Funchal (Madeira): The Complete Guide

Madeira offers a consistently mild Mediterranean climate throughout the year, making it an ideal destination whenever you have the opportunity to visit. Despite its lush landscapes, the island experiences moderate rainfall without reaching uncomfortably high temperatures. The varied microclimates, notably the contrast between the windy and damp northeast and the more arid and sheltered south due to the mountainous terrain, provide diverse weather conditions.

Visiting Funchal in the Winter

For those seeking winter sun, Madeira doesn’t disappoint. In December, January, and February, daytime temperatures can reach 20°C in the lower regions below the ‘banana line,’ known for ideal banana cultivation. However, glimpses of snow on the mountaintops are not uncommon. Carnival celebrations, a major attraction, occur from the Friday before Lent to Shrove Tuesday, requiring early booking if you plan to travel during these dates.

Visiting Funchal in Spring

Spring, especially from March to May, offers delightful weather with shorts and T-shirt conditions, though occasional heavy rain is possible. The vibrant foliage during walks is particularly striking, and Funchal comes alive with color during the Flower Festival in May, featuring parades and floats adorned with fragrant blooms.

The island’s annual Carnival and Flower Festival, held in May, stand out as highlights in the events calendar. Walking holidays are available year-round, with spring and summer particularly enchanting due to vibrant vegetation and warm sunlight.

Visiting Funchal in Summer

Summer is optimal for whale watching, with daytime temperatures around 24°C. From June to August, the leste, a dry and hot wind from the Sahara, can raise temperatures to 33°C. Mornings in June and July may start with cloud cover, gradually clearing over the day.

Visiting Funchal in Autumn or Fall

Autumn, spanning September to November, brings a quieter atmosphere to Madeira. The weather remains pleasant and sunny, with warm seas suitable for comfortable swimming. While rainfall increases slightly, temperatures stabilize around a balmy 22°C, making it an ideal time for leisurely walks in shaded areas.

Travelling to Funchal by Plane

Travelers heading to Madeira have two primary entry points. The first is Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport, situated in the city of Santa Cruz, serving as the main hub for arrivals and departures in the region. It is also known as Madeira Airport, Funchal Airport,  or Santa Catarina Airport It’s worth noting that international flights to Funchal from significant European cities are both frequent and reasonably priced. On average, these flights take approximately three to four hours, providing efficient and accessible travel options. For those departing from Lisbon, the journey to Madeira is notably shorter, taking just 90 minutes. Whether arriving by air or sea, Madeira is well-connected and easily accessible for visitors from various locations.

The airport is located 13.2 km (8.2 mi) east-northeast of the regional capital, Funchal.

Visiting Funchal by Ferry or Boat

The second option is the Port of Funchal, strategically positioned along the route of major international cruise ships. It is a 15 minutes walk from the centre of Madeira’s capital, to the Funchal harbour.  There is occasionally a ferry service operating from Portugal to Madeira, although this does vary year to year!

Travelling to Funchal by Road

The journey from the airport to the city typically takes a mere 15 to 20 minutes, ensuring swift and convenient transportation. For budget-conscious travellers, local bus services offer an extremely affordable option, efficiently taking visitors to various locations in and around the city.

Travelling to Funchal by Bus

Passengers can enjoy splendid views from elevated bus seats, and the drivers, known for their expertise, provide a sense of safety throughout the journey. Four companies manage the public transport system in Madeira: Horários do Funchal, SAM, Rodoeste, and EACL (Empresa de Autocarros do Caniço), each covering different parts of the island.

For most people, SAM and Rodoeste buses can be boarded at their main departure points on Avenida do Mar, and tickets can be purchased directly on the bus or, in some cases, at the operators’ kiosks near the departure points. It’s worth noting that fare-saving tickets are available for the orange town buses (HF). Travelers should be aware that identical bus numbers may serve different routes, for example, the orange town bus 20 to Monte and the green/cream country bus 20 to Santo da Serra.