Funchal, Experiencing the Colorful Flower City of Portugal
Funchal, Portugal serves as the capital and municipal seat of the Autonomous Region of Madeira in Portugal. It houses over 111,000 residents, making it the largest city in terms of land area and the sixth-largest in terms of population. The city’s name is derived from the Portuguese word “funcho” suffixed with “-al,” which translates to “a plantation of fennel.” This represents the landscape of the city during the early days when the area was covered with plenty of wild fennel. To reach the city by plane, you can arrive at the local Funchal-Cristiano Ronaldo Airport. The city is one of the country’s popular attractions, so expect plenty of hotels and lodging options available at your disposal.
Best Time to Visit
May is the best time to book a trip to Funchal. Not only will you be welcomed with the warm temperature and slightly cheap hotel rooms, but you will also be entertained with a whole day of flowers and festivities as the city celebrates their yearly Madeira Flower Festival. The occasion, which has been a tradition since 1979, is packed with colorful float parades and street dances. If you’re looking forward to enjoying the sceneries without much crowd, try visiting in November when there are fewer tourists and high chances of availing discounted Funchal, Portugal hotels.
What to Do & Area Attractions
If you’re planning on visiting Funchal, make sure to swing by the Funchal Ecological Park Recreation Center. Get to take pictures at the picturesque Madeira Palace Gardens. Bring your family at the Se Cathedral. Afterward, enjoy the rest of your night pampered at the Belmond Reid’s Palace, or the Four Views Baia. The Hotel Porto Santa Maria is also nice choice for accommodation.