Top reasons to visit Funchal
- Stunning Botanical Gardens: Funchal boasts beautiful botanical gardens, perfect for leisurely strolls and appreciating diverse plant species.
- Cultural Heritage: Explore the historic Funchal Cathedral and the charming Old Town, rich in local culture and history.
- Scenic Seafront: Enjoy the picturesque views along the Funchal seafront, ideal for sunbathing and relaxation.
- Vibrant Marina: The lively marina offers a great atmosphere for dining and socialising, making it a must-visit.
- Wine Tasting Experiences: Delight in Madeira's famous wine tastings, showcasing the region's unique flavours.
Find great hotels in Funchal
Discover the charm of Funchal with a variety of accommodation options designed to meet your every need. From family-friendly hotels to cosy guesthouses, you can find the perfect retreat for your stay. Whether you're seeking a relaxing spa experience, a base for business travel, or a vacation filled with adventure, Funchal's hotels and lodgings promise to enhance your visit to the stunning Madeira region.
- Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel: This 5-star resort offers an exceptional blend of luxury and family-friendly amenities, boasting a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10. Nestled in Funchal, the hotel provides direct access to the beach, making it an ideal choice for those seeking a relaxing seaside holiday. Families can enjoy tailored facilities including a children's pool, an arcade game room, and a playground. With its picturesque views and a range of activities, this resort is perfect for creating lasting holiday memories.
- Pestana Promenade Ocean Resort Hotel: Rated at 9.2 out of 10, this 4-star hotel is tailored for adventurous families and beach lovers. Situated in Funchal, it not only offers direct beach access but also a variety of exciting recreational activities nearby, such as fishing, waterskiing, and snorkeling. The hotel is well-equipped for families, offering in-room childcare services. Its vibrant atmosphere and focus on adventure make it an excellent choice for those looking to explore the beautiful surroundings while enjoying comfortable accommodation.
- The Views Baia - Adults Only: An eco-certified 4-star establishment with a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, The Views Baia caters specifically to adults seeking a serene getaway. Located in Funchal, this hotel features a comprehensive spa and pool services, including a hot tub and poolside bar, inviting guests to unwind in a tranquil environment. The eco-friendly focus of the hotel not only enhances the guest experience but also promotes sustainable tourism practices, making it an appealing option for environmentally conscious travellers.
Where to stay in and around Funchal
Funchal, the charming capital of Madeira, offers a delightful blend of outdoor adventures and relaxing beach vibes. Explore the stunning Funchal seafront, where you can soak in the sun and enjoy picturesque views. Stroll through the historical Old Town, rich in culture and friendly locals. Whether you're seeking a romantic getaway or a family-friendly holiday, Funchal promises an unforgettable experience, making it the perfect destination for your next vacation.
- Monte: Nestled in the hills above Funchal, Monte is a charming parish known for its stunning views and lush gardens. This area is particularly appealing for those seeking outdoor adventures and family-friendly activities. Visitors can enjoy the local aquatic centre, golf courses, and beautifully landscaped parks. The nearby marina and beach offer additional opportunities for relaxation and recreation. Peak tourist seasons in Monte are February and July to August, making it a lively destination for outdoor enthusiasts.
- Canico: Located approximately 6.4km from Funchal, Canico is a delightful parish that strikes a balance between tranquillity and accessibility. Renowned for its outdoor and beach experiences, Canico attracts sports lovers and families alike. Visitors can partake in golfing, explore scenic cable car rides, and unwind at the nearby marina and beach. The moderate peak seasons from March to April and September make it a vibrant spot for those looking to enjoy the beautiful Madeira coast.
- Old Town Funchal: Old Town Funchal is a vibrant neighbourhood that blends history with modern charm. With its cobbled streets, colourful buildings, and lively atmosphere, it’s a perfect area for families and beach-goers. Visitors can explore the local market, enjoy the aquatic centre, and soak up the sun at the family beach. The influx of tourists peaks in July to August and again in October, ensuring a bustling experience as you savour the local culture and stunning coastal views.
Things to do in and around Funchal
Shopping
In Funchal, explore the local Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant market where you can find fresh produce, flowers, and traditional crafts. If you're up for a drive, visit the Forum Madeira shopping centre, located about 4.8km away, featuring shops, restaurants, and beautiful ocean views.
Recreation
Quinta da Casa Branca offers a tranquil retreat with lush gardens and a luxurious spa, where guests can indulge in rejuvenating treatments. Enjoy yoga sessions overlooking the stunning landscape or unwind by the serene pool, immersing yourself in the soothing atmosphere of this elegant venue.
Belmond Reid's Palace features a renowned wellness centre, offering personalised treatments and relaxation areas. Experience invigorating massages and wellness therapies while surrounded by breathtaking views of the coastline, providing a perfect backdrop for relaxation and self-care during your stay in Funchal.
Adventure
Experience breathtaking views on the Funchal-Monte Teleferico, a scenic cable car ride that offers a unique perspective of the landscape. The Funchal Cable Car to Monte Station provides a thrilling journey, while the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, located 35.4km away, showcases the stunning surroundings from above.
Nightlife
Funchal’s nightlife features vibrant bars like the iconic Avenida do Mar, bustling with locals and tourists alike. You can explore the lively clubs in the Old Town, where live music and dancing create an energetic atmosphere, making it an exciting destination for evening entertainment.
*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Funchal
To save money on your trip to Funchal, consider visiting during the off-peak months of January to February and November, when accommodation prices are lower. Opt for free attractions like Town Square, Funchal Marina, and Se Cathedral. For transport, utilise the local bus system, which is cost-effective. Book your hotel about a month in advance, or check last-minute deals on platforms like Expedia. Tuesdays typically offer the best hotel rates, while combining your hotel, flights, and activities can lead to additional savings.
- 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 Tuesday. The most expensive day to stay in Funchal is Thursday.
- Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Expedia's search tool enables you to specify your budget, desired location, and other preferences. You can arrange your search results to display prices from lowest to highest, ensuring you find the most affordable hotels first. Additionally, you have the option to refine your search by hotel category—selecting the Eco-certified filter will showcase sustainable and environmentally-friendly accommodation choices that are available for booking.
- Consider bundling your trip: You can potentially reduce your expenses by combining your hotel reservation in Funchal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.
Find the best attractions in Funchal
Funchal, the charming capital of Madeira, is perfect for outdoor and family vacations. Visitors can explore stunning botanical gardens, urban parks, and beautiful beaches. Cultural experiences await at the historic Funchal Cathedral, while the lively marina offers a great atmosphere. Whether you seek adventure or relaxation, Funchal's attractions cater to all types of travellers, ensuring a memorable holiday in this picturesque destination.
- Funchal Marina: Located in the heart of Funchal, the marina offers a vibrant atmosphere with stunning views of the Atlantic. Enjoy outdoor adventures such as sailing or simply relax by the seaside, soaking in the beach vibes and local cuisine at nearby eateries.
- Madeira Botanical Garden: This enchanting garden showcases a diverse range of exotic plants and flowers, providing a romantic setting for leisurely strolls. Ideal for families, it offers educational opportunities and panoramic views of the city, enhancing your outdoor experience.
- CR7 Museum: Dedicated to the legendary footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, this museum features a captivating display of memorabilia and trophies. It provides insight into the cultural impact of football in Madeira and celebrates local pride in Ronaldo's achievements.
Best time to go to Funchal
The best time to visit Funchal is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, 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 12.9km from the city. Excellent hotel options nearby include the 5-star Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel, 14.5km away, offering airport transportation for a fee. The 5-star Vidamar Resort Madeira is 16.1km distant, providing various shuttle services. Closer to the airport, Vila Gale Santa Cruz Resort Hotel, a 4-star establishment, is just 1.6km away, also featuring shuttle services. Alternatively, Porto Santo Airport (PXO), situated 70.8km from Funchal, has hotels like Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa and Torre Praia Hotel, both within 3.2km, ensuring easy access to the airport.