Find hotels in Santa Maria Maior from $84

These Santa Maria Maior insights are based on real traveler data from Expedia, aggregated using AI to help you plan your trip. Updated: September 7, 2026.

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria Maior

• Outdoor Activities: Santa Maria Maior offers numerous outdoor adventures, including golfing and exploring botanical gardens.
• Cultural Experiences: Immerse yourself in local culture through fado houses and guided tours of historical sites.
• Vibrant Neighborhood: Enjoy the lively atmosphere with vibrant squares, art museums, and charming streets to explore.
• Family-Friendly Options: Perfect for families, with attractions suitable for all ages and accommodations for every traveler.
• Stunning Scenery: Experience breathtaking views and beautiful beaches that enhance your vacation in Madeira.

Find great hotels near Santa Maria Maior

In Santa Maria Maior, Funchal, you’ll discover a variety of accommodations, from hotels to guesthouses, perfect for any type of traveler. Whether you're seeking a pet-friendly option, a cozy vacation home, or a beachfront rental, this area offers a diverse selection to enhance your stay. Enjoy the ideal blend of adventure and relaxation in a vibrant setting, ensuring a memorable experience in Madeira.

• Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature: This exquisite 5-star hotel boasts a remarkable guest rating of 9.6 and is ideal for travelers seeking a luxurious and pet-friendly retreat. Located 2 miles from Santa Maria Maior, Savoy Palace offers a unique blend of business amenities and a serene spa experience. Guests can indulge in a full spa treatment, unwind at the outdoor pool, or enjoy refreshing drinks at the poolside bar. The hotel also caters to pet lovers with a welcoming policy that includes food and water bowls, ensuring a delightful stay for both you and your furry companion.
• The Vine: Rated 9.4, this 5-star hotel is perfect for adventure seekers and families alike, situated about 2 miles from Santa Maria Maior. The Vine offers a plethora of exciting activities such as mountain biking, snorkeling, and windsurfing, ensuring that guests can explore the natural beauty of Madeira. Families will appreciate the child-friendly services available, including babysitting options and a first aid kit, making it a safe choice for those traveling with young ones. The hotel combines luxury with adventure to create unforgettable family experiences.
• NEXT - Savoy Signature: With a guest rating of 9.0, this 4-star eco-certified hotel is designed for those who value sustainability and relaxation. Also located 2 miles from Santa Maria Maior, NEXT offers a tranquil spa experience and a refreshing pool with a swim-up bar. The pet-friendly policy ensures that your pets are welcome, with certain restrictions in place. Guests can indulge in massages and enjoy nearby salons and spas, making it a perfect getaway for eco-conscious travelers looking for comfort and rejuvenation.

Where to stay in Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior, nestled in the charming Funchal region of Madeira, is a perfect getaway for those seeking relaxation and adventure. With its friendly atmosphere and rich history, visitors can enjoy beautiful beach rentals and explore the vibrant neighborhood. Whether you're looking for a romantic escape or a family-friendly vacation, Santa Maria Maior offers a tropical vibe that will enchant tourism lovers. Don't miss the chance to immerse yourself in its unique culture and natural beauty.

• Funchal: Funchal, the capital city of Madeira, is a vibrant hub nestled along the southern coast of the island. Known for its welcoming atmosphere, the city enjoys consistent visitor numbers year-round, with peaks from January to March. Funchal is celebrated for its outdoor activities and family-friendly experiences. You can explore the picturesque marina, relax on the beautiful family beaches, or dive into local culture at the bustling public market. The city's charming streets are filled with shops and cafes, making it the perfect place to soak in the local flavor.
• Old Town Funchal: Just a stone's throw from Santa Maria Maior, Old Town Funchal is a delightful neighborhood bursting with history and charm. This area sees a surge in visitors during the summer months and is beloved for its outdoor atmosphere and family-oriented activities. Discover the lively public market and enjoy local delicacies, or take a leisurely stroll along the scenic waterfront. The vibrant streets are lined with colorful buildings and street art, making it a fantastic spot for photography enthusiasts. Don't miss the chance to experience the unique blend of culture and cuisine that Old Town has to offer.
• Sao Goncalo: Located about a mile from Santa Maria Maior, Sao Goncalo is a serene parish known for its natural beauty and outdoor sports. The area attracts travelers year-round, particularly during the summer months. Enjoy a round of golf at the local course or explore the stunning botanical gardens nearby. The parish is also home to beautiful beaches and a marina, perfect for those seeking relaxation or adventure on the water. Sao Goncalo’s tranquil environment makes it an ideal escape from the busier tourist spots.

Things to do in Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior in Funchal is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, offering a variety of activities like visiting the aquatic center and playing golf at local courses. Explore popular attractions, enjoy guided tours, and immerse yourself in the local culture at fado houses. With stunning sightseeing opportunities throughout Portugal, Santa Maria Maior provides plenty of vacation ideas to create unforgettable memories.

Shopping

In Santa Maria Maior, enjoy local shops offering unique souvenirs and crafts. For a broader selection, head to La Vie Funchal, a nearby shopping center featuring various retail stores. If you're up for a drive, visit Madeira Shopping, which boasts a wider range of shops and dining options.

Recreation

In Santa Maria Maior, indulge in rejuvenating therapies at the Savoy Palace Spa, featuring panoramic ocean views and a variety of wellness treatments. Explore the tranquil gardens at the Quinta Jardins do Lago, offering yoga sessions and serene walking paths, perfect for relaxation amid nature.

Adventure

Explore the vibrant street art of Santa Maria Maior, where colorful murals tell the stories of Madeira's culture. For thrill-seekers, tackle the nearby Levada walks, offering stunning views of lush landscapes and cascading waterfalls. Experience the local gastronomy by dining at traditional taverns along the cobbled streets.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Maria Maior is vibrant and inviting. Enjoy a cocktail at the charming Café do Teatro, or dance the night away at the lively Music Bar. For a more laid-back vibe, check out the cozy Tascinha do Fado for traditional music and local flavors.

Booking tips and Expedia advantages for Santa Maria Maior

• The most and least expensive months on average to stay in a hotel: The cheapest months to stay in Santa Maria Maior are January to February and November, where the prices are slightly lower. This is in comparison to May and July to August, where prices are slightly higher.
• The best time to book a hotel: The cheapest time to book a hotel in Santa Maria Maior is usually 1 month out from when you are planning to stay. If you're a little more spontaneous, you could also peruse Expedia's last minute deals which could secure you a cheaper stay. Look out for the green banner below the price to spot the deals.
• The most and least expensive days on average to stay in a hotel: The least expensive day to stay in Santa Maria Maior is Friday. The most expensive day to stay in Santa Maria Maior is Thursday.
• Find cheap hotels on Expedia: Take advantage of Expedia’s search tool to refine your preferences, such as your budget, desired location, and preferred hotel type. To find the best prices and deals, simply arrange the price filter from lowest to highest.
• Consider bundling your trip: You can save money by booking an Expedia package that combines your hotel stay in Santa Maria Maior with your flights and activities.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior in Funchal, Madeira, is perfect for outdoor and family vacations, offering a mix of attractions like botanical gardens, vibrant squares, and art museums. Whether you're seeking cultural experiences, romantic outings, or simply comfortable sightseeing, this area has something for everyone. Explore popular attractions and consider house vacation rentals for a convenient stay while enjoying all that Santa Maria Maior has to offer.

• Madeira Botanical Garden: Immerse yourself in the lush beauty of the Madeira Botanical Garden, located within Santa Maria Maior. This enchanting garden offers a romantic atmosphere and is perfect for families, featuring a diverse collection of plants and stunning views of the surrounding landscape.
• Town Square: Just 1 mile from Santa Maria Maior, the Town Square is a vibrant cultural hub where you can soak up the local city vibes. Enjoy lively events, street performances, and the charming architecture that reflects the rich history of Funchal.
• Quinta do Boa Vista: Nestled in Santa Maria Maior, Quinta do Boa Vista is a serene private garden that invites visitors to relax and unwind amidst beautiful flora. The friendly atmosphere makes it a perfect spot for leisurely strolls and quiet contemplation.

Best time to go to Santa Maria Maior

The best time to visit Santa Maria Maior can depend on the weather and when visitor numbers rise and fall. The hottest average temperature in Santa Maria Maior falls in August, when visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. The coolest average temperature in Santa Maria Maior falls in February, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Occupancy	Pricing
January	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly Low
February	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
March	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
April	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Slightly High
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly Low	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
August	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain	Sunny	Slightly High	Slightly High
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Slightly High	Average
November	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Slightly Low
December	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria Maior

When visiting Santa Maria Maior in Funchal, Madeira, the major airport options include Funchal Airport (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo), located 7 miles away, and Porto Santo Airport (PXO), situated 42 miles away. For convenient stays near Funchal Airport, consider the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, just 0.2 mile away, or the Savoy Palace and The Cliff Bay, both within a short distance. Transportation services from these hotels typically include airport shuttles available on request and for a fee. If flying into Porto Santo, the Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa and Vila Baleira Porto Santo, both 2 miles away, offer nearby access and comfortable accommodations.