Funchal, Madeira-2-day-itinerary

Day 1: Exploring Funchal

Morning

  • 9:00 am: Start the day with a visit to Mercado dos Lavradores, a bustling marketplace where you can sample local fruits, cheeses, and flowers. It’s a great place to pick up some fresh produce for lunch or snack.
  • 10:00 am: From the market, head to the nearby Funchal Cathedral (Sé), a beautiful 16th-century church that offers stunning views of the city.
  • 11:30 am: Take a short walk to the Botanical Garden, a peaceful oasis in the heart of Funchal. The garden is home to over 2,000 plant species and offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape.

Afternoon

  • 1:00 pm: Grab lunch at Restaurante Solar Do Inferno, a local favorite that serves traditional Madeiran cuisine. Try their famous bolo do caco (a type of flat bread) with garlic butter.
  • 2:30 pm: Visit the Museu Cravo Albertino, a small museum dedicated to the history and art of Madeira. The museum features a collection of artworks, ceramics, and artifacts that tell the story of the island’s rich cultural heritage.

Evening

  • 7:00 pm: Enjoy dinner at Restaurante O Paparico, a Michelin-starred restaurant that serves contemporary Portuguese cuisine. Be sure to reserve a table in advance.
  • 9:30 pm: End the day with a stroll along the Praça do Município, a lively square surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Day 2: Beaches and Mountains

Morning

  • 8:00 am: Take a taxi or bus to Reid’s Palace, a historic hotel located on a hill overlooking Funchal. The hotel offers stunning views of the city and is a great spot for a coffee or snack.
  • 9:30 am: Visit the nearby Ponta do Sol Beach, a picturesque beach with golden sand and crystal-clear waters. It’s a popular spot for swimming, sunbathing, and water sports.

Afternoon

  • 12:00 pm: Head to Monte Palace Gardens, a beautiful botanical garden located in the hills above Funchal. The gardens feature stunning views of the city and a collection of exotic plants from around the world.
  • 3:00 pm: Take a taxi or bus back to Funchal and visit the Porto do Sol, a bustling square surrounded by shops, cafes, and restaurants.

Evening

  • 7:30 pm: Enjoy dinner at Restaurante Casa Do Povo, a cozy restaurant that serves traditional Madeiran cuisine. Try their famous carne de porco à alentejana (pork with clams).
  • 9:00 pm: End the day with a visit to Lido Garden Bar, a lively bar located on the beachfront promenade. It’s a great spot for a cocktail or coffee and watching the sunset.

Accommodation

There are many hotels, guesthouses, and apartments available in Funchal. Some popular options include:

  • Hotel Monte Palace: A luxurious hotel located in the hills above Funchal.
  • Hotel Reid’s Palace: A historic hotel located on a hill overlooking Funchal.
  • Airbnb apartments: There are many cozy apartments available for rent in Funchal, ranging from studios to three-bedroom flats.

Transportation

Funchal has a good public transportation system, including buses and taxis. You can also rent cars or scooters if you prefer to explore the island on your own. Some popular taxi companies include:

  • Taxi Verde: A reliable taxi company with a wide range of vehicles.
  • Taxi Amarelo: A friendly taxi company that offers a 24-hour service.

Tips and Other Things to Know

  • Weather: Funchal has a subtropical climate, with mild winters and warm summers. Be sure to pack accordingly and stay hydrated during the hot summer months.
  • Language: Portuguese is the official language of Madeira, but many locals also speak English. It’s still a good idea to learn some basic Portuguese phrases to show respect for the culture.
  • Currency: The Euro is the official currency of Portugal, including Madeira. You can exchange your money at banks, currency exchange offices, or use ATMs.
  • Safety: Funchal is generally a safe city, but take normal precautions to protect yourself and your belongings.

Other Things to Do

  • Take a cable car ride: The Funchal Cable Car offers stunning views of the city and surrounding landscape. It’s a great way to get a feel for the city.
  • Visit the Fortaleza de São Tiago: A historic fort located on a hill overlooking Funchal. It offers stunning views of the city and a glimpse into the island’s rich military history.
  • Explore the island’s natural beauty: Madeira is home to many beautiful beaches, forests, and mountains. Take a guided tour or rent a car to explore the island’s natural wonders.

I hope this itinerary helps you plan your trip to Funchal!