Funchal Holidays

Funchal is Madeira’s capital and the island’s main holiday base, set in a natural amphitheatre of steep green hills facing the Atlantic. It feels more like a relaxed coastal city than a purpose-built resort, with a walkable centre, a scenic harbour, traditional streets and plenty of places to eat and drink. For UK holidaymakers, it is a good choice if you want mild weather, sea views and easy access to Madeira’s gardens, viewpoints and walking routes.

The Old Town, or Zona Velha, is one of the most atmospheric areas, known for its narrow lanes, painted doors and restaurants serving Madeiran specialities such as black scabbardfish, espetada beef skewers and bolo do caco garlic bread. The Mercado dos Lavradores is also worth a visit for its colourful fruit, flowers and fish stalls, though it is best enjoyed as a sightseeing stop rather than somewhere to expect bargain shopping.

Funchal is not a classic sandy beach resort. The coastline is mostly rocky, but there are good places to swim and sunbathe, including lido complexes, sea pools and the seafront around Lido. Praia Formosa, just west of the centre, is the main public beach area, with a mix of pebbles and dark volcanic sand depending on the section and tide. Many hotels also make the most of the oceanfront setting with pools and terraces.

Popular things to do include taking the cable car up to Monte for sweeping views over the city and bay, visiting the Monte Palace Tropical Garden or Madeira Botanical Garden, and, for something traditional, watching the wicker toboggans descend part of the hill from Monte. The marina and waterfront are pleasant for an evening stroll, while boat trips often depart in search of dolphins and whales.

Nightlife in Funchal is generally easy-going rather than rowdy, with cocktail bars, hotel lounges, wine bars and a few livelier spots around the marina and Old Town. It suits couples, friends and older travellers particularly well, and it also works as a practical base for exploring the island by tour or hire car, from levada walks to dramatic mountain viewpoints.