Botanical Garden

The Jardim Botânico da Madeira is one of the most beautiful botanical gardens in Europe — located on terraces above Funchal, with over 2,500 plant species from all continents and a breathtaking view over the city and the harbor. The garden was opened in 1960 on the grounds of the former Quinta do Bom Sucesso and uses Madeira's subtropical climate to showcase plants that do not thrive in any other European garden.

The highlights are the geometrically arranged flower beds at the entrance (a kaleidoscope of Strelitzias, orchids, Protea, and hibiscus — the most popular photo subject), the cactus and succulent collection (one of the largest in Europe), the laurel forest section with original trees of the UNESCO-protected Laurisilva, and the parrot garden with tropical birds. A separate area is dedicated to the endemic plants of Madeira — species that occur only on this island.

The garden is accessible via the Teleférico do Jardim Botânico (cable car) — a separate cable car that runs from the Babosas district to the garden (single ride €5.50, round trip €9). Alternatively, the city bus No. 31 (€3) or a taxi (€6–8 from the center). The facility is extensive — plan 1.5–2 hours.

Directly next to the Botanical Garden is the Jardim Orquídea (Orchid Garden, €5) with over 50,000 orchids — a separate, privately run garden that is particularly spectacular from November to February during the orchid bloom. And from the Botanical Garden, another cable car (Teleférico do Jardim Botânico–Babosas) goes down to Monte, where you can follow with the wicker toboggan ride — a perfect half-day.