Madeira Shopping and Districts

(Madeira, Portugal)

The various towns and resorts spread across the island of Madeira present their very own set of shopping opportunities. Tourists will find that many of the local handicrafts sold on Madeira do tend to be rather pricey, although are usually of particularly good quality. Exquisite embroideries and needlepoint tapestries are firm favourites with many a holidaymaker, along with exquisite Madeiran lace works and colourful glazed ceramic tiles.

However, tourists shopping for the ultimate souvenir of their time on the island won't ever have to look far to find bottles of its very famous Madeira wine. Vineyards were first established on the island in the 15th century and fortified wine has been produced here ever since.

Where to Shop

Funchal is certainly the best place for shopping and central to the island's wine industry, with innumerable wine shops spread around its city centre. The Madeira Wine Company is an especially good stockist of local wines and can be found on the Avenida Arriaga.

Alternatively, head to Funchal's markets and bazaars for a very memorable shopping experience. The Mercado dos Lavradores (Worker's Market) on the Rua Hospital Velho takes place each day (except Sundays) from 07:00 until 20:00.

Being at its most animated early in the morning, this is a good place to purchase some tasty honey cake (Bolo do Mel) and fresh fish, caught in the Atlantic waters surrounding Madeira itself. Nearby and on the Praca do Comércio, the City Market is known for its handicrafts, leather goods, embroideries, fabrics and clothing.

Located on the Caminho de Santa Quitéria, the aptly named Madeira Shopping complex boasts the biggest selection of shops on the island. This mall is home to more than 80 different stores, some 20 eateries, a number of cinemas, a huge car park and some very pleasant ocean views.