A Travel Price Comparison for Families, Couples, and Backpackers Funchal vs. Brescia for Vacations, Tours, and Honeymoons

Should you visit Funchal or Brescia?

Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?

Should I visit Funchal or Brescia? This is a common question asked by many travelers. By figuring out which city has activities that align with your interests along with knowing which is more affordable, you'll understand where you can get more bang for your buck. So, let's dive into the details and the data, which all comes from actual travelers.

Where Should I go: Funchal or Brescia?

Funchal

Funchal is the capital city of the autonomous region of Madeira on the island of Madeira. The city is located to the south between the cities of Santa Cruz and Camara de Lobos. It is actually named for the fennel plant which grows liberally on the island. The city was most significant as a shipping center between the 15th and 17th centuries. Today it has a population of over 100,000 people and is, arguably, one of the most picturesque cities in Portugal. It's appeal as a tourist destination has made it the leading Portuguese port for cruise line dockings.

Brescia

As you look up to the heavens, marveling at the scattered puffs of white clouds kissed by the sun in its golden hue and set against a clear blue sky, you return your gaze to your surrounding land: an Italian paradise of lush forests, majestic Alps, mouth-watering aromas of local bakeries and restaurants, and a romantic cityscape. Brescia is located in the Lombardy region of Northern Italy. Nestled away between the two bustling cities of Milan and Verona, Brescia stands at the foot of the Alps beside the breathtaking Lake Garda. Once a "pass-through" city of Italy, Brescia is now considered the "lioness of Italy" in its rich culture and impressive history. Founded over 3,200 years ago, Brescia's significance in pre-Roman times has allowed it to still retain in its global fame. From the oldest ruins of Northern Italy to hidden gems of Lombardy's natural world, Brescia holds some of the most well-preserved Roman architecture in Italy. A dynamic, hardworking city, Brescia holds about 200,000 inhabitants and is the second-largest city in the Lombardy region. A city that captures the heart and soul of Italian tradition, experience Italy in all its glory in Brescia!

For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Portugal, The Best G Adventures Tours to Portugal, The Best Sightseeing Tours in Italy, and The Best Vineyard & Wine Tours in Italy.


Which place is cheaper, Brescia or Funchal?

These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.

The average daily cost (per person) in Funchal is €93, while the average daily cost in Brescia is €144. These costs include accommodation (assuming double occupancy, so the traveler is sharing the room), food, transportation, and entertainment. While every person is different, these costs are an average of past travelers in each destination. What follows is a categorical breakdown of travel costs for Funchal and Brescia in more detail.



Accommodation
  • Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one person
    Funchal 52
    Brescia 75
  • Accommodation Typical double-occupancy room
    Funchal 104
    Brescia 150
Compare Hotels in Funchal and Brescia

Looking for a hotel in Funchal or Brescia? Prices vary by location, date, season, and the level of luxury. See below for options and compare which is best for your budget and travel style.

Hotels in Funchal


Hotels in Brescia


Kayak helps you find the best prices for hotels, flights, and rental cars for destinations around the world. Compare prices for multiple destinations when planning your next trip.


Our Analysis
We've analyzed the average and typical hotel prices based on guest reviews, star ratings, and hotel amenities here: Funchal Hotel Prices and Brescia Hotel Prices.

Local Transportation
  • Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.
    Funchal 9.94
    Brescia 19

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Funchal

Also for Funchal, here are a few examples of actual transportation services:

  • Funchal Airport(FNC) to Funchal hotels - Arrival Private Transfer: $26
  • Funchal Airport(FNC) to Madeira Island - Arrival Private Transfer: $51
  • Funchal Private Transfers Service to Madeira Airport: $29
  • Madeira Airport (FNC) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Funchal Hotels or Address): $54
  • Madeira Airport (FNC) Departure Transfer (Funchal Hotels to Madeira Airport): $54
  • Madeira Airport Private Transfers Service To Funchal: $33
  • Madeira Airport Round Trip Shuttle Transfers Service: $49
  • Madeira Airport Shuttle Transfer one way: $9.81
  • Madeira Airport Transfers Round Trip (FNC): $65
  • Madeira Island Transfers: $53
  • Madeira airport transfer for up to 8 people: $49
  • Minibus Transfer: Funchal - Madeira Airport: $38

Hired Cars and Shuttles in Brescia

Some specific examples of transportation prices in Brescia:

  • Lake Garda Hills Wine Tasting, Picnic in a vineyard and Transfer: $218

Is it cheaper to fly into Funchal or Brescia?

Prices for flights to both Brescia and Funchal change regularly based on dates and travel demand. We suggest you find the best prices for your next trip on Kayak, because you can compare the cost of flights across multiple airlines for your prefered dates.





Food
  • Food Meals for one day
    Funchal 31
    Brescia 47
Typical Food Prices in Funchal

Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Funchal:


  • Coffee
    1.40

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Funchal

For Funchal, here are some samples of tours and activities related to meals and dining experiences:

  • Private Walking Food Tour Around Funchal: $31
  • Madeira Nights Tour - Dinner and Show: $41
  • Sunset Tour to Pico do Arieiro with Dinner and Drinks included: $76
  • Gourmet Wine & Food Tour: $112
  • Gourmet Wine & Food Tour: $112

Typical Food Prices in Brescia

Below are a few samples from actual travelers for food and meal costs in Brescia:


  • Dinner at Pizzaria (for 2)
    23

Food Tours and Cooking Classes in Brescia

Also, here are some specific examples of food and dining related activities in Brescia.

  • Wine Tasting and Dinner/Lunch or Aperitivo in Franciacorta Winery: $32
  • 3 Hour Private Italian Tradition Cooking Class in Brescia: $76
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Brescia with Show Cooking: $93
  • Dining Experience at a local's Home in Desenzano del Garda with Show Cooking: $93
  • Cooking class in a garden: handmade pasta: $113
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Desenzano del Garda: $158
  • Private Cooking Class at a Cesarina's Home in Brescia: $158

Entertainment
  • Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.
    Funchal 15
    Brescia 31

Tours and Activities in Funchal

Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Funchal.

  • Portugal eSIM Tourist Data Plan: $4.81
  • Sacred Art Museum of Funchal Entry Ticket: $11
  • Old Funchal Walking Tour: $15
  • Scenic Route - Nuns Valley Tour: $25
  • Funchal Hop-On Hop-Off Tour 3 in 1: $27
  • Christmas Lights in Funchal Tuk Tuk Tour: $27
  • São Vicente Caves and Volcano Center Half-Day Tour: $27
  • Majestic West Tour : $31
  • Amazing East Tour : $31
  •  Magnificent East Tour: $33
  • Exorbitant West Tour: $33
  • Santana / Typical Houses Tour: $33

Tours and Activities in Brescia

Here are a few actual costs in Brescia for available activities, ticket prices, and tours:

  • 3 Hours Walking Tour with a Drink in Brescia Italy: $71
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $402
  • Beautiful Brescia - Guided Walking Tour: $223
  • Brescia Private Walking Tour: $114
  • Brescia Walking Tour with Audio and Written Guide by a Local: $4.19
  • Brescia’s Historic Heart: A Family Exploration Tour: $288
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $386
  • Brescia’s Yuletide Charm: A Festive Walking Tour: $197
  • Digital Guide made by a Local for your walking tour: $6.42
  • Guided Christmastime Walking Tour: $719
  • Private Guided Walking Tour: $118
  • CSTRents - Brescia Segway PT Authorized Tour: $180

Alcohol
  • Alcohol Drinks for one day
    Funchal 16
    Brescia 23

Sample the Local Flavors in Funchal

Also in Funchal, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:

  • Skywalk and 4x4 Adventure with Amazing Views and Wine Tasting: $49
  • Half day jeep Wine tour and tasting, & sea cliff adventure: $53
  • Bestselling Wine Tour, Tasting Experience & Skywalk 4x4 Adventure: $53
  • Wine tasting and Jeep Adventure in Madeira's Majestic Countryside: $56
  • Pub Crawl: $59
  • Shore Excursion: Private Madeira Tour & Wine Tasting: $86
  • Amazing Skywalk, Wine Tasting & 4x4 Adventure + Dolphin Watching: $97
  • Guided Toboggan Ride and Madeira Wine Tasting Tour: $98
  • Tuk Tuk Wine Tour - Madeira Island: $102
  • Weekends Madeira Wine Tasting São Vicente: $109
  • Wine Tour by Overland Madeira: $150
  • Visiting local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch included: $158

Sample the Local Flavors in Brescia

Some specific costs for nightlife related activities in Brescia:

  • Wine Tour and Tasting of Lugana Wines in Desenzano: $49
  • Franciacorta: Wine Tasting and Vineyard Tour with Snacks: $80
  • Vineyard Tour: Top Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $82
  • E-Bike tour and Wine tasting from Desenzano Inland: $92
  • Self-guided Wine tour in Franciacorta, Full-Day Experience with Lunch: $147
  • From Milan: Lake Iseo, Bergamo & Franciacorta Wine Tour: $738
  • VIP Experience to Lake Iseo and Franciacorta Wine Tasting: $1,604


When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Funchal and Brescia, we can see that Brescia is more expensive. And not only is Funchal much less expensive, but it is actually a significantly cheaper destination. So, traveling to Funchal would let you spend less money overall. Or, you could decide to spend more money in Funchal and be able to afford a more luxurious travel style by staying in nicer hotels, eating at more expensive restaurants, taking tours, and experiencing more activities. The same level of travel in Brescia would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Brescia than you might in Funchal.

If you're trying to decide if either of these two destinations are within your price range, also see Is Funchal Expensive? and Is Brescia Expensive?.


Which is Bigger, Funchal or Brescia?

Brescia has a larger population, and is about 86% larger than the population of Funchal. When comparing the sizes of Funchal and Brescia, keep in mind that a larger population does not always imply the destination has more attractions or better activities. So, always research the type of place that you want to visit along with the activities and attractions that interest you.


When is the best time to visit Funchal or Brescia?

Both places have a temperate climate with four distinct seasons. As both cities are in the northern hemisphere, summer is in July and winter is in January.

Should I visit Funchal or Brescia in the Summer?

The summer brings many poeple to Funchal as well as Brescia. Additionally, many visitors come to Brescia in the summer for the family-friendly experiences.

In July, Funchal is generally around the same temperature as Brescia. Daily temperatures in Funchal average around 22°C (72°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 24°C (75°F).

The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Brescia. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Funchal this time of the year. In the summer, Funchal often gets less sunshine than Brescia. Funchal gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 286 hours of full sun.

Funchal usually gets less rain in July than Brescia. Funchal gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 73 mm (2.9 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Summer Average Temperatures July
    Funchal 22°C (72°F) 
    Brescia 24°C (75°F)

Should I visit Funchal or Brescia in the Autumn?

Both Brescia and Funchal are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities. Also, most visitors come to Brescia for the shopping scene and the natural beauty of the area during these months.

Funchal is a little warmer than Brescia in the autumn. The daily temperature in Funchal averages around 21°C (70°F) in October, and Brescia fluctuates around 14°C (58°F).

Funchal usually receives more sunshine than Brescia during autumn. Funchal gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 137 hours of full sun in the autumn.

It's quite rainy in Funchal. In October, Funchal usually receives more rain than Brescia. Funchal gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 84 mm (3.3 in) of rain each month for the autumn.


  • Autumn Average Temperatures October
    Funchal 21°C (70°F) 
    Brescia 14°C (58°F)

Should I visit Funchal or Brescia in the Winter?

Both Brescia and Funchal during the winter are popular places to visit. Also, the winter months attract visitors to Brescia because of the museums, the shopping scene, and the cuisine.

The weather in Brescia can be very cold. In the winter, Funchal is much warmer than Brescia. Typically, the winter temperatures in Funchal in January average around 16°C (61°F), and Brescia averages at about 1°C (35°F).

In the winter, Funchal often gets more sunshine than Brescia. Funchal gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Brescia receives 98 hours of full sun.

It rains a lot this time of the year in Funchal. Funchal usually gets more rain in January than Brescia. Funchal gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 60 mm (2.4 in) of rain this time of the year.


  • Winter Average Temperatures January
    Funchal 16°C (61°F) 
    Brescia 1°C (35°F)

Should I visit Funchal or Brescia in the Spring?

The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Funchal and Brescia. Also, the natural beauty are the main draw to Brescia this time of year.

In April, Funchal is generally a little warmer than Brescia. Daily temperatures in Funchal average around 17°C (63°F), and Brescia fluctuates around 13°C (55°F).

Funchal usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Brescia during spring. Funchal gets 182 hours of sunny skies, while Brescia receives 169 hours of full sun in the spring.

In April, Funchal usually receives around the same amount of rain as Brescia. Funchal gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Brescia receives 69 mm (2.7 in) of rain each month for the spring.


  • Spring Average Temperatures April
    Funchal 17°C (63°F) 
    Brescia 13°C (55°F)

Typical Weather for Brescia and Funchal

Funchal Brescia
Temp (°C) Rain (mm) Temp (°C) Rain (mm)
Jan 16°C (61°F) 110 mm (4.3 in) 1°C (35°F) 60 mm (2.4 in)
Feb 16°C (61°F) 80 mm (3.1 in) 6°C (42°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)
Mar 16°C (61°F) 60 mm (2.4 in) 9°C (47°F) 64 mm (2.5 in)
Apr 17°C (63°F) 70 mm (2.8 in) 13°C (55°F) 69 mm (2.7 in)
May 19°C (66°F) 20 mm (0.8 in) 17°C (63°F) 92 mm (3.6 in)
Jun 21°C (70°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 21°C (71°F) 75 mm (3 in)
Jul 22°C (72°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 24°C (75°F) 73 mm (2.9 in)
Aug 23°C (73°F) 10 mm (0.4 in) 23°C (73°F) 85 mm (3.3 in)
Sep 23°C (73°F) 40 mm (1.6 in) 20°C (67°F) 62 mm (2.4 in)
Oct 21°C (70°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 14°C (58°F) 84 mm (3.3 in)
Nov 19°C (66°F) 100 mm (3.9 in) 7°C (45°F) 79 mm (3.1 in)
Dec 18°C (64°F) 90 mm (3.5 in) 3°C (38°F) 54 mm (2.1 in)