If you’re in Funchal, there are a few things that you can’t miss. If you’re a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo, you should visit this museum dedicated to him.
It’s one of the most popular tourist attractions in Funchal. The cable car will take you up to the perched Monte neighbourhood 600 metres above sea level.
Miradouro Pinaculo
Miradouro Pinaculo is arguably the most emblematic viewpoint in Funchal and offers one of the most magnificent views over the city and bay. It is located to the East of Funchal at 283 metros acima from sea level and it is worth visiting anytime to enjoy the spectacular view over the island.
The Miradouro do Pinaculo is considered to be the best place to watch a sunset in Funchal and it also provides a spectacular view over the Atlantic Ocean. If you are looking to take a break from sightseeing, you can go for a swim at Barreirinha swimming complex or Doca do Cavacas.
Besides offering incredible views, the Miradouro do Pinaculo also gives you the opportunity to sample Madeira wine and visit the Old Blandy Wine Lodge museum. The wine is made using a unique method which involves heating the wine to cause oxidation, before it is stored for aging.
Another great way to experience the beautiful views of Funchal is by visiting the Farmers Market. Here you can buy fruits, vegetables, herbs and fish from locals. You can also find traditional foods and drinks that are unique to Funchal.
Mercado dos Lavradores
Located in Funchal’s city centre, Mercado dos Lavradores (“Farmers Market”) is a must-visit for all tourists. It offers an incredible variety of delicious fruits, fresh fish and colourful flowers.
The Mercado dos Lavradores is housed in a spacious indoor market and is an absolute must for any visitor to Funchal. As well as oodles of delicious fruit and vegetables, fish and flowers, there are also traditional basketry and leather goods for sale.
It is an authentic and lively place with the hustle and bustle of people hollering special deals, customers haggling over prices, and people gossiping in huddles. The sound and aromas mix perfectly to create the perfect cocktail for the senses.
The main attraction here is of course the fruit vendors offering dozens of different kinds of tropical fruits, like pitangas, maracuja-banana and pineapple-banana. However, there is also the fish market which features a wide range of species including Madeira’s black scabbard fish.
Santa Catarina Park
If you want to enjoy a leisurely stroll while taking in the view of Funchal Bay, Santa Catarina Park is the place to be. This large space has a playground, snack bar and a small lake, plus it's filled with beautiful vegetation.
The park was established in 1966 and boasts statues of Prince Henry the Navigator and Christopher Columbus, as well as a children's play area. However, the real attraction is the panoramic view of Funchal Bay extending from Ponta do Garajau, which can be enjoyed at the park's lookout point.
The park features many pedestrian walks, an immense variety of flora species from all over the world and a lovely lake populated by ducks and swans. There are also many sculptures, aviaries and a chapel dedicated to Santa Catarina.
Rua da Santa Maria
Rua da Santa Maria is one of Funchal's oldest streets, and it's also one of the most colourful. Thanks to the local arts movement (Art of Open Doors project), it features over 200 pieces of street art.
- The cathedral is a beautiful little church, especially at Christmas when it's beautifully lit with all sorts of coloured lights and displays. It has a gilded altarpiece and intricately carved sanctuary, and the ceiling is made from white cedar with ivory inlay.
- It's just a few minutes walk from Funchal's Old Town.
- If you have time to kill, take a stroll down this narrow cobblestoned street. You can find a few interesting shops here, and it's also home to the Jesuit College of Funchal.
- If you’re feeling particularly adventurous, take the Monte cable car to the village of Monte, which lies 580 meters above sea level and offers spectacular views over the city. The village has two lovely gardens that you can explore, and if you have time, you can even try a toboggan ride down the mountain.
