Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour

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Walk through Funchal’s noble past and hidden gems: the unique English Church, pass by the Santa Clara Monastery, manor houses, and viewpoints while uncovering stories of nobles, nuns, and explorers.

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Highlights

  • Explore hidden gems beyond Funchal’s main tourist routes.
  • Visit historic sites linked to nobles, nuns, and foreign settlers.
  • Learn from guides trained through a university-led programme.
  • Enjoy panoramic views from one of Funchal’s most iconic hills.
  • Discover quiet backstreets and historic neighbourhoods of Funchal.

Description

Discover the elegant and lesser-known side of Funchal on a 2-hour guided walking tour that blends noble history with hidden gems and a meaningful social mission. The tour begins at the Jesuits’ College of Funchal, part of the University of Madeira, a building with over four centuries of history. From there, you’ll hear about the dramatic French attack of 1566 and continue through the charming English neighbourhood to learn about the British families who helped shape Madeira’s identity over the centuries. Visit the English Church, admire manor houses built by Madeiran elites, and enjoy panoramic views from the Quinta das Cruzes viewpoint, near the former home of João Gonçalves Zarco, the naval captain who led the early settlement of the island, in the name of the Portuguese King, in the 15th century. The tour also passes by the Santa Clara Monastery, where you’ll hear surprising stories of the cloistered nuns who became a tourist attraction and royal visitors who came to taste the island’s famous cakes (queijadas). Along the way, discover hidden corners of the city, stories of foreign princesses, and churches built by noble families that left a lasting legacy. The route winds through quiet backstreets and historical districts often overlooked by visitors, offering a more intimate view of Funchal’s past. You’ll walk through leafy squares, pass old convent walls, and stop at architectural landmarks that reveal the city's cultural layers. Each stop is chosen not only for its beauty but also for the stories it holds—stories that your guide will bring to life through engaging and accessible narration. This tour is part of the Madeiran Heritage programme, developed at the University of Madeira, and delivered by students and volunteers. All proceeds help fund free educational visits for schools across the region and support social programmes for needy university students. By joining this experience, you’re not only discovering Funchal’s noble past — you’re also helping shape the future of Madeira.

Includes

Guided walking tour

Important Information

  • Meeting point: Jesuits’ College of Funchal (University of Madeira Rectory, Rua dos Ferreiros). Please arrive 10 minutes before the scheduled start time.
  • Group size: Tours are conducted in small groups to ensure a more personalised and engaging experience.
  • Weather considerations: The tour runs in most weather conditions. Bring sun protection or rain gear, depending on the forecast.
  • Accessibility: The route includes cobbled streets and slight inclines; unfortunately, it may not be suitable for guests with limited mobility.
  • Children: The tour is suitable for children aged 10+, but younger guests are welcome with supervision.
  • Language requests: If you have a strong preference for a specific language, please indicate it in advance to help us plan guide availability.
  • Support a cause: By joining this tour, you are helping to fund educational outreach and social support programmes for students at the University of Madeira.

Easy cancellation

Cancel up to 24 hours in advance for a full refund

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Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour
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