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Things to do in Funchal
1. Explore the Old Town
Take a leisurely walk through Funchal's charming Old Town, filled with narrow cobbled streets, historic buildings, and colorful houses. Stop by the Mercado Dos Lavradores, a bustling market where you can find fresh produce, local crafts, and traditional food specialties.
2. Take the Monte Cable Car
Enjoy breathtaking views of Funchal and its surroundings by taking a ride on the Monte Cable Car. This scenic cable car takes you up to Monte, where you can visit the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden and the Monte Church.
3. Visit the Botanical Garden
Discover a lush oasis in the heart of Funchal at the Madeira Botanical Garden. Wander through the beautifully landscaped gardens, home to a wide variety of exotic plants and flowers. Don't miss the stunning views of Funchal Bay from the garden's vantage points.
4. Try Madeira Wine Tasting
Indulge in a tasting of Madeira wine, the famous fortified wine that has been produced in the region for centuries. Visit one of the many wineries in Funchal to learn about the production process and sample different varieties of this unique wine.
5. Relax on Funchal's Beaches
Take advantage of Funchal's sunny climate and beautiful coastline by spending a day at one of its beaches. Praia Formosa is the largest public beach in Funchal, offering calm waters and stunning views. Alternatively, you can choose to visit the rocky Ponta Gorda pools.
6. Explore the Madeira Story Centre
Immerse yourself in the history and culture of Madeira at the Madeira Story Centre. Through interactive exhibits and multimedia presentations, learn about the island's volcanic origins, its flora and fauna, and the rich traditions and customs of its people.
7. Visit the Sé Cathedral
Admire the grandeur of Funchal's Sé Cathedral, a magnificent 15th-century church known for its Gothic and Moorish architectural elements. Step inside to marvel at the beautiful stained glass windows and the intricate woodwork of the ceiling.
8. Discover the Madeira Whale Museum
Learn about Madeira's rich marine life and whaling history at the Madeira Whale Museum. Explore exhibits showcasing the different species of whales found in the region, the techniques used for hunting them, and the importance of their conservation.
9. Visit the Monte Palace Madeira
Embark on a journey through art and culture at the Monte Palace Madeira. This museum showcases an impressive collection of African, Oriental, and Portuguese decorative arts and artifacts. The museum is located within the beautiful Monte Palace Tropical Garden.
10. Go on a Levada Walk
Experience the natural beauty of Madeira by going on a levada walk. These irrigation channels run throughout the island, offering picturesque hiking trails along lush landscapes and scenic viewpoints. Choose a levada walk that suits your fitness level and enjoy a memorable outdoor adventure.