CityBuddy
Teleférico do Funchal (Funchal Cable Car)
Best time to visit
Early morning offers the clearest skies and softer light for photos, with shorter queues. Late afternoon gives warm golden light over the coast, but can be windier.
Budget tips
Expect a return ticket for adults around €16–€20, children and seniors have reduced fares; single-way tickets are cheaper. Look for combined cable car + Monte Palace tickets or buy online for timed slots to avoid queues and sometimes save a few euros.
Recommended for
Photography enthusiasts, Couples, Families, Sightseers
Plan your visit
1-2 hours
About
Quick facts: Gliding over terraced gardens and eucalyptus-scented slopes, the panoramic cabins climb roughly 560 meters, rewarding riders with expansive ocean views and endless photo opportunities. Quiet, smooth and surprisingly serene, the journey lets you spot parrots, fishermen and patchwork rooftops while feeling briefly suspended above a lush, sunlit landscape.
Insider tips
- Arrive 30 minutes before your preferred time, especially on cruise-ship days, to avoid long queues.
- Sit on the right side going uphill for the best bay and city views, and on the left when descending for ocean panoramas.
- Bring a light windproof jacket and sunglasses, higher altitude can be noticeably cooler and breezy.
- Combine the ride with a visit to Monte Palace Tropical Garden or book a return by toboggan later to make the most of the trip.
Where to Stay in Funchal
Selected by City Buddy based on guest reviews and proximity to top attractions
Search all hotels in FunchalPowered by agoda
Have you heard of free walking tours?
After traveling to 30+ countries, there's one thing I wish someone had told me from day one, and it completely changed how I experience new cities.
Free walking tours. Yes, actually free. No credit card needed. No catch.
Local guide, 2-3 hours
Major sights, hidden gems, local stories
100% tip-based
Guides earn only tips, so they give their absolute best
You tip what feels right
At the end, just tip whatever you feel is right
I've done these in dozens of cities and they've been the highlight of almost every trip. If you're visiting Funchal, Portugal, do this on your first day. You'll thank me later.
More attractions in Funchal
Sé Catedral de Funchal (Funchal Cathedral)
Mercado dos Lavradores (Farmers' Market)
Monte Palace Tropical Garden (Jardim Tropical Monte Palace)
Jardim Botânico da Madeira (Madeira Botanical Garden)
Most popular itineraries!
Browse trip plans created by other travelers
6-Day Funchal for the Offbeat Explorer, Nature Lover, and Culture Enthusiast
Discover Funchal's hidden gems, scenic hikes, and rich culture with a unique local perspective. Experience secret viewpoints, authentic hangouts, and engaging activities away from the tourist crowds this spring.
5-Day Funchal Adventure for Budget Backpackers
Discover Funchal like a local on foot and public transport. Experience hidden gems, vibrant culture, nature, and authentic food without breaking the bank.
4-Day Family Fun in Funchal Summer Escape
Explore family-friendly parks, interactive museums, scenic cable car rides, and beach time in Funchal for a memorable summer getaway.
3-Day Funchal Family Adventure with Culture and Nature
Discover Funchal with your family through interactive museums, scenic hikes, local culture, and hidden gems for an unforgettable summer trip.
2-Day Funchal Spring Adventure
Discover the charm of Funchal in spring with stunning gardens, rich history, and vibrant local culture. Get ready for fresh sea breezes and blooming flowers.
5-päevane Funchali avastusretk seiklejale
Avasta Funchali autentseid paiku, mine vabaõhuretkele ja naudi kohalikke maitseid ilma suurt raha kulutamata!
8-Day Budget Backpacker Experience in Funchal
Discover authentic Funchal on a budget with free tours, street food, local markets, scenic walks, and hidden gems over eight refreshing summer days.
8-Day Spring Discovery in Funchal
Experience the vibrant culture, stunning gardens, and coastal beauty of Funchal this spring with a varied and immersive 8-day itinerary.
7-Day Funchal Spring Adventure for Nature and Offbeat Explorers
Discover Funchal's stunning landscapes, hidden gems, and vibrant local scenes on a 7-day spring journey perfect for active, nature-loving travelers craving authentic experiences beyond the usual tourist paths.