Driving in FunchalParking in the city is ample, but be aware that parking spaces marked in blue are pay parking, and if you fail to pay, then you could end up with a hefty ticket.
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Walking Tours in Funchal, PortugalCreating your own self-guided walk in Funchal is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
It is possible to get around Madeira without a car, to see the major sights: Bus – There is a network of public transportation – Especially if you are staying in Funchal.
It is possible to get around Madeira without a car, to see the major sights: Bus – There is a network of public transportation – Especially if you are staying in Funchal. Organized tours – There are several companies running tours around the island: boat tours, minibus tour, jeep tours, hiking tours…
The capital of Madeira is the perfect city to explore at your own pace. Walking around Funchal is always a pleasant experience, as the green of the mountains and the blue of the ocean accompany you while you discover this city by the sea.
Madeira is a tiny island, approximately 35 miles at the longest point and maximum width of 14 miles, and the entire island can be driven in less than 4 hours without stopping.
Most places in Madeira do take cards, but you'll need some cash for buses, and I've heard that some of the cable cars only take cash too (the cable car from the promenade in Funchal does take cards). The small shops and cafes I visited all took cards but it's best to have some money just in case.
Visiting MadeiraHowever, there are other means of transport available such as buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycles and scooters. It is also worth mentioning the importance of the cable cars, which connect to some of the archipelago's most iconic points of interest.
The steep journey is approximately 3,200 metres long, climbing up a height of 560 metres. The line's speed can be regulated up to 5.0 m/s, which means the trip can be made in 11 minutes. Normally, however, the journey takes 15 minutes. Funchal Cable Car also uses the safest running and operational methods.
Funchal is generally considered safe for female travelers. The city is known for its friendly locals and low crime rate. Women should still take the usual precautions when traveling, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables out of sight.
For those searching for somewhere to stay in Funchal with easy access to the city's attractions, the Old Town – also known as Zona Velha – is your best option. This historic district is made up of ancient streets and traditional Madeiran buildings, many of which date back to the 15th century.
The average standard of living tends to be a bit lower than in mainland Portugal, and the local autonomous government gives generous subsidies coming from the tourist industry revenues and from the Portuguese national budget. Go where the locals go and everything will be cheap.
Weather in FunchalThe average temperature is around 26°C, which lowers to around 20°C to 25°C from October to March. The best time to go to Funchal for the most heat is in the summer. August is the hottest time of the year with just nine rainy days spread over the month.
Tap water is absolutely fine to drink in Madeira, and we often don't even bother with bottled water in restaurants and just ask for a jug or glass of tap water. I think your husband may be in for quite a big surprise when he returns to the island after 35 years - mostly changes for the better but not all.