Top reasons to visit Funchal
- Stunning Botanical Gardens: Explore Funchal's beautiful botanical gardens, showcasing exotic plants and breathtaking landscapes.
- Vibrant Local Markets: Immerse yourself in local culture at the lively public markets, offering fresh produce and handmade crafts.
- Picturesque Funchal Bay: Enjoy the scenic views of Funchal Bay, perfect for leisurely strolls and photography.
- Historic Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of Old Town, rich in history and local architecture.
- Relaxing Beaches: Unwind at stunning beaches, ideal for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying water activities.
Find great hotels in Funchal
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, offers a diverse selection of accommodations to cater to every traveler's needs. From family-friendly hotels to luxurious spa resorts, you're sure to find the perfect place to unwind. Whether you seek a cozy guesthouse or the best luxury hotels, Funchal has something for everyone, ensuring a memorable vacation experience in this beautiful region of Portugal.
- Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel: Experience a blend of family-friendly fun and business convenience at the Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel. This 5-star property in Funchal caters well to travelers seeking a delightful vacation with children, featuring a variety of amenities such as a children's pool, arcade game room, and a playground. The hotel is also pet-friendly, allowing dogs while ensuring a comfortable stay for your furry friends. With its spacious accommodations and family-oriented services, this resort is perfect for those looking to create lasting memories in a beautiful setting.
- Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature: Indulge in luxury at the Savoy Palace, a stunning 5-star hotel in Funchal that prides itself on eco-certification and exceptional service. This property is a haven for eco-conscious travelers, offering a pet-friendly environment for both dogs and cats. Guests can enjoy thoughtfully designed rooms with breathtaking views and a commitment to sustainability. The hotel features top-notch amenities, including gourmet dining options and wellness facilities, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a lavish yet responsible getaway.
- Enotel Magnólia: Embrace adventure and relaxation at Enotel Magnólia, a charming 4-star hotel located in Funchal. This eco-certified property is designed for guests who crave both excitement and tranquility. With a wide range of adventure sports available nearby—from hiking and mountain climbing to fishing and horseback riding—there's no shortage of activities to explore. After a day of adventure, unwind at the full-service spa offering deep tissue massages and a sauna. Enotel Magnólia balances adventure with wellness, making it an excellent choice for active travelers seeking rejuvenation.
Where to stay in and around Funchal
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities and Mediterranean charm. Explore the stunning Funchal Bay, wander through the historic streets of Old Town, and soak in the picturesque atmosphere of Charming Funchal. With its friendly locals and romantic ambiance, this city is perfect for family vacations and couples alike. Discover the best places to relax and enjoy a unique cultural experience in this beautiful region.
- Old Town Funchal: Nestled in the heart of Funchal, Old Town is a charming neighborhood that invites visitors to immerse themselves in its rich history and vibrant culture. With its cobbled streets and colorful buildings, this area offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and a lively beach atmosphere. Highlights include the local marina and the bustling public market, where you can sample fresh produce and artisanal goods. Families can enjoy the nearby family beach, perfect for a day of sun and fun. The best time to visit is during the peak months of July, August, and October, when the area's energy is at its highest.
- São Martinho: São Martinho is a picturesque parish located within the Funchal area, celebrated for its stunning beaches and outdoor recreational opportunities. This vibrant community is a favorite among families looking to relax and enjoy the coastal scenery. Visitors can explore the local shopping center and mall, offering a variety of retail experiences. The proximity to both the marina and family beach makes it an ideal spot for those seeking fun in the sun. Like Old Town, visitor numbers peak from July to August and in October, ensuring a lively atmosphere.
- Sé: Just a short 322m from Funchal, the parish of Sé boasts a unique blend of urban charm and coastal beauty. Known for its outdoor spaces, Sé offers plenty of opportunities for exploration, including a vibrant market and public square. Visitors can enjoy the local marina and the picturesque beach, making it a great place for both relaxation and city-themed adventures. With its peak visitor numbers also occurring in July, August, and October, Sé is a must-visit for anyone looking to experience the best of Madeira.
Things to do in and around Funchal
Funchal is a fantastic destination for outdoor and family vacations, offering a variety of activities. Visitors can enjoy the aquatic center, explore vibrant public markets, and relax at beautiful beaches. Swimming options abound, making it easy to soak up the sun and enjoy the refreshing waters. With its unique charm and local experiences, Funchal promises a memorable getaway for tourists.
Shopping
In Funchal, visit the Funchal Farmers Market for local products and souvenirs. For a more extensive shopping experience, check out the Centro Comercial Forum Madeira and La Vie Shopping Center, both offering a mix of entertainment and family-friendly vibes. If you're up for a drive, explore nearby shopping options as well.
Recreation
The Lido Bathing Complex in Funchal offers a family-friendly aquatic center with stunning ocean views, perfect for relaxation and fun. For sports enthusiasts, Madeira Stadium provides a vibrant atmosphere for various sporting events. Meanwhile, Palheiro Golf Club invites you to enjoy outdoor leisure amidst breathtaking landscapes.
Adventure
Experience breathtaking views on the Funchal-Monte Teleférico, a scenic cable car ride offering adventure and family fun. For more outdoor excitement, take the Garajau Cable Car, located 4.8km away, or hike the stunning 9.7km PR11 Vereda dos Balcões trail, where adventure meets beautiful scenery.
Nightlife
Funchal's nightlife is vibrant and diverse. Start with a cocktail at the stylish Bar do Mercado, then enjoy live music at the iconic Casal da Penha. For dancing, head to Copacabana, where the atmosphere is electric and the beats keep you moving all night long.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Funchal
Funchal, Madeira, offers numerous ways to save during your visit. Enjoy free attractions like Town Square, Funchal Marina, and Formosa Beach. The best time to visit for lower prices is from January to February and November, while Friday is the least expensive day to stay. Consider booking hotels about a month in advance or checking Expedia for last-minute deals. For transportation, utilize the bus system to keep costs down. Additionally, combining your hotel, flights, and activities in a package deal can yield significant savings. Always compare rates and look for extra savings opportunities.
- The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Funchal are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
- The best time to book a hotel: Booking a hotel in Funchal about 1 month out from when you are planning to stay is usually when prices are lowest. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals for hotels, look out for the green banner below the price, as this indicates a cheaper deal.
- The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Funchal is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Funchal is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilize Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you’re looking for. To discover the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel stay in Funchal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package deal.
Find the best attractions in Funchal
Funchal is an ideal destination for outdoor family vacations, featuring beautiful botanical gardens, urban parks, and stunning beaches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while enjoying various attractions. Don't miss the picturesque Funchal Marina, which offers a delightful experience for travelers looking to explore the area. Whether you're seeking relaxation or adventure, Funchal has something for everyone.
- CR7 Museum: Dive into the world of football at the CR7 Museum, dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo. This museum showcases his incredible achievements, memorabilia, and personal artifacts, offering an inspiring glimpse into the life of one of football's greatest icons.
- Madeira Botanical Garden: Explore the enchanting Madeira Botanical Garden, a lush oasis filled with vibrant flora and stunning landscapes. Perfect for families and couples, this garden offers serene walking paths and breathtaking views, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and romance.
- Town Square: Experience the lively atmosphere of Town Square, a cultural hub in Funchal. Surrounded by historical architecture, cafes, and shops, this vibrant piazza is perfect for soaking in local culture and enjoying a leisurely stroll.
Best time to go to Funchal
The best time to visit Funchal can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Funchal falls in August, when visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Funchal falls in February, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.