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Cheap Holidays to Funchal

Sitting on Madeira's south coast is the capital city of Funchal, boasting quaint cobbled streets with alluring architecture, modern shopping malls and a stylish marina. Holidays to Funchal are all about flitting between its four beautiful beaches during the day and hitting the cocktail bars at night, with plenty of upmarket restaurants to dine in too. One of the top destinations for winter sun or early spring getaways, Funchal has balmy year-round temperatures and with fabulous last minute holidays and a great range of hotels to choose from, couples, families and friends will not be disappointed.

 

You'll find all sorts to explore in this 500-year-old capital, but the famous flower-scented gardens are a must-visit for nature lovers, and then, of course, the beaches are a huge pull. You'll discover an olde worlde atmosphere in the old town, which lets hints of tradition slip through the city's cosmopolitan vibe. If planned wisely, Funchal is not that expensive to travel and you can visit major tourist spots via its Monte cable car – which serves up panoramic views of the city, too. Funchal witnesses a pretty moderate climate all year-round, the summers are dry and the winter months experience slight rains. The best time to visit Funchal is during the months of spring, however you could also visit during the winters and witness spectacular new year fireworks.

 

Madeira Airport is the nearest airport to Funchal located at a distance of 21 km from the city. Whether you're looking to go away for a weekend or longer, Funchal holidays are fantastic for colourful city breaks.

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A Guide to Funchal Holidays

Madeira's Magnificent Beaches

Madeira's Magnificent Beaches

Madeira is a magnet for lovers of the great outdoors. Funchal has some exquisite beaches that spread from east to west, such as Barreirinha near the old town, Praia de Sao Tiga and the pretty pebble beach Praia de Gurgulho, each ideal for sunbathing and swimming. The Lido complex, with its two sea water pools, is a favourite with tourists. You can also take a long, leisurely stroll along the promenade which stretches from Yacht Marina to Fortress Santiago eastward.

Shopping in Funchal

Shopping in Funchal

Funchal is a mecca for serious shoppers with an array of supermarkets, signature stores and bazaars to browse through. While the La Vie shopping centre and Continente supermarkets stock everything from electronics, clothing and footwear, the Market Hall and Mercado de Lavradores are good for fruits, meat, vegetables and local produce. You'll love the energy, sights and sounds in the last two, too!

 
Catch the Cable Car to the Monte

Catch the Cable Car to the Monte

Offering phenomenal panoramic views, this fun cable car trip takes around 15-minutes to go between the station at the Parque Almitante Reis in the old part of Funchal, and the Monte Station next to the Tropical Palace Garden. You can pay for a return trip if you like, or head back down to the base station via the famous Toboggan Run!

Enjoy some Wine Tasting

Enjoy some Wine Tasting

Is it even possible to visit Madeira without sampling its famous wine? We don’t think so. Funchal is home to Old Blandy’s Wine Lodge, where you can wander through the cellars and museum, before sampling some of its delicious wines – some of which are vintage and a little expensive, but some are reasonably priced.

Getting Around Funchal

🚌 Transport in the Funchal Region

Hiring a car is a great if you plan on exploring Madeira, but you probably won’t need one if you’re staying in Funchal as the city is very compact. Taxis are easily available from Madeira airport and will take you to the town. Once you arrive, there are plenty of buses that run through Funchal. Why not take the cable car for fabulous views of the city?

Travelling by bus or carAlmost all of the island buses (which are part of the Madeira bus network) run through Funchal. City buses can take you around the city and to Monte. There is a cable car that takes you up to the peaks of Monte and toboggans that take you back down to Funchal, if you’re up for the ride! It is advisable to pick up an up to date bus timetable from the local tourist office, which can be bought for pocket change. If you’re hoping to explore beyond Funchal, hiring a car is a great way to do so independently and at your own pace. Driving here is on the right-hand side and car hire is easily available from the airport.  
Passports and Visas

You don’t need a visa to enjoy a holiday in Madeira, but your passport should be valid for at least the duration of your visit. For more information and advice, visitwww.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/entry-requirements or the Foreign Office at www.fco.gov.uk/en/

Health and Safety

Travel insurance is essential, and complements the EHIC which is valid in Madeira and entitles you to free emergency care. For more info, see www.gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice/portugal/health

Vaccinations

You shouldn’t need any specific vaccinations for your holiday in Madeira, but double check with your GP before you go. Routine jabs should be up to date.

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