Best things to do in Funchal

Funchal's Absolute Essentials

Funchal's highlights range from the lush Monte Palace Tropical Garden and the Madeira Botanical Garden to the historic 15th-century Sao Lourenco Fortress. The city's religious heritage is preserved in the Funchal Cathedral and the tile-adorned Santa Clara Monastery. Visitors can navigate the steep terrain via the Funchal Cable Car or the traditional wicker toboggan run from Monte. For a taste of local culture, Blandy’s Wine Lodge offers insights into Madeira wine production, while the Pico Fortress provides panoramic defensive views over the harbor.

Funchal's Absolute Essentials — Map

Allie_Caulfield / CC BY 2.0

A

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

One of the most beautiful botanical gardens in the world. Surrounding the Monte Palace, a former hotel, it contains an abundant collection…

Stephen Colebourne / CC BY 2.0

B

Funchal Cable Car

This cable car connects the lower areas of Funchal with Monte. Operating since 2000, it is popular with both locals and tourists since it…

Stephen Colebourne / CC BY 2.0

C

Funchal Cathedral

The Cathedral of Our Lady of the Assumption in Sé, Funchal, Madeira, Portugal, is the cathedral of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Funchal,…

Hans Olav Lien / CC BY-SA 3.0

D

Madeira Toboggan

One of the most popular tourist attractions that Monte offers - a ride down the mountain on a wicker sledge.

Andrei Dimofte / CC BY 2.0

E

Botanical Gardens Madeira

One of the most visited parks in Funchal provides a great view of the city.

Andy Hawkins / CC BY-SA 2.0

F

Sao Lourenco Fortress-Palace

An impressive colonial fortress from the 15th century served as a seat of military and governors.

Andrew Nash / CC BY-SA 2.0

G

Blandy's Wine Lodge

One of the famous Madeira wine lodges dedicated to presenting and promoting the traditional way of making Madeira wine.

Zarco / CC-BY-SA-3.0

H

Pico Fortress

This fort used to be an important part of the defensive system of Funchal.

Hajotthu / CC BY 3.0

I

Igreja do Colégio

The church has beautifully decorated walls and ceiling. You can also climb the tower and admire the wonderful views.

Luke H. Gordon / CC BY 2.0

J

Santa Clara Church and Monastery

The chapel is characteristic for its traditional tiles and an impressive wooden ceiling.

Other Lists

Madeira's Hidden Gems Notable Places of Worship Madeira's Gardens and Parks Panoramic Views and Peaks