Funchal: Travel and tourism

Funchal is the capital of the Autonomous Region of Madeira, which includes this beautiful and densely wooded island and that of Porto Santo, with its long sandy beaches.

Funchal is the only city of importance in the archipelago; although it has become a popular tourist destination and is filled with hotels and restaurants, its historical atmosphere, fine buildings and museums, steep cobbled streets and lively and colourful market remain unspoiled.

The whole island boasts of breathtaking views, astonishing vegetation and imposing mountains and peaks. It is also a paradise for those who enjoy walking, as many of its wildest and most beautiful sites can only be reached by foot.

This is the case of Pico Ruivo, at the summit of Madeira's highest mountain (1861 metres), or of what is known as levada walks, where you walk along narrow water channels to reach points that are inaccessible by road.

However, those who are not quite prepared for this type of exercise can still tour the island by car and enjoy the magnificent and varied landscape or simply relax in one of Funchal's splendid hotels and go shopping: Madeira wine, fine embroidery, wicker-made products or even exotic flowers offer a good choice.