Funchal holidays

Whitewashed houses, historical buildings, flowers and sunshine are what holidays in Funchal are all about. Funchal, the island of Madeira's capital, rises above the harbour, where red roofed whitewashed houses lined with flower-packed balconies contrast with its mountain backdrop. The resort's cobbled streets are filled with historic buildings and monuments, from the 15th century cathedral and 18th century town hall, to the art galleries and museums - culture fans will be in heaven. There is a beautiful promenade lined with palm trees, flowers and plants which runs around the bay and joins Praia Formosa beach in the west - to make up for the lack of beaches, you'll find three public lidos along the promenade too. Spend your days exploring the botanical gardens, take a cable car to the hill-top village of Monte, shop til you drop in the covered market and boutiques, or simply relax in a pavement cafe and watch the world go by. In the evenings, dine on the 'catch of the day' in one of the many seafood restaurants lining the marina. With so much to see and do in one place, it's easy to see why holiays in Funchal are so popular.