Funchal is the largest city, the municipal seat, and the capital of Portugal's Autonomous Region of Madeira. Besides the city of Funchal, tourist destinations include: Ribeira Brava, Curral das Freiras, Porto Moniz, Santana, the Laurisilva forest, a UNESCO Natural Site in the center of Madeira Island, and the beaches of Porto Santo island.
Optional Activities:
Funchal, Madeira – Best of Funchal – Cable Car, Toboggan & Wine: See Madeira from the air and experience the wonderful views all the way up to Monte by cable car then down by toboggan! Monte has been a favorite destination for visitors to Madeira since the late 19th century, when a steam railway was built to haul cruise liner passengers up the hillside from Funchal. The railway closed in 1939, but now you are given the opportunity to experience this trip with the construction of the cable cars. The first stop on this land adventure is in the old part of town where you board the cable car to begin your ride. The cable car takes you on a picturesque trip up to Monte where the first image you see is the twin-towered façade of the Our Lady of Monte Church, a landmark throughout the city. For those who would like to, the way down to Livarmento can be done on the famous basket sledges called “toboggans”. Your next visit is The Blandy Wine Lodge, where you are invited to a tasting of some fine Madeira wine, world famous for over 400 years, at a Wine Lodge in Funchal. After experiencing the highlights of Funchal, you may either choose to return to the ship or continue to explore the town independently.
Duration: 3.5 hours
