Funchal

Funchal sits on the south coast of Portugal and is the capital of the autonomous region of Madeira. Its historic centre, harbour, and markets are within moderately easy reach of Madeira's mountain and coastal landscapes.

 

Direct flights from Manchester to Funchal take around 3 hours 55 minutes, arriving at Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC). Jet2, Ryanair and easyJet operate non-stop services on the route. Connecting options are also available if a direct flight does not suit your dates.

 

Flights from Manchester to Funchal are available throughout the year.

 

Steep green hills rise behind the harbour, and ancient streets descend towards the Atlantic. Average temperatures across Madeira range from around 17°C in winter to 25°C in summer. Spring and autumn are well suited to walking the island's levada trails. Summer is the perfect time to relax in one of the city's charming eateries after a day of sightseeing.

 

Funchal's oldest streets are found around the Zona Velha, or Old Town. Rua de Santa Maria is known for its colourful painted doors, cafés, and historic buildings. Above the centre, a cable car climbs to Monte Palace Tropical Garden. The garden boasts exotic plants, koi ponds, and a collection of historic tiles. Feeling adventurous? Why not experience a ride in one of the traditional wicker toboggans that travel downhill from Monte, guided by drivers known as carreiros?

 

In the city centre, visit Funchal Cathedral (Sé), a late 15th-century landmark featuring a Madeiran cedar ceiling decorated in the Mudéjar tradition.

 

Visit Mercado dos Lavradores, Funchal's historic market, where stalls sell flowers, tropical fruit, and fresh fish. When it's time to eat, savour local dishes such as black scabbardfish and espetada. This traditional beef skewer dish is seasoned with garlic and bay leaves. Milho frito, or fried cornmeal, is a popular local side dish that's well worth trying.

 

If you enjoy sweet alcoholic beverages, try poncha, a local drink made with sugar-cane spirit, honey, and lemon. Madeira is also renowned for its fortified wines. They are available in a range of styles, from dry to sweet.