Is Funchal touristy?

Is Funchal touristy? Located in a bay bathed by the Atlantic Ocean on Madeira's south coast, Funchal is the capital and the archipelago's tourist, cultural and commercial centre.

Is Madeira Island crowded?

September to October tend to be the quieter months on the island. But there is a general flow of tourists all year-long. The busier months are July and August. Christmas time and winter holidays are also popular times.

Do I need cash in Funchal?

Most places in Madeira do take cards, but you'll need some cash for buses, and I've heard that some of the cable cars only take cash too (the cable car from the promenade in Funchal does take cards). The small shops and cafes I visited all took cards but it's best to have some money just in case.

Is Funchal a party island?

So, if you want to go out partying, Funchal is where you need to be. The capital has countless leisure options with bars, pubs, nightclubs and live music venues with something for everyone.

Is Madeira a party place?

Most of Madeira's nightlife is found in its capital, Funchal, the only city of any size on the island. Outside of Funchal, Madeira has small towns or villages that are totally unlike tourist resorts. So, if you want to go out partying, Funchal is where you need to be.

What is special about Funchal?

With grand botanical gardens and impressive ocean panoramas from weathered palaces, the city rises up the mountainous hills to make the most of the splendid natural setting. Funchal is also the gateway to the rest of Madeira island's nature-laden attractions, with the archipelago's principal port and airport.

What is so special about Madeira?

Madeira is renowned for its landscapes, lore—and its legendary wine, which graced the tables of America's Founding Fathers.

Is Funchal worth seeing?

The capital of Madeira is the perfect city to explore at your own pace. Walking around Funchal is always a pleasant experience, as the green of the mountains and the blue of the ocean accompany you while you discover this city by the sea.

Is Madeira more expensive than Portugal?

With both rent and restaurant prices being around 25% cheaper than in Lisbon, Funchal allows you to live your island dream without paying the more expensive prices of mainland Portugal.

Can you walk around Funchal?

Walking in Madeira, especially Funchal is easy, although there are streets such as Rua de Santa Maria and others in the Zona Velha (Old Town) that are cobblestoned. We recommend comfortable walking shoes and take water with you.

Can I drink the tap water in Funchal?

Tap water is absolutely fine to drink in Madeira, and we often don't even bother with bottled water in restaurants and just ask for a jug or glass of tap water. I think your husband may be in for quite a big surprise when he returns to the island after 35 years - mostly changes for the better but not all.

Is Madeira cheap or expensive?

Madeira in general isn't an expensive place to live. Housing, transport, and food are quite affordable for expats staying in Madeira longer term.

Is Madeira worth the hype?

In fact, Madeira was just voted Europe's “Leading Island Destination” in the World Travel Awards again (the sixth time in the last seven years). Less than four hours from London and with almost guaranteed sunshine, Madeira is an ideal winter break, or for that matter, anytime destination.

Is Funchal safe for solo female travellers?

Madeira is really safe for solo female travellers, that's why I've given it 5 out of 5 stars. Even the locals are proud of how clean and safe their island is. You can walk around Funchal (the capital) at night and I also walked home at the early hours of the morning in Ponta do Sol.

Can you swim in the sea in Funchal?

Located in Funchal, the Complexo Balnear do Lido, open year round, is a place for swimming enthusiasts, either in the sea or in a saltwater pool. Formosa Beach - A long beach that combines pebble and sandy areas, offering a complete swimming experience along the coast of Funchal.

Is Madeira too touristy?

Yes, Madeira is a popular destination and indeed some of the main tourist attractions can get quite busy. But for the biggest part, Madeira is still very quiet and undiscovered.

Is Funchal safe to walk at night?

Funchal is generally considered safe for female travelers. The city is known for its friendly locals and low crime rate. Women should still take the usual precautions when traveling, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables out of sight.

What is the difference between Madeira and Funchal?

If you don't already know, Funchal is the capital city of a magical Portuguese island archipelago in the middle of the Atlantic known as Madeira.

Which part of Madeira is most beautiful?

One of the greatest aspects of life in Madeira are its coastal villages. And Ponta do Sol is arguably the most beautiful.

Why is Funchal famous?

With grand botanical gardens and impressive ocean panoramas from weathered palaces, the city rises up the mountainous hills to make the most of the splendid natural setting. Funchal is also the gateway to the rest of Madeira island's nature-laden attractions, with the archipelago's principal port and airport.

Why is Madeira so cheap?

The average standard of living tends to be a bit lower than in mainland Portugal, and the local autonomous government gives generous subsidies coming from the tourist industry revenues and from the Portuguese national budget. Go where the locals go and everything will be cheap.