Welcome to Funchal Madeira, the capital city of Madeira, a captivating destination that combines rich history, breathtaking landscapes, and a rich cultural atmosphere. In this blog post, we’ll take you on a journey through Funchal, sharing our personal experiences and the wonders we discovered during our visit. Join us as we delve into the fascinating history, highlight the top things to do, and provide valuable insights for planning your own adventure in this untouched gem of nature.

As I reflect on our visit to Madeira, it’s hard to put into words the sheer beauty and serenity we experienced. The place felt untouched, a hidden gem nestled amidst breathtaking landscapes. The grandeur of nature surrounding us left us mesmerized at every turn. From the towering cliffs to the vibrant botanical gardens and natural lava pools that make you feel one with the ocean, Madeira offered a sensory feast that left an incredible mark on our hearts. Having traveled to many places, we were both in a bit of shock realizing that Madeira was easily one of the THE most special places we’ve both visited, if not the most special.

The warmth and hospitality of the locals added an extra layer of charm to our stay. Whether it was engaging in friendly conversations with restaurant owners or receiving helpful recommendations from locals, we felt a genuine sense of connection that made our experience all the more special.

Discovering Funchal Madeira: A Glimpse of Paradise

Located on the stunning island of Madeira, Funchal is the capital city that effortlessly blends Portuguese charm with natural beauty. Situated in the southern region of the island, it offers a remarkable setting surrounded by mountains and the shimmering Atlantic Ocean.

1. History and Culture: Funchal holds a rich historical significance. Founded in the 15th century by João Gonçalves Zarco, an intrepid Portuguese explorer, it has grown from a humble settlement into a bustling city. You can wander through the Santa Maria Maior, or Old Town, with its narrow cobbled streets and historic buildings that tell tales of the past.
2. Natural Splendors: Funchal’s allure lies not only in its history but also in its untouched grandeur of nature. The city is embraced by lush botanical gardens, offering a myriad of colorful flora. It’s surrounded by lively hills in the back and vast ocean to the front. To get panoramic views of the city and the sparkling coastline, you can hop on a cable car ride right in town. 
3. Diverse Climates: Madeira is a Portuguese archipelago located in the Atlantic Ocean, and has a unique climate characterized by its mild temperatures and diverse microclimates. Despite its small size, the island boasts several distinct climates. Generally, Madeira is known for its mild, subtropical climate with pleasant temperatures throughout the year. However, variations in altitude, prevailing winds, and geographical features contribute to very different microclimates across the island.

Getting Around: Car Rental Funchal

To fully explore the wonders of Funchal Madeira, renting a car is highly recommended. While Funchal itself is a delight to explore on foot, venturing further into Madeira’s captivating landscapes requires transportation. There are options for guided tours, but having the freedom to discover at your own pace is unparalleled. You never know if you’re going to have an unforgettable journey and discover remote villages or hidden viewpoints. Some of our best memories are simply driving through the winding roads and many tunnels just waiting to see what was on the other side. Nine times out of ten, it did not disappoint. 

We actually found renting a vehicle here to be somewhat pricey compared to other places, and noticed a number were sold out about a month ahead of time. So book in advance or you could run the bet of having to find another mode of transportation! Here are three top car rental options to consider:

1. Madeira Car Booking: Madeira Car Booking We went with Madeira Car Booking and had absolutely no problems and it was affordable, but their rental lot is not at Funchal airport. So one person in the party rides to pick up the vehicle and then returns to pick up the remaining party. Overall their staff was friendly and the car did its job and was clean, so it was a great choice! 
2. Auto Rent a Car: Auto Rent a Car is a reputable provider with convenient locations, including Funchal Airport. Offering a range of vehicles, from the compact Fiat Panda to the comfortable Renault Clio, they provide reliable service at competitive prices and have some of the most reviews on the island.
3. Avis: With a global presence and a location in Funchal, Avis is a trusted choice for car rentals. Their extensive fleet, including the popular Fiat 500 and the versatile Renault Captur, ensures a comfortable and enjoyable driving experience.

Accommodation Choices: Funchal Hotels and Airbnb Madeira

When it comes to accommodation in Funchal, you have the choice between hotels and Airbnbs. Each option offers its own advantages, catering to different preferences and budgets. During our visit, we had a less than satisfactory Airbnb experience in Funchal. However, this led us to discover a fantastic beach resort that exceeded our expectations. We loved the ease of being within walking distance of many restaurants but also so content with the wonderful accommodations and stunning views at the hotel. 

Here are three outstanding hotels in Funchal to consider:

1. Melia Madeira Mare: Stumbling upon this gem was such a gift to our trip! This hotel sits overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and is close to the town center, other shopping areas, and the airport. We loved this resort and their included breakfast buffet.
2. Savoy Palace: While we didn’t have the luxury of staying here, we sure wish we did. Savoy Palace is a world of luxury – a sophisticated five-star hotel boasting stylish rooms, exquisite dining options, and an indulgent outdoor pool. What more could you ask for?
3. Pestana CR7 Funchal: If you’re a soccer (or fútbol) lover, you may want to check out  Pestana CR7 as it’s inspired by the world-renowned footballer Cristiano Ronaldo. As you’ve likely already noticed, the airport is name after him is well to pay homage to his birthplace and home for much of his life. If you’re seeking a vibrant and trendy atmosphere, this boutique hotel offers modern rooms, a rooftop pool, and a prime location.

Madeira: Things to Do

Now, I can, and will in other articles, go on and on about all there is to do in Madeira, but I will also summarize a quick synopsis of some of the top things to do in the bustling town of Funchal and vast island of Madeira. You may just be surprised by all the wonder the beautiful place has to offer just beyond the bend.

1. Explore the Old Town: Wander through the charming streets of Santa Maria Maior, admiring the historic architecture, quaint shops, and lively cafés. You can visit the Mercado dos Lavradores, a vibrant market showcasing local produce, flowers, and traditional crafts. Or you can let the thin cobblestone alleys take you on a journey and be pleasantly surprised by the beautiful artwork and unique history vibrating throughout the town. 
2. Indulge in the Lava Pools in Porto Moniz: Immerse yourself in the raw beauty of being one with the wild ocean in a confined, safe lava pool along the coast. This unique and natural beauty is so stunning it’s hard to put in words. While there are a few lava pool spots throughout the island, this one stole our hearts. 
3. Embark on all the Hiking: Madeira is famous for its hiking and its well kept and beautiful trails. But more specifically, Madeira is famous for its levadas, ancient irrigation channels turned hiking trails. Discover some of the most grand nature and in so many different climates, offering stunning vistas of mountains, forests, and waterfalls. Madeira easily had some of the best hiking I’ve experienced and we’re itching to get back to explore more!

Conclusion

Funchal Madeira is a destination that enthralls with its natural beauty, vibrant culture, and captivating history. From its rich heritage and picturesque landscapes to the warm hospitality of the locals, Funchal offers an experience like no other. Whether you choose to explore the charming streets of the Old Town, embark on exhilarating levada walks, or simply relax and indulge in the luxury of a hotel, Madeira will leave you with memories of a lifetime.

As you plan your own adventure to Madeira, remember to rent a car for maximum exploration and consider the accommodation options that best suit your preferences. And then, just embrace the untouched grandeur and immerse yourself in the charms of Funchal, a place where big nature and Portuguese charm converge. If you fall in love with it half as much as we did, then you won’t be disappointed!