Welcome to Funchal, the capital of the idyllic island of Madeira, a true paradise in the middle of the Atlantic. Here, natural beauty blends with a rich history and vibrant culture, offering a diversity of experiences that will make your visit unforgettable. Furthermore, Funchal has made efforts to improve accessibility for everyone, making it a friendly destination for those who use wheelchairs.
The city of Funchal stretches across gentle hills that fall towards the blue of the ocean. Being situated on a slope, numerous ramps and elevators have been set up to facilitate movement. The city center has pedestrian streets, many of them cobblestone, but with a fairly uniform surface suitable for wheelchairs.
According to the latest estimates, Funchal has a population of around 111,000 inhabitants. Although it is the largest city in Madeira, it remains a relatively small place, contributing to its charm and sense of community.
Funchal is also known for its parties and festivals. The New Year's celebration is particularly famous for its impressive fireworks display. The Flower Festival, which is celebrated each spring, fills the city with color and fragrance. During these festivities, measures are taken to ensure accessibility for all, including viewing platforms for wheelchairs and accessible restrooms.
Whether you're looking for a relaxing getaway or an adventure filled with culture and history, Funchal is a destination that will welcome you with open arms. With its accessible streets, wheelchair-friendly attractions, and welcoming people, there is no doubt that Funchal is a place that everyone can enjoy, regardless of their mobility level.
In summary, Funchal is a destination where natural beauty, vibrant culture, and rich history meet in an environment that is friendly and accessible for people with reduced mobility. From its picturesque old town to its stunning gardens, from its delicious restaurants to its fascinating museums, there is something for everyone in this charming island city.
Here are some fun facts about Funchal and Madeira:
Origin of the name: Funchal owes its name to the Portuguese word 'funcho', which means fennel in English. When the first settlers arrived on the island, they found a large amount of this plant, leading them to name the city in its honor.
Cristiano Ronaldo: The famous footballer Cristiano Ronaldo was born in Funchal. The city has honored its most famous son in several ways, including the opening of the CR7 Museum, which houses memorabilia from Ronaldo's career, and the renaming of the local airport as Cristiano Ronaldo Airport.
Madeira Wines: Madeira is famous for its eponymous wine. This fortified wine, which comes in varieties from dry to sweet, has been produced on the island since the 15th century. Interestingly, Madeira wine is characterized by its unique production process that involves heating the wine, giving it a distinctive taste.
New Year's Eve: Madeira has a Guinness World Record for the "largest fireworks display" in the world on New Year's Eve. This show is a real feast for the senses and attracts visitors from around the world.
Monte Toboggan Basket: One of Funchal's most famous activities is a ride in a toboggan basket. These wicker baskets, which are pushed downhill by drivers dressed in traditional clothing, used to be a real means of transport for locals and are now a popular tourist attraction.
Flowers and Gardens: Madeira is known as the 'Island of Flowers' for its abundance of lush flora. The city of Funchal reflects this with its beautiful gardens and parks, as well as its popular Flower Festival, which is celebrated each spring. During the festival, the city is filled with colorful flowers and a parade with elaborate floral costumes is held.
In the following lines we will provide more information about this beautiful city and suggest accessible activities. We hope you enjoy your visit to Funchal!
This city offers a multitude of accessible sites and activities. You could start by visiting the CR7 Museum or the Madeira Story Center, both of which provide wheelchair access. You could also take a stroll along the promenade of Avenida do Mar, where you will find shops, restaurants, and beautiful views of the sea.
Another must-visit is the Farmers Market, or "Mercado dos Lavradores", where you will find an abundance of local fruits, vegetables, flowers, and even fresh fish. Despite it being a bustling place, it offers good accessibility for wheelchair users.
If you're a fan of nature, you'll be pleased to know that many of the island's stunning gardens are accessible as well. The Quinta Magnólia Park, Santa Catarina Park, and the Monte Palace Tropical Garden all offer beautiful, wheelchair-accessible routes.
For wine lovers, a visit to Blandy’s Wine Lodge is recommended. Here, you can learn about the history of Madeira wine and even have a taste. The lodge is accessible and offers facilities for visitors with reduced mobility.
Don't miss the opportunity to take a ride in the iconic Monte Cable Car. It offers breathtaking views of the city and the bay, and the cable car itself is accessible for wheelchairs.
If you’re up for some local cuisine, Funchal offers a range of accessible restaurants serving delicious Madeiran dishes like 'espetada' (beef skewers) and 'bolo do caco' (traditional sweet potato bread).
In conclusion, Funchal is a city that can be enjoyed by everyone. Its blend of natural beauty, rich history, and vibrant culture, along with its commitment to accessibility, makes it a perfect destination for any traveler, regardless of their mobility level. We hope you have an unforgettable visit!
Tourist offices are always an essential stop for any visitor to a city, and Funchal is no different.
Avenida Arriaga Tourist Office:
This is the main tourist office in Funchal and offers information on points of interest, activities, accommodation, events, and more. This office is accessible for people with reduced mobility, as it has flat entrances and ramps to facilitate entry for people in wheelchairs.
Address and contact:
- Avenida Arriaga nº16 9004-519 Funchal
- Phone: +351 291 145 305
- Email: info.srtc@madeira.gov.pt, info.visitmadeira@madeira.gov.pt
- Website: http://www.visitmadeira.com
Monumental Lido Tourist Office:
This office is located in the main tourist area of Funchal, on Estrada Monumental 284. Like the main office, it offers a variety of services to help tourists make the most of their stay in Madeira. This office is also accessible for people with reduced mobility.
Address and contact:
- Monumental Lido Shopping Center, Estrada Monumental, 284 9000-100 Funchal
- Phone: + 351 291 775 254
- Email: info.srtc@madeira.gov.pt, info.visitmadeira@madeira.gov.pt
- Website: http://www.visitmadeira.com
Cristiano Ronaldo Airport Tourist Office:
This office is located in the arrivals area of Madeira Airport, known as Cristiano Ronaldo Airport. It's an excellent place to get information right after landing. Madeira Airport has made significant efforts to ensure accessibility, including ramps, elevators, and restrooms adapted for people in wheelchairs.
Address and contact:
- Madeira Airport 9100-105 Santa Cruz
- Phone: +351 291 520 700
- Email: madeira.airport@ana.pt
- Website: http://www.aeroportomadeira.pt
Typically, these tourist offices are open from Monday to Sunday and have friendly, knowledgeable staff who can provide tips and information in various languages. In addition, many of these offices offer accessible brochures and maps, including Braille versions and digital formats for those with vision problems.
It's advisable to check the opening hours before your visit, as these can change depending on the season and current circumstances. Always remember to carry a face mask with you for your safety and that of others, following current health and safety measures.
Airport:
Cristiano Ronaldo Airport in Madeira, formerly known as Madeira Airport, is fully equipped to serve passengers with reduced mobility.
Assistance services: The airport offers a special assistance service for people with reduced mobility. This service must be requested at least 48 hours in advance through the airline or travel agency you are flying with. Airport staff can assist with check-in, boarding, and baggage collection, and can also provide wheelchairs.
Accessibility at the airport: The airport is designed to be accessible, with ramps, lifts, and adapted bathrooms available. There are also wheelchairs available for use at the airport.
Accessible restrooms: There are accessible restrooms located in various areas of the airport. These restrooms are equipped with suitable facilities for people in wheelchairs, including support bars and enough space to maneuver.
Parking: There are parking spaces reserved for people with disabilities near the airport entrances.
Help points: There are several help points located throughout the airport. These are places where people with reduced mobility can ask for help or report their arrival. Help points are clearly signposted and can be found both outside and inside the airport building.
Remember it is always best to get in touch with the airline or travel agency in advance to ensure that all accessibility needs are taken into account and adequately met.
Transportation from the airport to the city center:
Cristiano Ronaldo Airport in Funchal, Madeira, is well connected to the city center via several public transportation means. Here are some options:
Aerobus: The Aerobus service connects the airport with the center of Funchal. Buses are equipped with space for wheelchairs and offer an easy and economical way to reach the city center. Buses depart approximately every 30 minutes, and the journey duration is about 40 minutes to the city center. This service has several stops at the main hotels in Funchal.
Bus: SAM (Sociedade de Automóveis da Madeira) SAM offers a regular bus service from the airport to Funchal. Make sure to check that the bus line you choose is equipped with accessible buses.
Contact information:
- Sociedade de Automóveis da Madeira (SAM)
- Address: Rua 31 de Janeiro 22, 9054-501 Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
- Phone: (+351) 291 201 151
- Email: sam@sam.pt
- Website: https://www.sam.pt
Taxis: There is a taxi rank right outside the airport. Many taxis in Funchal are wheelchair accessible and can be a convenient option for getting to the city center. Make sure to specify that you need an accessible taxi when you request one.
Here is the contact information for a company that does provide accessible taxis.
Contact information:
- Madeira Accessible Taxi
- Phone: (+351) 964 399 287
- Email: info@madeiraaccessibletaxi.com
- Website: https://www.madeiraaccessibletaxi.com/
Rental Cars: Several car rental companies operate at the airport, and some may offer vehicles adapted for people with reduced mobility.
Transportation within the city:
Bus: The main bus companies in Funchal are Horarios do Funchal and Sociedade de Automóveis da Madeira (SAM). Both companies offer low-floor buses and wheelchair ramps on many of their lines. However, it's important to verify the accessibility of the specific route you plan to take, as not all buses may be equipped with these features.
Contact information:
- Sociedade de Automóveis da Madeira (SAM)
- Address: Rua 31 de Janeiro 22, 9054- 501 Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
- Teléfono: (+351) 291 201 151
- Email: sam@sam.pt
- Web: https://www.sam.pt
Taxis: There are several taxi companies in Funchal that offer vehicles adapted for wheelchairs. It is advisable to book in advance to ensure the availability of an accessible taxi. Here is the contact information for a company that offers this service:
Contact information:
- Madeira Accessible Taxi
- Phone: (+351) 964 399 287
- Email: info@madeiraaccessibletaxi.com
- Web: https://www.madeiraaccessibletaxi.com/
Cable Car: The Funchal Cable Car is a popular tourist attraction in Madeira that offers stunning panoramic views of the city of Funchal and its surroundings. It began operating in November 2000 and has since transported millions of visitors on their journey from the lower area of the city to the Monte area, on top of the hill.
The cable car departure station is located on Avenida do Mar, near the center of Funchal. The cable car takes visitors to Monte, an area in the hills above Funchal, famous for its church, gardens, and the traditional "Carro de Cesto" of Monte, a type of sled guided by two people that offers an exciting downhill ride.
The journey lasts approximately 15 minutes and provides a beautiful panoramic view of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean.
Accessibility: The Funchal Cable Car is accessible for wheelchairs, allowing people with reduced mobility to enjoy this unique experience. However, I would recommend that you contact the cable car company directly to confirm accessibility and any possible restrictions.
Schedule: The cable car's operating hours are generally from 09:00 to 17:45, but may vary depending on the time of year or special events. It is advisable to check the schedule before planning your visit.
Contact information:
- Avenida do Mar e das Comunidades Madeirenses, 50, 9060-190 Funchal, Madeira, Portugal
- Phone: +351 291 780 280
- Email: info@madeiracablecar.com
- Web: https://www.madeiracablecar.com/
Please note that this information is valid at the time of writing this message and may change. Therefore, it is always best to verify the updated information before planning your trip. I hope you find this information useful and enjoy your visit to Funchal.
Formosa Beach:
This is the largest beach in Funchal and is fully equipped to be accessible for people in wheelchairs. Located in the western part of the city, this beautiful sandy and pebbly beach offers an incredible view of the Atlantic Ocean and is a very popular destination among residents and visitors.
Formosa Beach features accessibility ramps and wooden platforms that allow easy access to the beach. In addition, there are amphibious chairs available for rent, which can be used to enter the water safely and comfortably. These chairs, operated by the venue's staff or a companion, are designed to float in the water, providing an inclusive swimming experience.
In addition to its accessibility, Formosa Beach also offers various amenities such as nearby restaurants and cafes, adapted toilets, and accessible showers. Shade areas and picnic spaces are also easily accessible, ensuring a comfortable and enjoyable visit for everyone.
Finally, the promenade that stretches along Formosa Beach is perfectly paved and offers an accessible route to stroll the beach and enjoy the spectacular sea views. From this promenade, you can also access the Doca do Cavacas saltwater pool complex, which is also accessible and offers an exciting alternative to the beach.
In short, Formosa Beach is an inclusive and welcoming beach destination that ensures everyone, regardless of their mobility, can enjoy the natural beauties that Funchal has to offer.
Gorgulho Beach:
This beach also in Funchal, is another beach that has significantly improved its accessibility in recent years. Although it is a pebbly beach, like many in Madeira, ramps and platforms have been installed to facilitate access for people in wheelchairs.
Unlike Formosa Beach, Gorgulho Beach is smaller and offers a quieter and more relaxed atmosphere. It has earned a reputation as a wonderful place to relax and enjoy the beautiful seascape of Madeira.
To ensure an inclusive beach experience, Gorgulho Beach offers amphibious wheelchairs that allow visitors with limited mobility to safely enter the water. These chairs are available for rent and can be operated by the beach staff or a companion.
Like Formosa Beach, Gorgulho Beach is close to a variety of services, including restaurants, cafes, and accessible bathrooms. It also features a promenade that allows visitors to enjoy panoramic views of the sea and the beautiful landscape of Funchal.
In summary, although Madeira may not be the first destination that comes to mind when thinking of accessible beaches, places like Formosa Beach and Gorgulho Beach demonstrate that the island is making great efforts to ensure its wonderful natural resources are accessible to all.
Zona Velha / Old Town:
Getting to Funchal's Old Town in a wheelchair may seem challenging, but it's an adventure worth undertaking. With its rich history and vibrant culture, this part of the city offers an unforgettable and authentic experience for visitors.
Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is set in a stunning setting: steep mountains that drop abruptly to the blue sea. At its heart lies the Old Town, an evocative blend of old and new. Although many of the streets are cobbled, considerable effort has been made to make this area accessible to everyone, with ramps installed in many areas and a general atmosphere of respect for those who may need a little more time to get around.
Upon arriving at the Old Town, the first recommended destination is the Fortress of São Tiago, a 17th-century bastion that now houses the Contemporary Art Museum. Although the fortress itself is a relic of the past, the interiors have been adapted to allow wheelchair access, with elevators taking visitors to the various levels. The fortress offers an impressive view of Funchal's harbor and the Atlantic, a panorama not to be missed.
The Old Town is known for its street art. The painted doors of Rua de Santa Maria are an exceptional example of how art can transform a space and make it accessible to everyone. This narrow cobbled street, one of the oldest in Funchal, is filled with doors that have been transformed into canvases by local artists. It can be easily navigated in a wheelchair, although it may be necessary to take it slow due to the cobbled terrain.
The Old Town also offers a delicious sample of Madeira's cuisine. There are numerous restaurants and cafes serving local delights, such as 'espada com banana' (scabbardfish with banana) and 'bolo do caco' (a type of local bread). Many of these establishments are accessible for wheelchairs, with ramps and adapted bathrooms.
Not far away, the Sé Cathedral of Funchal, a striking 15th-century Gothic building, is another stop worth making. Although it is an old building, efforts have been made to make it accessible, with ramps installed at the main entrance.
Near the cathedral, Praça do Município is a perfect place for a brief rest. With its shaded trees and pleasant atmosphere, this square offers a respite from the hustle and bustle of the Old Town. Furthermore, the square is wheelchair-accessible, with ramps and wide sidewalks.
Another place of interest is the Mercado dos Lavradores. Although it's not strictly in the Old Town, it's close enough to be included on the tour. This bustling market offers a wide variety of local products, from fresh fruits and vegetables to fish and flowers. The Mercado dos Lavradores is a feast for the senses, with the vibrant colors of local produce and the sounds of vendors announcing their offers. The market is well adapted for wheelchairs, with elevators and ramps providing access to all areas.
Following the coast from the Old Town, you reach the Santa Catarina Park, one of Funchal's many green spaces. This park, with its well-maintained gardens and panoramic views of the city and sea, is a perfect place for a peaceful stroll. Considerable effort has been made to make this park accessible to everyone, with paved paths and rest areas scattered throughout the park.
To conclude the day, a visit to the Old Town would not be complete without enjoying a fado show in one of the many venues in the area. Although fado originates from mainland Portugal, it has found a home in Madeira, and there are several places in the Old Town that offer fado shows. Many of these venues are wheelchair-accessible, but it's advisable to check in advance.
In summary, although Funchal's Old Town may present some challenges for wheelchair visitors due to its uneven terrain and old architecture, considerable effort has been made to make this place an accessible destination for all. From the stunning views of the Fortress of São Tiago to the painted doors of Rua de Santa Maria, from the local flavors of the market to the stirring sounds of fado, Funchal's Old Town offers a rich and vibrant experience for all visitors. Despite the challenges, it's a destination worth exploring, filled with history, culture, and beauty.
Armazém do Sal: https://armazemdosal.com/
Located in an old salt warehouse, this restaurant offers a high-quality culinary experience with a variety of local and international dishes. It has good facilities for people in wheelchairs, including an adapted bathroom.
Address and contact:
- Rua da Alfândega 135, Funchal, Madeira - Portugal
- Phones: (+351) 291 241 285 or (+351) 919 134 411
- Email: reservations@armazemdosal.com
Restaurante Do Forte: https://forte.restaurant/
This restaurant, located in an old seaside fort, is famous for its elegant ambiance and panoramic ocean views. It offers a varied menu with many local and seafood options. It also has wheelchair access.
Address and contact:
- Rua do Portão de Sao Tiago, Forte de Sao Tiago, 9060-250, Funchal
- Phone: (+351) 291 215 580 or (+351) 934 986 898
- Email: reservas@forte.restaurant or comercial@forte.restaurante
The Ritz Madeira: https://www.theritzmadeira.com/
Although it's best known for its cafe and patisserie, the Ritz Madeira also offers local and international cuisine dishes in its restaurant. The building is completely wheelchair accessible, and so are its bathrooms.
Address and contact:
- The Ritz Madeira, Avenida Arriaga, 33 9000 - 060 Funchal, Madeira - Portugal
- Phone: (+351) 291 648 155
- Email: reservations@theritzmadeira.com
