Best Places to Stay in Funchal Madeira

Funchal Accommodation: Where to Rest Your Head

Madeira, with its stunning volcanic landscapes and lush greenery, offers a variety of accommodation options for every type of traveler. In Funchal, the island’s vibrant capital, you can find everything from luxurious resorts to charming guesthouses, offering unique experiences for your stay.

For the Luxury Seeker:

  • Hotel Reid’s Palace: This iconic landmark is a 5-star luxury hotel known for its breathtaking ocean views, lush gardens, and impeccable service. Expect elegance, history, and multiple dining options.
  • The Vine Hotel: A modern 5-star hotel in the heart of Funchal, offering sleek design, fine dining, and a rooftop pool with panoramic island vistas.

For the Budget-Conscious Traveler:

  • Pestana Royal Tropical Resort & Spa: Enjoy stunning ocean views and all-inclusive amenities at this upscale resort known for its value.
  • Hotel Madeira: A centrally located 3-star hotel with affordable rates and comfortable accommodations.
  • Hostel: For the social traveler, Funchal offers several hostels with a lively atmosphere and opportunities to meet other people.

For those seeking unique experiences:

  • Quinta do Furadouro (Boutique Hotel): Experience the charm of a traditional Madeiran estate with modern amenities.

When choosing accommodation in Funchal, consider:

  • Your budget: Options range from luxurious hotels to budget-friendly hostels.
  • Your travel style: Do you prefer a quiet, secluded stay or one in the heart of the action?
  • What you want to see and do: Are you looking for something near the beach, the city center, or with specific amenities like a pool or kitchen access?

Beyond the Hotel:

Funchal offers diverse accommodation choices beyond its luxurious hotels.

  • Boutique Hotels: These offer a more intimate and personalized experience, often showcasing unique Madeiran architecture and charm.
  • Apartments & Villas: Perfect for longer stays or those seeking more independence and space.

For the Budget-Conscious Traveler:

  • Location: Decide if you want to be near the beach (Funchal is on the coast!), in the historic Old Town, or in a quieter area with mountain views.
  • Type of Accommodation: Consider apartments, guesthouses, or even guesthouses that offer hostel-style dorms for budget options.

For a more immersive experience:

  • Location: Think about staying in a traditional Madeiran village like Funchal instead of just staying in a hotel.
  • Rural Tourism: Embrace the island’s natural beauty by booking a stay in a charming guesthouse (guesthouse.com) or a luxurious villa (villarental.com)

Tips for Choosing Your Stay:

  • Book in advance: Especially during peak season, popular hotels and villas book up quickly.
  • Consider your needs: Do you need a pool? A kitchen? Free Wi-Fi? Be sure to check what amenities are important to you and look for accommodations that offer them.

Read reviews: Look at reviews from other travelers to get an idea of the quality and cleanliness of the accommodation, as well as the friendliness of the staff and the overall experience.

  • Check the location: Do you want to be close to the beach? In the heart of the city? Or maybe in a quiet village with a view?
  • Look for deals:

Remember:

  • Budget-friendly doesn’t mean low quality! Many budget options in Funchal offer comfortable and clean accommodations, and some even have stunning views.

  • Think about your transportation needs. Will you need a car to get around, or is it within walking distance of public transport?

  • Check for amenities like: Wi-Fi, breakfast (included or not), pool, free parking, gym, kitchen access, and laundry facilities.

For finding affordable options:

  • Use online travel platforms: Compare prices on popular websites like Booking.com, Expedia.com, or Airbnb.com to find the best deals.
  • Look for deals outside of peak season: You can often save money by traveling during the shoulder seasons (spring and fall) or even the off-season.

Beyond Funchal:

For a more authentic experience, consider staying in a traditional village:

  • Explore local guesthouses:

Many offer charming rooms and a chance to connect with the locals.

  • Look for “Casa Rural” accommodations: These are usually small, independent homes or villas outside of the city center that offer a unique and immersive experience.

Consider exploring:

  • The Quinta do Furadouro website:

They often have special offers on accommodation, so it’s worth checking out.

  • Other areas in Madeira:

Look for charming “Casa de Hospedagem” (guesthouse) options in the picturesque towns of Santana or Câmara de Lobos.

Remember:

  • Research the location:

Find a place that suits your needs and preferences.

Enjoy the Variety:

Madeira has something for everyone, so don’t be afraid to explore different types of accommodation:

  • Boutique hotels:

These offer unique charm and personality.

  • Apartments and villas:

This gives you more space and independence, and often lets you experience the island like a local.

For finding information on local experiences:

Check out websites like TripAdvisor or LonelyPlanet for reviews and recommendations.

Remember:

  • Look for “restaurants with a view”: Many restaurants in Funchal offer stunning views of the ocean, mountains, or city, making for a memorable dining experience.

  • Look for “things to do in Madeira”: This can help you find activities that fit your interests.

Enjoy Your Stay:

With its beautiful scenery and charming villages, Madeira is a wonderful place to visit.