The Cultural Capital of Madeira
Funchal is the capital of Madeira extends like an amphitheatre on the southern coast of the island, its name derives from the abundance of the fennel plant (funcho), which was an important commercial port and its center is crossed by cobbled streets full of bars and typical restaurants.
Our suggestion on what to visit in Funchal is the “Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro” park, a terraced property that over time has been transformed into a public park reminiscent of the English ones. Then you can go to the "Mercado dos Lavradores", a historic building on two levels used for the sale of fresh and typical island food products with a special mention on fruit: banana, mangoes, passion fruit and more. Not to mention the “Jardim Botanico” with the “Natural History Museum” not far away. From the garden you can enjoy a beautiful view over the Bay of Funchal which can also be reached with the cable car “Teleferico do Funchal”.
As on the rest of the island, natural beaches are also scarce in Funchal, being of volcanic origin we find a rocky coast, but the locals have opened various bathhouses with access to the sea through natural pools with seawater.
