Spread across 8 hectares of hillside above Funchal, the Jardim Botânico da Madeira is a living showcase of the island's extraordinary plant diversity. With over 2,000 exotic species from five continents, terrace gardens, a bird park, and panoramic views, it's one of Madeira's flagship attractions.

How to Get to Jardim Botânico by Bus

The Botanical Garden has dedicated bus services:

Funchal ↔ Jardim Botânico

Direct route to the garden entrance. About 15 minutes from Funchal center.

💡 Travel Tip: Take the cable car from the garden up to Monte for a spectacular aerial journey over the valley. From Monte, you can visit the tropical gardens, then take the toboggan or bus back down—a perfect scenic loop!

What to See at Jardim Botânico

The famous geometric parterres with carpet bedding are perfect for photos. Exotic sections include orchids, cacti, proteas, and endemic Madeiran flora. The Loiro Park (Parrot Park) houses rare tropical birds. A natural history museum explains Madeira's geological origins. The cable car connects directly to Monte Palace Gardens for a combined visit.

Best Time to Visit

Spring (April-June) for maximum blooms and mild weather. The gardens are beautiful year-round thanks to the subtropical climate. Allow 2-3 hours to explore thoroughly. Opening hours are 9am-6pm daily; last entry at 5:30pm.