What to do in Funchal When it Rains
Looks like there will be a lot of rain in the coming days. While this is good for the island, it might not be great news for everyone. But don't worry! Funchal offers many indoor activities and things to do besides hiking and exploring nature. Here are 22 things to do on a rainy day in Funchal!
1️⃣ Visit the 3D Fun Art Museum
Experience the wonder of the 3D Fun Art Museum! Step into a world where art comes alive and throw yourself in interactive masterpieces. Take the chance to unleash your creativity and capture unforgettable memories.
🧭 Location, Opening Hours & Reviews
🌍 3D Fun Art Museum Website
2️⃣ Find A Book At Livraria Esperança
Step into a world where time stands still as you explore this magnificent bookstore, boasting an impressive array of over 100,000 books within its expansive 1200 square meters of space. Founded in 1886 and once hailed as the second-largest bookstore globally, Livraria Esperança (Esperança Bookshop) continues to amaze visitors with its treasure trove of literature, making it a must-visit destination not only for book lovers.
🧭 Location, Opening Hours & Reviews
🌍 Livraria Esperança Website
3️⃣ Discover the Madeira Story Centre
Feel like stepping back in time? Discover Madeira’s rich past and see how its fascinating story comes to life around you. This museum is located in the old town (Zona Velha).
🕒 Monday to Sunday
10 am - 7pm
🌍 https://www.madeirastorycentre.com/pt/
4️⃣ Go to the Religious Art Museum
Housed in a former bishop’s palace, this museum houses an extensive collection of masterpieces by Flemish artists from the 15th and 16th centuries.
🕒 Monday to Friday:
10:00 am - 5:30 pm
🕒 Saturday:
10:00 am – 1:30 pm
5️⃣ Sample Madeira Wine at Blandy’s Wine Lodge
Housed in a historic former monastery, Blandy’s Wine Lodge is the perfect refuge for a rainy afternoon. Beyond the guided tours through ancient barrel-lined cellars, you can explore their private collection of vintage wines and a small museum detailing centuries of winemaking. Settle into their cozy tasting room to sample various styles of Madeira wine, from dry Sercial to sweet Malmsey, while learning about the unique heating process that defines this world-renowned spirit.
🕒 Monday to Friday:
10:00 am - 6:30 pm
🕒 Saturday
10:00 am - 1:00 pm
🌍 https://www.blandyswinelodge.com/en/home/
6️⃣ Visit the Universe of Memories
This museum houses a unique collection of items from around the world, collected by João Carlos Abreu on many of his travels.
🕒 Monday to Friday:
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
🌍 https://visit.funchal.pt/item/universo-de-memorias-de-joao-carlos-abreu
7️⃣ Go to the Atelier Vicente’s
The Photography Museum is based on a nineteenth-century photography studio that has gone through many generations and was originally acquired in 1865.
🕒 Tuesday to Saturday:
10:00 am - 5:00 pm
🌍 https://cultura.madeira.gov.pt/museu-de-fotografia-da-madeira-atelier-vicente-s
8️⃣ Scout Through Forum Madeira
Visit one of Madeira’s most exciting shopping malls. Scout through various stores and shopping opportunities or catch a movie in English language at Cinema Nos.
🕒 Monday to Sunday:
08.00 am - 11.00 pm
9️⃣ Explore the Museu CR7
A well-known museum that is dedicated to Cristiano Ronaldo’s trophies. It’s a great place for football fans and for all those who wish to explore the incredible career of Madeira’s most important star.
🕒 Monday to Friday
10am - 5 pm
🔟 Spend Time on a Cultural Art Journey at Mama Museum
Discover the cultural heartbeat of Funchal at the Mama Museum. See local art and history exhibits, interactive displays, and a blend of tradition with innovation. Do also check the Mama Museum schedule as they frequently hold live concerts in the evening.
🕒 Monday to Saturday:
10.00 am - 06.00 pm
1️⃣1️⃣ Experience the Thrill at Casino da Madeira
Just five minutes from Funchal’s center, Casino da Madeira offers thrilling games like roulette, poker, and slots. Designed by Oscar Niemeyer, it features two restaurants, three bars, and the lively Copacabana nightclub. Try your luck, savor a meal, or dance the night away!
🕒 Monday to Sunday: 03.00 pm - 03.00 am
1️⃣2️⃣ Enjoy Performances at Teatro Municipal Baltazar Dias
Located in the heart of Funchal, this elegant theater is a cultural gem. Hosting a variety of performances, from plays to concerts, it offers a rich artistic experience. Designed in the Italian style, it’s a must-visit for culture enthusiasts.
🕒 Tuesday to Sunday: 09.00 am - 09.30 pm
🌍 https://teatrobaltazardias.funchal.pt/
1️⃣3️⃣ Visit the Santa Clara Convent
Step back in time at the Convento de Santa Clara, one of Funchal’s most historic landmarks. Founded in the 15th century, this peaceful convent once housed the daughters of noble families. Today, it offers a glimpse into Madeira’s rich religious and artistic heritage, with stunning azulejo tiles, carved wood ceilings, and peaceful cloisters that invite quiet reflection.
🕒 Tuesday to Saturday: 10.00 – 12.30 and 14.00 – 17.00
🌍 https://cultura.madeira.gov.pt/convento-de-santa-clara
1️⃣4️⃣ Visit Madeira Archives and Library
Not your average sightseeing destination but definitely worth a visit: Madeira’s main public library and regional archive - a fascinating place to explore Madeira’s historical documents, local newspapers, old books and manuscripts, or just enjoy a quiet reading session. What you’ll find: Reading rooms, archive & special‑collections rooms, services for document reproduction and certificates, and even an auditorium for events.
🕒 Tuesday to Saturday: 09:30 – 15:20 / Friday: open until 19:50
1️⃣5️⃣ Visit Museu Quinta das Cruzes
Step into the Museu Quinta das Cruzes, a former manor house that now showcases Madeira’s rich history. The museum features furniture, paintings, ceramics, jewellery, sculptures, and decorative objects from the 16th to the early 20th century. Outside, you can enjoy the beautifully located gardens with fountains, walking paths, and a small café.
🕒 Tuesday to Saturday: 10:00 am - 12:30 and 13:30 - 17:30
🌍 https://mqc.madeira.gov.pt/en/
1️⃣6️⃣ Visit Mercado Dos Lavradores
Feeling adventurous and daring? Then a visit to the famous Farmers’ Market, or Mercado dos Lavradores, is always worth considering. The market is an institution in Madeira - and, for decades, it has also been known as Madeiras most renowned tourist trap.
With some stallholders reportedly paying up to €5,000 a month in rent, they have to be inventive to turn a profit. In the end, it’s the tourist who often covers that bill. That’s why the local advice is almost always the same: go there, look around, take photos - but don’t touch anything, and don’t get pulled into friendly conversation unless you know exactly what you’re buying. Otherwise, you may walk away a hundred euros lighter with nothing more than a bag of fruit and a lesson learned.
🚩 Map & Opening Hours
🌍 Mercado dos Lavradores on Wikipedia
1️⃣7️⃣ Enjoy an Afternoon Tea at Reid’s Palace
Feeling British? Afternoon Tea at the famous Belmond Reid’s Palace is a classic Funchal tradition includes a premium selection of loose-leaf teas and a tiered stand of savory finger sandwiches and delicate pastries. Held in the elegant indoor lounge or covered terrace, it’s a luxurious, rain-proof way to enjoy cliffside views. Smart casual dress and reservations are required. Price per person is €50
🕒 Monday to Sunday: 14:00 - 16:30
🌍 https://www.belmond.com/hotels/europe/portugal/madeira/belmond-reids-palace/afternoon-tea
1️⃣8️⃣ Go Exercise at Madeira Fitness Studio
Stay active no matter the weather at Madeira Fitness Studio in the heart of Funchal. For only €10, non-members can purchase a single-class pass, enjoying a lively workout atmosphere.
🕒 Monday to Saturday: 07:00 – 22:00 and Sunday 07:00–19:00
1️⃣9️⃣ Escape at Cryptic Room Funchal
Challenge your mind and teamwork skills at Cryptic Room Funchal, a top escape room experience. Step into immersive themed rooms where clever puzzles, hidden clues, and time-sensitive challenges test your problem-solving under pressure. Perfect for friends, families, or colleagues. For many, this is an exciting way to spend an hour while sharpening your wits and having fun in a uniquely interactive environment.
🕒 Monday to Friday: 14:00 – 19:00 and Saturday to Sunday: 12:00 – 20:00
🌍 https://crypticroomquest.simplybook.it
2️⃣0️⃣ Visit Hand-Embroidery Workshop at Bordal
Step into the world of Madeira’s finest craftsmanship at Bordal, one of the island’s most renowned embroidery houses. Watch skilled artisans bring delicate patterns to life with thread and needle, and even try your hand at creating your own intricate designs. It’s a hands-on glimpse into a centuries-old tradition that blends patience, precision, and artistry - a truly unique cultural experience.
🕒 Monday to Friday: 09:00 – 19:00 and Saturday to Sunday: 09:30 - 18:00. Please inquire for workshops.
2️⃣1️⃣ Go See Fábrica de Santo António
Step inside Fábrica de Santo António, a charming historic shop founded in 1893. This family-run gem is the ultimate rainy-day sanctuary, filled with the warm aroma of spices and molasses. It is the perfect place to find authentic bolo de mel (Madeira honey cake) and traditional ginger biscuits. Watching the traditional packaging process while shielded from the rain offers a nostalgic, cozy glimpse into Funchal’s culinary heritage.
📌 Map & Opening Hours
🌍 Website
2️⃣2️⃣ Join a Free Guided Tour at Palácio de São Lourenço
The Palácio de São Lourenço is a striking 16th-century fortress and national monument that serves as both a military museum and the residence of the Representative of the Republic. It is an ideal rainy-day stop, offering shelter within its grand, gold-accented ballrooms and historic corridors. You can explore beautifully preserved royal portraits and decorative arts that trace Madeira's strategic importance. Admission is free, but access is only via scheduled guided tours.
🧭 Location, Opening Hours & Reviews
🌍 3D Fun Art Museum Website
Latest Update: 03.01.2026
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