Funchal Travel Resources. Apps, Maps, Emergency Contacts

Digital Resources

Essential Apps for the Destination

Google Maps (or Apple Maps)
Indispensable for navigation, finding points of interest, and public transport routes. Download offline maps.
Google Translate
A useful language tool for translation, including offline capabilities for Portuguese.
Bolt/Uber
For ride-sharing services, providing convenience and transparency in Funchal.
Horários do Funchal
The official app or website for local bus schedules and routes within Funchal.
Weather Apps
Check local forecasts, especially before embarking on hikes, as weather can change quickly.

Useful Websites for Planning

Visit Madeira (Official)
Main source for official tourist information, event calendars, and general guides.
Madeira Airport (FNC)
Provides real-time flight information, airport facilities, and transport options.
Bus Company Websites
Horários do Funchal, SAM, Rodoeste for detailed bus routes and schedules.
Online Booking Platforms
Websites like Booking.com, Airbnb for researching and booking accommodation and tours.
VPN Service
Secure online browsing with NordVPN while traveling.

Print Resources

Recommended Guidebooks

Look for up-to-date travel guidebooks specifically on Madeira or Portugal. They provide curated recommendations.

Madeira Hiking Maps

A detailed Madeira hiking map is highly recommended for levada walks. They show contour lines and trail details.

Local Publications

Pick up free tourist maps and brochures from Funchal Airport or local tourist information offices upon arrival.

Quick Reference Lists

Useful Phrases

Olá (Hello)
Obrigado/a (Thank you)
Bom dia (Good morning)
Boa noite (Good evening)

Attractions

Funchal Cable Car
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Mercado dos Lavradores
Pico dos Barcelos

Local Delicacies

Espetada (Meat Skewer)
Bolo do Caco (Bread)
Poncha (Traditional Drink)
Madeira Wine

Safety & Support

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Contacts

General Emergency: Dial 112 (Police, Fire, Ambulance).
This is the single emergency number for all services across Portugal and the European Union.
Save 112 in your phone before you travel.
In an emergency, every second counts.

Hospital & Clinic

Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonça: Main public hospital in Funchal.
Located at Avenida Luís de Camões, 9004-514 Funchal.
Provides comprehensive medical services.
Several private clinics are also available if you prefer private care.

Embassy & Consulate

Most foreign embassies to Portugal are located in Lisbon.
Keep the contact details for your country's embassy in Lisbon handy.
Some countries may have honorary consulates in Funchal for limited assistance.
Consular matters may require contacting your embassy in Lisbon.

Lost Documents & Natural Disasters

Lost Document Procedures

Immediately report lost or stolen passports/IDs to local police (PSP).
Obtain a police report for your records.
Contact your country's embassy/consulate for replacement travel documents.

Keep Copies

Always keep photocopies or digital copies of important documents.
Store copies separately from the originals (e.g., in cloud storage).
Having copies greatly speeds up the replacement process.

Natural Disaster Protocols

Hazard Response

In case of heavy rainfall warnings or localized flooding (rare but possible).
Follow local news and official advisories from civil protection authorities.
Stay indoors or avoid affected areas as advised by authorities.

Information Sources

Local media provides real-time information.
Hotel staff are often the best source of real-time local information.
Check official civil protection channels for critical updates.

Health & Safety Tips

Health Preparedness

Consult a medical professional about vaccinations and health precautions.
Pack essential prescription medications with doctor's notes.
Include a basic travel first aid kit.
Bring any specific over-the-counter medications you use regularly.
Consider travel insurance that covers medical emergencies.

On-Island Safety

Practice common sense, especially when out at night.
Secure valuables in your hotel safe.
Be aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas.
Inform someone of your itinerary, especially for hiking trips.
Stay hydrated, specifically during warmer months or active days.

Safety Reminders

Emergency Number

Save 112 in your phone before you travel; in an emergency, every second counts.

Hospital Location

Hospital Dr. Nélio Mendonçan is the main public hospital in Funchal.

Document Copies

Keep photocopies or digital copies of documents stored separately from originals.

Critical Reminder

Save the emergency number (112) in your phone before you travel. In an emergency, every second counts.

Funchal Travel Resources