Top Rated Attractions in Funchal

This archive holds all the documents relating to Madera Island since its colonization. You can arrange a tour, or browse through the exhibitions of historic documents, images and pictures.

Right near the center of the city lies the Jardim Municipal. This garden formerly was the place where stood the grand São Francisco Convent, of which the only remaining evidence is the magnificent marble coat of arms. Completed in 1880, the garden is the place where the city folk go to in the evenings for a stroll, to saunter away the time, or to watch the ducks squabble over the morsels of food thrown in the pond by the other visitors. The garden also houses an amphitheater where several of the city's concerts are held, thus making it an important part of the city's social life. Please call for more information.

Dr. Frederico Augusto da Cunha de Freitas was an avid collector of art from the Levant. By trade he was a lawyer, and it is in this very house where you can see how this renaissance man lived. Fascinating and eclectic pieces from the 16th to 20th Centuries are showcased and all types of materials are on display, from Turkish and Moorish tiles to exquisite North African ceramics and ivory work from India and Sri Lanka. While here, also visit the Garden Walk, a traditional elevated garden that features a wine corridor and a summer house.

The contains a large and varied collection of paintings, exquisite sculptures, vestments, artwork and the handiwork of goldsmiths spread across the fifteenth to the nineteenth century. Flemish paintings and sculptures can be called the true wealth of this museum and this collection is well worth your time. Their permanent collections include Portuguese paintings and goldsmithery dating back to the sixteenth century. Take an afternoon off and let the mysteries of this wonderful land seep into your soul.

The Centro das Artes, located 20 minutes away from Funchal, is famous for its avant-garde building by Paulo David. It has hosted exhibitions of work by various important artists, including Man Ray and the Arte Povera group.

The building that houses the Museu Quinta das Cruzes was the final residence of the founder of the island, João Gonçalves Zarco. The museum has collections that range from ceramics to furniture, tracing the history of the society here. They also hold permanent and temporary exhibitions of which details are available on the website. As far as objectives are concerned, the museum associates itself with documenting and conserving the history of the island and related objects. For more details, call ahead.