Our family’s first visit to Madeira in February was an unforgettable experience. From the moment we arrived, we were enchanted by the island’s stunning landscapes and vibrant atmosphere. Funchal, the capital and largest city of Madeira, quickly became the highlight of our trip and the perfect place to stay longer.
We rented an apartment in an excellent location with panoramic windows offering breathtaking views of the entire city and the ocean. Every day, we woke up to the sight of cruise ships arriving at Funchal’s harbor and watched them depart as the sun set. It became a daily ritual, adding to the charm of our stay.
Funchal, nestled along the southern coast, is the perfect blend of natural beauty and lively city life. Whether you’re strolling through the charming streets, exploring local markets, or simply enjoying the scenery, the city is a wonderful base for discovering the rest of the island.
In future articles, we’ll share more about the adventures we had in Funchal, from local cuisine to scenic hikes. The city offers so much more than meets the eye, and we can’t wait to recount our journey!
Top 6 Must-Do Activities in Funchal
Explore the Mercado dos Lavradores: A Fruit Lover’s Paradise
This vibrant market is the heart of Funchal’s local life. Here, you can discover a variety of fresh fruits, vegetables, flowers, and traditional Madeiran products.
The Mercado dos Lavradores in Funchal is a vibrant destination for fruit enthusiasts. As you stroll through the market, you’ll encounter a dazzling array of fresh and exotic fruits that highlight Madeira’s agricultural richness.
The market is famous for its diverse selection of tropical fruits, including the unique anona (cherimoya) and maracujá(passion fruit). You’ll also find mangoes, papayas, and custard apples, each showcasing the island’s fertile soil and favorable climate.
Local vendors display these fruits in colorful, eye-catching arrangements, often allowing visitors to sample them before purchasing. The rich aroma and vibrant colors of the fruits make the Mercado dos Lavradores a true feast for the senses.
Whether you’re a fruit connoisseur or simply curious about local produce, the market offers an unparalleled opportunity to explore and enjoy Madeira’s diverse fruit offerings.
Take a Cable Car Ride to Monte
For stunning views of Funchal and the surrounding coastline, hop on the cable car to Monte. Once at the top, you can explore the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden and take in the lush greenery and unique plant species.
The Monte Palace Tropical Garden, located on the hilltop of Monte in Funchal, is a stunning botanical haven that offers a serene escape from the bustling city below. Set within the grounds of the Monte Palace, this garden is renowned for its extensive collection of exotic plants, beautifully landscaped grounds, and breathtaking views.
As you wander through the garden, you’ll encounter a rich variety of flora, including rare and unusual species from around the world. The garden features lush, meticulously maintained landscapes with serene ponds, cascading waterfalls, and charming stone paths.
One of the highlights of the Monte Palace Tropical Garden is its impressive collection of azaleas, camellias, and exotic palms. The garden also boasts a large collection of Oriental and African art, including intricately carved statues and traditional artifacts, which add a cultural dimension to the experience.
The panoramic views of Funchal and the surrounding coastline are spectacular from various vantage points within the garden. Visitors can enjoy these vistas while strolling through tranquil settings or resting by the peaceful ponds.
Keep in mind that the garden’s elevated location means cooler and wetter weather, which caught us off guard with a light rain. Fortunately, we had warmer clothing with us, as Madeira’s climate can be variable.
For families traveling with young children, note that the garden’s terrain is not stroller-friendly. We had to carry our stroller, which was inconvenient, but our daughter loved exploring the garden on foot, making the experience enjoyable despite the challenges.
Attend the Madeira Carnival
If you’re visiting in February, don’t miss the Madeira Carnival, one of the island’s most vibrant and colorful events.
The Madeira Carnival in Funchal is a spectacular event that transforms the city into a colorful and lively celebration each February. Known for its vibrant parades, elaborate costumes, and infectious samba rhythms, the carnival is one of the island’s most exciting festivals.
During the carnival, the streets of Funchal come alive with music, dance, and performance. The grand parade features dazzling floats, energetic dance troupes, and creatively dressed participants, all contributing to a festive atmosphere. The blend of traditional and modern influences creates a unique cultural experience that captivates both locals and visitors.
In addition to the parade, there are numerous parties, street performances, and cultural events throughout the city. The Madeira Carnival offers a chance to immerse yourself in the island’s lively culture and enjoy an unforgettable celebration.
Walk Along the Funchal Promenade
Walking along Funchal’s promenade is a delightful way to experience the city’s coastal charm. Stretching along the waterfront, the promenade offers stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean and the bustling harbor, where you can watch cruise ships come and go.
The path is perfect for a leisurely stroll, morning jog, or simply relaxing while taking in the sea breeze. The promenade also features beautiful landscaping and public art, adding to the pleasant atmosphere.
This scenic walk provides a tranquil escape and a wonderful perspective of Funchal’s coastal beauty, making it a must-do for visitors looking to enjoy the city’s natural surroundings.
For an excellent dining experience in Funchal, we highly recommend Beerhouse, located near the cruise ship port. This restaurant offers a diverse menu and specializes in a wide range of craft beers. If you’re a beer enthusiast, Beerhouse is a must-visit. Enjoy their extensive selection of brews along with hearty meals in a welcoming atmosphere.
Taste Traditional Madeiran Dishes and Drinks
No visit to Funchal is complete without indulging in the local cuisine. Try traditional dishes like espada com banana(scabbard fish with banana) or espetada (beef skewers grilled over an open fire). Pair your meal with bolo do caco, a local garlic bread.
To drink, don’t miss poncha, a traditional Madeiran cocktail made with sugarcane rum, honey, and citrus, or Madeira wine. It’s a refreshing and zesty drink with a distinctive flavor, popular among locals and visitors alike. Often enjoyed as an aperitif, Poncha captures the essence of Madeira’s vibrant spirit and is a must-try when visiting the island.
It is essential to taste Madeira wine during your visit. This fortified wine, produced on the island, is renowned for its rich, complex flavors and unique aging process. Ranging from dry to sweet, Madeira wine is aged through heating and oxidizing, which imparts its distinctive character. Sampling this local specialty offers a true taste of Madeira’s rich winemaking heritage.
Find a Rental Apartment with City Views
For an unforgettable stay, choose an apartment with stunning views of Funchal. We highly recommend the Funchal View Apartment, which we found and were thoroughly satisfied with.
This rental offers panoramic views of the city and the ocean and is located in a tranquil area close to the city center. You can find it on Booking.com, or search for similar options in the same neighborhood for a peaceful yet convenient stay.
Arrive and Fall in Love with This City
Funchal provides a diverse range of experiences, from the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores and serene Monte Palace Tropical Garden to the energetic Madeira Carnival and picturesque promenades. Be sure to sample local favorites like Poncha and Madeira wine, and opt for an apartment with city views to maximize your stay. With its unique mix of culture, scenery, and cuisine, Funchal is a destination that offers something special for every traveler.
