Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour

Exploring Funchal’s Hidden Gems with the Stories & Secrets Tour

If you’re visiting Madeira and looking to uncover the city’s lesser-known stories and quiet corners, the Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour offers a charming peek into the island’s noble past. While many travelers stick to the main sights, this tour takes you off the beaten path, revealing the city’s secret history through intimate streets and historic landmarks.

What we love about this experience? First, the knowledgeable guides, trained through the local university, bring the city’s stories vividly to life. Second, the views from the Quinta das Cruzes viewpoint are spectacular—perfect for photo lovers. And third, the tour’s social mission, supporting education and local social programs, gives your walk extra purpose.

A small drawback? The route involves cobbled streets and some steep inclines, making it less suitable for those with mobility issues. Still, if you’re reasonably mobile and eager to explore the city’s quieter side, this tour hits the mark.

Ideal for history buffs, curious travelers, and those who want a meaningful experience beyond typical sightseeing, this tour offers a genuine and engaging way to connect with Funchal’s past.

Contents show

Key Points

Authentic Hidden Corners: Explore parts of Funchal often overlooked by travelers.
Educational & Engaging Guides: Led by passionate students trained at the University of Madeira.
Historical Landmarks: Visit the English Church, Santa Clara Monastery, and noble family houses.
Spectacular Views: Enjoy panoramic vistas from one of Funchal’s most iconic hills.
Support a Good Cause: Proceeds fund education and social programs in Madeira.
Small Group Experience: Ensures personalized attention and richer stories.

You can check availability for your dates here:

A Walk Through Funchal’s Noble Past

This two-hour walk begins at the Jesuits College of Funchal, part of the University of Madeira, a building with over 400 years of history. From this starting point, your guide—often a university student—sets the tone with stories of the city’s dramatic past, like the French attack of 1566, which shaped much of Madeira’s history.

The route then winds through the English neighbourhood, showcasing the influence of British families who arrived centuries ago and left a lasting mark on the city’s cultural fabric. The English Church is a highlight here—much more than a simple place of worship, it’s a window into the city’s international connections and the role of foreign settlers. Reviewers mention that the interior of the church is far more beautiful than the somewhat plain cathedral, which is a great tip for those seeking unexpected beauty.

As you stroll, you’ll pass by manor houses built by local elites, giving a sense of the grandeur that once defined Funchal’s upper classes. These buildings, many with lush gardens, tell stories of wealth, power, and social change.

One of the most breathtaking stops is the Quinta das Cruzes viewpoint, offering sweeping views over Funchal and the bay. It’s an ideal spot for photos and taking a moment to appreciate the city’s patchwork of rooftops, streets, and the shimmering Atlantic beyond. Interestingly, this spot is near the former home of João Gonçalves Zarco, the Portuguese captain who led the early settlement of Madeira in the 15th century.

Looking for more options in Madeira? We've reviewed plenty of other experiences.

Discovering Santa Clara Monastery and Hidden Streets

The tour also takes you to the Santa Clara Monastery, whose cloistered nuns once drew Royal visitors eager to taste the island’s famous queijadas (small cheese tarts). The stories of the nuns’ surprising transformation into a tourist attraction add a charming touch of local lore. Many reviews highlight that these stories make the sites come alive—guides excel at weaving history with engaging anecdotes.

As you wander through quiet backstreets, you’ll encounter hidden corners and leafy squares, places you might miss exploring on your own. These narrow streets, often cobbled and steep, reveal layers of Funchal’s past, from religious sites to noble homes. The guides ensure each stop isn’t just visually appealing but also packed with stories of nobles, explorers, and religious figures who shaped the city.

Travelers note that the guides are passionate and enthusiastic, with some reviewers specifically mentioning guides like Arran, Sabrin, and Len. Many mention how these guides’ storytelling made the history feel personal and accessible, with some even going beyond the planned stops to share additional insights.

The Practicalities: What to Expect and How to Prepare

The tour is designed for those with a reasonable level of fitness, mainly because it involves walking on cobblestones and some hills. Reviewers mention that the streets can be quite steep, so comfortable shoes are a must. If you have mobility concerns, it’s worth noting that the route might be challenging.

Meeting at the Jesuits College of Funchal, right next to DOliveiras Madeira Wine, ensures a central starting point. The tour lasts approximately 2 hours—just enough time to enjoy the sights without feeling rushed. Small group sizes mean more personalized attention, and guides often let visitors linger at particularly interesting sites.

The tour runs in most weather conditions, so bringing sun protection or a raincoat depending on the forecast is advisable. Since the tour is conducted in English, it’s accessible to most visitors, and advance requests for other languages can sometimes be accommodated.

Pricing is reasonable, especially considering the depth of stories and the quality of the guides. Most reviews emphasize the excellent value for money—you’re not just paying for sightseeing but for an educational experience delivered by passionate locals. Plus, because part of the proceeds supports educational and social programs, your participation feels good in more ways than one.

Why This Tour Is Worth Considering

The Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour is more than just a walk—it’s an opportunity to see Funchal through the eyes of those who know its stories best. You’ll gain insight into the city’s noble families, religious heritage, and even its secret streets.

The tour’s emphasis on local stories and historical landmarks helps create a richer understanding of Funchal’s identity. Plus, the panoramic views from key viewpoints are perfect for snapping memorable photos and understanding the city’s layout.

Guides are clearly passionate and knowledgeable, making each stop engaging and full of fascinating details. Reviewers consistently praise their storytelling skills—many mention guides like Sabrin, Laura, and Hannah, who make history feel alive.

An added bonus is the social aspect of the tour—your fee is helping fund future educational initiatives for local students. This gives your sightseeing a meaningful twist, making it a feel-good activity that’s both educational and impactful.

In terms of value, it’s a compact experience packed with stories, beautiful sights, and authentic interaction—ideal for travelers who love history, culture, and supporting local communities.

More Great Tours Nearby

FAQs: What you need to know before booking

Is the tour suitable for children?
The tour is recommended for children aged 10 and up, but younger kids are welcome with supervision.

Does the tour include transportation?
No, it’s a walking tour that starts and ends at the Jesuits College of Funchal.

Are there any physical limitations to be aware of?
Yes, the route involves cobbled streets and some steep inclines, so it may not be suitable for those with mobility issues.

What should I bring?
Comfortable shoes are essential, and depending on the weather, sun protection or rain gear.

Is the tour accessible for wheelchair users?
The route includes cobbled streets and slight inclines, so it may not be fully wheelchair accessible.

Can I cancel or reschedule?
Yes, free cancellation is available up to 24 hours in advance, and you can reserve now and pay later for flexibility.

Where exactly do I meet the guide?
At the University of Madeira entrance on Rua dos Ferreiros, next to DOliveiras Madeira Wine. Look for the glass doors and the university signage.

How long does the tour last?
Approximately 2 hours, providing a manageable yet thorough exploration of Funchal’s hidden stories.

What’s the cost and does it add value?
The experience offers excellent value considering the storytelling, sites visited, and small group setting. Plus, your fee supports local educational programs.

In summary, the Hidden Funchal: Stories & Secrets Tour offers a wonderfully authentic glimpse into Madeira’s past, ideal for travelers eager to experience the city’s quieter stories and scenic viewpoints. With passionate guides and a socially conscious twist, it’s a captivating, affordable way to deepen your understanding of Funchal’s cultural layers. If you enjoy history, beautiful views, and meaningful travel, this tour promises an enriching addition to your Madeira itinerary.