What to do in Funchal on a Sunday is a question many families ask when planning a trip to Madeira. Known as the “Pearl of the Atlantic,” Madeira Island offers the perfect combination of adventure, culture, and relaxation. Its capital, Funchal, is not only the centre of the island but also a city that caters to travellers of all ages. From fun cable car rides, gardens, playgrounds, boat trips, and seaside strolls along the city’s extensive promenades, Funchal has something for everyone, especially families with children looking to spend a memorable Sunday together.
While in some cities, such as Funchal, Sundays mean closed shops and quiet streets, some activities remain open, providing an opportunity to slow down, connect with nature, and explore attractions with the whole family. With a rental car from 7M Rent a Car, families can easily access all corners of the city and even extend their itinerary to neighbouring cities, keeping comfort and flexibility at the centre of their trip.
In this guide, we’ll create a detailed itinerary highlighting 8 family-friendly ideas to enjoy in Funchal on a Sunday.
8 family-friendly ideas to enjoy in Funchal on a Sunday.
Here is your complete itinerary for a full day, designed for families with children:
1. Start the Morning at Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha
Location: Rua de Santa Maria nº153, Old Town Funchal
Schedule: 07:00 a.m. – 09:00 p.m.
There’s nothing like starting your Sunday in Funchal with a full and varied breakfast at Padaria Pastelaria Mariazinha. Located in the Old Town of Funchal, this small and cozy bakery offers a wide variety of pastries and fresh bread. It is a favourite spot among residents.
Highlights:
- Let the kids discover traditional sweet treats such as queijadas (cheese cakes), bolos de arroz (rice cakes), or savoury snacks.
- Try a sandwich made with fresh bread first thing in the morning with a coffee, tea, or hot chocolate.
- Explore the sweet and savoury treats, always fresh and made daily, as well as the bread and variety of bread types available.
Tip: Arrive early, as Sundays tend to be busier.
2. Take the Madeira Cable Car to Monte
Location: Almirante Reis, Old Town Funchal
Schedule: 08:45 a.m. – 05:45 p.m. (Sunday)
One of the most exciting attractions for children in Funchal is the Madeira Cable Car. Departing from the Promenade of Almirante Reis Garden, located in the Old Town of Funchal, it glides over the rooftops of the city and climbs up to the hills of Monte. The ride takes about 15 minutes and offers breathtaking views of the bay and mountains.
Highlights:
- Children love watching cruise ships and tiny houses from above.
- Parents can take unforgettable family photos during the tour.
Tip: buy a round-trip ticket and, before heading back down, explore the surroundings of Monte, such as the Monte Palace Madeira – Tropical Garden.
3. Explore Monte Palace Madeira – Tropical Garden
Location: Caminho das Babosas nº4-A, Funchal
Schedule: 09:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m. (October to March) or 09:00 a.m. – 07:00 p.m. (April to September)
After the excitement of the cable car, families can relax in the Monte Palace Madeira – Tropical Garden. Covering 70,000 square meters, this enchanting space is filled with exotic plants, lakes with carp, flamingos, statues, and artistic tiles.
Highlights:
- Children love feeding the koi fish and watching the flamingos.
- Parents can admire the gardens and oriental statues.
- The site is suitable for strollers, with shaded paths and benches to rest and enjoy the surrounding beauty.
Tip: Bring water and sunscreen to hydrate and protect yourself from the sun’s rays.
4. Visit the Madeira Story Centre
Location: Rua D. Carlos I, Old Town Funchal
Schedule: 10:00 a.m. – 06:00 p.m.
After visiting the Tropical Garden – Madeira Monte Palace and taking the cable car down from Monte to downtown Funchal, take the opportunity to visit the Madeira Story Centre, an interactive museum that tells the story of Madeira through multimedia exhibitions, making it ideal for children who love to learn hands-on. In addition to the museum, there is a restaurant on the terrace, ideal for a Sunday lunch with the family.
Highlights:
- Watch animated presentations about volcanoes, pirates, and explorers.
- Parents can also learn about Madeira’s wine and culture.
Tip: The rooftop terrace restaurant is great for lunch overlooking the Almirante Reis Garden in Funchal’s Old Town.
5. Set Sail on a Whale and Dolphin Watching Tour
Location: Funchal Marina, Cais 8
Schedule: Daily tours, including Sundays
For families looking for an unforgettable adventure, a whale and dolphin watching tour is one of the best things to do in Funchal on a Sunday. Boats such as the Santa Maria de Colombo, a replica of Christopher Columbus’s ship, depart from Funchal Marina (Pier 8) and take you out into the Atlantic Ocean for a three-hour trip. The trip can be taken at 10:30 a.m. or 03:00 p.m. every day.
Highlights:
- Children get excited when dolphins swim alongside the boat.
- Parents can relax on the deck while enjoying the view of the Madeira coastline.
- Families can spot whales (seasonally), dolphins, sea lions, sea turtles, and seabirds, making the experience both educational and entertaining.
Tip: Bring sunscreen, hats, swimsuits, and a camera. Many tours also offer a brief stop for swimming during the summer months.
6. Relax at Santa Catarina Park
Location: Avenida Sá Carneiro, Funchal
Schedule: Open daily, free entry
In the afternoon, head to Santa Catarina Park, a peaceful green oasis in the heart of Funchal. With stunning bay views, wide lawns, and a playground, it’s a favourite for families.
Highlights:
- Kids can run, play, and feed ducks in the pond.
- Parents can relax with panoramic views of the harbour.
Tip: On Sundays, locals also gather here, creating a warm, family-friendly atmosphere.
7. Play at a Family Playground
Locations: Ajuda Garden Playground or other local parks nearby
Schedule: Open daily
If the kids need to burn off some energy, head to one of Funchal’s playgrounds. The Ajuda Garden Playground near the Forum Madeira Shopping Centre is surrounded by green spaces and has areas for picnics.
Highlights:
- Safe spaces for children to play and interact with local kids.
- Parents can relax on benches while the little ones explore slides.
Tip: Playgrounds are a great way to enjoy a relaxing Sunday afternoon before heading out to dinner at one of the restaurants on the Lido promenade.
8. Sunset Walk at Lido Promenade
Location: Estrada Monumental, Funchal
Schedule: Open access all day
After dinner, end your Sunday with a leisurely stroll along the Lido Promenade, a coastal path stretching from Funchal to Praia Formosa. Families can enjoy the sea views, gardens and numerous cafés.
Highlights:
- Let kids play at the small playgrounds along the path.
- Watch the sun setting over the Atlantic as a perfect family moment.
Tip: If the children have no energy left to burn, it’s a sign that they’ve had a good day and can go home to rest.
Conclusion: Why Families Should Visit Funchal on a Sunday
Spending a Sunday in Funchal offers families the perfect balance of adventure, culture, and relaxation. From tranquil gardens to interactive museums and seaside strolls, every member of the family will find something to love.
Choosing what to do in Funchal on a Sunday is easy when you follow this itinerary. It’s a mix of iconic and local experiences that guarantee unforgettable memories for parents and children alike.
To make the most of it, renting a car with 7M Rent a Car is the best option. Families, couples, and individual travellers gain the flexibility to move between attractions, manage their time efficiently, and even extend their exploration to neighbouring villages. With a car, the island becomes your playground.
Discover more about Drive in Madeira: 8 Tips for First-Time Visitors in our guide.
