Old Town Walking Tour

Learn about the history of Funchal and Madeira on a guided walk through the city’s medieval center. Visit the farmer's market, the Campo Almirante Reis, the Fortress of St. James, and a number of other sites as your guide provides commentary.

Meet your guide at Jesuit's College of Funchal, Madeira University to begin this 2-hour guided walking tour of Funchal. Learn how the history of Madeira and Funchal shaped the city centre as you visit the most important points of interest.
Travel down the 19th century public walkway between the Municipal Theatre and the Cathedral, where sugarcane was first planted in Madeira, during the 15th century.
Explore the city’s medieval heart dating from the Golden Age of Sugar and discover the beautiful 17th century religious monuments.
Visit the ruins of the old Pilory Square and other remnants from past floods and the area damaged by the Great Fire of Funchal in 1584. This tour helps to support students at the University of Madeira who are facing financial difficulties.

Highlights:

  • Take a guided walk through the medieval center of Funchal
  • Hear about the history of Funchal and Madeira from your guide
  • Explore the city's medieval heart

Important information:

What to bring
  • Comfortable shoes
Not allowed
  • Luggage or large bags
Know before you go
  • Your walking tour will be guided by a former university student or European volunteer that is participating in the Erasmus+ program History Tellers project, developed at the University of Madeira. This project has an important solidarity component
  • Be sure to wear comfortable shoes
  • The History Tellers tours are 2 hours long, starting at 10:00 AM, 12:00 PM, 2:00 PM, or 4:00 PM, Monday to Friday. They are available in English, French, German and Spanish

Spoken languages:

  • English
  • French
  • German
  • Spanish
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