History tells us that the first settlement in the city of Funchal emerged in the area that is currently known as 'Zona Velha' (Downtown). The great heritage and architectural value of this part of the city makes it a must-see that deserves to be experienced both by day and by night.
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Zona Velha (Old town) is a crossbreed of small and cozy alleys where locals and tourists come and stroll during the day and enjoy beautiful and quiet evenings.
In turn, on one of the oldest streets in Funchal, Santa Maria Street, we can find several traditional local businesses, such as the 'Fábrica de Chapéus' and the 'Fábrica de Botas de Vilão'. If you continue walking along this cobbled street, you will find the Baroque-style Socorro Church and a small viewpoint.
The most famous street art street in Madeira is probably the Rua de Santa Maria (Santa Maria Street) in the Old Town of Funchal. Interesting paintings, art installations, and murals can also be found in other Madeira towns.
Funchal is the capital of Madeira and the most populous out of the Portuguese mainland. The city encompasses an area of 76.15 km² and has 111,892 inhabitants (2011), subdivided into 10 parishes.
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.
One of the most iconic places to go shopping in Funchal is Rua Dr.Fernão de Ornelas, named after the mayor who, in the first half of the 20th century, prepared the city to welcome tourism.
With grand botanical gardens and impressive ocean panoramas from weathered palaces, the city rises up the mountainous hills to make the most of the splendid natural setting. Funchal is also the gateway to the rest of Madeira island's nature-laden attractions, with the archipelago's principal port and airport.
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.
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.
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.