Funchal offers a wealth of attractions and entertainment options, including exciting excursions and vibrant nightlife.
Some of the top nightclubs along the resort's waterfront include:
- Vespas (offers free alcohol for ladies every Wednesday)
- Molhe (located in the old fort on the sea pier, featuring some of Portugal's best DJs on Fridays and Saturdays)
- Marginal (hosts a new theme party every weekend)
- O Fugitivo (known for striptease and drag queen shows)
If your visit to Funchal is in November, don't miss the Chestnut Festival (Festa da Castanha). On this day, supermarkets throughout Portugal start selling chestnuts and special pans for roasting them at home, while the streets come alive with cultural and entertainment events that continue late into the night.
From May 1 to 4, locals celebrate the feast of the city's patron saint, James Alpheus (James the Younger). During these days, you can join in colorful festive processions in the historic part of the city.
Funchal's New Year's Eve celebrations are renowned for Guinness Book of World Records fireworks shows every night. In February, both citizens and tourists participate in an ethno-carnival, and in April, the Festival of Flowers symbolizes the arrival of spring.
During the summer, the annual International Fireworks Festival gathers the best pyrotechnicians from around the world, and the end of summer in Funchal is celebrated with a wine festival.
