Funchal (Madeira) : Comprehensive Travel Guide guide

Understanding Funchal: More Than Just a Capital

Funchal, the capital of the Madeira archipelago, is far more than a simple administrative hub or a starting point for island exploration. It is the vibrant heart of Madeira, a city where centuries of history are nestled within a spectacular natural amphitheater. Here, the deep blue of the Atlantic Ocean meets the dramatic rise of green mountains, creating a unique setting where urban energy and natural tranquility coexist.

The Allure of the “Floating Garden” City

Often referred to as the “Floating Garden,” Funchal earned its moniker from the lush, terraced hillsides and abundant botanical gardens that cascade down to the sea. The city’s appeal is multifaceted, drawing visitors with a compelling combination of elements.

• A Blend of City and Nature: One of Funchal’s most defining characteristics is the seamless integration of urban life with the natural world. You can wander through a bustling market in the morning and find yourself on a serene mountain trail by the afternoon. The city’s well-tended parks, tree-lined avenues, and the ever-present backdrop of verdant mountains ensure that nature is never out of sight.
• A Year-Round Subtropical Climate: Madeira’s climate is famously mild, and Funchal is no exception. With warm summers and gentle winters, there is no definitive off-season. This temperate weather allows for a perpetual bloom of exotic flowers and makes outdoor activities, from seaside strolls to al fresco dining, a possibility throughout the year.
• Rich History and Gastronomy: Funchal’s story stretches back over 500 years. Its historic core reveals cobblestone streets, a 15th-century cathedral, and historic wine lodges. This heritage is complemented by a dynamic culinary scene, where traditional Madeiran dishes and world-renowned fortified wine offer a genuine taste of the island’s culture.

Who is Funchal For?

Funchal’s diverse character makes it a suitable destination for a wide array of travelers. Its appeal is not limited to a single interest but rather adapts to the desires of its visitors.

• Nature Lovers and Adventure Seekers: As the gateway to Madeira’s rugged interior, Funchal is a perfect base for hikers wanting to explore the famous levada irrigation channels, and for adventurers looking to try canyoning, paragliding, or mountain biking.
• Foodies and Culture Enthusiasts: Those with a passion for gastronomy will find delight in the local markets, traditional restaurants, and historic Madeira Wine cellars. The city’s museums, historic buildings, and street art provide ample cultural exploration.
• Couples: The scenic viewpoints, charming Old Town, beautiful gardens, and high-quality restaurants create a distinctly romantic atmosphere, ideal for a couple’s retreat.
• Families: With its safe environment, resort-style hotels, engaging activities like the cable car and whale watching tours, and the famous wicker toboggan sleds, Funchal offers a memorable and accessible experience for all ages.

Planning Your Trip to Funchal

Funchal’s appeal is constant, thanks to a mild subtropical climate that provides pleasant conditions throughout the year. However, each season brings a unique character to the city, influencing the types of activities and events you can enjoy. Thoughtful planning regarding timing, transport, and accommodation will significantly enhance your experience on the island.

The Best Time to Visit

Deciding when to travel to Funchal depends largely on your personal interests, whether they lean towards festive events, outdoor pursuits, or quieter explorations. For detailed insights, check out our guide on the best time to visit Madeira Island.

Spring (April – June)

Spring is arguably one of the most celebrated seasons in Funchal. The weather is comfortably warm, and the entire island bursts into colour. This period hosts the renowned Madeira Flower Festival (Festa da Flor), typically held after Easter, where the streets are filled with floral carpets and vibrant parades. It is an ideal time for walking and enjoying the lush landscapes before the peak summer heat arrives.

Summer (July – September)

The summer months are the warmest and driest, with long, sunny days perfect for swimming, sunbathing, and enjoying the city’s lidos and coastal areas. This is the high season, so expect more visitors and a lively atmosphere in restaurants and on tours. It’s the best time for ocean-based activities like whale watching and sailing.

Autumn (October – November)

As the summer crowds disperse, autumn offers a more tranquil experience. The weather remains pleasantly warm, and the sea is still temperate enough for swimming. This season is particularly well-suited for hiking the famous levadas, as the temperatures are moderate and the scenery is still verdant. You may encounter some rain, but it rarely lasts all day.

Winter (December – March)

Winter in Funchal is exceptionally mild compared to mainland Europe, making it a popular escape from colder climates. The city is famous for its spectacular New Year’s Eve fireworks display, considered one of the best in the world. February brings the vibrant celebrations of Carnival, with colourful parades and street parties. While it’s the wettest season, rainfall is often intermittent, and sunny days are still common.

Getting to Funchal

As an island capital, Funchal is primarily accessed by air, with well-organized connections from the airport to the city center. For a comprehensive overview of how to navigate the island, explore our guide on transportation in Madeira Island.

By Air

Nearly all visitors arrive at Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (FNC), located in Santa Cruz, about a 20-minute drive from Funchal. The airport serves numerous direct flights from major European cities. Its runway, famously extended over the ocean on pillars, is an impressive introduction to the island’s engineering feats.

Airport Transfers

From the airport, you have several convenient options to reach your accommodation. The Aerobus is an efficient and affordable shuttle service with regular departures and stops at major hotels along the Lido and in the city center. Taxis are readily available just outside the arrivals hall, offering a direct but more expensive journey. For ultimate convenience, pre-booking a private transfer ensures a driver will be waiting for you upon arrival. Finding the right place to stay is crucial, so check out our guide to accommodation in Madeira Island.

Where to Stay in Funchal: A Neighborhood Guide

Funchal’s diverse neighborhoods cater to different travel styles, from the historic and bustling to the serene and luxurious. Whether you’re looking for adventure or relaxation, Funchal offers plenty of things to do in Madeira Island.

Zona Velha (Old Town)

For those who wish to be immersed in history and atmosphere, the Zona Velha is an excellent choice. Its narrow, cobbled streets are lined with traditional restaurants, small bars, and the famous painted doors of the Arte de Portas Abertas project. It’s the heart of Funchal’s nightlife and a hub for gastronomy, offering a vibrant and authentic experience.

The Lido Area

Stretching west of the city center, the Lido is Funchal’s primary tourist district. This area is characterized by a wide selection of resort hotels, many with swimming pools and direct sea access via bathing complexes like the Lido or Ponta Gorda. With its seaside promenade, numerous restaurants, and family-friendly amenities, it is ideal for those seeking a relaxing, sun-focused holiday.

The City Center (Sé)

Staying in the area around the Sé Cathedral places you at the commercial and cultural heart of Funchal. This neighborhood offers unparalleled convenience, with major museums, shops, the marina, and key transport links all within easy walking distance. It’s a practical base for visitors who want to explore the city’s main attractions on foot.

The Hills of Monte

For a more tranquil and luxurious retreat, consider staying in Monte. Perched in the hills overlooking the city, this area is known for its elegant quintas (manor houses) turned into hotels, lush gardens, and cooler temperatures. It offers breathtaking views over Funchal bay and a sense of peaceful seclusion, while remaining connected to the city center via the cable car.

Getting Around Funchal and Madeira

Navigating Funchal is a straightforward affair, with its compact center best explored on foot. To venture further into the island’s dramatic landscapes, however, requires a bit more planning. A combination of public transport, rental cars, and organized tours will allow you to experience all that Madeira has to offer. For a deeper understanding of the island’s appeal, consider our guide on the reasons to visit Madeira Island.

Exploring the City

The heart of Funchal is very manageable, and moving between its primary points of interest is part of the experience.

On Foot

Funchal’s city center, particularly the Zona Velha (Old Town) and the area around the Sé Cathedral, is wonderfully walkable. The flat terrain along the seafront promenade and the cobblestone streets invite leisurely strolls. A good pair of comfortable shoes is essential for navigating the polished, and sometimes slick, paving stones.

Local Buses

For destinations within Funchal that are further afield, like the Lido area or the Botanical Garden, the local bus network, Horários do Funchal, is efficient and affordable. You can purchase tickets directly from the driver or buy a rechargeable ‘Giro’ card for better value if you plan on making several journeys. Bus routes are well-marked, and timetables are available online or at major bus stops.

Cable Cars (Teleféricos)

Offering more than just transport, Funchal’s cable cars provide spectacular panoramic views as you ascend the steep hillsides surrounding the city. They are an attraction in themselves and the most scenic way to reach the suburb of Monte.

• The Funchal-Monte Cable Car: This is the most popular cable car, starting from the Almirante Reis park in the Old Town. The 15-minute journey glides silently over the city’s terracotta rooftops, offering breathtaking views of the amphitheater-like bay before arriving in Monte.
• The Botanical Garden Cable Car: This second cable car connects Monte with the Madeira Botanical Garden, traversing a deep valley lush with Laurisilva forest. It’s an ideal way to combine a visit to both of these hillside attractions.

Exploring the Island from Funchal

To truly appreciate Madeira’s diverse geography, you must venture beyond the capital. Funchal serves as the perfect base for island-wide exploration. For a comprehensive overview of what to see, check out our guide to the best places to visit in Madeira Island.

Renting a Car

For the independent traveler, renting a car offers unparalleled freedom to discover hidden villages, remote viewpoints, and the starting points of various levada walks at your own pace. It allows you to set your own itinerary and linger wherever you please. To make the most of your island adventures, familiarize yourself with the transportation options in Madeira Island.

However, it is crucial to be aware of the island’s driving conditions. Roads are well-maintained but can be exceptionally steep, narrow, and winding, especially in mountainous areas. Confidence and caution are key. Drivers should be comfortable with hill starts and navigating tight turns. Opting for a smaller vehicle with an automatic transmission can make the experience significantly less demanding. Despite the challenges, the dramatic scenery unveiled around every corner makes it a rewarding endeavor.

Tours and Excursions

If you prefer to leave the driving to someone else, a wide variety of organized tours depart daily from Funchal. Full-day and half-day guided bus tours cover the island’s main highlights in the west and east. For a more adventurous experience, 4×4 jeep safaris can take you off the beaten path along rugged mountain tracks. Private guides and customized tours are also available for a more personalized exploration of the island.

Taxis and Ride-Sharing

Taxis are readily available throughout Funchal and are a reliable way to get around for shorter trips or to reach specific destinations without a tour. They are metered, and drivers often double as knowledgeable local guides, offering fixed-price island tours. Ride-sharing services like Bolt and Uber are also operational in Funchal and can be a convenient alternative.

Top Things to See and Do in Funchal

Funchal is a city that unfolds in layers, from its historic cobblestone streets to the lush, green hills that rise dramatically from the bay. It offers a wealth of activities that cater to every interest, blending cultural discovery with natural beauty and unique local traditions. For a comprehensive guide to experiencing the island, see our list of the best things to do in Madeira Island.

The Historic Heart: Zona Velha (Old Town)

The Zona Velha is the city’s oldest and most charismatic neighborhood. A stroll through its narrow, winding streets is a journey back in time, where historic buildings now house a vibrant collection of restaurants, bars, and artisan shops.

Rua de Santa Maria

This is the cultural artery of the Old Town. What was once a neglected street has been transformed into an open-air art gallery through the Arte de Portas Abertas (The Art of Open Doors) project. Nearly every doorway is a canvas, featuring creative and colorful paintings by local artists that tell a story, making a simple walk an engaging visual experience.

Mercado dos Lavradores

Prepare your senses for an immersion into Madeiran life at the city’s main farmers’ market. The entrance bursts with the vibrant colors and sweet fragrances of flower vendors in traditional dress selling exotic blooms like proteas and birds of paradise. Inside, the sights and sounds intensify. You’ll hear the lively chatter of vendors and locals as you navigate stalls piled high with peculiar-looking but delicious fruits, such as the banana-passionfruit (maracujá-banana) and philodendron fruit (costela-de-adão). Downstairs, the fish market is a spectacle of its own, where you can witness the island’s famous and formidable-looking black scabbard fish (espada) being prepared with remarkable skill.

Forte de São Tiago

Positioned at the eastern end of the seafront, this striking 17th-century fortress is impossible to miss with its bright yellow walls. Originally built to defend the city from pirates, it now houses a contemporary art museum and a restaurant. Its location offers excellent views back along the coast of the Old Town.

Sé Cathedral

A testament to the island’s importance during the Age of Discoveries, Funchal’s 15th-century cathedral is a landmark of historical and architectural significance. Its simple, Gothic facade belies a breathtaking interior, most notably its ceiling of intricately carved cedar wood, a masterpiece of Manueline-era craftsmanship.

Gardens and Panoramic Views

Funchal’s reputation as the “Floating Garden” is well-earned. The city is dotted with meticulously maintained gardens and viewpoints that take full advantage of its amphitheater-like setting.

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Accessible via a scenic cable car ride, this is more than just a garden; it’s a magical estate. Winding paths lead you through a vast collection of exotic plants from around the world, past tranquil oriental gardens with koi ponds and pagodas, and alongside one of the world’s most important collections of tile panels, which recount the history of Portugal.

Madeira Botanical Garden

Perched on a hillside with stunning views over Funchal, this garden is a living library of Madeira’s diverse flora. It’s scientifically organized, showcasing endemic Madeiran plants, succulents from arid regions, and a fascinating section of medicinal and aromatic herbs. The garden’s most photographed feature is its geometric “mosaic” of brightly colored flowers.

Pico dos Barcelos Viewpoint

For one of the most comprehensive panoramas of the city, head to this viewpoint. Situated 355 meters above sea level, it offers a stunning 360-degree perspective that encompasses the entire Funchal bay, the surrounding mountains, and the distant Desertas Islands on a clear day.

Unique Funchal Experiences

Beyond the conventional sights, Funchal offers a number of truly memorable activities that are deeply rooted in the island’s culture and geography. You might also be interested in the island’s vibrant festivals and carnivals.

The Monte Toboggan Wicker Sleds

This is arguably Madeira’s most famous and exhilarating tradition. Dating back to the 19th century as a swift means of transport for locals, this experience involves being pushed down steep, winding streets in a large wicker basket sled. Guided by two “Carreiros” in traditional white attire and straw boaters, who use their rubber-soled boots as brakes, the 2-kilometer ride is a thrilling, gravity-powered journey from the hills of Monte back down towards Funchal. It is a unique blend of adrenaline and living history.

Whale and Dolphin Watching Tours

The deep Atlantic waters surrounding Madeira are a year-round sanctuary for a rich variety of marine life. Numerous boat tours depart from the Funchal Marina, offering the chance to see species like bottlenose dolphins, sperm whales, and Bryde’s whales in their natural habitat. It’s a respectful and awe-inspiring way to connect with the island’s wilder side.

Madeira Wine Tasting

No visit to Funchal is complete without sampling its world-renowned fortified wine. To understand its history and complexity, visit one of the historic wine lodges, such as Blandy’s Wine Lodge in the city center. A guided tour will walk you through the unique production process, followed by a tasting where you can appreciate the distinct characteristics of the different varieties, from the dry Sercial to the rich and sweet Malmsey.

CR7 Museum

Funchal is the proud hometown of football superstar Cristiano Ronaldo, and this modern museum is a tribute to his remarkable career. A must-see for any sports fan, the Museu CR7 displays a dazzling collection of his trophies, including the Ballon d’Or awards, along with jerseys, footballs, and interactive displays celebrating his achievements.

A Taste of Madeira: What to Eat and Drink

Madeira’s culinary scene is a direct reflection of its fertile volcanic soil and its strategic position in the Atlantic. The island’s gastronomy is built on simple, fresh ingredients: abundant seafood, tropical fruits, and high-quality local produce. Dining in Funchal is an experience in itself, from rustic tascas serving time-honoured recipes to elegant restaurants reinventing tradition.

Must-Try Local Dishes

Exploring Funchal with your taste buds is essential. Keep an eye out for these traditional dishes that form the heart of Madeiran cuisine.

• Espetada: This is arguably Madeira’s most famous meat dish. Large cubes of tender beef are seasoned with garlic and salt, skewered onto a bay laurel stick (which infuses the meat with a unique aroma), and grilled over an open fire. It is often served at the table hanging vertically from a special stand.
• Bolo do Caco: Don’t be fooled by the name; this is not a cake. Bolo do Caco is a soft, flat, circular bread, traditionally cooked on a hot stone slab (the ‘caco’). It is typically served warm, slathered with delicious garlic butter, and is the perfect accompaniment to almost any meal or as a starter.
• Lapas (Limpets): A true taste of the Madeiran sea. These small molluscs are grilled in their shells with a generous amount of garlic butter and a final squeeze of fresh lemon juice. Served sizzling in the pan they were cooked in, they are a popular and flavourful appetizer.
• Espada com Banana: This iconic dish is a surprising but delightful combination. The Espada (black scabbardfish) is a deep-sea fish with a delicate, white flesh. It is often lightly battered and fried, served with a sweet, fried banana on top. The contrast of flavours and textures makes it a uniquely Madeiran experience.
• Bife de Atum (Tuna Steak): Given its location, Madeira boasts incredibly fresh tuna. The local style is to marinate a thick tuna steak in olive oil, garlic, salt, and oregano, then pan-fry it. It’s a simple, hearty, and delicious dish, often served with milho frito (fried cubes of cornmeal).

Essential Madeiran Drinks

From world-famous fortified wines to powerful local cocktails, the island’s beverages are as distinctive as its food.

• Madeira Wine: The island’s most famous export, this fortified wine is renowned for its longevity and unique flavour profile, developed through a process of heating and aging. It ranges from dry to sweet. Understanding the four main types is a good start: Sercial (dry, ideal as an aperitif), Verdelho (medium-dry), Bual (medium-sweet), and Malmsey (sweet, perfect with dessert).
• Poncha: The quintessential local drink, Poncha is a potent and traditional cocktail. The classic version is made with aguardente de cana (a spirit distilled from sugarcane), honey, sugar, and the juice of fresh lemons or oranges. It is mixed with a special tool called a ‘caralhinho’ and is a social ritual for locals.
• Nikita: A more modern and surprisingly refreshing creation, the Nikita is a sweet, creamy drink. It’s a blend of pineapple juice, vanilla ice cream, sugar, and either white wine or beer. It may sound unusual, but it’s a popular choice on a warm day.

Where to Eat in Funchal

Funchal offers a diverse range of dining settings, catering to every palate and budget.

• Traditional ‘Tascas’ in the Old Town: For the most authentic experience, head to the narrow, cobbled streets of the Zona Velha. Here you’ll find numerous small, family-run restaurants (tascas) serving generous portions of traditional food at reasonable prices. The atmosphere is lively and informal.
• Seafront Restaurants in the Lido area: If you prefer your meal with an ocean view, the Lido promenade is lined with restaurants offering everything from fresh seafood to Italian and international cuisine. It’s an excellent choice for a relaxed lunch or a scenic dinner at sunset.
• Fine Dining and Michelin-starred options: Funchal is also home to a sophisticated fine-dining scene. Several hotels and standalone restaurants, including some awarded Michelin stars, offer innovative cuisine that elevates local ingredients into culinary art. These are ideal for a special occasion.

Beyond the City: Essential Day Trips from Funchal

While Funchal is a destination in itself, its greatest gift is serving as a gateway to the staggering natural beauty of Madeira. The island’s compact size means that some of the most dramatic landscapes in the Atlantic are just a short journey away. Renting a car or joining a tour opens up a world of towering peaks, lush valleys, and rugged coastlines.

For Nature Lovers and Hikers

Madeira is a walker’s paradise, defined by its unique network of irrigation channels, the levadas, and its formidable mountain terrain. These trails offer an intimate way to experience the island’s UNESCO-listed Laurisilva forest and its volcanic heart. Discover the best things to do in Madeira Island to plan your adventures.

Levada Walks

The levadas are a marvel of engineering, contouring the mountainsides for hundreds of kilometres to carry water from the wet north to the drier south. Today, the maintenance paths alongside them form an incredible network of walking trails. Two of the most celebrated are:

• Levada do Caldeirão Verde: This popular walk takes you deep into the verdant heart of the São Jorge valley. The trail is relatively flat, but long, leading you through dark tunnels (a torch is essential) and alongside sheer drops before culminating at a magnificent, high waterfall that tumbles into a crystal-clear lagoon.
• Levada das 25 Fontes / Risco: Located in the Rabaçal valley, this is arguably the most famous levada walk. It’s a dual trail that first leads to the impressive Risco waterfall before descending to the enchanting 25 Fontes (25 Springs), where numerous small waterfalls cascade into a serene pool. It is exceptionally beautiful but can be very busy.

Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo

This is Madeira’s quintessential mountain hike, a challenging but profoundly rewarding trek connecting the island’s third-highest and highest peaks. The trail is a masterpiece of stone-paved paths, steep stairways, and tunnels carved directly through the rock. On clear days, you walk literally above the clouds, with panoramic views of the entire central mountain massif. This is a demanding high-altitude hike that requires a good level of physical fitness and a head for heights. It is crucial to check the weather conditions before setting out, as they can change rapidly and dramatically at this altitude.

Coastal Villages and Natural Wonders

Madeira’s coastline is a study in contrasts, from charming fishing villages nestled in coves to colossal cliffs plunging into the ocean. Exploring the coast reveals the island’s deep connection to the sea. Consider our guide to the best places to visit in Madeira Island to include these gems.

Câmara de Lobos

Just west of Funchal lies this picturesque fishing village, a favourite subject of Winston Churchill, who would often set up his easel here to paint the colourful fishing boats bobbing in the harbour. The village retains its authentic charm, with a lively waterfront, narrow streets, and traditional taverns where you can sample local poncha and freshly grilled fish.

Cabo Girão

For a dose of vertigo and an unparalleled view, head to Cabo Girão. At 580 metres, it is one of Europe’s highest sea cliffs. A suspended glass-floored viewing platform, the skywalk, extends over the edge, offering a dizzying perspective of the terraced fields (fajãs) at the cliff’s base and the vast expanse of the Atlantic Ocean below.

Porto Moniz

On the island’s northwestern tip, the town of Porto Moniz is famous for its natural swimming pools. Formed over thousands of years by volcanic lava flowing into the sea, these saltwater pools are naturallyfilled and refreshed by the ocean tide. Swimming here, protected from the open ocean by black volcanic rock, is a unique and invigorating Madeiran experience.

Ponta de São Lourenço

In stark contrast to the lush green of the island’s interior, the easternmost peninsula of Ponta de São Lourenço offers a raw, windswept landscape. This nature reserve is a long, narrow spit of land with dramatic, multi-coloured cliffs sculpted by the wind and sea. The walking trail here provides spectacular coastal views and a sense of the island’s powerful volcanic origins.

Practical Tips for Your Funchal Trip

A little preparation goes a long way in ensuring a smooth and enjoyable trip. Here are some essential tips to help you plan your visit to Funchal, from currency and packing to staying safe and healthy.

Money and Budgeting

Navigating finances in Funchal is straightforward, allowing you to focus on enjoying your holiday.

• Currency: As part of Portugal, Madeira uses the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted in most hotels, restaurants, and larger shops. However, it’s always wise to carry some cash for smaller cafes, local markets, and bus fares. ATMs (Multibanco) are readily available throughout the city.
• Tipping Culture: Tipping is not obligatory but is a common way to show appreciation for good service. In restaurants, rounding up the bill or leaving a tip of 5-10% is customary if you are satisfied with your experience. For taxi drivers, rounding up to the nearest euro is sufficient.
• Average Costs: Funchal offers good value compared to many other Western European destinations. To give you an idea:
  • A coffee (bica) at a local café: €0.80 – €1.20
  • A three-course meal for two at a mid-range restaurant: €40 – €70
  • A local beer (Coral): €1.50 – €2.50
  • A one-way local bus ticket: around €1.95

Health and Safety

Funchal is known for its relaxed atmosphere and safe environment, but it’s always good to be aware of local conditions.

• General Safety: Funchal is considered a very safe city with a low crime rate. You can feel comfortable walking around, even at night. Standard travel precautions, such as being mindful of your belongings in crowded areas like the Mercado dos Lavradores, are always recommended.
• Water: The tap water throughout Funchal and Madeira is of high quality and perfectly safe to drink.
• Sun Protection: The subtropical sun in Madeira can be surprisingly strong, even on overcast days. Sunscreen is essential year-round. A hat and sunglasses are also highly recommended, especially if you plan on hiking, taking a boat trip, or simply relaxing by the sea.

What to Pack

Packing for Madeira requires a bit of strategy due to its famous microclimates. The weather can change quickly as you travel from the coast to the mountains, so versatility is key. For more on when to plan your visit, check out our guide on the best time to visit Madeira Island.

• Layered Clothing: The most practical approach is to dress in layers. Pack t-shirts, light long-sleeved tops, a fleece or warm sweater, and a versatile jacket. This allows you to adapt easily from a warm, sunny morning in Funchal to a cool, misty afternoon in the mountains.
• Comfortable Walking Shoes: This is non-negotiable. Funchal’s charming streets are often paved with cobblestones, and its hills can be steep. If you plan on exploring the levadas or hiking trails, a pair of sturdy walking shoes or hiking boots with good grip is essential.
• Rain Jacket: A lightweight, waterproof or water-resistant jacket is a must-have. Unexpected showers can occur at any time of year, particularly in higher-altitude areas. It will also serve as a useful windbreaker on exposed coastal paths or mountain peaks.
• Swimsuit: Don’t forget your swimwear. Whether you plan to take a dip in your hotel pool, brave the Atlantic at a lido complex, or visit the natural volcanic pools at Porto Moniz, you’ll want to be prepared.