Funchal means 'fennel', the herb because an unusual amount of wild fennel grew there when the island was discovered; Madeira means 'wood' after the very dense forests that covered the island. Both of these reflect the verdant nature of the whole island and the city capital it is a very good place for taking it easy, walking the promenades and gardens or sat at the harbour watching the Atlantic ocean and the incoming cruise ships.
Wear comfortable, non-slip shoes - although very beautiful, the cobbled streets can be slippery.
The city itself is nestled in a natural amphitheatre, meaning you can see almost all of the city from any point, with the deep-water harbour at its focal point. From the harbour, looking inland, the eyes are drawn upwards to the mountaintops. And when they are not obscured by cloud, the edge of the city is clearly delineated where it meets the tree line. The city is located south of the island on its sunniest coast.
The busiest area is Lido, where most hotels are located, so it is a bit more touristy, but don’t be put off - it is still very pleasant and relaxing. Here you will find lovely promenades by the sea, lots of seaside restaurants, bars and hotels, in the summer and most of the year in fact
The whole city is inviting and has lots to see. I would definitely recommend exploring the downtown area by the Municipal Gardens and the Sé Cathedral; the Old Town (Zona Velha) is also a must with its narrow and cobbled streets where locals and tourists spend their days walking among the crumbling mustard buildings and their creative painted doorways, all the way to St Tiago's Fort (visiting inside - various terraces with fabulous views) and maybe if you are brave enough have a swim in the clear water of the Atlantic in the local beach.
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