Funchal, Madeira, Portugal Cruises

Funchal, Madeira, Portugal Cruise Port

Funchal is the capital city of Madeira, an island off the coast of Portugal. This island was named for the Portuguese word for “wood” because it was so densely forested when explorers found it. Today the area is covered in flora and fauna and is a popular vacation spot for Europeans. In its past, Funchal became a popular place for sailors and merchants, including Christopher Columbus. The city was a major spot for the sugar industry and later wine. Madeira wine is one of the island’s biggest exports, and a real treat for travelers cruising to Funchal, Portugal. Featured below are a few of our favorite experiences for the cruise port of Funchal, Portugal:

• Enjoy the intricate displays of plants at the Palheiro Gardens, which are on the Palheiro Estate which also has art exhibitions, a golf course and a spa.
   
• Take the Funchal Cable Car up to Monte where you’ll have incredible views of the island. At the bottom of the cable car are the Madeira Botanical Gardens.
   
• Sip the local wine on a tour of Blandy’s Wine Lodge. Here you can learn about the production of the wine and get to taste several varieties.
   
• Learn about the man who discovered Madeira, Joao Gonclaves Zarco, at his former home. Here you’ll also glimpse valuable goods that were traded during this time, including porcelain.