Welcome to Funchal Old Town, known to the locals as Zona Velha! It’s the ancient, beating heart of Funchal, with narrow cobblestone streets and ancient buildings that’ll whisk you back in time.
This enchanting area is a cultural hub and, naturally, a favourite spot for tourists from all over. Stretching from the bustling Mercado de Lavradores down to the historic Fort of São Tiago, it’s a 600-metre walk through history.
Exploring the Charm of Funchal's Old Town
Funchal’s Old Town is all about the vibe. Let yourself relax into it and drink in the atmosphere. Thanks to its crisscross of pedestrianised streets, it’s totally safe and convenient to wander on foot. No doubt you’ll find yourself drawn into the charming shops, art galleries and cafés along the way.
If you’re not on a time restraint, the best plan for discovering Funchal Old Town is to have no plan! Just spend the day meandering through the winding alleys and soak it all in.
What to find in Funchal Historic Centre?
There are plenty of secrets waiting to be discovered in Old Town Funchal, Madeira. Join a walking tour for a guided experience, or simply take a stroll.
You’ll find artisan shops, buzzing bars, welcoming restaurants, and colourful art galleries at every turn. It’s the perfect place to eat, drink, and people-watch. And importantly, don’t forget to have your camera at the ready!
The Painted Doors of Rua de Santa Maria
Called “The Art of Open Doors”, this project was designed to boost tourism and culture in a once-dilapidated area.
To brighten things up, the local council asked a load of artists to beautify the doors of houses and abandoned buildings. And the results are fabulous—over 200 beautifully painted doors now line the ancient thoroughfare of Rua de Santa Maria.
This art project helped make this street what it is today. Now a popular tourist attraction, it’s the busiest area of downtown Funchal. Lined with restaurants, galleries and cafés, it’s buzzing with life all day and long into the night.
Nightlife in Old Town
Funchal Old Town restaurants offer everything from tapas to cocktails. There’s a rum house, pizza places, Mexican food, and even a well-rated Indian and Nepalese restaurant.
Shopping in Old Town Funchal, Portugal
For a unique shopping experience, head to Rua Dr. Fernão de Ornelas. It’s a charming mix of old shops and vibrant new businesses. Looking for traditional regional products like honey cake and embroidery? You’re best off exploring the streets around the cathedral.
Plaza Madeira Shopping Centre (formerly La Vie) is more of a modern mall. There’s a food court and over 70 shops including big brand names, plus a supermarket and even a health club!
Markets in Downtown Funchal
When we talk about the markets in Funchal’s historic centre, there’s one highlight on the Funchal Old Town map.
The Mercado dos Lavradores has been going since the 1940s and is showing no signs of stopping any time soon! Open every day apart from Sunday, it’s the place to go for fresh produce like fruit, veg, flowers, and fish. Plus, in the courtyard, you’ll find local handicrafts like wicker and leather.
Hot tip: the best day to visit is Friday. Farmers come from nearby villages which adds to the market hubbub.
Landmarks of Funchal Old Town
Near the ocean end of Old Town, check out Jardim do Almirante Reis. This beautiful garden is home to works from local artists. There’s a cute café in the garden too, where you can grab a drink and watch the world go by.
A stone’s throw away, you’ll see São Tiago Fort. Its bright yellow walls stand out like a canary against the surrounding coastline. Previously used for military purposes and more recently as a museum, it now houses a pricey restaurant. You can often see vintage cars parked outside, which makes for a good photo opportunity.
Staying in the waterfront area, next up is Miradouro do Socorro, aka the Socorro Viewpoint. From here you can see Funchal’s port, where the cruiseliners come in. You’ll also get a good view of the Barreirinha Bathing Complex as well as the Desertas Islands archipelago.
Other landmarks include the Corpo Santo Chapel, a 15th-century fisherman’s chapel that is, impressively, still standing. Rua Santa Maria is Old Town’s arterial street and the oldest in the area. It’s where you’ll find Arte de Portas Abertas, the Church of Saint Mary, and just a few minutes’ walk away, the cable car station.
Conclusion: Why Funchal’s Old Town Is a Must-Visit
Funchal Old Town should be top of your list for Madeira sightseeing. It’s where contemporary life meets charming, old architecture. Not to mention the delicious local cuisine, incredible history, awesome art, and fun bar scene. Don’t miss the chance to experience the magic of this area.
