten with a fork – but it was recommended to us to simply slurp them from their shells in order to savor all of the juices.

Funchal Best Restaurants for Grilled Limpets

While one might think it is necessary to go to a Madeira seafood restaurant for flavorful Grilled Limpets, that isn’t necessary. Most traditional Madeiran restaurants offer savory Limpets on their menus.

Personally, we most enjoyed Grilled Limpets at Tas’ca Principal. The garden-slash-alley restaurant is one of the best places to eat in Funchal – especially for visitors who want to get a taste of different local flavors. We recommend ordering multiple dishes for sharing and the fantastic staff is eager to help you choose.

Restaurante Taberna Ruel, located on Rua de Santa Maria, is another typical Madeiran restaurant that gets high ratings for their Grilled Limpets.

#5 Espada: Best Madeira Fish Dishes

It is difficult to believe that a fish as frighteningly ugly as the Black Scabbard Fish (Espada) could be lauded as the best food in Funchal, Madeira, yet it is an absolute fact.

The long, black fish with sharp, pointed teeth and buggy eyes swims in the deep ocean off the shores of Madeira. It is locally caught, so there is always fresh Espada in Funchal.

Espada can be served multiple ways – with or without bones and with or without local fruit enhancements – but it is almost always fried. The fish is usually seasoned with lemon, garlic, salt and pepper – and the meat is light and flaky.

The most common way to eat Espada is as a lightly battered-and-fried boneless filet topped with banana or passionfruit (called maracuja). Locals, however, typically eat Rolo de Espada, which is Black Scabbard with the bones and no fruit topping. It can also be served as a Madeiran street food sandwich.

Espada Restaurants in Funchal, Madeira

As Kris is fussy about fish – I was on my own to judge the best Espada in Funchal. Of all the places I sampled the local fish, I preferred the taste of the Rolo de Espada (despite the pesky bones) that I ate at A Tendinha, an unpretentious local hangout hidden down a quiet lane. The hours (and the seating) is extremely limited at A Tendinha, but the food is authentic and the waitstaff friendly.

A Bica, another restaurant frequented by both locals and tourists, is also known to serve fine Espada com Banana.

#6 Octopus, Tuna and Seafood: Typical Madeira Food

While Espada and Limpets are the best-known Madeiran seafood, octopus and tuna are also very popular.

Octopus – called Polvo – is often found in Portuguese cuisine. Polvo de Escabeche is a Madeiran octopus salad that features a vinaigrette marinade and is served cold. However, you will find Polvo listed on many menus in a variety of ways – from octopus on a bed of greens to a main dish of octopus and rice.

Tuna – or Atum – is common seafood in Madeira and is usually prepared as a main dish in the form of a Tuna Steak, called Bife de Atum. The fish is lightly seasoned with garlic and salt, then grilled and served with a starchy side dish, like Milho Frito, rice or boiled potatoes.

Best Funchal Seafood Restaurants

Some seafood – especially Atum and Polvo – are served in almost all of the restaurants in Funchal Old Town. However, visitors who want to eat at a dedicated Funchal fish restaurant should dine at Peixaria no Mercado.

Offering fresh-caught fish at very reasonable prices, guests can opt for a main meal – or partake in the shareable small plates to get a little taste of several different types of local fish dishes.

#7 Carne de Vinha d’Alhos: Traditional Madeiran Food

Carne de Vinha d’Alhos directly translates to Meat of Wine with Garlic – and it’s a superb Madeiran food specialty. Traditionally, the dish is eaten at Christmas, but now it is found on menus year-round.

The succulent meal is made with pork loin, cut into small cubes. The meat is then marinated in a blend of wine, vinegar, garlic and savory spices (like bay leaves, cloves, thyme and paprika) for several days. Once properly soaked, it is cooked until tender. The result is a zesty explosion of flavor.

The pork cubes can be eaten as an appetizer (usually with a toothpick), inside a crusty roll (or Bolo do Caco) or as a main dish, alongside potatoes or rice.

Top Restaurants in Funchal to Taste Carne de Vinha d’Alhos

We didn’t get our first taste of Carne de Vinha d’Alhos until late in our trip – and we wished we hadn’t waited so long! The bite-sized meat is a perfect snack to go with beers, which is exactly how we ate it at Snack Bar California. (Don’t let the name throw you; it’s a local hangout with great food!).

Just be aware that the menu changes daily at Snack Bar California, so Carne de Vinha d’Alhos isn’t always available.

Those who want to be certain they can get a taste of Carne de Vinha d’Alhos, can go to Casa do Bolo do Caco, which we mentioned previously as the best restaurant in Funchal for a Prego Especial sandwich. They serve the dish as a sandwich inside Bolo do Caco bread – and it’s quite tasty!

#8 Milho Frito: Madeira Local Food

Milho Frito is Madeiran Fried Cornmeal, which we admit, doesn’t sound all that appetizing – but is actually quite tasty. Similar to polenta cubes, Milho Frito is both simple and satisfying. The dish pairs well with most Madeira local foods, but it can also be eaten on its own as a snack.

The fried Milho Frito cubes consist of cornmeal, butter, garlic and shredded kale (or collard greens). After the concoction is cooked, it is cooled and solidified. Then, it’s cut into squares and fried in oil. Again, we understand that this might not sound appealing, but it’s a Madeira food you don’t want to miss!

Restaurants in Funchal that Serve Milho Frito

Many of the best places to eat in Madeira serve Milho Frito – but it typically comes as a side dish to a main meal and is not listed separately on the menu.

However, Taberna Madeira is one of the fun Funchal restaurants where you can order Milho Frito – and many other Madeiran favorite foods – a la carte. The restaurant features an entire menu of home cooked petiscos (Portuguese style tapas), allowing guests to order several different small plates of local cuisine.

#9 Soup: Madeira Simple Food

In the heat of the summer, when most tourists visit Madeira, it can be difficult to imagine downing a bowl of hot soup – but we can’t talk about the traditional food of Madeira without mentioning their affection for it.

Soup – or Sopa in Portuguese, is a mainstay of the Madeiran food scene, which is noticeable when eating out in Madeira at local restaurants. Even during our stay, when temperatures were pushing 90 degrees Fahrenheit, we witnessed locals shuffling into their favorite snack bar at midday for a bowl of soup for lunch.

Generally speaking, soup in Madeira is inexpensive. It is made with local ingredients and is usually quite filling. Some of the Madeira soups that can be found on local Funchal menus are Sopa de Trigo (Wheat Soup), Sopa de Tomate e Cebola (Tomato and Onion), Sopa de Peixe (Fish Soup) and Sopa de Castanhas (Chestnut Cream Soup).

Best Places to Eat Soup in Funchal

Soup is most popular in northern Madeira, where it can be much cooler than along the southern shoreline. That said, there is no shortage of places to find a piping hot bowl of soup in Funchal.

Golden Gate Grand Café – one of the fine dining restaurants in Funchal – features local soup on their menu (but at elevated prices).

Another place to find traditional Sopa is at Cantinho dos Amigos, where they offer affordable soup dishes – including a rotating soup of the day.

#10 Fresh Fruit: Local Madeira Island Food

Colorful, exotic fruits are abundant and rank as one of the best things to eat in Madeira. Traveling around the island, visitors will get a glimpse at the assortment of fruits that grow locally – like bananas, passion fruit, mangos, custard apples and avocados.

Many Madeiran fruits are eaten on their own, but they are also used in juice blends, jams, ice creams and salads – as well as an enhancement to savory dishes (like Espada).

The most iconic Madeira fruit is the Purple Passion Fruit, called Maracuja, but there are several varieties, such as Banana Passion Fruit, Pineapple Passion Fruit and Lemon Passion Fruit. Madeira Maracuja is most commonly served as a dessert pudding or mousse, called Pudim de Maracuja.

Local Fruit: Where to Eat in Madeira

A good place to get a look at the exotic fruit of Madeira is at the Funchal Farmer’s Market, called Mercado dos Lavradores. Sellers at the Funchal Market Hall appealing display the bright fruits and offer free tastes, too. However, the fruit prices at the market are notoriously high and some sellers are known to scam unsuspecting tourists. That said, it is still worth a look…as is the adjoining Funchal Fish Market, which displays the day’s fresh catch.

Rather than buying fruit at the Funchal Mercado, we recommend visiting one of the small fruit shops in the city, like Plaza Frutas e Legumes, where they offer good prices and helpful staff. Alternatively, go to the Pingo Doce Funchal Supermarket for the best prices on in-season fruits.

Want to get a taste of Passion Fruit Pudding? We don’t blame you; the creamy sweet treat is silky smooth and light – the perfect dessert on a tropical island. Visitors can get a taste of Pudim de Maracuja and other desserts made with local Madeira fruit at Regional Flavours, which is located on the pretty Rua da Carreira Street.

#11 Afternoon Tea: Fusion Madeira Food

Afternoon Tea – a midday meal of finger sandwiches, scones, cakes and tea – is not a traditional Portuguese meal…it is unmistakably British (and one of our recommended London Food experiences!). However, the English have had a profound influence on Madeira – and started settling on the island as early as the 16th century. Since that time, the Brits have played a significant role in terms of both trade and tourism.  

As such, the tradition of Afternoon Tea has been incorporated into Madeira Food – and there are a few fantastic places to enjoy the blend of the two cultures.

Where To Enjoy Afternoon Tea in Funchal

Without a doubt, the most famous (and most expensive) place to revel in a refined Funchal Afternoon Tea is at the iconic Reid’s Palace Hotel . The historic hotel offers an Afternoon Tea Experience that is elegant and delightful.

For Afternoon Tea that is a little less formal (but still offers exceptional teas and delicious food), try the Loja do Cha Tea House on Praca de Colombo.

Another casual Afternoon Tea in Funchal can be found at the lovely café at Museu da Quinta das Cruzes.

#12 Funchal Burgers: Popular Food in Madeira

While hamburgers are certainly not traditional Madeira food, they are one of the most popular foods in Funchal – as evidenced by the high number of hamburgueria restaurants in the city.

Madeira burgers range in style from fast food sandwiches ordered at snack bars to creative gourmet hamburgers at sit-down restaurants.

Best Hamburgers in Funchal, Madeira

When we were craving burgers we were pointed in the direction of Hamburgueria 351 Bistro, a burger restaurant tucked back on an unassuming street in the resort area of Funchal. Inside the small space, patrons can create their own burger or choose from a menu of inventive creations. We opted for the Ranch Burger and the signature 351 Burger – both of which were superb!

That said, those who want to eat where locals eat in Madeira should try Hamburgueria do Mercado, Bela 5 Snack Bar (for the much-raved about burger in Bolo do Caco bread) or Rota 23 Hamburgueria.

Pastries and Desserts in Madeira

We already mentioned Passion Fruit Pudding as one of the popular desserts on Madeira Island, but there are a few Funchal pastries, cakes and sweet treats that we also want to highlight.

#13 Queijada: Madeira Food Specialties

Queijadas – slightly sweet, cheese pastries – are famous Portuguese treats. They are most often linked to the town of Sintra near Lisbon , however, Madeiran Queijadas are distinctly different.

The history of Queijadas can be traced to the 18th century, when they were produced by nuns at a local Funchal convent. Today, they are available at every bakery in town. The little handheld pies, which are sometimes referred to as Madeiran cheesecakes, are filled with a creamy mixture of ricotta cheese, eggs and sugar – and they are divine.

Where to Eat Queijadas in Funchal

Queijadas quickly became one of our favorite treats during our Madeira trip and we taste-tested our way around the island in search of the best.

Of all the Queijada cheesecakes that we consumed, the best were from Pao e Companhia in Funchal. The filling is light and fluffy and the pastry is absolute perfection. (It probably helped they were on the ground floor of our apartment building!)

Second runner-up was A Confeitaria. They have two Funchal locations; one in the market and another in the resort area along Av. do Infante.

#14 Bolo de Mel: Madeira Traditional Cake

Bolo de Mel (or sometimes Bolo De Mel de Cana) has a long history on the Island of Madeira. Produced since the 15th century, the honey cake was created by the nuns at the Convent of Santa Clara. The dark, dense cake is spiced with cloves, cinnamon, anise and pepper – and often includes nuts and fruits, as well as Madeira wine.

The cake was originally made with molasses, but most Madeira recipes now call for honey – and the cake has an incredibly long shelf life of up to one year. Locals consume the cake during the Christmas holidays, but it is sold to tourists all year long.

Where To Buy Bolo de Mel in Funchal

Most shops in Funchal sell Bolo de Mel, however, we think the best place to buy Honey Cake is at Fabrica Santo Antonio. The bakery was established in 1893 and utilizes hundred-year-old recipes to make their cakes, cookies and candy desserts.

Their products are sold at stores around Madeira, but we recommend visiting the official bakery shop in Funchal. It is located in the original factory building and is full of classic touches.

#15 Madeira Chocolates: Unique Flavors

Chocolate is not a traditional Madeiran dessert, but in modern times visitors can find a few different Funchal chocolates…made with a local twist. In fact, we think indulging in the specialty chocolates in Madeira is one of the fun ways to taste the local flavors.

By far, the most utterly satisfying Madeira chocolate dessert found was a chocolate cake bar coated in a chocolate shell and sprinkled with nuts. Seriously, we couldn’t get enough of it!

That said, the chocolates that are the most fetching and pleasing-to-the-palate are beautiful bonbons. Created with Belgian chocolate and local flavors – like Passion Fruit, Madeira Wine and Poncha – the chocolates look dazzling in the case, but taste even better on the tongue.

Where to Buy Chocolates in Funchal

We regularly scout out chocolate treats at bakeries, but the only place we found the spectacular Chocolate Covered Bars were at Pao e Companhia (the same bakery where they also make our favorite Queijadas…hello, sugar overload!).

The strikingly beautiful bonbons featuring local flavors are made by Uau Cacau – a local chocolatier dedicated to making the most exceptional treats. Uau Cacau has multiple shops in Funchal where guests can pick-and-choose from the gorgeous, locally-flavored bonbons.

#16 Pastel de Nata and Churros: Madeira Sweets

Pastel de Nata is not necessarily a Madeira specialty food – it actually hails from Belem near Lisbon. However, Pastel de Nata is the most famous dessert in Portugal, and it’s prevalent in Madeira, as well. The famous Portuguese custard tarts are creamy and sweet – and can be consumed any time of day (but they go really well with a morning coffee!).

Churros (whose origin are disputed) are another popular Portuguese dessert. Locals and visitors alike buy them up frequently at sweet shops in Madeira.

Where To Find the Best Sweets in Madeira

Bakeries, cake shops and ice creams stores are the best places to find sweet treats in Funchal, Madeira.

Our favorite shop for Pastel de Nata, however, is the dedicated Nata 7 shop (of which there are two locations in Funchal). The best deal is a Pastel de Nata and an espresso for one very low price!

Churros are often sold at ice cream shops – but O Giro Churros and Paninis in Funchal elevates the churro experience. Served in a round coil, the sugary churros are warm and delicious. Better yet, they can be topped with sauce and/or ice cream!

What and Where to Drink in Madeira

We have shared our top picks for the best food in Madeira – and where to eat in Funchal – but there are specialty drinks in Madeira that visitors should try during their trip, as well!

#17 Madeira Wine: A Local Specialty

Fortified, sweet Madeira Wine – or Vinho Madeira – has been produced on the island since the 15th century – and trade boomed through the 1700s. (It is even said that Madeira Wine was used to toast the USA Declaration of Independence by the Founding Fathers).

Although not nearly as popular as it once was, Madeira Wine is still produced annually – and getting a taste of it is a must for many visitors.

The wine is sweet – almost syrupy – like Port Wine. That sweetness is attained during the production process, in which the wine is exposed to high heat while maturing. There are four basic styles of Madeira Wine: Dry (seco), Medium Dry (meio seco), Medium Sweet (meio doce) and sweet (doce).

Where To Drink Madeira Wine in Funchal

The Wine of Madeira is typically consumed before or after a meal (as an aperitif or digestif). It is served in nearly all the restaurants, bars and cafes in Funchal. That said, we think it is best to get a taste of the local wine on Madeira from one of the shops of the local producers.

Blandy’s Wine Lodge

Blandy’s has long been part of the Madeira Wine industry – and their Wine Lodge is a fantastic place to get an introduction. Visitors can go straight to the old-fashioned bar for a wine tasting or join the Blandy’s Madeira Tour, which lasts for about 45 minutes and includes a tasting.

Pereira d’Oliveira in Funchal

Boasting a gorgeous wine cellar shop, Pereira d’Oliveira is a fun and informal place to get a taste of Vinho Madeira. Guests are free to walk in, peruse the shelves and taste a few samples – for free!

H.M. Borges Wine

A fun place to taste wine in a historic setting, the H.M. Borges Wine building is more than 100 years old. They offer educational tours, guided wine tastings and sell wine by the glass, as well.

#18 Poncha: Madeira Rum Punch

Poncha is the island’s potent rum drink…and it’s dangerously delicious. It is affectionately referred to as the Drink of the Fishermen and was traditional consumed to keep the common cold away.

The concoction is made from simple ingredients: Madeiran sugar cane rum, honey, lemon juice and orange juice. The liquids are poured into a jar, swirled around with a Poncha stick (locally called a mexelote) and then served in small glasses.

There are variations of this strong alcoholic beverage, including a sweeter passion fruit version – Poncha Maracuja – and in the summer, it is sometimes poured over ice.

Fun Funchal Bars for Poncha

All the bars in Funchal Old Town serve Poncha, but there are a few places that stand out.

Rei da Poncha is a busy little corner bar that mostly attracts tourists. They offer a dazzling array of Poncha flavors – and sell a meter-long tasting paddle of Poncha drinks for groups who want to sample several different kinds (not recommended as an order for one!).

At Rei da Poncha, they also make the island’s other famous beverage, Nikita, which is a refreshing combination of pineapple juice and beer.

After Rei da Poncha, slide into the Pharmacia Do Bento bar next door (which doubles as a hardware store), which is always full of locals pontificating on various subjects!

A Mercadora, across the street from the Funchal Market, is an unpretentious place to try classic Poncha. Part grocery store – with a bar tucked in the back – regulars and tourists filter in and out of the shop for a glass of good Poncha, some peanuts and a chat.  

#19 Brisa Maracuja: A Madeira Original

An original Madeira soft drink that dates to the 1970s, Brisa Maracuja is a carbonated passion fruit juice beverage. The fizzy drink, which contains no added sugar or colorings, is utterly satisfying on sweltering summer days.

The drink comes in bottles – and needs to be softly shaken before opening to mix the concentrated juice with the sparkling water.

Where To Drink Brisa

Brisa is available everywhere on Madeira Island. Order it with your lunch at a café or as a vodka mixer at the local bar. Or, simply grab a bottle from the grocery store!

#20 Coral by Madeira Brewery: Local Funchal Beer

Coral Beer is local Madeiran brew – and it’s lager is rather uninspiring (we didn’t try the stout). Yet, it can satisfy a thirst, especially when it is served ice cold on warm summer days. Another bonus is that it’s quite cheap, with some pints costing less than 3 euros.

Where To Drink Coral Local Beer

Visitors will have no problem tracking down Coral Beer. Pick a place, any place, and they will surely have Coral Beer on draft or in the bottle. Although it’s far from our preferred beer in Madeira to drink, we did find a few places where the ambiance more than made up for the tasteless suds.

Snack Bar California quickly became one of our favorite little local spots for a beer and a snack (along with every beer ordered, they serve the best Funchal tapas free of charge).

Cais da Ribeira – on the end of one of the waterfront piers – is another excellent place to drink Coral Beer in Funchal, simply for the sublime location on the sea.

#21 Craft Beer: Best Madeira Bars

When we booked our trip to Madeira, we had little hope of finding true craft beer on the island. However, we were absolutely elated when our research revealed multiple dedicated craft beer bars in Funchal.

Most Funchal craft beer bars have a nice selection on tap – plus even more options in bottles and cans from mainland Portugal craft breweries. There is also a small production of craft beer in Madeira, with beers featuring local flavors.

Best Bars Funchal for Craft Beer

We routed our way around in search of the best bars in Funchal serving craft beer – and, in the end, we discovered quite a few fun options.

Fuga Cidade is a favorite spot for craft beer on Madeira Island. They pour 8 craft brews on tap, as well as offer a selection of bottles and cans (which can be consumed onsite or purchased for take-away at a lower price).  

Another excellent spot is Funchal Tap Craft Beer and Food. The space is modern and casual, the beer is cold and the nachos are amazing!

Num Num Bar is the taproom for Vilhoa Brewing and one that we were really looking forward to visiting – but it was unfortunately closed during our stay.

On the west side of Funchal, Musa Lounge is a chic bar that offers craft on tap (mostly sours and ciders during our visit).

The Snug Smokehouse – an American BBQ joint – has a nice selection of craft beer on tap and in cans and bottles in the cooler.

Right on the Funchal Marina Waterfront, Beerhouse offers a variety of mostly German style beers along with a full menu of typical Madeira dishes.

One of our favorite cafes in Funchal with a sea view, Barreirinha Bar Café, has a selection of ‘craft beer’ by Madeira Beer Lab, which is produced by Coral Beer (but tastes better than their lager!).

More of the Best Restaurants Funchal

We have highlighted several restaurants in Madeira where visitors can find Must-Eat Madeira Food, but there are a few more places worth mentioning. You will find all of our recommended Funchal places to eat on the Funchal Restaurant Map below.

A small restaurant only open between noon and 4pm on weekdays, Rustikus is a favorite spot for local food. The menu – which typically consists of two fish dishes and two meat dishes – changes daily. The food is phenomenal and the prices are low, which is why we rank it as the best lunch in Funchal.

Brunch Club Madeira

Travelers craving an Instagrammable brunch should find their way to Brunch Club Madeira – the best Funchal Brunch restaurant in town. From pancakes to eggs benedict, every dish is scrumptious, fresh and perfectly plated.

Chalet Vicente Restaurante

When we asked a local where they like to dine, they didn’t hesitate to tell us, Chalet Vicente Restaurante. Although we never made it to the restaurant for a meal, they get high marks for serving authentic Madeiran food – like Espetada, Polvo and Sopa de Peixe.

Fado Restaurant Funchal

Fado is the music of Portugal – and there are a few restaurants in Madeira that host live Fado performances. Restaurante Sabor a Fado offers a memorable Funchal dining experience with nightly Fado music and a menu of local Portuguese cuisine.

Michelin Guide Funchal Restaurants

The top-rated Michelin Star restaurant in Funchal is Il Gallo d’Oro which offers a gastronomic experience in the form of a multi-course tasting menu.

Other notable Michelin recommendations are William (at Reid’s Palace Hotel), Avista and Restaurante Casal da Penha.

Vegetarian Restaurants in Funchal

As we mentioned, finding a vegetarian or vegan meal in Funchal is a bit of a challenge. However, there are a few restaurants that excel at meatless meals.

Mundo Vegan is an all-vegan establishment that makes everything from burgers to smoothies (and it’s best to reserve a table in advance).

A combination vegetarian restaurant and food shop, Bioforma serves a range of dishes that are meat free and reasonably priced.

Armazem do Sol is not a dedicated vegetarian Funchal restaurant, however, they do offer a small vegan menu on request.

Funchal Map of Restaurants

Use this link to Google for an interactive version of our Funchal Restaurant Map that highlights where to find the most iconic Madeira dishes.

Funchal Restaurant Tips

We have covered where and what to eat in Funchal, Madeira – but we have a few final tips for dining out on your vacation to Portugal.

Funchal Budget Meals

Travelers on a budget can still experience some of the best Funchal foods. Rather than dining at restaurants, eat at local snack bar cafes, which typically offer the lowest food prices in Madeira.

Cooked Beef in Funchal

When ordering beef – in the form of Espetada or a Filet – the waiter will surely ask how you like your meat to be cooked. In Portuguese, there are three levels: Mal Passado (rare), Medio (medium rare) or Bem Passado (well done).

We typically like our steak to be cooked medium rare – or Medio – but when ordering steak in Funchal, Medio will only be seared on the outside and still a bit raw on the inside. We chose to order beef Bem Passado for our meals.

Funchal Reservations

Visiting Madeira is popular year round and the top Funchal restaurants can get incredibly busy – so it’s best to make a reservation if possible.

Tipping at Restaurants in Funchal

When eating in Funchal restaurants, diners do tip for good service, although it is not required to the same level as in the US. We generally tipped about 10% for good meals in Madeira.

Planning a Trip to Madeira

There is so much more to planning a Madeira trip than figuring out what and where to eat. However, we have heaps of tips that will help you plan an amazing holiday!

Start with our guide of Things To Do in Funchal that showcases the best activities and sights.

Additionally, use our day-by-day Itinerary for Madeira to plan how to spend your time on the island.

Visiting mainland Portugal, too? Great! We have been fortunate to spend ample time in both Lisbon and Porto and have detailed travel guides for both.

• Portugal 10 Day Itinerary
• How To Spend 3 Days in Lisbon (Plus, the Best Miradouro Viewpoints and Prettiest Churches )
• Top Things To Do in Lisbon for Free
• Planning a Perfect Day Trip to Sintra
• How to Spend 5 Days in Porto (Plus, a DIY Walking Tour of Porto )
• A Guide to Porto Food and the Best Porto Craft Beer Bars
• Top Tips for Planning a Vacation to Europe

Organize your Madeira Trip

As you begin to make plans and restaurant reservations, staying organized is key. We recommend using our Printable Travel Planner – to stay on top of all your Funchal vacation details!

Start planning your trip to Portugal ! Search for the lowest airfares , the best accommodations and fun things to do …then start packing !   Want more travel planning tips? Head over to our Travel Planning Page for more information and tips on traveling – and for country-specific information, take a look at our Travel Guides Page !

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