• Funchal - Monte Cable Car

From the rack railway of old times to the most sophisticated cable car of today, Funchal is once again connected to the breathtaking beauty of Monte situated in the hills above the city. This is an exciting way to show Madeira's hidden beauty without doing any harm to the environment, by ‘flying’ over some of the island's wonderful landscapes!

The departure station is at the Almirante Reis park, located in the old part of the city. Providing good parking possibilities, this station fits in well with the renovation plans for the old Town. Monte station is situated near Monte Palace Tropical Garden, at Caminho das Babosas, amidst truly charming scenery.

Funchal - Monte Cable Car

The inclined course, which takes 15 to 25 minutes, is approximately 3,200 m (around 10,500 ft) long and has a vertical rise of 580 m (1,902 ft). The 39 cabins, with seven seats each, can transport 800 passengers per hour, and the reduced speed at both stations makes it easier for disabled passengers to climb aboard.

At the onset of the 20th century, the steam train performed the task of bringing tourists up to the Monte hills on a comfortable and memorable trip. A century later, the modern cable car replaced the long decommissioned train’s mission.

Funchal - Monte Cable Car

The Journey

The journey, a magical fusion of brilliant colours and magnificent views, leads over the Old Town and crosses Ribeira de João Gomes further up. From there on, the course passes through less urban areas, allowing passengers to enjoy the dazzling view over Funchal's amphitheatre.

As the cable car goes up, you will contemplate the blue sea, Funchal bay, the houses and the connection between the more urban area and the city outskirts. This is the best way to see Madeira’s natural beauty as well as its geography and orography during this cable car trip.

Apart from offering spectacular panoramas, the cable car now provides a much easier, shorter and more comfortable access to the picturesque parish of Monte.

Don’t miss out on this exciting Madeira sightseeing experience!

Opening hours: 09:00 – 18:00 h (last boarding at 17:45 h)
Open all year, except on the 25th of December.