Funchal in 6 Hours: Wine, Market and Monte

Blandy's, the cathedral, the market and the seafront before heading up to Monte and its church.

ExploraGo Team

Published on October 20, 2026

Duration: 5-9 hours
Budget: Mid-range
Best for: Couple
Style: gastronomico
Season: Year-round

Stops

1
transporte
Funchal Cruise Terminal
15 min · Free · According to ship arrival
The terminal sits west of the centre; the seafront promenade leads straight into town.
Tips
Taxis and buses wait by the terminal.
The centre is a short walk away.
Take care
The walk into the centre includes slopes.
walk · 10 min
2
naturaleza
Santa Catarina Park
40 min · Free · Daytime hours
An elevated park with harbour views, shade and a pleasant walk from the terminal.
Tips
A good place to start the day.
There are benches facing the water.
Take care
Some areas are on a slope.
walk · 6 min
3
actividad
Blandy's Wine Lodge
60 min · Paid entry · Visit hours
A historic lodge in the centre explaining how Madeira wine is produced.
Tips
The visit includes a tasting.
Ask about the older vintages.
Take care
Alcohol tasting is not suitable for minors.
walk · 5 min
4
actividad
Funchal Cathedral
30 min · Free · Worship hours
A 16th-century cathedral with a carved wooden ceiling and tiles in the historic centre.
Tips
Enter quietly during services.
Look up at the wooden ceiling.
Take care
Beachwear is not allowed inside.
walk · 3 min
5
actividad
Municipal Square
45 min · Free · All day
A central square framed by historic buildings, close to the cathedral and shopping streets.
Tips
A good spot to get your bearings.
Cafés with terraces surround it.
Take care
The paving can be slippery in rain.
cable car · 20 min
6
mirador
Monte village and church
110 min · Free · Daytime hours
A hill village with a church, gardens and terraces; views span the city and harbour.
Tips
Ride up by cable car and walk down if you can.
Bring a light jacket for the altitude.
Take care
Walking down is long and steep.