Top reasons to visit Funchal
- Stunning Gardens: Funchal boasts exquisite botanical gardens that showcase the region's diverse flora and provide a serene escape.
- Cultural Richness: The enchanting old town is steeped in history, offering charming streets, Funchal Cathedral, and local culture.
- Outdoor Adventures: Ideal for outdoor enthusiasts, enjoy catamaran tours, urban parks, and beautiful beaches.
- Vibrant Market: Experience the lively public market where local produce and crafts bring the region's culture to life.
- Delightful Wine Tastings: Indulge in Madeira's renowned wines with tastings that reflect the island's unique viticulture.
Find great hotels in Funchal
Discover the charm of Funchal, Madeira, where a variety of accommodations await to suit every traveller's needs. Whether you're seeking family-friendly hotels, inviting guesthouses, or spa-themed retreats, Funchal offers an array of choices for a memorable stay. Enjoy the perfect blend of relaxation and adventure, with options tailored for business or leisure. Explore the delightful lodgings that make Funchal a premier destination for your next holiday.
- Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel: This luxurious 5-star hotel is a haven for beach lovers and families, boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Located in the heart of Funchal, it provides direct access to the beach, allowing guests to soak up the sun and enjoy the stunning ocean views. The hotel is particularly child-friendly, offering amenities such as a shared playground, arcade game room, and a dedicated children's pool. For added convenience, babysitting services are available on-site for a fee, ensuring parents can enjoy some downtime while their children are entertained.
- Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature: A prestigious 5-star establishment with an impressive guest rating of 9.6 out of 10, Savoy Palace epitomises luxury in Funchal. Ideal for business travellers and pet owners alike, the hotel offers pet-friendly policies and amenities, including food and water bowls. Nestled in a prime location, guests appreciate the high-end services and sophisticated design, making it a distinguished choice for those seeking an upscale experience. The property effortlessly combines elegance and convenience, perfect for an indulgent getaway.
- Enotel Magnólia: This 4-star hotel is celebrated for its adventurous spirit and wellness focus, earning a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Situated in Funchal, Enotel Magnólia features direct beach access and offers a plethora of adventure sports activities nearby, such as hiking, horse riding, and boat tours. For relaxation, guests can indulge in the full-service spa, which provides a variety of treatments, including manicures, pedicures, and massages. The inviting poolside bar and sun loungers enhance the experience, making it an excellent choice for those seeking both adventure and relaxation.
Where to stay in Funchal
Funchal, the vibrant capital of Madeira, offers an unforgettable holiday experience. Wander along the picturesque seafront, where stunning ocean views meet charming cafés. Explore the enchanting old town, rich in history and local culture, perfect for family-friendly adventures or romantic strolls. The warm atmosphere, characterised by friendly locals and beautiful landscapes, makes Funchal an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and those seeking relaxation alike.
- Old Town Funchal: Nestled in the heart of Funchal, Old Town is a charming neighbourhood that encapsulates the rich history and culture of Madeira. With its cobbled streets and colourful houses, it offers a delightful travel experience ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike. Visitors can explore the vibrant public market and enjoy a variety of activities, from visiting the marina to relaxing on the nearby beaches. Notable landmarks such as the marina and family beach enhance the area's appeal, making it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and explorations throughout the year.
- São Martinho: Located within Funchal, São Martinho is a lively parish renowned for its stunning beaches and outdoor activities. This area is particularly popular with families, offering an array of attractions including an aquatic centre and shopping centre. The scenic coastline boasts beautiful family-friendly beaches, perfect for sunbathing and water sports. With visitor numbers peaking during the summer months, São Martinho provides an exciting atmosphere that combines relaxation and recreation, making it an ideal location for a memorable holiday experience.
- Santa Maria Maior: Another picturesque parish within Funchal, Santa Maria Maior is celebrated for its outdoor offerings and family-friendly environment. The area features a variety of attractions, including a golf course and an aquatic centre, ensuring that there is something for everyone. The proximity to the marina and town hall adds to the charm of this neighbourhood, offering cultural and recreational activities. With a consistent flow of visitors throughout the year, Santa Maria Maior is a wonderful destination for those seeking adventure and relaxation in a beautiful setting.
Things to do in and around Funchal
Shopping
In Funchal, you can explore the local Mercado dos Lavradores for unique souvenirs and fresh produce. If you're up for a drive, head to MadeiraShopping, which offers a variety of shops, from fashion to electronics, ensuring a comprehensive shopping experience.
Recreation
Experience tranquility at the Savoy Palace Spa, where you can indulge in luxurious treatments and unwind in the serene surroundings. For outdoor relaxation, explore the beautiful gardens of Monte Palace, offering stunning views and peaceful pathways ideal for leisurely strolls.
Adventure
The Achadas da Cruz Cable Car offers breathtaking views as you glide over lush landscapes, located 35km from Funchal. For a thrilling ride, try the Funchal-Monte Teleferico, providing stunning vistas while connecting the city to the Monte area. The Funchal Cable Car - Monte Station also enhances your adventure with its scenic ascent.
Nightlife
Experience the vibrant nightlife at the Old Town, where you can find lively bars and restaurants. For a unique cocktail, visit the Madeira Wine Lodge. If you fancy dancing, check out the clubs along Avenida do Mar, where you can enjoy music into the early hours.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Funchal
Funchal offers numerous free attractions, such as Town Square, Funchal Marina, and Formosa Beach, allowing you to explore without spending much. For transport, utilise the affordable bus service, or consider walking in this compact city. To save on accommodation, visit between January to February or November, and book your hotel one month in advance for the best rates. Check Expedia for last-minute deals, particularly on Fridays, and combine your hotel with flights for additional savings. Don’t forget to filter for eco-certified options and compare prices to ensure you find the best deals.
- 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: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Funchal is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
- 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: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, including your budget, desired location, and the type of hotel you wish to stay in. For instance, selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels currently available. To find the most affordable options and offers, arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by combining your hotel booking in Funchal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Funchal
Funchal is an ideal destination for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, offering a variety of attractions such as botanical gardens, urban parks, and beautiful beaches. Visitors can immerse themselves in the local culture while exploring points of interest like Funchal Cathedral and Funchal Marina. With its diverse offerings, Funchal caters to travellers seeking memorable experiences in a stunning setting.
- Monte Palace Gardens: Nestled in the hills above Funchal, Monte Palace Gardens boasts a stunning array of exotic plants, serene ponds, and enchanting sculptures, offering a tranquil escape for families and couples alike. The gardens are a blend of natural beauty and artistic expression, with panoramic views of the city below.
- Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools: These natural volcanic rock pools provide a unique swimming experience, surrounded by breathtaking coastal scenery. With crystal-clear waters, it’s an ideal spot to relax and enjoy the sun, making it a favourite among beach enthusiasts.
- Fort of Sao Tiago: This historic fortification, overlooking the harbour, is a testament to Madeira’s rich maritime history. Visitors can explore its well-preserved walls and enjoy cultural exhibits, all while soaking in the stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean.
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.
The nearest major airports for your trip to Funchal
Flying into Funchal, Madeira, is convenient via Funchal Airport (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo), located 13km from the city. Notable hotels nearby include the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, just 322m from the airport, offering easy access. The Pestana Casino Park Ocean and SPA Hotel and Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World are also excellent options, both situated 14km away. Alternatively, you can fly into Porto Santo Airport (PXO), which is 71km from Funchal. Nearby hotels include the Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa, just 3km from the airport, and Torre Praia Hotel, 2km away, ensuring comfortable stays close to transport links.