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Funchal must see: a fantastic, (not so) well kept secret.
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Funchal must see awill bring you pleasant surprises when you arrive in Madeira. This city has to offer a unique and unforgettable natural beauty. Inserted in a real amphitheater overlooking the sea, it is also surrounded by vegetation and mountains. But Funchal has much more to impress. Activities like diving, water sports, and dolphin and whale watching are just the beginning. It still has an incredible gastronomy, luxury hotels and an amazing cosmopolitan animation. And to get to know the island, the ideal is to start at the Guerin station, which will help you get to the main tourist attractions in Funchal faster.
Be blown away by the beauty of Funchal's 10 must see spots
1. Pico do Arieiro, feel on top of the world
The ideal visit for those who like to be, literally, in the clouds. Pico do Arieiro is an impressive 1818 meters high. To get there, you can either go up by car (which we recommend) or venture out on a 2 to 3 hour hike. There are those who prefer to see the sunrise, and there are those who prefer the end of the day. There are those who visit Pico do Arieiro in summer with clear skies, or in winter to see the snow. At all times, you are guaranteed a spectacle of beauty.
2.Botanical Garden, where exoticism and beauty flourish
Situated on a former estate of the Reid's family, the Botanical Garden is just a few kilometers from the center and you can get there by car or cable car. In this 35,000 square meter garden, the beauty of more than 2,500 plants from every continent spreads out, forming a colorful mosaic of exotic plants. This is one of those places to see, and feel, as if time does not pass.
3.Funchal cable car, a dream ascent
The best landscapes can always be seen from the top and, here, it couldn't be more true. Nothing better to have a unique perspective of Funchal than from the top of your cable car that goes up to the parish of Monte, created in 1565. During the ascent you will have a breathtaking view of the city and all the surrounding nature. If heights are not your thing, think twice. But if this is not the case, you can't miss this spectacle by any means.
4.Igreja da Nossa Senhora do Monte, impressing since 1470
Since you have already climbed up to Monte, take the opportunity to also enter this church, where a true history lesson awaits you. Although it was built in 1741, there was already a chapel on the same site, built in 1470 by Adam Gonçalves Ferreira. He, along with his twin sister, were the first children to be born on the island of Madeira. The church's facade is of baroque art, and inside the chapel is the tomb of Emperor Charles I, who died on the island as a political exile. If you want to add a sporty touch to your visit, accept the challenge and climb the 74 steps that will take you to the church door.
5."Carreiros do Monte", adrenaline and tradition. A perfect combination.
When we think of Madeira, the basket cars from Monte easily come to mind. So when you visit Funchal, you won't want to miss this experience. The baskets are handmade, in wicker, and are moved with wooden skates, and then driven by two men, who use their rubber soles to control the speed. An exciting adventure.
6."Adega de São Francisco", a toast to tradition.
More than a winery, this is a museum about Madeiran viniculture. Take the opportunity to taste the region's wines, learn about the history of Madeira Wine and make a toast in the oldest wineries on the island, in a building in baroque architecture, dating back to the 17th century. Don't miss the opportunity to get to know this place, we are sure you will leave happy with your decision.
7.Colégio dos Jesuítas, a temple to knowledge.
This is one of the most emblematic buildings of Funchal. Currently home to the rectory of the University of Madeira, the building dates back to 1570 and was founded by D. Sebastião, as headquarters of the Society of Jesus. The church's stunning interior is composed of a large, tall nave and its gilded carved main altar is iconic in itself. But a must-see place in Funchal that you can easily reach with Guerin's help.
8.Monte Palace Madeira, a real gem of the island.
In this "tropical corner" there is so much to see that you will lose track of time, but never track of beauty. The Garden occupies an area of 70 thousand square meters where exotic birds, ducks, peacocks, chickens and black swans (from Australia and Tasmania) and white swans (from Iceland and Scandinavia) circulate freely. The Monte Palace Museum features an area of sculptures and another of minerals from various parts of the world, including diamonds. A visit that will never be less than brilliant.
9.Lavradores Market a spectacle of color.
Feel like a real Madeiran heading to the Market. There you will find, besides a building with "art deco" notes, all kinds of fresh products typical of the region. Exotic fruits, vegetables and, of course, spectacular flowers from Madeira. A show of color and variety, having as cicerones the sellers, dressed in traditional Madeiran costumes.
10. Esperança Bookstore, three centuries telling the story of Funchal.
Not only reading lovers will love Livraria Esperança, the second largest bookstore in the world, with more than 106 thousand copies. Founded in 1886, it was the first store on the island to sell books and consists of more than 20 rooms that extend over 1200 square meters. Stop by to browse through this real open book, with lots of history and fantastic hidden chapters.
Climb aboard Guerin for your adventure
If the climbs of Funchal don't go to you, Guerin will go with you to the highest peaks. Rent a car in Portugal that best suits you and the trip you want to take. With Guerin's wide fleet, you can choose from cars to luxury sports cars. Then, all you have to do is enjoy the view.
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