Funchal Solo Travel Guide: My Experience Exploring Madeira’s Capital

Before arriving in Madeira, I had planned to move around the island, spending a few days at a time in different locations. I initially only booked my first week in Funchal, planning to arrange the rest of my stay as I went along. But I soon realised that Funchal is a fantastic base for solo explorations, especially if you’re travelling on a budget.

I ended up returning to Funchal three times during my six-week stay in Madeira. The city wasn’t just an excellent base because of its great transport links and easy access to tours and experiences. It was also a fascinating, charming town with plenty to see and do.

Funchal is a city of many faces. From its colourful old town, famous for its painted doors and street art, to its fairytale gardens, scenic nature walks, beautiful beaches, and a lively downtown full of restaurants, markets, and shops.

So if you’re visiting Madeira solo, and maybe on a budget, Funchal is hands down the best place to stay.

In this Funchal solo travel guide, I’ll share not only all the incredible things to do in the city but also my personal tips and honest advice to help you make the most of your stay and truly enjoy this wonderful town.

Getting Around Funchal

One of the best things about Funchal is how easy it is to get around without a car. The city is compact, well-connected by public transport, and budget-friendly to navigate.

I was determined not to rent a car, and throughout my entire stay in Madeira, I only used public transport and took occasional organised day trips. Staying in Funchal made it possible for me to explore the island solo and on a budget.

Funchal itself is very walkable. You can easily walk between most of the main attractions, markets, and restaurants. Just be prepared for hills – Funchal is built on slopes, so you’ll get a workout. Comfortable shoes are essential.

For attractions like Nuns Valley, Botanical Gardens, or Monte Palace, you will have additional options such as buses or a cable car.

Getting from the Airport

The Aerobus (line 1) connects the airport to the centre of Funchal. It costs €6.50 (cash only) and runs until 22:00 from the airport, with the first bus to the airport leaving from Praia Formosa at 7:00. The journey to the center of Funchal takes about 30 minutes.

If you miss the Aerobus or want a cheaper option, regular public buses like the 113, 20, 208, and 53 also stop at the airport. Bus 113 is the most frequent and costs €3, though the journey takes around 50 minutes.

City Buses

The local bus system in Funchal is run by Horários do Funchal, and single tickets bought on board cost €2.00. Buses are reliable and cover the entire city, including routes up to Monte, Nuns Valley, Cabo Girao, and out to the Lido area.

If you’re planning to use buses regularly, it’s more convenient to get a GIRO card. The card can be purchased at any Payshop or at the kiosk above the Marina in Funchal, and if you load it with 10 or more journeys, each trip costs €1.25.

You can find information about routes, timetables, and where to buy GIRO cards on the Horários do Funchal website.

Cable Cars

Funchal has two cable cars that are tourist attractions in themselves, though they’re pricier than buses.

The Funchal-Monte cable car runs from the old town up to Monte. A one-way trip costs €14 and a return ticket costs €20, with the journey taking about 15 minutes. The views over Funchal and the bay are spectacular, and you’ll arrive right next to the famous Monte Palace Tropical Garden.

Just a short walk from Monte, you will find a second cable car down to the Botanical Gardens. It’s a short but lovely ride which will cost you €8.25 one way or €12.75 return. Combined tickets with garden entrance are available: €13 one way or €16.50 return.

The cable cars are an experience in themselves, but if your budget can’t allow it, buses can get you to the same places for a fraction of the cost.

Island-Wide Buses

For exploring beyond Funchal, you’ll use buses operated by different companies like SAM and Rodoeste. These connect Funchal to towns and villages across the island. Tickets are usually purchased directly from the driver, and fares vary depending on distance.

I explored places like Santana, Machico, Canical, and Ribeira Brava, and many more by bus with no issues whatsoever.

Getting to specific places:

• Lido area: Buses 01, 02, 04, and 05A all serve the Lido area, making it easy to get to the beaches and pools along the coast. You can also walk all the way to Praia Formosa from Funchal centre. It’s a little bit over an hour walk, but it’s an easy walk using pavements and seafront promenades.
• Monte: Buses 20, 21, 22, and 48 run from the centre of Funchal to Monte. The journey takes around 25-30 minutes.
• Nuns Valley (Curral das Freiras): Take bus 81 from the centre of Funchal (it starts by the cable car terminal) to Curral das Freiras. The trip takes about 45 minutes each way.
• Cabo Girão: Bus 7 from Funchal to Ribeira Brava stops at Cabo Girão right in front of the entrance. It’s an easy and cheap way to visit one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs.
• Pico Arieiro: Since 2024, Horários do Funchal has introduced new public transport routes connecting the centre of Funchal to Pico do Arieiro. There are two uphill journeys between Praça da Autonomia in Funchal and Pico do Arieiro (at 6 am and 1.30 pm respectively) and two return journeys (at 12.15 pm and 7 pm). The cost of the journey is €3.

Things to Do in Funchal

Funchal has plenty to keep you busy, from wandering the colourful streets to exploring gardens and hiking along levadas to shopping, eating, and having fun. The best part? Many of the city’s highlights are free or very affordable, making it a perfect choice for those traveling to Madeira solo and on a budget.

I loved exploring the town on foot and discovering something new every day. Stopping for ice cream and people watching, walking into stunning churches, and stumbling across quirky museums like the Photography Museum or the Universe of Memories.

Here is a complete list of great things to do in Funchal and some of my personal tips on how to make the most of it and avoid being disappointed.

Funchal Old Town

Start your exploration by visiting The Old Town – Funchal’s most photogenic neighbourhood.

The Funchal Old Town is a place of great historical importance in Madeira, as this is where one of the first Portuguese settlements sprang up. Characterised by narrow cobblestone streets and featuring Corpo Santo Chapel, one of the few 15th-century buildings that have survived until today, Funchal Old Town was actually wasting away for many decades.

This changed when the project called “The Art of Open Doors” (“Arte de Portas Abertas”) was initiated in 2010 by photographer José Maria Zyberchem and completely revived the once-forgotten area. 

Not only did Funchal Old Town’s painted doors become one of the best attractions of the city, but new restaurants began to open, and this once-sleepy area became alive and vibrant.

During my first week in Funchal, I stayed in a charming hostel located on the Rua Santa Maria, where nearly every door was covered in those original pieces of art. You will find several traditional restaurants and quirky bars in this area, so it is a great place to stay if you don’t mind a noisy street right at your doorstep.

While in the Old Town, be sure to make your way to Old Town (Zona Velha) and visit Fortaleza de Santiago. This ochre and dark-pink fortress that sits at the top of Old Town’s seafront was built in the first half of the 17th century when Funchal was vulnerable to pirate attacks. The Fortaleza de Santiago was totally restored and opened to the public in July 2014. 

Funchal downtown and historical sights

The centre of Funchal has a different rhythm from the Old Town. It feels more polished and modern but still carries plenty of history and character. I loved strolling down Funchal’s streets and admiring its colonial architecture.

This is where locals go about their day — shopping, meeting friends for coffee, or taking a stroll along the waterfront — and it’s a great area to get a sense of everyday life in Madeira’s capital.

Start your walk along Avenida Arriaga, the city’s main avenue. It’s a leafy, elegant stretch lined with jacaranda trees, beautiful buildings, cafés, and small shops. The cobbled pavements are decorated with traditional black-and-white mosaics, and you’ll often hear local musicians playing near the benches.

Along the avenue, you’ll find some of Funchal’s key landmarks:

When it comes to food and drinks, Funchal’s downtown has plenty of options. For coffee and pastries, The Ritz Madeira on Avenida Arriaga is a local classic — slightly touristy but full of charm, with outdoor tables perfect for watching the world go by.

For something more contemporary, try Prima Caju, a relaxed café that’s great for breakfast, brunch, or a solo lunch. If you’re after a casual evening drink, Bar Number Two or Revolucion Rock Bar near the marina are good places to unwind. For a more refined dinner, Armazém do Sal serves modern Madeiran cuisine in a lovely historic building.

Funchal promenade and harbour

After exploring the centre, continue down towards the Funchal promenade and harbour. The seafront walk stretches from the marina all the way to the Lido area, offering wide views of the ocean and the surrounding hills. It’s an easy, flat walk and one of the nicest ways to spend a solo afternoon. Along the way, you’ll pass palm trees, small parks, and benches where you can just sit and take in the view.

The harbour area itself is lively, especially when cruise ships are in town. You’ll find plenty of cafés, small souvenir stands, and ice cream shops here, as well as the CR7 Museum dedicated to Madeira hero – Cristiano Ronaldo.

If you time it right, grab a drink at Beerhouse or a cocktail at Café Restaurante GRUTA and stay for sunset.

Mercado dos Lavradores – but be aware!

Mercado dos Lavradores is the city’s famous farmers’ market, located on the edge of the old and new town.

Opened in the 1940s, it’s one of the island’s most photographed spots — and for good reason. The building itself is beautiful, with its Art Deco architecture, colourful tiles, and buzzing courtyards filled with flowers, tropical fruit, and local crafts.

That said, it’s worth visiting with realistic expectations.

While the market looks authentic, much of it today caters to tourists. Prices for fruit — especially the exotic varieties like passion fruit and banana hybrids — can be much higher than elsewhere, and vendors often encourage visitors to try samples without clearly mentioning the cost. The market feels touristy as soon as you approach the front stalls. I didnt buy anything there, but it was a cool place to walk around.

Treat it more as a cultural stop than a place for serious shopping.

Take a Funchal Cable Car to Monte and slide back down in the Toboggan Basket

Intrigued? You should be.

The Funchal Cable car is a great way to get to Monte.

Cable Car is located in Funchal’s Old Town area, right at the waterfront, and this journey is an experience in itself!

The steep journey is around 3,200 metres long, climbing up a height of 560 metres and taking approximately 15 minutes. A one-way trip costs €14 and a return ticket costs €20. For up-to-date information on current prices and timetables, visit the Madeira Cable Car website.

Once you are ready to return, it’s time for your Toboggan Ride experience.

You will slide down the steep, narrow streets in wicker sledges (Monte Baskets Cars) which are pushed by two runners, who use their boots’ rubber soles as brakes. This is an experience in itself and one of the best things to do in Funchal!

But why should you go to Monte in the first place?

Monte Palace and its incredible tropical garden

Visiting Monte was one of the highlights for me, and it is definitely a must-do thing in Funchal!

Monte Palace Tropical Gardens are said to be one of the most beautiful gardens in the world. It is more than just a garden – it’s the whole experience! It is like walking into a fairytale!

Monte Palace Tropical Garden in Funchal occupies 70,000 square meters and it is spread across various levels with multiple hidden alleys and paths. You can spend hours wandering around and discover its different faces. You don’t want to miss any of them!

Exotic Orchids from the Himalayas, thousand-year-old Olive Trees, Cycads, Acacias from Australia, and many more amazing plants and trees are elegantly grown and meticulously taken care of. You can find swans and Koi Fish in the lakes, and you might also come across Peacocks, Fighting Roosters from Indonesia, or other colourful birds.

The lanes and paths are connected by picturesque bridges, decorated with niches, gates, arches, pagodas, Buddhas, lanterns, and sculptures. This is a true feast for your senses. Once there, be sure to also visit Visit Our Lady Of Monte Church (Igreja De Nossa Senhora Do Monte) located 5 minutes walk from the Garden, as well as the Monte Museum – a three-storey exhibition centre located next to the Northern entrance.

Madeira Botanical Garden

Funchal has no shortage of incredible gardens and parks. Madeira Botanical Garden is one of the most beautiful. Not only is the garden home to a fascinating collection of a wide variety of plants, but it also has an area dedicated to research and conservation.

In addition to all these attractions, the Botanical Garden also has a Museum of Natural History, which is definitely worth visiting.

One of the garden’s primary purposes was the conservation of indigenous Madeiran plants, some of which are very rare and extinct in the wild. You will also find plant species that are already extinct in their countries of origin. Madeira Botanical Garden is, therefore, a pedagogical centre and a pole for scientific evidence, and a centre for conservation.

Whether you have a botanical soul or not, it’s worth the visit nevertheless. This 35k m² estate is surrounded by fantastic views of mountains in the north and the ocean in the south and is a true oasis of peace.

Best hikes near Funchal

One of the best things to do in Madeira and hiking its spectacular trails. There is a reason why this island is called the Hawaii of Europe.

But if you are staying in Funchal and not planning to travel around the island, there are spectacular hiking trails located not far from the town, and many of those trails can be reached by bus.

You should definitely walk at least one levada while in Madeira.

Levadas are irrigational channels created to carry rainwater and water from natural springs from the north and west of Madeira Island, where the climate is more humid and precipitation more frequent, to the south, where the weather is drier. Every Levada has a narrow trail attached to it, which these days is used to walk and discover Madeira. Levada walks offer a unique Madeira hiking experience.

Some of the levadas and hiking trails that are easiest to reach from Funchal include Vereda do Arieiro, Levada do Furado, Dos Balcoes, Levada do Caniço, Levada do Norte, and Vereda da Ponta de São Lourenço (the furthest away, but can still be done in a day and by bus).

The majority of the trails can be reached by public transport. But if you are planning to hire a car, your possibilities are endless. You can hike across the whole of Madeira without a car, however. I wrote a whole article about hiking in Madeira without the need to rent a car, and you can check it out here.

Check this list of all trails in Madeira, and be sure to only walk those that are open at the time. Landslides and damage caused by the weather are common occurrences on Madeira’s treks; thus, choose a dry day and check the accessibility before you head out.

Beaches in Funchal

Funchal isn’t known for sandy beaches, and one doesn’t stay in Funchal for a beach resort experience. But there are quite a few spots where you can swim and sunbathe or even spend a whole day by the natural pool:

Formosa Beach should be a trip on its own, as it is a truly stunning beach!n It lies west of the city of Funchal, 10 minutes by car, and around half an hour on foot, from the heart of the town. You can also take a bus from Funchal city centre. I recommend getting off at the Forum Shopping Centre and taking a walk by the promenade and then down to the beach. You will also find a few bars and restaurants down there. Hence, you can make it a whole-day trip.

Funchal’s Museums

If you are a museum junkie, you are in for a treat. Museums in Funchal are very interesting and often unusual, so visiting a museum is one of the best things to do in Funchal. Especially when it rains (which happens sometimes)

My favourite museums in Funchal are:

All items displayed in the museum were collected during his trips around the world. Collection of masks, all types of horse figures and statues, the most extensive collection of ties and cravats in the world, Buddhas, watches, samovars, books, paintings, sculptures, and millions of other objects. I was in awe at how many interesting souvenirs this fascinating man gathered.

This museum’s collection includes remarkable collections of sculpture, painting, engraving, furniture, ceramics, crystals, and tin objects dating from the 17th to the 19th centuries. It is a fascinating tour as you walk from room to room and feel like being transported in time.

In addition to maintaining the memory of the original Atelier, the Madeira Museum of Photography is now the only national museum dedicated solely to photography, exhibiting Madeira’s photographic heritage and many of its unknown authors and works.

Other highly recommended museums include: the Contemporary Art Museum located within the walls of Fort São Tiago, the Museum of Electricity, Palácio de São Lourenço Military Museum, and many more. See this website for a complete list of all Funchal’s museums.

Nun’s Valley (Curral Das Freiras)

If you dont take any other day trip from Funchal, this is the one that is an absolute must! This place is totally out of this world, and the journey there can also be somewhat adventurous.

Nun’s Valley (Curral Das Freiras) is located around 30 minutes by bus from Funchal and offers some of the most breathtaking views on the island. It is one of the best things to do in Funchal and one of the best things to do in Madeira. 

Curral das Freitas is a village sitting at the bottom of a vast cauldron nestled within almost vertical mountains.

When the French pirates attacked Madeira in 1566, the nuns from the Santa Clara convent fled from their homes and found refuge here. The village is very isolated; therefore, locals mainly live off what they grow. The local chestnuts are delicious and are used in everyday cooking. I was also told that chestnuts were used in cooking before rice was introduced to the island.

You have a couple of options here. 

You can take bus 81 from Funchal to Eira Do Serrado (viewpoint) and admire the Valley from the top. Take a walk to Eira Do Serrado viewpoint and stop for a coffee or a meal. You will be granted the most spectacular views over the Nun’s Valley. 

You can also walk down from Eira Do Serrado by the pretty steep path to the village itself. It takes around 45 minutes, but it is pretty steep and wet at times. Make sure you bring comfortable shoes with a good grip for that walk. 

The village itself is a bit sleepy, but I really liked it. There is a little museum where you can find an example of how nuns used to live and a few restaurants where you can try the chestnut soup, cheesecake, roasted chestnuts or chestnut liquor – delicious!!

Once you are done exploring Nuns’ Valley, you will be able to take a return bus from the bottom of the Valley – no need for hiking back up.

Head over to this post if you want to learn about all the fantastic day trips you can take from Funchal, both by yourself and by public transport, and with an organised tour!

The ‘highest’ cliff viewpoint in Europe – Cabo Girao

The Cabo Girão is referred to as the highest sea cliff in Europe (but at least three European cliffs are higher). Nevertheless, the experience is breathtaking. For many reasons!

It is 580 meters in height; this viewpoint has always been one of the main attractions in Madeira.

You will find yourself walking on a glass skywalk suspended over a vertical cliff. The views are out of this world – if you will be able to look down, that means.

This viewpoint offers a panoramic view of the vast Atlantic Ocean surrounding Câmara de Lobos and Funchal. It’s a captivating experience spiced up but a fair amount of adrenaline.

And don’t forget the food and drink!

One of the best things to do while traveling is sampling the local dishes. Food in Madeira is delicious and fresh, and Funchal boasts numerous restaurants and snack bars where you will be able to try them all. And then some!

Funchal offers a dining experience for every budget and taste. There are a few local specialities you have to try

Let’s start with the sweets – I know – a bit the other way around 🙂

I loved Queijada – the cottage cheese sweet pastry! They are small cakes made with cream cheese, eggs and sugar and are a great breakfast alternative.

Everywhere you go, you will be offered Pudim De Maracuja (Passion fruit pudding) for your dessert. You cannot say no!

Passion fruit is one of Madeira’s best-known fruits; you will have a chance to taste it with nearly everything, including the Filete de Espada (Scabbard fish Filet)

And.. Talking about the Espada?

Filete de Espada (Scabbard Filet), a scary-looking fish, is the most typical fish of Madeira and also one of the tastiest I have ever tried. It is often prepared the ‘Madeiran Way’ with passion fruit and banana sauce. 

I also really liked Lapas (Limpets), and it was actually the first time I had ever tried them. Lapas are cooked in a frying pan of their own and then splashed with fresh lemon and butter. Served with traditional bread from Madeira, Bolo do Caco – divine!

Bolo do Caco is a typical wheat bread of Madeira. This bread, made from wheat flour, is flattened and has rounded edges. Its name derives from the way it used to be cooked: on a basalt stone, called ‘caco’, on hot coals. It can be served hot or cold. In the restaurants, often served with garlic butter. I’m salivating just writing about it.

In many traditional restaurants, you will be given the option to have the ‘Picado‘ or ‘Picadinho‘. This is a traditional Madeiran dish prepared with beef cut into small cubes, fried and seasoned with garlic and pepper, and served with fries. 

I also gorged on Octopus during my whole stay in Madeira. While being a fan anyway, I loved the way it was seasoned and served in Madeira. Often served with potatoes and onions – it never disappointed!

I could go on forever. Those are a few of my favourite dishes and those that, in my opinion, you need to try!

And of course a Poncha or two…

I was not too fussed about trying Poncha and didn’t actually taste it until my second week in Madeira. Not a fan of sweet drinks – I assumed it would be cocktail-like, kind of a rum punch.

I could not be more wrong!

“If you have a cold, a fever, a broken heart… Poncha is the medicine,”

Poncha is a traditional drink from Madeira made of local rum, lemons, sugar, and honey. It is a pretty potent and simultaneously delicious drink, and it is said to be a remedy for literally anything 🙂

You cannot visit Madeira and not have a taste of this rum drink. It tastes spectacular after a long day of hiking!

The traditional Poncha is made of lemon, but these days you can also have passion fruit, orange or mandarin variations. All wonderful!

Eating and drinking were indeed some of my favourite things to do in Funchal and Madeira.

Finally, you should definitely try Madeira wine.

Madeira wine is a fortified wine available in a variety of dry, medium, and sweet styles. Its unique taste comes from repeatedly heating and cooling the wine.

This is because Madeira wine was born at sea.

During the 16th and 17th centuries, wine often spoiled and needed to be fortified by adding a dash of brandy for the wine to last during the long trip at sea. Back then, Madeira was a vital provisioning point for journeys to the Americas and merchants would load up on Madeira wine on their way.

During those long journeys, barrels of Madeira wine would be heated and cooled naturally, as the ships passed through the tropics. Shippers noticed how the wine’s flavour developed and called this sea-ageing “Vinho da Roda.”

There are many ways you can taste Madeira wine if you wish to buy it. There is a number of wine companies and stores in Funchal where you can taste the wine, and learn about the production process and the history of Madeira wine.

It’s a great way to spend a rainy afternoon. You can also take a food and wine tour and do all the food and wine tasting you can manage!

My favourite bar – Barreirinha Bar Café

I have been told about this bar by some locals, but you will see it mentioned in many Funchal guides. For a good reason.

I became a frequent visitor. The vibe of this bar is relaxed, the service excellent, and the views to die for.

Located on top of Funchal Old Town, Barreirinha Bar overlooks the Atlantic Ocean. It does get busy, so come well before sunset to guarantee yourself a spot.

They serve tasty food and snacks and, of course, Poncha. I have seen tourists as well as many locals enjoying the evening there. You definitely should make your way there on your visit to Funchal. You will not regret it.

Unfortunately, I was so busy having a good time that I never snapped any photos 🙁

Where to stay in Funchal (best areas)

Best Neighbourhoods in Funchal

There are boundless options in Funchal when it comes to accommodation and neighbourhoods you could choose for your stay.

For purposes of this article and to make it easy, I will divide Funchal into three main areas – Funchal Old Town, Funchal Centre, and Lido.

Funchal Old Town is one of my favourite places in Madeira in general. It’s a charming neighbourhood, offering heaps of entertainment and great restaurants.

Funchal Old Town is the best place to stay if you like to stay close to the action, bars and restaurants, but also enjoy the charming old town character. Be aware that the district gets noisy in the evenings, so if you are looking for a peaceful neighbourhood, this one is not for you.

My recommended accomodation around Funchal Old town:

For budget solo travelers, I recommend 29 Madeira Hostel or 109 Funchal Hostel.

• 29 Madeira Hostel is where I stayed, and I found it to be clean, very social, and the dorm beds were very comfortable.
• 109 Funchal Hostel is preserving its original architecture. This 19th-century building is beautiful, and the rooms are very comfortable. It offers both private and dorm rooms.

For a budget private room, look no further than Residencial Funchal. Maybe it is not the most glamorous of them all, but the location is fantastic and so is the price. You will get a small, clean, private room and access to the shared kitchen – what else do you need?

For a comfortable and beautiful stay in the Funchal Old Town:

• Alexia Room is the best budget option in Funchal Old Town.
• Hotel Cajú is a beautiful small hotel in the heart of the old town offering delicious breakfast, great views, and nicely decorated rooms.
• Finally, if you are looking for a spacious and excellent apartment, Apartamentos Praça Amarela is the best choice.

There are quite a few accommodation options in the Funchal city centre. From hotels to boutique homestays and hostels, you will find what suits your budget and needs.

Funchal town centre is the best area to stay in if you plan to take trips, use public transport, and be close to all the attractions and historical sights.

Lido (Sao Martino) is an area in Funchal known for its 5-star hotels, Lido bathing complex, and touristy feel. You will find numerous bars and restaurants in Lido that cater to all tastes, a shopping centre, and a great waterfront promenade.

If you are looking for a vacation getaway, planning to stay by the pool and take evening walks by the sea – Lido might be for you. You will also find cheaper accommodation options in the Lido area.

Please keep in mind, however, that it takes around 30 minutes to walk to the town centre and 45 minutes to Old Town. But there are frequent buses with one solely dedicated to connecting Lido with Funchal town.

If you are looking for a great hotel near the Funchal Lido:

• Monte Verde – where I stayed. A small and basic but comfortable and clear budget room near the Lido area. Apartamentos Turisticos Paraiso is also a great budget option.
• Hotel Alto Lido is a wonderful and comfortable 3-star hotel with raving reviews and an excellent location.
• The Cliff Bay – PortoBay for the true luxury resort experience.

Finally, for the most incredible luxury stay, you just can’t beat A Belmond Hotel at Reid’s Palace. This place is just spectacular!

Practical tips for solo travelers (money saving and more)

Spring and autumn are the best times to visit Funchal. Starting in April, temperatures hover around a pleasant 15-22°C, creating the perfect environment for hiking and even sunbathing. I visited in April and I did both!

From June to August, Funchal enjoys its sunniest weather, with average temperatures ranging between 22-26°C. But this is peak season, so expect higher prices and more crowds.

To save money on eating out, look for local bars and cafes away from the touristy areas where you’ll find cheaper meals. Warm sandwiches called “Prego” are very popular on Madeira. They are steak sandwiches served with the beloved local garlic bread called “Bolo do Caco”

Some Pingo Doce supermarkets have buffet restaurants with budget dinners, which is a great option if you want a hot meal without restaurant prices. And of course, you can also save money by getting groceries from Pingo Doce or Continente supermarkets and preparing some of your own meals if your accommodation has a kitchen.

Funchal is very safe for solo travelers, including solo women. Crime rates are relatively low, and locals are very welcoming and helpful. Even walking alone at night in well-lit and populated areas is generally considered safe. Having said that, use common sense – keep an eye on your belongings in crowded areas like markets and buses, and stick to well-lit streets at night.

The only real safety concern in Madeira is hiking, especially when hiking solo. If you’re planning solo hikes, stick to well-marked, popular trails and let someone know where you’re going. Some levada walks have steep drops and no barriers, and after rain, the landslides are common. So be cautious, especially in wet conditions.

There are no wild, dangerous animals in Madeira’s forests and mountains. I thought I mentioned it, just in case you were wondering 😉

Where to next?

Want to do some more hiking in Madeira? Here is my very helpful guide on how to get to the best hikes by public transport!

Done with hiking and want to take some cool day trips for a change? There are some awesome day trips you can take from Funchal, also by public transport! Be sure not to miss Camara de Lobos, wonderful Santana, or take a day trip to the west of the island to see the spectacular Porto Moniz!

Fancy a few days by the beach? Then you can’t miss chilled Machico with its own golden sand beach!

If you are wondering where to stay in Madeira, I’ve got you covered in this post, and here you will find a comprehensive list of all the spectacular things to do and places to visit in Madeira!