Funchal tourist information

Funchal, population approximately 140,000, is the capital of the Madeira Islands of Portugal. Funchal is also the largest city on the islands and is ranked after Câmara de Lobos and Machico in area. It was founded by João Gonçalves Zarco in 1421 and was elevated to city by King Manuel I in 1508.

The city is named after fennel, ('funcho' in Portuguese), which grows in abundance on the island.

A main road linking Funchal to both parts of the island and another road linking north to Faial and Santana cross the city centre. Funchal is located 21 km south of Faial, about 25 km S of Santana, 17 km SW of Machico, about 7 km E of Câmara de Lobos and about 37 km ESE of Calheta.

Part of Funchal Municipality is Ilhas Selvagens (Savage Islands and Desertas Islands), two nature reserve islands 160 km (100 mi) South of Funchal.

Funchal is bypassed by Madeira's only superhighway to the north east and northwest which accesses to Santa Cruz, the Madeira airport and Câmara de Lobos.

Lonely Planet City and Country Guides^{(external sources)}