Funchal is the capital and the administrative seat of Madeira island, an autonomous region of Portugal that lies in the Atlantic ocean. Despite its proximity to the African coast, the regions has been a part of Europe  since 600 years. Funchal is the busiest port in Madeira and is known for its tourism.The city is considered to be one of the most beautiful islands in Portugal and derives its name due to the abundance of funcho(Portuguese for fennel) in the island.

Funchal is perhaps best known for the Madeira Botanical garden that is home to more than 2000 species of flora. The other places of interest in Funchal includes cathedral and palaces. Se Cathedral, that is located in the central point in Funchal and is perhaps the most visited place in Funchal. It was constructed in the 15th century and is particularly noted for its wooden ceilings. The Santa Clara convent is another one that was made a national monument was is noted for the azulejo tiles.

(Image courtesy of  JUVPRONDZ)

Madeira is an autonomous region of Portugal and is an archipelago in the Atlantic ocean. Despite being closer to the African coast, the region is a part of Portugal and has been ethnically and politically related to Europe for 600 years and has been a part of the European Union. Madeira was rediscovered by a few Portuguese sailors in the year 1418 and has been a region of Portugal ever since.

Madeira is noted as a year long tourist resort and is known for its famous Madeira wine,flowers, handicrafts and the New year celebration with a grand display of fireworks, that is considered to be the largest in the world. Madeira is not well known for its sandy beaches, but the island has much more to offer in the form of hillsides with beautiful flora.The island is also well known for other recreational and adventure activities which include, deep sea fishing, scuba diving or even playin a game of golf in one of the two 18-hole golf courses found here. Madeira is equally known for its nightlife that appeals to people of all age groups.