Old Funchal Walking Tour
Description
Your 2-hour tour to the emblematic monuments of this part of the town will be guided by a former university student or a European volunteer (European Voluntary Service - part of the European Union's Erasmus+ programme) integrated in this project, developed at the University of Madeira. This will be a university project with a side that will most certainly fascinate you.
Tour Options
Itinerary
Founded by King Sebastian of Portugal in the 16th century.
The Mercado dos Lavradores ("farmers' market") is a fruit, vegetable, flower and fish market in Funchal, Madeira. The building was designed by Edmundo Tavares and opened on 24 November 1940. The facade, main entrance and fish market contain panels of tiles depicting regional themes, executed by João Rodrigues. It is divided into a number of smaller plazas and stairways that are used as sales venues.
Nightlife in the Old Town is currently a great attraction where art and entertainment come together, as the streets in the area have been transformed by the work of local and foreign artists (through a project entitled “Arte de Portas Abertas”). The project represents one of the facets of urban art and culture in the city.
Praça do Colombo
Building from 16th century served as the seat of the largest diocese in the world.
One of the three navigators responsible for the rediscovery of the island.”
We then stop at the Municipal Garden for a quick visit and after the traditional Wine Lodge, before continuing to the Jesuits’ Church.
The College Church, dedicated to Saint John the Evangelist, is a must see attraction in Funchal that impresses visitors with its incredible interiors, that includes Madeira's finest baroque and mannerist art pieces.
Loja Gaudeamus with a Wine tasting.
Highlights
What's included
Traveller Ratings
Important Information
- Public transportation options are available nearby
- Suitable for all physical fitness levels
- May be operated by a multi-lingual guide
Reviews(587)
This is a great introduction to Funchal, giving you lots of the history of the old town as well as showing you local spots for your visit. The tours are all done by university students and volunteers, with the proceeds going to support student bursaries which is a fab initiative. It also means you end up getting a great personalised tour with brilliant and enthusiastic guides. I really got a sense of the city through the walk, and ended up returning later on to a few of the places pointed out. Also: free wine tasting!
Good experience to get to know the history of the city and at the same time the old part of it!!
Excellent guided walk around old Funchal town taking in the history, sights and sounds at a comfortable pace. Eelkje conducted the tour in a friendly, informative and welcoming manner. I enjoyed the exploration of the old city hall, various churches and buildings, the painted doorways in the old streets, walking around the fruit and fish market and stopping by at nice places to eat and have a drink. Well done!
Our Dutch guide was friendly and informative - there was plenty of time to stop and take photos and ask questions.
Walking tour through Funchal with our charming host Wesley was a perfect way to end the day. We joined just one other walker for this tour, so just the 4 of us altogether at 4 pm. Meet up was easy and the tour flowed with Wesley chatting about the architecture and history of Funchal. We visited many significant sites and places of interest off the beaten path which allowed us to return to areas and buildings at our leisure. The tour lasted 2 hours and finished with wine tasting back at the university. All in all it was an excellent experience which I’d thoroughly recommend, sincere thanks to Wesley.
Well worth doing. Guide was great, she was very knowledgeable & glad we did this at the start of our holiday .
Great experience and value for money.
I am completely thrilled by so much knowledge, enthusiasm, and friendliness!!!
Nice tour guide and a very pleasant atmosphere within the small group of 6 people. The proceeds from the tours go to the universities so that students who otherwise could not afford it can be supported. Great cause, would love to do it again.
This was a lovely way to see Funchal and learn about its history. The time passed quickly and we really enjoyed it. David was fluent in English and explained things very well. He also gave us some great tips on places he has enjoyed eating.
