Farmers’ Market

Here you are in front of a spot you’ll definitely want to step into—the Mercado dos Lavradores, the Farmers’ Market, where the sights, smells, and flavors of Funchal all come together across three colorful floors. Built in the 1930s, the market showcases beautiful Art Deco architecture, which was all the rage back then, and it’s even listed as a historic monument in Portugal. It opened in 1940 and has been a hub for regional specialties ever since. Some of the vendors even wear traditional Madeiran clothing, which adds to the charm and gives you a taste of local culture and folklore. So, what exactly should you try while you’re here? Madeira’s cuisine is rich, varied, and packed with flavor—thanks to the island’s perfect climate and its generous natural resources. You’ll find tropical fruits, fresh vegetables, plenty of seafood, and deliciously prepared meats. A local favorite you’ll see on most menus is espetada, juicy beef skewers marinated in garlic and grilled over wood fire. If you're into fish, go for the espada preta, or black scabbardfish, usually breaded and served with grilled banana and passion fruit sauce—a surprisingly tasty combo! You can also try lapas, which are grilled limpets served sizzling with garlic and butter. And of course, the classic Portuguese bacalhau—salted cod—is a staple here too. Most meals come with a slice of bolo do caco, the island’s traditional garlic bread. Got a sweet tooth? Treat yourself to bolo de mel, a rich cake made with sugarcane honey, nuts, and candied fruit. Or pop into a bakery for queijadas (little cheese tarts), sonhos (tiny sugar-dusted doughnuts), or pastéis de maracujá, which are the island’s twist on Portugal’s famous custard tarts, filled with passion fruit cream. And to wash it all down? A glass of Madeira wine, of course—the island’s pride and joy. Whether you're here to shop, sample, or simply soak up the local vibe, this market is a must. A little tip: take a full walk around before buying anything—prices can vary, and it's worth hunting for the best deals!