SOUNDS OF TRIP: Funchal, the capital city of Madeira Islands

Funchal is the largest city, the municipal seat and the capital. This city has a lot things to do and to go.

The Funchal city of today is a modern, cosmopolitan, rejuvenated city, well known for its many top class restaurants, stunning new 4 & 5 star hotels and warm all year round climate and of course its most famous export, world class footballer Cristiano Ronaldo :-) . In short, it is now known for its style as well.

The city is located in the stunning south of Madeira, on it’s sunniest coast amidst banana plantations and wonderful gardens where flowers bloom all year round in the shelter of the verdant mountains.

I start to love this city for its absolute relaxing atmosphere. You can go for a easy walk in one of the various gardens and parks, have a coffee in historical city center, take a great pictures of Funchal from many viewpoints, go for a walk on a Lido promenade during the sunset, enjoy sun from many beaches and pools, buy "passion fruit" at the typical market Mercado dos Lavradores..

Tourists in Funchal also roll up to enjoy activities such as diving in the crystal-clear waters, surfing the waves, boat trips, swimming with dolphins, spending the day at sea ‘whale-watching’, taking day long excursions along the coast and through the eucalyptus smelling mountain woods, paragliding on the coast, enjoying spectacular rounds of golf on the famous courses or simply to just enjoy a snack at the numerous “people watching” cafes and outside garden venues.

My special tips you have to do and visit in Funchal:

Old town - Santa Maria street : during the day you can see lots of painted doors, in the night it has specifical familiar atmosphere :)
to swim and shine : São Tiago Beach, Barreirinha beach complex, Doca do Cavacas, Praia Formosa are my favourites ones :)
to Tropical and Botanical Garden by cable cars from Teleferico
beautiful Monte with nice view
Mercado dos Lavradores : typical market in center of the Funchal
Sé Catedral
Rua da Carreira with familiar bars
Santa Catarina Park and Jardim Municipal to enjoy your day
Forte de São José : it is the headquarters of the Principality of the Pontinha, a self-proclaimed country which is located off the coast of the port of Funchal
Pico Fortress
The Marina and harbour : ideal for late afternoon run
Pico dos Barcelos - amazing viewpoint on Funchal
walking from Praia Formosa to Camara de Lobos by promenade
Lido promenade with lot of nice bars
Viewpoint from São Gonçalo at Funchal when sunset starts
Walk around by São Joao and São Pedro to see and experience life of the city with typical streets and houses :)