What part of Funchal is best to stay in?


What part of Funchal is best to stay in? For those searching for somewhere to stay in Funchal with easy access to the city's attractions, the Old Town – also known as Zona Velha – is your best option. This historic district is made up of ancient streets and traditional Madeiran buildings, many of which date back to the 15th century.


Which part of Madeira is best to stay?

Thanks to its proximity to main attractions and offering activities for all kinds of travelers, Funchal is the best town to stay in Madeira. Some of the best Madeira hotels that I highly recommend in this area are Savoy Palace and Golden Residence Hotel.


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.


What is the sunniest side of Madeira?

Madeira's west coast is considered the sunniest part of the island. It's an area widely sought after by those who love the sea and nature, but also Madeira's century-old traditions.


Which part of Funchal is the old town?

It is located in the lower part of the city, by the sea, where you can find some traditional restaurants integrated in old fishermen's houses and other residences from the 18th century.


Can you walk down from Monte to Funchal?

Moderate / high difficulty if you walking down (some walk the other way!). We took funicular (one-way 11 euro) to the top (Monte) and then walked the trail all the way down to Funchal. The first 1 km is a stone road. Then approximately 2km of steps in clay, often very steep.


Which side of Madeira is warmer?

Usually the south side of the island always presents itself with warmer temperature. When going to the north side, the temperature decreases, and in the center of the island, where the regions are higher, temperatures tend to be lower and there is some precipitation... some people call it the 4 seasons island.


Which month is best for Funchal?

Weather in Funchal The average temperature is around 26°C, which lowers to around 20°C to 25°C from October to March. The best time to go to Funchal for the most heat is in the summer. August is the hottest time of the year with just nine rainy days spread over the month.


Where should I stay for the first time in Madeira?

If you want to really explore the island your first time in Madeira, then I recommend staying in Funchal. You can get plenty of buses, taxis, and tours from the city center throughout the day and throughout the year.


How long is the cable car ride at Funchal?

The steep journey is approximately 3,200 metres long, climbing up a height of 560 metres. The line's speed can be regulated up to 5.0 m/s, which means the trip can be made in 11 minutes. Normally, however, the journey takes 15 minutes. Funchal Cable Car also uses the safest running and operational methods.


What is the main shopping street in Funchal?

One of the most iconic places to go shopping in Funchal is Rua Dr. Fernão de Ornelas, named after the mayor who, in the first half of the 20th century, prepared the city to welcome tourism.


What are the different areas of Funchal?

Areas in Funchal
  • São Martinho 1,138.
  • Ajuda - Amparo - Piornais, São Martinho 734.
  • Sé 344.
  • Santo António 266.
  • Virtudes - Barreiros, São Martinho 254.
  • Santa Maria Maior 241.
  • Santa Luzia 199.
  • São Pedro 150.


Is the weather better on the north or south of Madeira?

The southern coast has the warmer temperatures; the southwest coast in particular, benefitting from being protected by the mountains, has the greatest amount of sun hours. The northern coast is much greener and less developed, and being more open to the prevailing climate, tends to be a little cooler.


Is Funchal a walkable city?

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 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 are the famous streets in Funchal?

Streets that tell stories
  • Funchal Downtown.
  • Praça do Povo.
  • Avenida Arriaga.
  • Funchal Seaside Promenade.


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.


What is the most expensive part of Madeira?

Funchal is the most expensive place to buy property on the islands – given its higher demand and abundance of services.