Santa Maria Maior

Travel Guide

A botanical garden with colorful flower beds, a palm tree, and a cityscape in the background.
A landscaped garden with geometric flower beds, a coastal town in the background, and a clear blue sky.
A landscaped garden with a geometric flower bed design, surrounded by lush greenery and palm trees.
A coastal view with a building and purple flowers in the foreground.
A person arranging flowers in a room with a television displaying the word "Tim."
Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal

Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal

4 out of 5
Rua Conde Carvalhal, 53 Funchal
$152 nightly
The price is $162 total per night from Oct 6 to Oct 7
$162 total
Oct 6 - Oct 7
Total with taxes and fees
Book a stay at this business-friendly hotel in Funchal. Enjoy free WiFi, parking (surcharge), and an airport shuttle (surcharge). Our guests praise the helpful ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (336 reviews)
"I was surprised that a 4-star hotel at this price does not have an iron (instead you must pay for a pressing service which is completely cheeky considering the price of the room). Additionally, the lady checking us in was unfriendly and unhelpful. When we checked in there was no record of our booking ..."

Reviewed on Sep 3, 2026

Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal
PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only

PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only

4 out of 5
Avenida do Mar e das Comunidades Funchal
$390 nightly
The price is $410 total per night from Sep 12 to Sep 13
$410 total
Sep 12 - Sep 13
Total with taxes and fees
Stay at this hotel in Funchal. Enjoy free breakfast, free WiFi, and 2 bars/lounges. Our guests praise the helpful staff and the property condition in our reviews. ...
9.4/10 Exceptional! (497 reviews)
"A fabulous hotel in an excellent location. Rooms were immaculately clean and cleaned everyday. Staff could not do enough and were so friendly and helpful. The grounds and pool area were very well kept. Excellent buffet breakfast with extensive choice. Never a problem getting a sun-bed and sitting ..."

Reviewed on Aug 22, 2026

PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only
Quinta Mãe dos Homens

Quinta Mãe dos Homens

3 out of 5
39 Rua Mãe dos Homens Funchal
Stay at this hotel in Funchal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and breakfast (surcharge). Popular attractions Pregetter's Orchid Garden and Madeira Botanical ...
9.2/10 Wonderful! (84 reviews)
"Clean spacious room lovely balcony with great view excellent pool super staff"

Reviewed on Aug 25, 2026

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Quinta Mãe dos Homens
See all 5,116 properties in Santa Maria Maior
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.
Three House Hotel

Three House Hotel

4 out of 5
Rua Brigadeiro Oudinot 2 Funchal Madeira
Stay at this aparthotel in Funchal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a fitness center. Popular attractions Funchal Farmers Market and Embroidery Museum are ...
10/10 Exceptional! (66 reviews)
"Emplacement de choix, au cœur de funchal, près de tout. Attention il s’agit de quelques appartements dans une bâtisse qui contient autre choses, donc pas de service 24/24 à la réception. Les appartements sont grands et le stationnement inclus à même la bâtisse. La piscine est agréable."

Reviewed on Aug 24, 2026

Three House Hotel
Sea and Sun 4 You - Choupana Studio

Sea and Sun 4 You - Choupana Studio

5 out of 5
R. do Clube da Choupana 30A Funchal Madeira
Book a stay at this luxury apartment in Funchal. Enjoy free WiFi, free parking, and a casino. Popular attractions Museum of Natural History and Madeira Botanical ...
Sea and Sun 4 You - Choupana Studio
Zarco Apartments by Mercado Funchal

Zarco Apartments by Mercado Funchal

4 out of 5
Praça de Tenerife Funchal Madeira
Stay at this apartment in Funchal. Enjoy free WiFi, laundry facilities, and cable TV channels. Popular attractions Embroidery Museum and Funchal Farmers Market ...
8.6/10 Excellent! (34 reviews)
"Good property"

Reviewed on Aug 23, 2026

Zarco Apartments by Mercado Funchal
See all properties in Santa Maria Maior
Lowest nightly price found within the past 24 hours based on a 1 night stay for 2 adults. Prices and availability subject to change. Additional terms may apply.

Stay near popular Santa Maria Maior attractions

A botanical garden with colorful flower beds, a palm tree, and a cityscape in the background.

Madeira Botanical Garden

9.0/10 (1,625 reviews)
One of Madeira’s most famous attractions is known for its scenic views and fascinating display of colorful flowers.
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Things to do

From Funchal: West Madeira Waterfalls and Fanal Forest Tour

From Funchal: West Madeira Waterfalls and Fanal Forest Tour

$40
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
From Funchal: West Madeira Waterfalls and Fanal Forest Tour
Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal 4WD Tour

Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal 4WD Tour

$80
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Madeira: Skywalk, Porto Moniz, Seixal, and Fanal 4WD Tour
City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour

City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras

$30
per adult
80% of travellers recommend
City Sightseeing Funchal Madeira Hop-On Hop-Off Bus Tour + Bookable Extras
From Funchal: Nuns Valley, Monte and Sleigh Ride Tour

From Funchal: Nuns Valley, Monte and Sleigh Ride Tour

$51
per adult
94% of travellers recommend
From Funchal: Nuns Valley, Monte and Sleigh Ride Tour
Picture 8 for Activity Madeira: Pico do Arieiro Sunset and Optional Dinner & Drinks

Madeira: Pico Arieiro Sunset with Stairway to Heaven Option

$52
per adult
Madeira: Pico Arieiro Sunset with Stairway to Heaven Option
Madeira: West Tour With Guide Fanal Forest SykWalkExperience

Madeira: West Tour With Guide Fanal Forest SykWalkExperience

$43
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Madeira: West Tour With Guide Fanal Forest SykWalkExperience
See all activities in Santa Maria Maior

Frequently asked questions

Is Santa Maria Maior worth visiting?
Santa Maria Maior is worth visiting for its unique attractions, including the Funchal Farmers Market and the Madeira Botanical Garden. Travelers can also explore distinct areas like Old Town Funchal, which offers a rich local experience. These highlights provide a diverse range of activities and sights for travelers.
Where are the best neighborhoods to explore in Santa Maria Maior?
The best neighborhoods to explore in Santa Maria Maior depend on what you want to see:


What is Santa Maria Maior known for?
Santa Maria Maior is known for its prominent institutions, including the Funchal Farmers Market and the beautiful Madeira Botanical Garden. Travelers can also visit the Madeira Stadium. This area is part of a city in Portugal, offering neighborhoods like Old Town Funchal to explore.
What is a good itinerary length for Santa Maria Maior?
A good itinerary length for Santa Maria Maior is two to three days to explore Old Town Funchal, visit the Funchal Farmers Market, and see the Madeira Botanical Garden. For a longer trip of four to five days, travelers can also enjoy activities like the Funchal City & Madeira Wine Experience or a food tour.
What are the top things to do in and around Santa Maria Maior?
In and around Santa Maria Maior, travelers can discover Funchal's unique markets, beautiful gardens, and engaging experiences:

  • Explore the "From Market to Plate" culinary experience, including a visit to Funchal market.
  • Tour the Funchal Botanical Garden and Old Town with a Tuk Tuk Experience.
  • Ride the Funchal-Monte Teleferico for scenic views.
  • Enjoy a Funchal City & Madeira Wine Experience.
  • Solve a Funchal Murder Mystery with a self-guided detective game.

How do I plan a trip to Santa Maria Maior?
To plan your trip to Santa Maria Maior, consider exploring Old Town Funchal, where you can visit the Funchal Farmers Market or take the Funchal-Monte Teleferico. Book flights, hotels, and activities like the 2-Hour Funchal City & Madeira Wine Experience in advance. You can also enjoy experiences such as the Madeira Botanical Garden and Madeira Stadium.
Can I book a refundable hotel in Santa Maria Maior?
Yes, Expedia offers many flexible booking options, and you can look for refundable hotels in Santa Maria Maior by entering your dates and using the refundable or fully refundable filter. Always check the hotel's cancellation policy before you book, since terms can vary by hotel, and visit Expedia help center for further details.
Why book a trip to Santa Maria Maior with Expedia?
Expedia makes it easier to plan your Santa Maria Maior trip with travel tools, flexible search options, and bookable trip components all in one place. You can organize your plans in one account and use Expedia to help build a trip that fits your budget and travel style. Find out more about how by visiting Expedia's Trip Planner page.
Should I stay in a hotel or vacation rental in Santa Maria Maior?
The best choice depends on your travel style. Hotels in Santa Maria Maior can be a good fit for convenience, on-site amenities, and shorter stays, while vacation rentals may offer more space, privacy, and home-style amenities for longer trips, families, or groups. With Expedia, you can compare both options side by side, read traveler reviews, and filter by amenities to find the right fit for your trip.
How can I manage my Santa Maria Maior trip on Expedia?
Once you've booked your Santa Maria Maior trip, you can manage it through your Expedia account or the Expedia app. You can view your itinerary, access booking details, make eligible changes, and check for updates in My Trips. The Expedia app can also help you stay organized while you travel.
What if I need help during my Santa Maria Maior trip?
Expedia offers customer support before, during, and after your Santa Maria Maior trip. If your plans change or something unexpected happens, you can review your booking in My Trips and use Expedia help center channels for help with eligible changes, cancellations, or travel issues.
How can Expedia help me plan my first trip to Santa Maria Maior?
If it's your first trip to Santa Maria Maior, Expedia can help you plan by bringing together stays, flights, activities, traveler reviews, and trip-planning tools in one place. With Expedia's Trip Planner you can compare options, read reviews from other travelers, and build an itinerary that matches your interests and budget.
How can I save on my Santa Maria Maior hotel booking with Expedia?
Join One Key™ for free to unlock instant discounts with Member Prices on select hotels. You can also earn and use OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings on Expedia. Booking in advance is usually another great way to save on your Santa Maria Maior hotel.

*Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.

Cities near Santa Maria Maior

A pebble beach with people sunbathing and swimming, a white building with a red roof, and a rocky coastline with houses on a hillside in the background.

Santa Cruz

A densely packed urban area with a mix of colorful buildings, including a prominent white church with a bell tower.

Funchal

A lush garden with various plants and trees, a neatly trimmed hedge, and a mountainous backdrop.

Sao Goncalo

A historic church with a bell tower and a statue in front.

Sé

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