Funchal, Madeira

Funchal, Madeira

Portugal

Ride a traditional wicker sledge down steep cobblestone streets from Monte Palace for an exhilarating 2000-year-old toboggan tradition.

Currency Euro (EUR)
Language Portuguese
Time Zone WET (UTC+0)
Best Time to Visit Feb–Apr
Typical Duration 7-14 nights
Price Range $419–$19,870 per person
Port Type Departure & Port of Call
Tender Port Yes

Gateway to the Canary Islands and Atlantic cruises, offering year-round mild weather and access to stunning volcanic landscapes and charming Portuguese colonial architecture.

Cruises that visit Funchal, Madeira

Build Your Day in Funchal, Madeira

Cruise calls are short. Set your ship's arrival time, pick the stops you care about, and we'll show whether they realistically fit before departure.

Ships typically depart around 7:00 PM
Usually about 11 hours ashore
Embarkation port — worth arriving early
Getting around:
Jardim Monte Palace Madeira An amazing experience in Madeira definitely a must do. Botanical garden · ★ 4.7 · 30k Closed · Opens 9 AM Fri
Mercado dos Lavradores (farmers' market) It has a lot of stalls and big variety of products on offer. Produce market · ★ 4.1 · 29k Closed · Opens 7 AM Fri
Madeira Botanical Garden A highlight of our trip to the Madeira with all of the sights. Park · ★ 4.4 · 24k Closed · Opens 9 AM Fri
Funchal Cable Car One of the first activities we did in Madeira in 2021. Pleasant experience. Mountain cable car · ★ 4.5 · 13k Closed · Opens 8:45 AM Fri
Forum Madeira Good selection of high-end and budget shops and food. Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 13k Open · Closes 11 PM
Praia da Calheta beach Greta beach with sand and enough room to not feel close to anyone else. Public beach · ★ 4.4 · 13k
Plaza Madeira Lots of stores including food court and an IKEA design studio. Shopping mall · ★ 4.3 · 12k Open · Closes 10 PM
MadeiraShopping Good selection of stores, lots of free parking in a garage and above ground. Shopping mall · ★ 4.4 · 10k Open · Closes 11 PM
Funchal Cathedral no need to pay so worth a quick drop-in if you're in Madeira. Catholic cathedral · ★ 4.6 · 8k Closed · Opens 7:15 AM Fri
Parque de Santa Catarina A must-visit gem in Madeira — peaceful, picturesque, and unforgettable. Park · ★ 4.6 · 8k
Praia da Ponta do Sol Lovely beach, but with stones and quiet shallow water. Scenic spot · ★ 4.6 · 6k
Restaurante Alta Vista Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 6k
Jardim Municipal do Funchal A must-visit experience for anyone coming to Madeira! Garden · ★ 4.6 · 5k
Miradouro da Eira do Serrado Really a wonderful place with an awesome view into the inner of Madeira. Observation deck · ★ 4.8 · 5k
Hole in One I was 5 days in Madeira and visit this place two times, just love it. Live music bar · ★ 4.4 · 4k
Barreirinha Bar Café Great bar, top of Madeira old town with tables overlooking the sea. Bar · ★ 4.6 · 4k
Alforno Madeira The grilled burrata, risotto, and pizza are incredibles. Italian · ★ 4.7 · 4k
Praça do Povo A lot of activities close to the sea with some parts now under construction. Park · ★ 4.6 · 4k
A Bica We had the best garlic bread on the island and an amazing cod fish dish. Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 4k
Dona Nina Restaurante Food was amazing with fresh ingredients and beautiful presentations. Restaurant · ★ 4.9 · 3k
Restaurante Casal da Penha The food, atmosphere, and service were all outstanding. Portuguese · ★ 4.7 · 3k
Funchal-Monte Cable Car One of the must do attractions in Madeira. Mountain cable car · ★ 4.5 · 3k Closed · Opens 9 AM Fri
Restaurante Informal Everything from the Staff, the food, the drinks and the ambience! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 3k
Taberna Madeira Excellent food with efficient service in a modern, stylish atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 3k
Complexo Balnear do Lido ... steps in and out ocean for practicing open water swimming. Aquatic center · ★ 4.5 · 3k Closes soon · 8 PM
Centro Comercial Anadia Shopping centre with one big grocery store - Pingo Doce. Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 2k Open · Closes 10 PM
Madeira Story Centre Story experience takes you through the history of Madeira since the 1500s. Local history museum · ★ 4.1 · 2k Closed · Opens 9 AM Fri
Forte de São Tiago Well worth a visit if you are in the area and it is free to enter. Fortress · ★ 4.2 · 2k Closed · Opens 10 AM Fri
Leeno's Restaurant The food was delicious, the staff was friendly, the prices were correct. Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Zona Histórica do Funchal A must do if you're in Funchal. Historical landmark · ★ 4.6 · 2k
O.Giro Churros & Paninis Outstanding food (lunch), clearly labeled vegetarian options. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 2k
La Vaca Negra The service, the steak, the wine — everything was stellar. Steak · ★ 4.8 · 2k
Praia do Garajau Clean, quiet, peaceful, and fun beach. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.7 · 2k Closes soon · 8 PM
Armazém do Sal - Michelin Guide 2024 Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Portuguese · ★ 4.3 · 2k
MadMarket Restaurante Great food choice beautifully prepared and presented. Portuguese · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Praia Formosa Less crowded, a peaceful escape from typical sandy beaches. Beach · ★ 4.4 · 2k
Pub Number Two Best bar in Madeira, relax and watch the world go bye. Bar · ★ 4.5 · 2k
The Snug Smoke House Great food, built our own burger (pulled pork), incredible. American · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Avista Restaurant Surely the Michelin guide must be close to awarding this place a star! Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 2k
Túnel das Poças do Gomes It's a bit dark and wet but it's definitely an experience anyone can enjoy. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.5 · 2k
Palheiro Gardens I cannot recommend it highly enough and a highlight of the visit to Madeira. Botanical garden · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM Fri
3D Fun art museum It's worth it for a cool experience, for all ages! Modern art museum · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 10 AM Fri
A Tendinha The food was incredible - fresh, delicious, and well priced. Portuguese · ★ 4.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 12 PM Mon
Tradicional Restaurant The food was exquisite, excellent service, and lovely staff. Portuguese · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Art Food Corner Madeira Excellent food, amazing coffee and beautiful atmosphere Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM Fri
Jardim Panorâmico Mini Golf, Padel Ball courts, kids play area, and a snack bar. Park · ★ 4.5 · 1k
Olivia Delicious food, drinks and extremely kind and friendly staff! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Revolucion Cocktail Bar Truly the best bar in Funchal, and honestly, the whole of Madeira. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.9 · 1k
Sabor Tropical The food was fantastic—delicious with generous portions. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Three House Restaurant Great atmosphere, service, and food, plus exceptional cocktails!! Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k
The Studio: Specialty Coffee & Brunch Very good coffee, super delicious food, friendly staff, loved it! Coffee shop · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closed · Opens 7 AM Fri
TERRA - Food Concept The food was excellent, hot, well cooked and beautifully presented. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Motya Coffee Shop – Specialty Coffee, Matcha & Mochi in Funchal Great coffee, very friendly and attentive staff, nice relaxing atmosphere. Coffee shop · ★ 4.8 · 1k Closed · Opens 8 AM Fri
FugaCidade The best bar in Madeira that we had the pleasure to come across. Pub · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Arbor Food & Coffee Beautiful setting in a small park, delicious coffee and friendly service. Espresso bar · ★ 4.7 · 1k Closed · Opens 9 AM Fri
Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools A safe swim in the sea, good changing facilities and lifeguards present. Lido · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closes soon · 8 PM
Guto Brunch Experience Fresh food, great coffee, tasty desserts, and a really relaxing atmosphere. Brunch · ★ 4.9 · 1k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Fri
Flair Spot Bar The best poncha on whole Madeira ❤️ Come for the happy hour from 17-18:30. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Café Fortaleza Amazing view with amazing cakes and coffee with amazing service. Cafe · ★ 4.6 · 1k Closes soon · 8 PM
Jaket Restaurante It was fine dining level of flavors, in an elegant but casual atmosphere. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Dash, Cocktail Bar I had the Madeira Mule and it was fantastic . Cocktail bar · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Marina Shopping Great selection of goods, we picked up everything we needed on one trip. Shopping mall · ★ 3.6 · 1k Open · Closes 9 PM
Restaurante Sabores da nossa ILHA The food was very good, very large portions and bonus live music Restaurant · ★ 4.6 · 1k
Monumental Experience The cheapest souvenirs shops on funchal Shopping mall · ★ 4.2 · 1k Open · Closes 11 PM
Arcadas São Francisco Great parking. Shopping mall · ★ 4.1 · 1k Closes soon · 8 PM
CentroMar Shopping & Business Centre The small shops are keeping the place going. Shopping mall · ★ 3.8 · 1k Open · Closes 11 PM
NOMADE brunch & dinner Restaurante Great place with delicious food, interesting cocktails and friendly hostess. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k
Ponta Gorda Lido Great pools with waves, jumping board and drinks Outdoor swimming pool · ★ 4.4 · 1k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Fri
5 Sentidos - Funchal Amazing food and drink in an intimate setting. Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 1k
Bistrot Des Anges We ate there three times and each time was an experience we will not forget. Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 1k
AUDAX - Progressive Madeiran Cuisine Amazing dinner, 8 course menu is Michelin star level. Fine Dining · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Restaurante Hemingway, Funchal Dine-in·Takeout·Delivery Modern European · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Mya Petit Café brunch restaurant Adorable,new opened,cozy,sweet,good coffee and food.Highly recommended.🥰 Brunch · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:15 AM Sat
The Hole in the Wall Fantastic fresh food, vegetarian options and great service. Restaurant · ★ 4.4 · 0k
JOY Restaurant Dine-in Restaurant · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Ristorante Villa Cipriani Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Restaurant · ★ 4.5 · 0k
Restaurante Desarma The food is creative, locally inspired, beautifully presented and delicious. Fine Dining · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Three House Rooftop Bar Great drinks, very friendly service, and a top location. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.6 · 0k
BARTES - Beer & Cocktail Bar The best bar in Madeira, Ponchas are delicious. Cocktail bar · ★ 5 · 0k
VELVET Lounge Bar Very welcoming and fresh, excellent drinks and even better prices. Cocktail bar · ★ 4.8 · 0k
William Restaurant Dine-in·No takeout·No delivery Fine Dining · ★ 4.6 · 0k
Eden Mar Shopping Centre Nice shopping centre, some good shops with very good prices. Shopping mall · ★ 4 · 0k Closes soon · 8 PM
Praia de São Tiago Crystal clear water, showers available close by to wash the salt off. Outdoor swimming pool · ★ 4.4 · 0k Closes soon · 8 PM
Poças do Governador The road down is bumpy, but the swimming was very beautiful. Scenic spot · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Beanup Specialty Coffee & Brunch Great coffee, relaxed atmosphere, wonderful hospitality and service. Coffee shop · ★ 4.9 · 0k
Funchal Quay Worth a stop at night for some great pics. Tourist attraction · ★ 4.8 · 0k
Lido public swimming area Great free jumping/swimming spot with shower and washroom facilities Swimming pool · ★ 4.6 · 0k Closed · Opens 9:30 AM Fri
Avista Ásia Dine-in Restaurant · ★ 4.7 · 0k
Madeira Cruise Spotting Tourist attraction · ★ 4.9 · 0k

Opening hours are indicative — always confirm before you go. Travel times are estimates from Google Maps.

Funchal, Madeira is an embarkation port. Many cruises start or end here — it's worth arriving a day early or extending your stay to explore beyond a single port day.

Next Departures from Funchal, Madeira

About Funchal, Madeira

Funchal, Madeira has established itself as a vibrant hub in the Atlantic, attracting 15 major cruise lines and hosting over 400 sailings annually. While primarily a port of call destination, Funchal serves as a strategic stop on many European and Atlantic itineraries, particularly those exploring the Canary Islands. The port's popularity peaks during the shoulder seasons of February through April and again in October and November, when travelers favor 7-night voyages that combine Madeira with nearby island destinations like Tenerife, Gran Canaria, and Lanzarote.

Stepping ashore in Funchal rewards cruise passengers with a blend of natural beauty and cultural charm. The city's dramatic clifftop setting and lush botanical gardens provide stunning backdrops for exploration, while the historic old town invites leisurely strolls through cobblestone streets lined with local shops and traditional restaurants. Whether you're seeking a quick afternoon excursion or a more immersive port experience, Funchal delivers the authentic Portuguese island character that makes this region so compelling for cruise travelers.
Explore

Reasons to Visit

1

Historic Zona Velha Charm

Wander through Funchal's enchanting Old Town with its cobblestone streets, whitewashed buildings, and vibrant street art. Explore the 16th-century Cathedral and browse artisan shops selling traditional Madeira embroidery and local crafts. The harborfront location makes it perfectly walkable from the cruise port in just minutes.

2

Taste Authentic Madeira Wine

Sample the island's famous fortified wine at local tasting rooms and restaurants throughout the city center. Pair Madeira wine with fresh espada fish or traditional scabbardfish, a local delicacy prepared in simple, elegant ways. Wine tastings often include insights into centuries-old production methods unique to this Atlantic island.

3

Ride the Iconic Cable Car

Ascend 560 meters via the famous red cable car to Monte Palace for breathtaking panoramic views of Funchal's harbor and surrounding mountains. At the top, explore lush botanical gardens and enjoy refreshments while taking in vistas of the Atlantic Ocean and terraced hillsides.

4

Browse Farmers Market Treasures

Visit the bustling Mercado dos Lavradores to experience authentic local life among vendors selling exotic tropical fruits, fresh flowers, and traditional Madeiran products. The market's colorful stalls and vibrant atmosphere capture the island's agricultural heritage and offer perfect souvenirs like passion fruit and local honey.

5

Discover Cristiano Ronaldo Museum

Explore the CR7 Museum dedicated to Funchal's most famous native son, featuring memorabilia, interactive exhibits, and multimedia displays chronicling his legendary football career. Located near the port, this modern museum offers an engaging cultural experience celebrating local pride and international achievement.

Cruise Lines at Funchal, Madeira

Cruises Departing From Funchal, Madeira

Cruises Visiting Funchal, Madeira

Ship Schedule at Funchal, Madeira

Funchal, Madeira Location

Other Cruise Ports in Portugal

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the port code for Funchal?

The UN/LOCODE is PTFNC, assigned to Funchal, Madeira.

What can I do near Funchal port?

Explore Madeira's gardens, markets, and coastal viewpoints from Funchal.

When is the best time to visit Madeira?

Spring and autumn offer mild weather and fewer crowds.

Is Funchal port suitable for cruise ships?

Yes, Funchal serves as a common call for cruise itineraries.