Discover the elegant and lesser-known side of Funchal on a 2-hour guided walking tour that blends noble history with hidden gems and a meaningful social mission. The tour begins at the Jesuits’ College of Funchal, part of the University of Madeira, a building with over four centuries of history. From there, you’ll hear about the dramatic French attack of 1566 and continue through the charming English neighbourhood to learn about the British families who helped shape Madeira’s identity over the centuries. Visit the English Church, admire manor houses built by Madeiran elites, and enjoy panoramic views from the Quinta das Cruzes viewpoint, near the former home of João Gonçalves Zarco, the naval captain who led the early settlement of the island, in the name of the Portuguese King, in the 15th century.

The tour also passes by the Santa Clara Monastery, where you’ll hear surprising stories of the cloistered nuns who became a tourist attraction and royal visitors who came to taste the island’s famous cakes (queijadas). Along the way, discover hidden corners of the city, stories of foreign princesses, and churches built by noble families that left a lasting legacy.

The route winds through quiet backstreets and historical districts often overlooked by visitors, offering a more intimate view of Funchal’s past. You’ll walk through leafy squares, pass old convent walls, and stop at architectural landmarks that reveal the city's cultural layers. Each stop is chosen not only for its beauty but also for the stories it holds—stories that your guide will bring to life through engaging and accessible narration.

This tour is part of the Madeiran Heritage programme, developed at the University of Madeira, and delivered by students and volunteers. All proceeds help fund free educational visits for schools across the region and support social programmes for needy university students. By joining this experience, you’re not only discovering Funchal’s noble past — you’re also helping shape the future of Madeira.