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7 Days in Funchal: A Journey Through History and Nature

Alice Reimer

Alice Reimer

3 Jan 2024

Embark on a thrilling adventure in Funchal, where ancient palaces, breathtaking viewpoints, and fascinating museums await. Immerse yourself in the rich history and natural beauty of this vibrant city. Join us as we explore Funchal's hidden gems and indulge in its authentic charm.

Trip to Funchal

Day 1Unveiling the Secrets of São Lourenço Palace and Natural History
+

$13

·

$ 5

Palácio de São Lourenço
Built 1529–1540, the city's first fortress includes an exhibit exploring the complex's history.
8:00 AM - 9:30 AM
•
$13
8 - 12 min

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Directions

Museu de Historia Natural do Funchal
Opened in 1929, this natural history museum is housed in the landmark Palace of Saint Peter.
10:00 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Miradouro Pico dos Barcelos
Viewpoint with a cafe & vistas sweeping over Funchal, the sea & rugged inland mountains.
12:00 PM - 12:30 PM
•
Free
Day 2Discovering the Fortress of São João Baptista and the Serenity of Praia Formosa
+

$0

·

$ 5

Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico
Imposing hilltop castle offering panoramic views of the city & sea, plus an adjacent cafe.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
Free
14 - 17 min

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Directions

Praia Formosa
Bustling ocean getaway providing sand & pebble shores, restaurants & nearby shops & nightclubs.
9:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
Day 3Relaxing at Lido Bathing Complex and Exploring the Quinta das Cruzes Museum
+

$13

·

$ 5

Lido bathing complex
Seafront leisure complex with saltwater tidal pools, a kids' pool & sundecks overlooking the sea.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
Free
9 - 11 min

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Directions

Museu Quinta das Cruzes
500 years of art, ceramics, jewelry & antiques housed in an 18th-century villa in lush gardens.
10:30 AM - 12:00 PM
•
$13
Day 4Immersing in Culture at Universo de Memórias and House Museum of Frederico de Freitas
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$45

·

$ 5

Universo de Memórias João Carlos Abreu
Collection of decorative arts amassed by a well-traveled individual, displayed in an 1800s house.
8:00 AM - 9:00 AM
•
$8
2 - 3 min

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Directions

House Museum of Frederico de Freitas
The 18th-century house museum of collector Frederico de Freitas is dedicated to the decorative arts.
9:30 AM - 11:00 AM
•
$13
5 - 8 min

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Directions

H. M. Borges madeira winery
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
$13
14 - 17 min

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Directions

Associação dos Carreiros do Monte
Site for hill rides in handcrafted wicker sleds pulled by men known as "carreiros."
1:00 PM - 1:30 PM
•
$13
Day 5Conquering Pico do Arieiro and Uncovering the History of Forteresse de Santiago
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$0

·

$ 5

Pico do Arieiro
A road reaches this 1,818-meter high peak, with a cafe & gift shop, that often looks down on clouds.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
Free
38 - 46 min

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Directions

Forteresse de Santiago
Enormous, yellow-hued fort built in the 17th century to defend the city from attacks by pirates.
10:30 AM - 11:30 AM
•
Free
Day 6Marveling at the Monte Palace Madeira and Experiencing Quinta da Boa Vista
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$38

·

$ 5

Monte Palace Madeira
Big, multi-level garden with exotic trees & flowers, ponds, African sculptures & a mineral museum.
8:00 AM - 11:00 AM
•
$38
13 - 16 min

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Directions

Quinta da Boa Vista
Year-round gardens showcasing a wide variety of orchids & other exotic plants & flowers.
11:30 AM - 12:30 PM
•
Free
Day 7Delighting in the Tranquility of Palheiro Gardens
+

$25

Palheiro Gardens
Landscaped green space showcasing tropical plants in a hillside venue overlooking the ocean.
8:00 AM - 10:00 AM
•
$25
Day 8
Day 9
Day 10

Budget breakdown: $159 In total

Activities & Food:$133
Transport:$26