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Europe

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal

Discover the lush "Floating Garden of the Atlantic." Explore the vibrant capital Funchal, ride the famous toboggan sleds, and sample the islands unique fortified wine. Pack your curiosity—and maybe your camera.

Quick Facts

Weather Range

61-75F (16-24C)

Currency

EUR

Language

Portuguese

Time Zone

WET (UTC+0) / WEST (UTC+1)

Overview

Funchal is a breathtaking natural amphitheater, a city of white-washed, red-roofed buildings set against a backdrop of impossibly steep, green mountains. This subtropical paradise is famous for its namesake wine and its vibrant, exotic flowers, which you can see in all their glory at the Mercado dos Lavradores. The best way to see the city is from above. Take the cable car up to the hilltop village of Monte. After exploring its tropical gardens, get ready for the ride of your life back down: a high-speed, 2-km wicker toboggan ride, steered by two men in straw hats.

Top Sights

  • Cabo Girao
One of the highest sea cliffs in the world, with a terrifying and thrilling glass-floored skywalk. It's a. short drive from Funchal and offers absolutely staggering views of the ocean.
  • Funchal Cable Car (Teleferico Funchal-Monte)
The best way to get to Monte and see the city. This 15-minute cable car ride. offers breathtaking, panoramic views as you glide over the city's red-roofed houses.
  • Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers Market)
A vibrant, multi-level Art Deco market hall that is a feast for the senses. See exotic. never-before-seen fruits (try the banana-pineapple), stunning flowers, and a lively, fresh-fish market.
  • Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Located at the top of the cable car, this is a stunning, multi-level botanical garden. Explore its lush. exotic plant collection, see traditional Portuguese tiles, and wander through its Asian-inspired gardens.
  • Blandys Wine Lodge
Get a taste of the islands most famous export. Located in the heart of Funchal, this historic lodge offers. fascinating tours of its cellars and a guided tasting of Madeiras unique, fortified wine.
  • Monte Toboggan Run
This is the most unique and thrilling experience on the island. Ride a 2-km (1.2-mile) downhill route from the hilltop village. of Monte in a traditional, two-seater wicker sled, steered and pushed by two men.

Neighborhoods

Zona Velha (Old Town)

Local eats and photo spots

Lido

Local eats and photo spots

Monte

Local eats and photo spots

Santa Maria

Local eats and photo spots

Shore Things Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.

Funchal by Mini Bubble Car

3.0 Hours

Easy

Hop into a 2-seater electric bubble car and cruise through Funchal's charm, viewpoints, and local culture - all with GPS and audio guiding the way.
From

$65 USD

Whales-n-Tales in the Waters of Madeira

3.2 Hours

Easy

Madeira's prime location offers a glimpse of whale
From

$80 USD

Echoes of Funchal’s Belle Epoch

2.5 Hours

Moderate

Revel in the remnants of Madeira's Golden Age of Sugar solidifying its place (literally) on the medieval map.
From

$50 USD

Funchal’s Farm to Fortress Food & Wine Walkabout

3.5 Hours

Moderate

Taste Madeira (figuratively) en route to Nini Design Center, where you'll (literally) get a taste of some wine and local bites.
From

$95 USD

© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Shore Excursions

Make the most of your time in port. These popular excursions are just a sampling of what's available—whether you're after thrills, culture, or pure relaxation.
Worry-free excursions powered by Viator

Funchal by Mini Bubble Car

3.0 Hours

Easy

Hop into a 2-seater electric bubble car and cruise through Funchal's charm, viewpoints, and local culture - all with GPS and audio guiding the way.
From

$65 USD

Whales-n-Tales in the Waters of Madeira

3.2 Hours

Easy

Madeira's prime location offers a glimpse of whale
From

$80 USD

Echoes of Funchal’s Belle Epoch

2.5 Hours

Moderate

Revel in the remnants of Madeira's Golden Age of Sugar solidifying its place (literally) on the medieval map.
From

$50 USD

Funchal’s Farm to Fortress Food & Wine Walkabout

3.5 Hours

Moderate

Taste Madeira (figuratively) en route to Nini Design Center, where you'll (literally) get a taste of some wine and local bites.
From

$95 USD

© Shore Things photos courtesy of Virgin Voyages®

Map

Quick Facts

Weather Range

61-75F (16-24C)

Currency

EUR

Language

Portuguese

Time Zone

WET (UTC+0) / WEST (UTC+1)

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