- Admire breath-taking botanical gardens with plenty of tropical plants on display
- Join a guided walk and wander the famous levadas - the islands historic aqueducts
- This lively and vibrant ocean-side city offers plenty of sights to see
Funchal is a lively, sprawling city – famous for its harbour, mountain backdrop and flower displays. The city’s split into about 10 parishes, all slightly unique, so there’s plenty of nooks and crannies to explore on holiday.
Most hotels are in the São Martinho area, and you should definitely pop to the old town to get a proper feel for the history and culture. The narrow alleyways are always fun for a wander, with lots of lovely cafés and restaurants to stop in when you feel peckish. Take some time to explore the busy harbour, too. We love sitting by the water to watch the world go by.
Walking holidays in Funchal
You’re spoiled for choice with activities in Funchal - bike tours, guided walks and diving to name a few. It’s also a good base to explore other parts of the island.
The Levada walking trails have made the island a popular destination for walking. These ancient irrigation channels carry water across Madeira and in turn have created a network of walking trails. These levada trails run across the centre of the island so don't come into the city centre. For the best experience we always recommend walking with a professional guide in Madeira as trails can be complicated to navigate plus we love all the tips and local insights you get from walking with a guide. You can book onto our optional, included guided walks that take place twice a week and you can book up to two per holiday (subject to availability) but if you're wanting to walk some more, take a look at our payable excursions.
Explore Funchal's culture: street art on the doorstep
Take a stroll down the street of Rua de Santa Maria to see a colourful collection of nearly 200 doors that have been painted by local artists. It was an effort to breathe some life into an area that was previously a little run down – we’re happy to confirm it’s a thriving spot to explore and a must-see on your holiday.
Funchal's thriving food scene
Get your hands on some fresh tropical fruit, like bananas and passion fruit, at Mercado dos Lavradores, the local farmer’s market. The ones at home won’t taste the same after you’ve tried these. The market is a magnet for food-lovers as the sights, smells and colours are irresistible – maybe pick up something to bring back?
If wine is what gets you excited, there are a few tasting venues for the full experience, but most local bars will have a selection of Madeiran wines to try. The sweet, rich taste makes it very distinctive – you can’t leave without giving it a go.
You won’t be short of restaurants either. Funchal has a great foodie scene including a surprising amount of fine dining options and Michelin recommendations. Try a bolo do caco – a bread dish you’ll find most places, usually smothered in garlic butter and optionally topped with seafood like octopus or made into a sandwich.
The full Monte
To get a different view of the city, jump on the cable car to Monte and head for the Botanical Gardens, they're particularly beautiful in the summer. You’ll get great views across the bay before heading into the gardens for an explosion of colour and design.
It’s easy to get around Funchal, you can walk but it’s hilly in places so if you’re not up to the challenge there’s a reliable bus service that’s reasonably priced.
Why book a summer holiday in Funchal with Inghams?
Experience the freedom of flexible walking holidays in Funchal with Inghams. With no fixed itineraries and no moving around each night, you can simply unpack, settle in, and explore at your own pace.
- With 90 years of travel experience, we know how to take the hassle out of your holiday to Funchal
- Flights, transfers, and accommodation are included in every holiday package plus two optional guided walks per holiday
- We’re with you every step of the way with insider knowledge and tailored support from our Destination Experts over the phone during your holiday
- During your stay you’ll have access to our Digital Resort Guides, which are packed with things to do and useful information for your Funchal holiday
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