Funchal

Funchal, Madeira: The Vibrant Capital City

Funchal, the capital and largest city of Madeira, is a captivating blend of historical charm, urban sophistication, and lush natural beauty. Nestled in a natural amphitheater of hills overlooking the Atlantic Ocean, it’s the island’s bustling heart and the primary point of arrival for most visitors.

Historical Heart and Cultural Hub

Funchal boasts a rich history dating back to the 15th century, evident in its well-preserved architecture and numerous historical sites:

• Sé Cathedral (Funchal Cathedral): A magnificent example of Manueline-Gothic architecture, dating back to the late 15th century, with a striking ceiling made of cedarwood.
• Old Town (Zona Velha): This charming labyrinth of narrow, cobbled streets is famous for its “Art of Open Doors” project, where local artists have painted the doors of abandoned buildings, transforming them into an open-air gallery. It’s also home to many traditional restaurants.
• Colégio dos Jesuítas (Jesuit College): An impressive 17th-century building that now houses the University of Madeira and features a beautiful church.
• Fort of São Tiago: A distinctive yellow fortress dating back to the 17th century, now home to a contemporary art museum.
• Santa Clara Convent: A beautiful 15th-century convent offering insights into the lives of cloistered nuns and panoramic city views.

Gardens and Green Spaces

Funchal is renowned for its abundance of stunning gardens, showcasing Madeira’s incredible flora:

• Monte Palace Tropical Garden: A truly spectacular garden featuring exotic plants, a vast collection of tiles, and an impressive Oriental garden with pagodas and Buddhist sculptures. Accessible via cable car.
• Madeira Botanical Garden: Home to a vast array of indigenous and exotic plants, organized into various sections including a beautiful bird park. Offers superb views over Funchal.
• Quinta da Boa Vista Orchid Garden: A smaller, specialized garden dedicated to the cultivation of beautiful orchids.
• Santa Catarina Park: A lovely park in the city center offering expansive green lawns, walking paths, and excellent views of the harbor.

Markets and Gastronomy

The city’s vibrant markets and diverse culinary scene are central to the Funchal experience:

• Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market): A bustling, colorful market where you can find an astonishing array of fresh fruits (many exotic to the region), vegetables, flowers, and a lively fish market downstairs. A sensory delight.
• Madeira Wine: Funchal is the best place to sample and learn about Madeira’s famous fortified wine. Many lodges, such as Blandy’s Wine Lodge, offer tours and tastings.
• Gastronomy: From traditional espetada (beef skewers) and lapasmany (limpets) to fresh seafood and international cuisine, Funchal offers a wide range of dining experiences for all tastes and budgets.

Cable Cars and Panoramic Views

Funchal’s mountainous backdrop provides incredible opportunities for panoramic views:

• Funchal Cable Car: Connects the Old Town to Monte, offering breathtaking aerial views as it ascends the hillside to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden and the Monte church.
• Monte Toboggans (Carros de Cesto): From Monte, visitors can experience the exhilarating, traditional wicker toboggan ride down to Livramento, guided by two drivers. A unique Madeiran adventure.
• Teleférico do Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden Cable Car): A separate cable car connecting the Monte area to the Madeira Botanical Garden.

Waterfront and Modern Amenities

The Funchal waterfront is a lively area, with the marina welcoming cruise ships and yachts from around the world. The city offers a full range of modern amenities, including shopping centers, hotels, and a vibrant nightlife.

Funchal serves as an ideal base for exploring the rest of Madeira, combining urban comforts with easy access to the island’s spectacular natural landscapes.