Madeira Botanical Gardens
Funchal, Madeira
One of Madeira’s loveliest green spaces, the island’s Botanical Gardens (Jardins Botânicos da Madeira) debuted in 1960. Stretching across 20 acres (9 hectares) and home to more than 2,000 species of exotic plants, the oasis is best known for its colorful geometric flower beds and carefully groomed topiary gardens.
Located on the Bom Sucesso Estate—once privately owned by the island’s wealthy Reid family—the hilltop Madeira Botanical Gardens are now open to the public. Celebrated for lofty, seaside views as well as elaborate floral and plant displays, the gardens have spaces dedicated to succulents, indigenous Madeiran species, palm trees, enormous cacti, checkered flower beds, and more. An array of small fountains and water features are scattered throughout.
The gardens also boast a small but immersive natural history museum, as well as the Louro Bird Park. Numerous Funchal tours feature a stop at the gardens, including half- and full-day sightseeing excursions that also include a ride on the city’s scenic cable car.
Amenities include a snack bar, restrooms, and a plant shop.
Save time by prebooking garden admission and cable car tickets online.
Owing to steep inclines and uneven surfaces, the Madeira Botanical Gardens are not easily accessible to wheelchair users or those with limited mobility.
To access the gardens via public transit, take the cable car from Funchal to the hilltop Monte district, and then a second cable car from Monte to the gardens. You can also travel via the 29, 30, and 31 bus lines. Alternatively, travel by car or taxi up the winding, hilly roads. Limited parking is available on site.
The Madeira Botanical Gardens are open daily, except on Christmas Day. Given the island’s subtropical climate, the park offers vibrant displays and impeccable floral attractions year round. Visit on a clear day for the best views overlooking Funchal and its coastline.
Funchal’s scenic Monte district is worth exploring after a visit to the Madeira Botanical Gardens. For more greenery, stroll among the tropical gardens of Monte Palace, or head inside to the Monte Palace Madeira Museum to discover artifacts from the Americas and Africa. The hilltop Church of Our Lady of the Mountain (Igreja de Nossa Senhora do Monte) boasts splendid interior decor and impressive views from its front steps.
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