Funchal Holidays

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Funchal is Madeira's capital, a fascinating town set in a stunning natural harbour with views out across the Atlantic. It's an idyllic destination, perfect for couples, families and those who want to relax in a laid-back atmosphere on Madeira holidays.

Lush mountains climb behind the town, providing a warm, sheltered climate that first attracted settlers. Joao Goncalves Zarco first established the town in 1421, and King Manuel I granted city status in 1508. The name Funchal was chosen because of the abundance of fennel ('funcho' in Portuguese) that was growing there. The city prospered as shipping post, and has been island's capital for five centuries.

Today Funchal is a modern town that still retains its old world grandeur, particularly in the historic centre and old quarter. The seafront and marina are natural attractions for people on holidays to Funchal, and the west of the town is the hotel zone. There's plenty to keep you busy on Funchal holidays, you could probably spend an entire holiday exploring the town, but luckily the rest of the island is easily accessible from here so it's a perfect base for a Madeira holiday.

Weather

Madeira enjoys a wonderful sub-tropical climate due to its location and mountainous landscape. Funchal's sheltered bay lends the town especially fine weather. The sun shines all year and temperatures range from a low of 16° Celsius in the winter to about 25° Celsius in the summer. Outside the summer you should expect some rainfall, but these showers rarely last long.

Attractions

Funchal boasts a wealth of attractions in a relatively small area; most places can be reached on foot and strolling through the steep cobbled streets is probably the best way to experience the town. The Se, Funchal's cathedral, was built between 1485 and 1514 and is a must-see for any visitor, as is the religious art collection housed in the Museu de Arte Sacra. The Praca do Municipio is an attractive square with black and white paving and the town's municipal centre. The Mercado dos Lavaradores is a covered market where flower growers, farmers and fishermen bring their wares from all over the island and shouldn't be missed!

No holiday in Funchal would be complete without a spot of wine tasting. For a taste of the famous Madeira wine head to Old Blandy's Wine Lodge, the oldest lodge on the island. Madeira is famous as a garden island, and Funchal's Botanical Gardens are a place of pilgrimage for flower lovers, with blossoms from around the world on show. With so much to see and do, you'll come back from your Funchal holidays rejuvenated and with some great snaps.