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ideas for Funchal, Madeira

We are going to Madeira this July for 3 full days. We are there on a Sat. Sun. and Mon.
We are wanting to do the Monte Cable Car, Monte tropical gardens, old town and the CR7 Museum.
So far, not renting a car. I saw on a website that a public bus to Santana is available. Wanted to see the A-frame traditional houses.
Any other thoughts? Thank you in advance!

Posted by
461 posts

Hi Olga,

I know Madeira is not really on the radar for those visiting Portugal, but it really should be! We visited in 2010 and stayed a week. If you are not faint of heart, rent a car, then you can visit many other places when you want. Santana is beautiful and worth a short visit, as is Curral das Freiras, the Grutas (underground caves) near Sao Vicent , and definitely do a Levada Walk! The Parque Tematico was very interesting. The town of Santa Cruz is beautiful. The Monte area, garden, and old town can be done in one day. Allow at least 3 hours for the botanical garden, even more time is warranted if you like parks like this. It is AMAZING! A great planning website is http://www.madeira-web.com/ I have not seen other travelers on this Portugal forum who have visited Madeira except for me and one other so if I can help in any way let me know. Enjoy the planning!!!