Funchal's old town: narrow, cobbled streets full of shops, restaurants and art galleries await you. In the Rua de Santa Maria the shops have decorated their entrance doors with murals created by various artists. Be sure to visit the Sé Cathedral and the fantastic Lavradores Market. If you take the funicular up to the Monte district, as well as admiring the famous "quintas" (old mansions) you can visit the tomb of Charles I of Habsburg (the last emperor of Austria) in the Church of Nostra Senhora do Monte. In the panoramic garden you can enjoy beautiful views over the Atlantic Ocean. You can also visit the forts of São Lourenço and São Tiago, which are home to museums and have a privileged view.
Bodegas Blandy: offer a guided tour lasting about an hour. Being in the heart of the capital, many tourists come here attracted by the ancestral fame of the island's wines.
Marine Promenade: this avenue links the Lido area with Praia Formosa, a beautiful beach of creeks at the western end of Funchal. It is bordered by splendid botanical gardens and offers stunning views of the sea and Cabo Girão.
Santa Catarina Park: from the peaceful benches of its paths you can enjoy beautiful views over the bay of Funchal. Plant species from all over the world provide shade during the walk.
Monte Palace Tropical Garden: one of the island's essential visits. Located in the Monte district, it opened its gates in 1991 and includes one of the most important tile collections in Portugal, displayed amid a superb display of tropical plant life. Let yourself be swept away by its magic and dedicate as much time as necessary to the pleasure of strolling and observing.
Botanical Garden: it boasts more than 2,000 plant species as well as a unique colour and harmony in its forms. Besides being one of the islanders' favourite places for recreation, it is also a cultural and scientific centre.
The Ilhas Desertas: this group of small islets preserves the last refuge of the monk seal in the entire Atlantic Ocean. It is therefore protected as a Nature Reserve.
Beaches: the jewel of the archipelago is to be found on the island of Porto Santo. On the beach of the same name, nine kilometres long and with fine white sand, you'll think you're visiting a tropical paradise. On the other hand, Madeira Island is not exactly known for its beaches, although the mild climate may invite you to visit Ribeira Brava, Praia Formosa, Praia de Calheta, Jardim do Mar or Ponta do Sol. Some of them are artificial and others are creeks, so many people opt for the natural pools. Swimming in the pools formed between the volcanic lava flows is quite an experience.