Set on a glittering bay surrounded by jagged mountains, Funchal is an enchanting town known for its appealing temperatures all year around, exotic gardens, shopping streets, historic buildings and crafts.
The city centre is small enough to explore on foot, so why not take a stroll down the cobbled streets winding between elegant colonial-style buildings. Make sure to stop by the Gothic style Sé Cathedral, featuring a Moorish-inspired design cedar roof, and continue to the Mercado dos Lavradores (the worker’s market), a delightful old building.
Don’t miss out on a guided tour of the cellars of the Old Blandy Wine Lodge, and participate in a wine-tasting session of the world famous Madera wines or visit Santa Clara Convent and its beautiful azulejo tiles dating from the end of the 15th century.
Just outside of town, Madeira Botanical Gardens (Jardins Botânicos da Madeira), display over 2000 plants from all over the world, including desert cacti and rainforest orchids, making this one of the major attractions of the island.
If you’re more into some exciting sailing Funchal answers your needs with some of the best surf spots mentioned in several sporting reviews for the excellence of the waves; Golf lovers will also find their happiness on some of Europe’s best courses set in outstandingly beautiful scenery.
Whether you are looking for some relaxing time in the sun, nature discovery walks through
exceptional sceneries, or sports fun riding the waves, Funchal is sure to gain your heart!