Best Travel Guide Funchal, Madeira

Funchal, MadeiraGuide was updated: 2026-07-21

The 6th largest city of Portugal, known for its wine and amazing weather, Funchal is more than just the hometown of Cristiano Ronaldo. The city is filled with historical buildings, fantastic cuisine and surrounded by the truly spectacular nature of the Madeira archipelago. Make sure to taste the famous Madeira wine and pastel de nata.

Do & See

Funchal has no shortage of cultural pursuits or things to do. With a large amount of museums, gardens, cathedrals and tours, it's simply impossible to get bored. Surrounded by the magnificent Atlantic ocean, green mountains and boasting amazing weather, the city centre is characterised by white cobbled streets, an attractive promenade, and cafes which serve authentic Portuguese and Madeiran dishes. A relatively small town, everything is walkable and easy to find.

Pico do Arieiro

For breathtaking views of Funchal, look no further than Pico do Arieiro. At 1,818 metres high, it is Madeira's third-highest peak. Hikers can expect a stunning panorama of the island and a dramatic view of the clouds rolling below their feet. On clear days, the neighbouring island of Porto Santo can be seen to the northeast. Put on your hiking boots and climb up the summit, or simply go by car.

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Monte Palace Tropical Garden

With more than 100,000 exotic plant species from all over the world, black and white swans from Australia, and multiple ponds and lakes, Monte Palace Tropical Garden is one of the most impressive sights in Madeira. Make sure to stop by the Monte Palace Museum, which houses exhibitions featuring artefacts from a diverse range of international cultures as well as a mineral museum.

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Cathedral of Funchal

This magnificent cathedral was built over 500 years ago, in the beautiful Gothic style. The cathedral has an impressive silver cross, donated by King Manuel himself in the 16th century, as well as sculptures and incredible oil paintings.

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Museu CR7

This museum devoted to Funchal's most famous son — the football legend Cristiano Ronaldo. It offers a rare chance to take a look at the trophies, Ballon d'Ors, fan correspondence, and even an interactive timeline of the life of Ronaldo.

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Catamaran Trips

Drift along crystal clear waters, and keep an eye out for dolphins and whales. VMT Madeira arranges all sorts of trips, including a sunset sailing, which gives you the most stunning view of the setting sun over the Atlantic Ocean.

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Madeira Cable Car

What better way to discover Funchal from high above than by cable car. Experience the green slopes, mountains, and even the amphitheatre of Monte and Funchal. The ride starts in the Old Town and sweeps you away towards the entrance to Monte Palace Tropical Garden. You can get a round trip ticket or choose to trek back down to enjoy the lush vegetation and gorgeous views of the city and the ocean on the way down.

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Population:	109,293 (2026)
Currency:	1 Euro = 100 cents
Emergency Numbers:	Emergency: 112
Newspapers:	Funchal Notícias: www.funchalnoticias.net Madeira Weekly (in English): www.madeira-weekly.com
Website:	visit.funchal.pt www.funchal.pt www.visitmadeira.com
Tourist Information:	Tourist Information Office (Posto de Informação Turística) Avenida Arriaga 16, Funchal +351 291 145 305 Open Mon–Fri 9am–7pm, Sat & Sun 9am–3:30