Funchal is the capital city of Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago in the Atlantic Ocean. The city is known for its vibrant culture, stunning landscapes, and scenic port which attracts numerous cruise ships every year. Funchal is a destination that should be on every traveler’s bucket list. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll cover everything you need to know about the Departure Port Funchal, Madeira.
Table of Contents
History of Funchal, Madeira
Funchal, which means “fennel” in Portuguese, was named after the abundance of this herb that grew wild on the island. Madeira was discovered by Portuguese explorers in 1419 and Funchal was established in 1421. The city developed into a major commercial center and trading post with a busy port. Over the years, Funchal has been under the rule of different colonial powers, including the Spanish and British, before it became a part of Portugal.
Cruise Lines Departing from Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is a popular departure port for many cruise lines. The city’s port is well-equipped to handle large vessels and offers a convenient starting point for exploring the region. Here are the major and small-ship cruise lines departing from Funchal, Madeira.
Major Cruise Lines Departing from Funchal, Madeira
- MSC Cruises
- TUI Cruises
- P&O Cruises
- Fred. Olsen Cruise Lines
Small-Ship Cruise Lines Departing from Funchal, Madeira
- Noble Caledonia
- Windstar Cruises
- Azamara Club Cruises
- Silversea Cruises
Tourist attractions in Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is a fascinating city with plenty of tourist attractions to explore. Whether you’re interested in history, culture, or nature, there’s something for everyone. Here are the must-visit tourist attractions in Funchal, Madeira.
Must-Visit Tourist Attractions in Funchal, Madeira
- Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- Funchal Cathedral
- Cristiano Ronaldo Museum
- Madeira Story Centre
- Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers’ Market)
Hidden Tourist Attractions in Funchal, Madeira
- Santa Clara Convent
- Quinta Vigia Palace Gardens
- Forte de São Tiago
- Igreja do Colégio Church
- Santa Maria Street Art District
Tips for Planning a Cruise Vacation from Funchal, Madeira
Planning a cruise vacation can be overwhelming, but with the right tips, it can be an enjoyable experience. Here are some pre-cruise planning and cruise travel tips.
Pre-Cruise Planning Tips
- Book your cruise well in advance to get the best deals.
- Research the cruise line and ship to find the best fit for you.
- Check the visa requirements for the countries you’ll be visiting.
- Pack light and bring comfortable shoes for shore excursions.
Cruise Travel Tips
- Attend the safety briefing before setting sail.
- Take advantage of the onboard activities and entertainment.
- Be mindful of the dress code for formal nights.
- Try the local cuisine at each port of call.
Shopping in Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is a great place to shop for souvenirs, local crafts, and traditional products. Here are the best places for shopping in Funchal, Madeira.
Best Places for Shopping in Funchal, Madeira
- Avenida Arriaga
- Old Town Market
- Forum Madeira Shopping Center
- Armazem do Mercado (Market Warehouse)
- Madeira Wine Company
Tips for Shopping in Funchal, Madeira
- Bargain with vendors at the market.
- Buy local specialties like Madeira wine and embroidery.
- Check for tax-free shopping options.
- Bring cash in euros, as credit cards may not be accepted at some shops.
Eateries and Restaurants in Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is a food lover’s paradise with a variety of local and international cuisine to choose from. Here are the best restaurants in Funchal, Madeira.
Best Restaurants in Funchal, Madeira
- Armazém do Sal
- Taberna Ruel
- Casa da Quinta
- Riso Risottoria del Mundo
- O Tapassol
Local Cuisine to Try in Funchal, Madeira
- Espetada (beef skewers)
- Bolo de caco (traditional bread)
- Lapas (limpets)
- Espada com banana (scabbard fish with banana)
- Poncha (traditional drink made with rum, honey, and lemon)
Best time to visit Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is a year-round destination with a mild climate and pleasant weather. Here’s what you need to know about weather, peak season, and off-season in Funchal, Madeira.
Weather in Funchal, Madeira
Funchal has a subtropical climate with warm temperatures throughout the year. The average temperature is around 20°C (68°F), and the warmest months are July and August.
Peak Season and Off-Season in Funchal, Madeira
The peak season in Funchal is from June to September when the weather is warm and sunny. The off-season is from November to March when the weather is cooler and rainier. However, Funchal is a great destination to visit year-round.
Things to Do Near the Port in Funchal, Madeira
If you have some time to spare before or after your cruise, there are plenty of things to do near the port in Funchal, Madeira. Here are some beaches and museums to check out.
Beaches Near the Port in Funchal, Madeira
- Praia Formosua
- Barreirinha Beach Complex
- Lido Beach
Museums Near the Port in Funchal, Madeira
- Museu CR7 (Cristiano Ronaldo Museum)
- Madeira Wine Museum
- Quinta das Cruzes Museum
Shore Excursions from Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is a gateway to some of the most beautiful destinations in the region. Here are some popular and unique shore excursions from Funchal, Madeira.
Popular Shore Excursions from Funchal, Madeira
- Levada walks (hiking trails along the water channels)
- Dolphin and whale watching tours
- Jeep tours to the island’s interior
- Visit to the Pico do Arieiro (Madeira’s third-highest peak)
- Visit to the Cabo Girão Skywalk (Europe’s highest cliff skywalk)
Unique Shore Excursions from Funchal, Madeira
- Visit to the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
- Madeira wine tasting tours
- Cable car ride to the hilltop village of Monte
- Visit to the Curral das Freiras (Nun’s Valley)
- Visit to the Porto Santo Island (Madeira’s sister island)
Transportation in Funchal, Madeira
Getting around Funchal is easy and convenient. Here’s what you need to know about getting to and from the port and public transportation in Funchal, Madeira.
Getting to And from The Port in Funchal, Madeira
The port in Funchal is located in the city center and is within walking distance of many tourist attractions. Taxis and buses are also available for transportation.
Public Transportation in Funchal, Madeira
The public transportation system in Funchal consists of buses and taxis. Buses are a convenient way to get around the city and the island.
What Makes Funchal, Madeira a Must-See Destination Before a Cruise?
Funchal, Madeira is a must-see destination before your cruise because it offers the best of Travemunde before your cruise. With its stunning natural beauty, delicious cuisine, and rich history, Funchal has something for every traveler. Explore the colorful markets, lush gardens, and breathtaking views that make Funchal unforgettable.
Costs and expenses in Funchal, Madeira
Funchal is a budget-friendly destination with a range of accommodation options and activities to suit every budget. Here’s what you need to know about the average costs for a cruise vacation from Funchal, Madeira and tips for budgeting.
Average Costs for A Cruise Vacation from Funchal, Madeira
- Cruise fares: $1000-$2000 per person
- Excursions: $50-$150 per person
- Meals: $20-$50 per person per day
- Accommodation: $50-$200 per person per night
Tips for Budgeting in Funchal, Madeira
- Book your cruise and excursions in advance for the best deals.
- Eat at local restaurants for affordable meals.
- Stay in budget-friendly accommodation options like hostels or apartments.
- Take advantage of free activities and attractions in Funchal.
In conclusion, Funchal, Madeira is a fascinating destination with plenty to offer for cruise travelers. From the city’s rich history to its stunning landscapes and local cuisine, there’s something for everyone. We hope this guide has given you all the information you need to plan a memorable cruise vacation from the Departure Port Funchal, Madeira.
