Funchal Hotel Guide. Hotels in Old Town Funchal, Funchal, Portugal

Top reasons to visit Old Town Funchal

• Charming Cobblestone Streets: Wander through the picturesque cobbled streets of Old Town Funchal, where historical architecture and vibrant local culture come alive.
• Delicious Local Cuisine: Indulge in local delicacies at lively bars and restaurants, offering a taste of Madeira's rich culinary heritage.
• Vibrant Public Market: Explore the bustling market, where you can find fresh produce, artisanal products, and unique souvenirs.
• Scenic Marina: Enjoy the stunning views and relaxing atmosphere at the marina, perfect for leisurely strolls and vibrant nightlife.
• Family-Friendly Activities: Engage in various outdoor pursuits and attractions suitable for all ages, making it an ideal spot for families.

Find great hotels near Old Town Funchal

Explore a variety of accommodation options in the charming Old Town Funchal, where you can find delightful hotels and guesthouses catering to every traveller's needs. Whether you seek adventure, pet-friendly amenities, or a base for business travel, this vibrant area offers a selection of hotels in Funchal and Madeira that provide a memorable holiday experience. Discover the perfect place to unwind and immerse yourself in the rich culture of Madeira.

• Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel: This luxurious 5-star resort is a haven for those seeking a blend of beachside relaxation and adventurous pursuits. Located approximately 1.6km from Old Town Funchal, the Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel offers direct access to the beach and a plethora of adventure sports nearby, including waterskiing, sailing, and snorkeling. Families will appreciate the child-friendly amenities such as a play area, shared pool, and arcade room, ensuring that younger guests have plenty of entertainment. With a guest rating of 8.8 out of 10, this hotel provides a well-rounded experience for beach lovers and adventure seekers alike.
• The Views Baia - Adults Only: This eco-certified 4-star hotel is tailored for adults seeking a serene escape with an emphasis on wellness and relaxation. Located just 1.6km from Old Town Funchal, The Views Baia boasts a full spa offering treatments such as couples' massages, body scrubs, and access to a sauna and steam room. With a guest rating of 9.2 out of 10, the property not only prioritises comfort and relaxation but also champions eco-friendly practices, making it a fitting choice for environmentally conscious travellers. The poolside bar adds to the tranquil atmosphere, perfect for unwinding after a day of exploring.
• Hotel Monte Carlo: This charming 3-star hotel is ideally situated 1.4km from Old Town Funchal, making it a convenient base for adventure enthusiasts. Hotel Monte Carlo provides easy access to outdoor activities such as kayaking, hiking, and even horse riding right on-site. With its focus on adventure and exploration, this hotel is suited for those looking to immerse themselves in the natural beauty of Madeira. The inviting accommodations and friendly atmosphere ensure a comfortable stay for guests eager to discover the island’s stunning landscapes.

Where to stay near Old Town Funchal

Discover the enchanting charm of Old Town Funchal, where cobbled streets and historical architecture set the scene for a delightful holiday. Stroll along the seafront, savour local delicacies in vibrant bars, and explore the oldest streets that echo Madeira's rich past. With a friendly atmosphere perfect for families and romantics alike, Old Town Funchal promises a memorable getaway filled with relaxation and cultural experiences.

• Canico: Located approximately 6.4km from Old Town Funchal, Canico is a charming parish that attracts travellers seeking outdoor adventures and beach sports. The area experiences moderate seasonal variations in visitor numbers, peaking in the spring and autumn months. Canico offers access to stunning golf courses and a scenic cable car that provides breathtaking views of the coastline. Visitors can also enjoy the local marina, beautiful beaches, and lush parks, making it an ideal spot for relaxation and recreation.
• Monte: Just 4.8km from Old Town Funchal, Monte is a picturesque parish known for its family-friendly atmosphere and outdoor activities. Unlike other areas, Monte sees a steady flow of visitors throughout the year, with peaks in February and during the summer months. The parish features an aquatic centre and various golf courses, catering to both thrill-seekers and families alike. Its proximity to marinas, beaches, and parks provides visitors with ample opportunities to explore the natural beauty of Madeira.
• Funchal: As the capital city of Madeira, Funchal encapsulates the essence of island life and is home to Old Town Funchal. With a consistent influx of visitors throughout the year, Funchal peaks in early spring and experiences a slight drop during late spring and autumn. Travellers flock to Funchal for its outdoor activities, family-friendly attractions, and vibrant beach scene. Highlights include the bustling public market and various aquatic centres, while the city's beautiful marina and family beaches offer perfect spots for relaxation and enjoyment.

Things to do in and around Old Town Funchal

Shopping

In Old Town Funchal, visit the vibrant Mercado dos Lavradores for local produce and artisanal goods. For a more contemporary shopping experience, check out the nearby La Vie Funchal shopping centre, featuring a variety of shops and eateries showcasing Madeiran culture.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil atmosphere of the Spa at the Savoy Palace, where you can indulge in rejuvenating treatments and unwind with a panoramic view of the ocean. For outdoor relaxation, stroll along the picturesque streets of Old Town Funchal, soaking in the vibrant local art and culture.

Adventure

The Funchal-Monte Teleferico offers a thrilling cable car ride with stunning views of the city and surrounding landscapes, creating an exhilarating outdoor atmosphere. For a longer adventure, the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car provides breathtaking panoramas, while the Funchal Cable Car - Monte Station enhances your experience with family-friendly vibes.

Nightlife

Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Old Town Funchal, where you can sip cocktails at the stylish Bar do Mercado. For an authentic experience, visit the lively Taverna do Largo, where local musicians often perform while you enjoy traditional Madeiran dishes and drinks.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Old Town Funchal

To save on your visit to Old Town Funchal, consider travelling during the off-peak months of January to February and November for lower accommodation rates. Booking about a month in advance can yield the best prices, particularly on Fridays. Look for last-minute deals on Expedia, and use their filters to find eco-friendly options that suit your budget. Combining your hotel, flights, and activities into a package can also help you save significantly. Lastly, walking is a fantastic way to explore the compact town while keeping transport costs down.

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay around Old Town 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 around Old Town 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 around Old Town Funchal is Friday. The most expensive day to stay around Old Town Funchal is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Utilise Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred type of accommodation. For instance, by selecting the Eco-certified filter, you’ll be presented with sustainable and environmentally-friendly hotels that are currently available. To discover the best prices and deals, simply sort the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can enjoy significant savings by combining your hotel reservation in Old Town Funchal with your flights and activities through an Expedia package.

Find the best attractions in and around Old Town Funchal

Old Town Funchal offers a delightful blend of outdoor activities, family-friendly experiences, and cultural attractions. Visitors can explore urban parks, the vibrant marina, and charming piazzas, making it an ideal destination for relaxation and exploration. Key points of interest include the heart of Funchal, the historic old town, and the scenic marina, providing ample opportunities for tourists to immerse themselves in the local culture and enjoy the picturesque surroundings.

• Funchal-Monte Teleferico: Experience breathtaking views as you glide up the mountainside in this cable car. The ride offers an exhilarating adventure, perfect for families seeking both outdoor fun and stunning panoramas of Funchal and the surrounding landscapes.
• Funchal Marina: Located a short walk from the Old Town, the marina is a hub of activity with its vibrant atmosphere. Enjoy various water sports or simply relax by the beach, soaking in the coastal charm and lively surroundings.
• Town Square: This picturesque piazza is the heart of the city, where you can immerse yourself in local culture. Surrounded by historic architecture, it’s an ideal spot for people-watching and enjoying the vibrant community spirit of Funchal.

Best time to go to Old Town Funchal

The best time to visit Old Town Funchal can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature around Old Town Funchal falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature around Old Town Funchal falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

The nearest major airports for your trip to Old Town Funchal

Accessing Old Town Funchal is convenient via the major airport, Funchal (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo), located 12.9km away. Nearby, the 5-star Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel is 14.5km from the airport, offering airport transportation services for a fee. Another option, Vidamar Resort Madeira, is situated 16.1km away and provides a range of shuttle services, including 24-hour availability. Closer to the airport, Vila Gale Santa Cruz Resort Hotel is a 4-star option just 1.6km away, also offering shuttle services. Alternatively, Porto Santo Airport (PXO) is 69.2km away, with hotels like Hotel Areia Dourada and Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa located 3.2km from the airport.