Funchal, Portugal
✅ Accommodation:
- Hotel Quinta da Casa Branca
- Highlights: Boutique hotel with beautiful gardens and modern amenities.
- Price: €150-€200 per night.
✅ Activities:
- Explore Funchal Old Town: Wander through the narrow streets of the Zona Velha, admire the painted doors, and visit the Mercado dos Lavradores.
- Visit Madeira Botanical Garden: Discover the diverse flora of Madeira, with stunning views over Funchal.
- Monte Palace and Toboggan Ride: Take the cable car to Monte Palace and descend in a traditional wicker toboggan.
- Madeira Wine Lodge: Visit the Blandy’s Wine Lodge to learn about Madeira wine production and enjoy a tasting.
- Cathedral of Funchal (Sé Catedral): Explore this beautiful 15th-century cathedral, known for its impressive wooden ceiling and historical significance.
- Lido Promenade: Enjoy a relaxing walk along this scenic coastal path, dotted with cafes and swimming spots.
✅ Hidden Gems:
- Jardim do Amparo: A lesser-known garden in Funchal that offers a peaceful retreat with beautiful flowers and ocean views.
- Rua de Santa Maria: While the street itself is popular, explore the small, often overlooked alleyways branching off, where you’ll find quiet art galleries and local shops.
✅ Dining:
- Restaurant Armazém do Sal
- Specials: Fresh seafood, traditional Madeiran dishes.
- Average Price: €30-€50 per person.
✅ Transportation:
- Rental Car: Picking up a rental car in Funchal is highly recommended for easy travel around the island. Major rental companies like Hertz, Europcar, and Sixt operate on the island.
- Cost: Rental cars typically range from €30-€60 per day, depending on the vehicle type and season.
- Fuel: Madeira is relatively small, so you might need around €40-€60 worth of fuel for the entire week, depending on your travel distance.
- Funchal: Dolphin and Whale Watching Catamaran Cruise