The Ultimate Funchal (Madeira) Solo Travel Guide

Planning a solo trip to Funchal (Madeira), Portugal? Here’s everything you need to know for your visit:

QUICK FACTS

The capital of Portugal’s Autonomous Region of Madeira, with a population of ~112,000.
The city’s name is derived from the large amount of fennel (funcho) that grows on the island.
First settled in the early 15th century by the Portuguese explorer João Gonçalves Zarco.
Geographically, Madeira is closer to Morocco than it is to Portugal.

Currency: Euro (EUR)
Spoken languages: Portuguese. English is widely spoken in tourist areas.
Best time to visit: from April to August for the best weather.
Funchal has a mild climate year-round, with average temperatures ranging from 16°C (61°F) in winter to 23°C (73°F) in summer.
Great festivals to catch:
– Funchal Flower Festival (April): celebrating the blooming flowers with parades, flower displays, and street decorations.
– Madeira Wine Festival (September): visitors can sample the famous Madeira wine, enjoy live music, and participate in local cultural activities.
Arriving via airport (Funchal Airport/Madeira international): many opt to rent a car and drive to the city directly from the airport, as renting a car is a great way to see the area in general.
The Aero-bus is an express bus service between the airport and Funchal, and costs around 5.50 EUR (8 EUR return). Taxis are also available outside the airport, and a ride to the city is around 25 EUR.

Best hostel for solo travelers in Funchal: 29 Madeira Hostel. Clean, comfortable, cozy – with friendly staff and a big kitchen if you need it. Perfect for exploring the island (located in the old town center), walking distance to the airport bus. Late check-in available, also free coffee/tea for guests.
Try areas such as Cliff Bay and Porto Mare for great accommodation options.
Luxury hotels can be found in the Lido area.

Funchal is a small enough city that walking is often the best way to get around.
Buses cover routes around Funchal and up to Monte (single rides are 1.90 EUR).
Downloading the “Move Funchal” app to easily track bus routes and schedules.
The Funchal City Sightseeing bus tour (around 18€ for a 24-hour ticket) is a quick way to get an overview of the city.
Taxis are ideal for trips further afield. Try the bolt app as an alternative to taxis.
Car rental is available at the airport. However, driving here is not for the faint of heart (hills, narrow streets).
Electric scooter rentals are available – could be a fun way to zip around (e.g from Lido to Central Funchal).

Drinking age is 18, last call is 6 AM.
The nightlife in Funchal is fairly tame during the week (weekends are your best bet). During the week, some bars may host events or live music.
Mini Eco Bar: intimate atmosphere and live music.
Vespas: popular nightclub for dancing.
Best bars to check out in Funchal: Revolucion Bar (artisanal cocktails), Lido’s Tavern (casual), and Rei da Poncha.

Sé Cathedral (built between 1493 and 1517) is the most visited monument in Funchal, and a central point of the city.
São Lourenço Palace (Palácio de São Lourenço) – with its beautiful architecture, this fortress/palace has many rooms and gardens to explore.
Head up to Monte (the peak) via cable car (16€ round trip) and view the city from above. You can also visit the church at Monte and the Monte Palace Gardens.
– If you’re feeling adventurous, try the wicker sled ride down the hill (around 30-40€)!
– Tip: book the cable car and/or sled ride in advance during peak tourist season.
Have extra time? Day trip ideas include: Porto Moniz (natural swimming pools) or the sleepy village of Câmara de Lobos.
CR7 Museum, dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo, Madeira’s most famous son (entry fee about 5€).
Jardim Botânico (Botanical Garden), showcasing Madeira’s diverse flora (entry fee about 6€).

Take a walk along the promenade, from the Lido to Praia Formosa. This walk is around 3 kilometres, and offers beautiful views of the ocean the whole way!
Visit the Levada walks, such as Levada do Caldeirão Verde, for beautiful hikes through the island’s lush landscapes. Emphasize that these require varying levels of fitness and adventure.
For local handicrafts, check out Rua de Santa Maria in the Old Town, known for its art galleries and shops.
Make your way to Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost point of Madeira, for dramatic cliff views.
Funchal itself is a beautiful place to walk around in.

Great local dishes to try: Bolo do Caco (a garlic bread) and Scabbard Fish with Banana.
Visit Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers Market) for fresh local produce, seafood, and unique souvenirs.
Great restaurants to try in Funchal: Restaurante O Polar ($), As Vides Restaurant ($$ – try the espetada), White House Pub ($$ – great food in a bar environment), Abrigo do Pastor ($$), O Tasco ($$ – seafood).
Sabor a Fado ($$) for traditional food and Fado music performances.
Where to find good cheap eats: the city is full of good places to eat, with many places offering traditional Madeiran cuisine. Look for small seafood restaurants in Lido and Praia Formosa. Keep in mind that most places are expensive. Ask the locals for the best affordable spots.
Tipping: customary to round up the bill to the nearest Euro.
Many restaurants offer “espetada” nights with traditional skewered meat and folk dancing.

Avoid taking coach tours to the popular places in Funchal or the surrounding areas in Madeira when possible – you’ll find that by hiring a car or walking that you can spend time at attractions how you want, rather than being rushed.
Even a few basic phrases in Portuguese go a long way: “Obrigado/a” (Thank you), “Por favor” (Please), and “Onde fica…?” (Where is…?).
Poncha, a traditional alcoholic drink made with aguardente de cana (sugarcane rum), honey, and lemon juice, is a must-try.
Wine lover? Consider visiting a Madeira wine lodge for tastings (prices range from 5-15€ depending on the selection).
Whilst spending time in Funchal, make the most of the many boat trips that are on offer that can give you unique views of the island – they’re worth it!
Dangerous areas: none, as Funchal is very safe. Still, try to avoid poorly lit areas at night if walking alone.

Recommended trip length: 4-5 days (to fully experience the island)