Funchal(Portugal) Travel 2026: Cheap Flights, Hotels & Top Attractions

Funchal, the capital of Madeira, boasts several luxury ocean-view hotels. Belmond Reid's Palace is a historic five-star hotel perched on a cliff with stunning Atlantic Ocean views, featuring an infinity pool and private beach. Another excellent choice is Savoy Palace, known for its modern design and panoramic sea-view rooms, along with amenities like a spa and multiple outdoor pools.

Most hotels in Funchal are located in or near the city center or along the coast, making transportation easy. For example, The Vine Hotel is centrally located, within walking distance of shopping areas and restaurants, with bus stops and car rentals nearby. Alternatively, Porto Mare Hotel, though not in the center, offers free shuttle services to major attractions and is close to the beach, ideal for those seeking a quieter stay.

Funchal, the capital of Madeira, offers several luxury hotel options. Belmond Reid's Palace is a historic 5-star hotel with ocean views and top-notch facilities. The Cliff Bay also provides excellent service and an infinity pool. For a unique experience, consider Quinta da Casa Branca, a boutique hotel surrounded by gardens, offering a tranquil atmosphere.

Hotel prices in Funchal vary by season and type. Budget hotels cost around €50-100 per night, mid-range hotels €100-200, while luxury hotels can exceed €300. Prices rise significantly during peak seasons like Christmas and summer. It's advisable to book in advance and look for deals including breakfast or free cancellation.

For authentic Madeiran heritage stays in Funchal:

1. Quinta da Casa Branca - 19th-century manor house surrounded by botanical gardens, offering wine tastings.
2. Castanheiro Boutique Hotel - Converted 18th-century building in Old Town with traditional azulejo tiles.
3. The Wine Hotel - Thematically designed around Madeira wine culture, with cellar tours. These properties feature handcrafted furniture and organize workshops on embroidery (a local craft). Most are within 15 mins walk to Cathedral of Funchal.

Top wellness retreats in Funchal:

• Les Suites at The Cliff Bay: Features thalassotherapy pools using seawater and aloe vera treatments.
• Saccharum Resort: Award-winning spa with volcanic stone massages and cliffside yoga platforms.
• CS Madeira Hotel: Has panoramic infinity pools with ocean views and detox programs. Many offer jet lag recovery packages ideal for long-haul travelers. Note most thermal circuits require advance HopeGoo. Nearest natural lava pools are 30 mins drive in Porto Moniz.

The Cliff Bay Hotel's premium rooms feature 180-degree ocean panoramas, with direct access to natural lava pools. For iconic vistas, Savoy Palace's infinity pools on higher floors frame the harbor perfectly. Budget pick: Hotel Madeira's rooftop terrace offers unbeatable sunset views at half the price.

Pro tip: Request north-facing rooms to avoid afternoon glare. Most 5-star properties along Avenida do Mar provide telescopes for dolphin spotting.

The Residence Hotel in Old Town puts you within walking distance of Sé Cathedral and Mercado dos Lavradores market. Pestana CR7 Hotel (co-owned by Ronaldo) offers easy access to the cable car station to Monte.

For budget stays, Golden Residence near Marina Shopping provides free shuttles to tourist hotspots. Avoid hotels above Rua da Carreira - the steep hills require taxi rides. Insight: Funchal's compact center makes taxis cost under €10 for most trips.

For budget-conscious travelers, Funchal offers several affordable yet comfortable options. Hotel Madeira is a 3-star classic with panoramic ocean views and a central location near the Old Town. Pensão Residencial Parsley provides cozy rooms with local charm, ideal for backpackers. For modern minimalism, try The Loft 39, featuring designer decor and a sun terrace. Many budget hotels include free breakfast and walking tour discounts. Stay near Rua de Santa Maria to enjoy cheap eats and street art nearby.

Ocean-view hotels are Funchal's specialty due to its cliffside coastline. Top picks include Les Suites at The Cliff Bay (all rooms face the sea with floor-to-ceiling windows). Porto Mare Hotel's upper-floor suites offer 180-degree Atlantic vistas, while Hotel The Views lives up to its name with balconies hanging over the waves. For romantic sunsets, book Choupana Hills Resort's hillside villas – though not beachfront, their elevated position creates dramatic sea panoramas. Most provide telescopes for dolphin spotting!