Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, is a picturesque and vibrant destination with a rich history dating back centuries. Nestled on the southern coast of Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean, Funchal has evolved from a humble fishing village to a bustling urban center.
The history of Funchal can be traced back to the 15th century when Portuguese explorers, led by João Gonçalves Zarco, discovered the island of Madeira. The fertile land and favorable climate of the region attracted settlers who established the town of Funchal around a natural harbor. The name “Funchal” is derived from the abundance of fennel (“funcho” in Portuguese) that grew in the area.
In the modern era, Funchal has transformed into a cosmopolitan destination catering to diverse tourists. Its charming streets are lined with colorful houses, vibrant markets, and quaint shops selling traditional crafts and local delicacies. The city also hosts numerous festivals and events, including the famous Madeira Wine Festival, which celebrates the region’s renowned fortified wines.
Funchal’s natural surroundings add to its allure, with rugged mountains and breathtaking vistas overlooking the Atlantic Ocean. You can explore the island’s rugged beauty through activities such as hiking, whale watching, and levada walks.
When to Visit Funchal
If you want to enjoy the beach and the sun, the best time to visit Funchal is from June to September. The average temperature is around 25°C, and the sea is warm enough to swim in. You can also join the locals in celebrating the Atlantic Festival in June with fireworks, music, and cultural events.
If you want to explore nature and the mountains, the best time to visit Funchal is from October to May. The weather is more relaxed and wetter, but this also means that the landscape is greener and more lush. You can walk along the levadas, the irrigation channels that crisscross the island, or visit the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. You can also experience the Flower Festival in April or May, which showcases the island’s rich floral diversity.
Where to Stay in Funchal
Funchal offers a diverse range of accommodation options to suit various preferences and budgets. You can choose from a variety of dazzling hotels to simple bed and breakfasts. If you are looking for a budget-friendly place or those seeking a more social atmosphere, hostels in Funchal provide affordable dormitory-style rooms and communal spaces for socializing. If you are a nature lover, you may also find eco-lodges and rural retreats in and around Funchal, providing a serene and natural setting. With such a wide array of accommodation choices, you can find the perfect place to stay that suits your preferences and enhances your overall experience. If you are looking for great places where to stay in Funchal, Madeira, here are some of them.
Best Hotels to Stay in Funchal
Funchal’s luxurious hotels offer spacious rooms, stunning views, and exceptional amenities such as spas, pools, and fine dining restaurants. You can enjoy personalized service and culinary excellence, along with exclusive experiences like wine tastings and yacht charters. A stay in a luxurious hotel provides a memorable and indulgent experience in Funchal. Here are the most luxurious places where to stay in Funchal.
🔗Reid’s Palace: Reid’s Palace in Funchal is the top choice for a luxurious stay. The hotel’s rich history and stunning location overlooking the ocean offers tastefully decorated rooms, world-class service, and gourmet dining options. You can also enjoy extensive facilities and amenities, including multiple swimming pools, a spa, and various leisure activities. Reid’s Palace is the ultimate choice for those seeking a truly luxurious and unforgettable experience. Reid’s Palace is the hotel in Funchal where Churchill stayed.
🔗Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino: If you are visiting Funchal and looking for a luxurious place to stay, you should consider Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino. This hotel offers you a stunning view of the bay, a relaxing spa, a large outdoor pool, and a casino where you can try your luck. You will also enjoy the modern design of the rooms, the delicious cuisine of the restaurants, and the proximity to the city center and the marina. Pestana Casino Park Hotel & Casino is more than just a place to sleep; it is an experience you will never forget.
🔗Savoy Palace: Savoy Palace is a five-star hotel in the heart of Funchal, Madeira. It offers luxurious accommodation, with an outdoor pool, spa, and garden. You can enjoy local and international cuisine at the hotel’s restaurants and bars. It has the best restaurant Funchal. The hotel is close to many attractions and offers bike and car rentals and airport transfers. Savoy Palace is the perfect choice for a luxurious stay in Madeira.
Best Hotels for Couples in Funchal
If you are looking for a romantic getaway with your partner, consider Funchal, the capital of Madeira. Funchal is a charming city with a rich history, pleasant climate, and vibrant culture. You can stroll along the seafront, visit the colorful market, taste the local wine, and enjoy the views of the mountains and the sea. Funchal also offers a wide range of accommodations, from cozy guesthouses to luxurious hotels. You can find something to suit your budget and style. Whether you want to relax, explore or have fun, Funchal has something for everyone. Here are some of the best hotels where to stay in Funchal, Portugal, for couples.
🔗Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel: If you are looking for a place to spend a romantic vacation with your partner, the Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel is a great option. This 5-star hotel sits atop a cliff overlooking the sea and offers direct access to the crystal-clear Atlantic water. You can relax in the two outdoor saltwater pools, enjoy spa treatments, or visit the dive center. The hotel also has four restaurants and two bars for you to taste the island’s cuisine and wines. In addition, the hotel is just a 10-minute walk from the center of Funchal, where you can explore the city’s culture and history. The Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel is the perfect place where to stay in Funchal for you and your loved one to enjoy unforgettable moments on the island of Madeira.
🔗The Cliff Bay – PortoBay: The Cliff Bay – PortoBay in Funchal is an ideal choice for couples seeking a memorable and romantic getaway. With its breathtaking oceanfront location, luxurious accommodations, romantic dining experiences, secluded setting, wellness facilities, personalized service, and exceptional romantic experiences, the hotel provides everything couples need for a truly unforgettable stay. You will enjoy stunning views, indulge in gourmet meals, relax at the spa, and create cherished memories in this idyllic haven designed for couples in Funchal.
🔗The Vine Hotel: The Vine Hotel in Funchal is perfect for couples seeking a romantic getaway. With elegant rooms and a stunning rooftop terrace, it offers breathtaking views and a serene atmosphere. The hotel’s gourmet restaurant, wellness facilities, and central location make it an ideal choice for those looking to explore the city. With attentive service and luxurious accommodations, couples are sure to have an unforgettable experience.
Best Hotels for Families with Kids in Funchal
Funchal offers a variety of attractions for families with kids. The city boasts stunning natural beauty, theme parks, water activities, educational museums and exhibitions, cultural events, and diverse accommodation options. Families can explore lush gardens, take boat tours, participate in local festivities, and enjoy family-friendly amenities and services. Funchal guarantees an exciting and memorable vacation for families. There are also great accommodation options. Here are the best Funchal hotels for families.
🔗Enotel Lido – All Inclusive: Enotel Lido – All Inclusive is a family-friendly hotel in Funchal with amenities like all-inclusive dining, a children’s pool, water slides, a playground, and a kids’ club. The hotel offers spacious accommodations for families to relax and entertainment programs to create lasting memories. Safety and security measures are in place, and the location provides easy access to various family-friendly attractions. Enotel Lido is one of the best hotels where to stay in Funchal for families with kids.
🔗VidaMar Resort Hotel Madeira – Dine Around Half Board: VidaMar Resort Hotel Madeira is perfect for families visiting Funchal with kids. The hotel has spacious and family-friendly accommodations with a Dine Around Half Board option with kid-friendly dining choices. The hotel has plenty of kid-friendly facilities, including children’s pools, water slides, playgrounds, and supervised activities at the kids’ club. VidaMar Resort Hotel Madeira is also located near the beach, providing easy access to water sports activities and family-friendly attractions in Funchal. Additionally, the hotel prioritizes safety measures and security for its guests, ensuring peace of mind for families. It’s the perfect setting for families to relax and create lasting memories. VidaMar Resort is an excellent place in Funchal where to stay.
🔗Quinta Jardins do Lago: Quinta Jardins do Lago in Funchal is a great choice for families. It has spacious rooms and apartments, beautiful gardens, an outdoor pool, and recreational facilities. The hotel also offers family-oriented services like babysitting and children’s menus. The staff is attentive and friendly, and the location is close to family-friendly attractions. It is a great place where to stay in Funchal and guarantees a memorable family vacation.
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