Funchal is the capital of Portugal’s Madeira Islands, located in the Atlantic Ocean. With its beautiful beaches, stunning landscapes, and vibrant culture, Funchal is the perfect destination for travelers looking for an unforgettable holiday. From the dramatic cliffs of Cabo Girão to the bustling harbor of Porto Santo, here are the top 20 places to see in Funchal, Portugal.
1. Cabo Girão: Cabo Girão is a dramatic cliff on the south coast of Madeira, offering stunning views of the Atlantic Ocean. At 589 meters, it’s the second highest sea cliff in the world. Visitors can take the cable car to the top of the cliff for breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.
2. Monte Palace Tropical Garden: The Monte Palace Tropical Garden is a beautiful botanical garden located on the slopes of Monte. The garden features more than 2,000 species of plants from around the world, as well as a lake, a waterfall, and a cafe.
3. Madeira Story Centre: The Madeira Story Centre is an interactive museum that tells the story of Madeira’s history, culture, and people. The museum features a range of multimedia exhibits, including virtual reality tours of the island.
4. Funchal Cathedral: Funchal Cathedral is a stunning church located in the heart of Funchal. The cathedral was built in the 16th century and features a beautiful baroque façade. Inside, visitors can admire the ornate altar, stained glass windows, and the remains of a 16th-century organ.
5. Monte Cable Car: The Monte Cable Car is a must-see for any visitor to Funchal. The cable car takes visitors from the city centre up to the summit of Monte, where they can enjoy spectacular views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
6. Porto Santo: Porto Santo is a small island located off the coast of Madeira. The island is home to some of the best beaches in Portugal, including the stunning Praia da Calheta. Visitors can also explore the historic town of Vila Baleira, the birthplace of explorer Christopher Columbus.
7. Madeira Theme Park: The Madeira Theme Park is the perfect place for families to have fun. The park features a range of rides, including roller coasters, carousels, and a Ferris wheel. There’s also a water park with slides and pools for kids to enjoy.
8. Quinta das Cruzes Museum: The Quinta das Cruzes Museum is located in a 17th-century manor house. The museum features a range of artifacts, including furniture, paintings, and sculptures. There’s also a beautiful garden with a variety of plants and flowers.
9. Madeira Wine Lodge: The Madeira Wine Lodge is a unique experience for wine lovers. The lodge offers tours of the local wineries, tastings of the island’s famous fortified wines, and a chance to learn about the history and culture of Madeira’s wine-making.
10. Madeira Natural Park: The Madeira Natural Park covers more than 20,000 hectares of land, making it the largest protected area in Portugal. The park is home to a diverse range of wildlife, including rare species of birds, reptiles, and mammals.
11. Santana: Santana is a small village located in the north of Madeira. The village is famous for its traditional thatched-roof houses, known as ‘palheiros’. Visitors can explore the village and admire the beautiful architecture.
12. Porto Moniz Natural Pool: The Porto Moniz Natural Pool is a stunning natural swimming pool located on the northwest coast of Madeira. The pool is filled with seawater and surrounded by volcanic rocks. Visitors can enjoy a refreshing swim or simply relax and admire the views.
13. Santa Catarina Park: Santa Catarina Park is a beautiful park located in the centre of Funchal. The park features a range of plants and flowers, as well as a lake, a fountain, and a playground for kids.
14. Madeira Aquarium: The Madeira Aquarium is a great place to learn about the marine life of the island. The aquarium features a range of species, including sharks, rays, and sea turtles. Visitors can also take a glass-bottom boat tour to explore the underwater world.
15. Madeira Botanical Garden: The Madeira Botanical Garden is a stunning garden located on the slopes of Monte. The garden features a variety of plants, including rare species from around the world. Visitors can also enjoy stunning views of the city and the Atlantic Ocean.
16. Monte Cable Car Museum: The Monte Cable Car Museum is located in the old cable car station at the summit of Monte. The museum offers an insight into the history of the cable car, as well as a range of interactive exhibits.
17. Madeira Interactive Museum: The Madeira Interactive Museum is an interactive museum that tells the story of the island’s history, culture, and people. The museum features a range of multimedia exhibits, including virtual reality tours of the island.
18. Madeira Theme Park: The Madeira Theme Park is the perfect place for families to have fun. The park features a range of rides, including roller coasters, carousels, and a Ferris wheel. There’s also a water park with slides and pools for kids to enjoy.
19. Madeira Wine Lodge: The Madeira Wine Lodge is a unique experience for wine lovers. The lodge offers tours of the local wineries, tastings of the island’s famous fortified wines, and a chance to learn about the history and culture of Madeira’s wine-making.
20. Santa Catarina Park: Santa Catarina Park is a beautiful park located in the centre of Funchal. The park features a range of plants and flowers, as well as a lake, a fountain, and a playground for kids.