What's the Weather like in Funchal in March
Temperature-wise, March is much the same as January and February in Funchal, Madeira, but there is much less rain to contend with. Spring is beautiful on the island, thanks to its year-round Mediterranean climate, and the crowds that characterise Funchal in the summer months are pretty non-existent in March, so it's a great time to visit to explore without the bustle of loads of people.
Temperature
Daily average temperatures are usually around 16°C but can often rise to 18°C and above in the hotter parts of the day. Average low temperatures sit at around 14°C throughout the month, so it's still mild even after dark. It's best to pack layers if you're visiting at this time of year t-shirts, shorts, and lighter layers are ideal for the daytime, whilst you might want a warmer jumper or two for the evenings. It's important to pack suncream, though, as the rays are still very strong in March.
Rainfall
March marks the start of spring in Funchal, and the city is heading quickly towards summer, which means there is much less rainfall than in the previous months. Around 60mm falls over an average of 10 days, so there's still a possibility that you might get caught in some showers pack an umbrella and some waterproofs to be on the safe side.
Sunshine
In March, Funchal sees around 8 hours of sunshine per day, which leaves you with plenty of time to get out and explore all the cultural attractions and sights that the city has to offer.
Putting the fairly prominent rainfall aside, March is a great time to visit Funchal as the city blooms into spring. The colours are amazing and the weather is warm, too. Days are long and sun-filled and there are nowhere near as many crowds as there are in the summer months.
If you're looking for a weather forecast for Funchal, you are advised to visit this page.
Funchal Hotels in March
Madeira Regency Club
The Madeira Regency Club is a stylish four-star resort on the beachfront in Funchal. The décor is fresh and modern with plenty of white paired with bold blues, and almost all of the rooms have private balconies that overlook the sea. The apartments are spacious and many boast private living areas complete with flat screen, satellite televisions. Elsewhere in the resort, there is a heated outdoor seawater swimming pool, a health club complete with sauna and squash court, and an in-house restaurant and bar.
Hotel Raga
The Hotel Raga is situated in an elevated position with spectacular views near the well-known main promenade and Lido area. The design is stylish and contemporary, with clean lines and bursts of vibrant colour, and the rooms are freshly decorated with comfortable furnishings they all have their own balconies, too, with amazing views across the bay. There is an in-house games room as well as a fitness centre and heated outdoor pool (perfect for the chillier spring days), plus there are 2 on-site restaurants for guests to enjoy.
Residencial Gordon
For a more budget-friendly option, check into the Residencial Gordon, which is an intimate guesthouse located in the city centre. The décor is simple but comfortable, with dark-wood furniture and ornate detailing and there's an outdoor patio area where guests can soak up the spring sunshine. There's also a lounge bar area with comfortable sofas and a variety of drinks on offer.
Funchal Beaches for March
In March, the sea may not be particularly warm, but you can still soak up the spring sunshine on the beach or take a walk along the shoreline.
Praia de Sao Tiago
Praia de Sao Tiago is situated on the shore of the old town in Funchal that's made up of the island's famous black sand. It's a small stretch of beach, but there's plenty of room to lay down a towel and soak up the rays. There are showers on-site and a number of eateries and bars nearby for all your refreshment needs.
Bars and Restaurants
Sabor da India
You might be in Portugal but if you want a good Indian meal head to Sabor da India. The décor is intimate and rustic with ambient lighting and a laidback atmosphere, and the menu is filled with mouth-watering favourites like Chicken korma and lamb madras, plus there's a variety of specials that change on a daily basis.
Casal da Penha
Casal da Penha is a bright and airy restaurant in an elevated position in Funchal. This means that its outdoor terrace crawling with brightly coloured plants offers spectacular views across the city and beyond. It's an intimate and laidback restaurant, but the menu is filled with delicious Mediterranean dishes including grilled squid, paella, fillet mignon and beef stroganoff. There are also a selection of pasta and omelette dishes and an extensive starter menu.
Things to do in Funchal in March
Botanical Gardens
In the elevated suburb of Monte there is a grand palace that visitors can explore as well as its surrounding botanical gardens. There are a selection of themed gardens including an Oriental design with bridges, lakes and temples, a gallery of ceramic tiles, as well as hidden gardens filled with beautiful sculptures. This is a great place to get away from the crowds and explore the flora and fauna in its prime. Inside the palace there is a museum with a permanent collection of Madeira artefacts and objects collected over the years, as well as an African exhibition and a natural exhibition featuring information about Mother Nature and her 'secrets'.
Universeo de Memorias Joao Carlos Abreu
If you love collecting things then take a trip to the Universeo de Memorias Joao Carlos Abreu, which is a quirky little museum in the heart of Funchal. Here, visitors can wander through a series of rooms, each focusing on collections of different items, from ties to artefacts relating to horses.
