Which place is cheaper, Figueira da Foz or Funchal?
These are the overall average travel costs for the two destinations.
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Should you visit Funchal or Figueira da Foz?
Which is cheaper to visit? Which is more expensive for vacation?
Should I visit Funchal or Figueira da Foz? 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 Figueira da Foz?
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.
Figueira da Foz
Located along the glistening waters of the Atlantic Ocean, a bustling city thrives near its shores with towering skyscrapers guarding the city like metallic giants. Figueira da Foz, or simply Figueira, is nestled within the Columbia District and is both a city and municipality. Sheltered by the hills of Serra da Boa Viagem, Figueira is near the mouth of the Mondego River and right beside the Atlantic. Only about 40 kilometers from Coimbra, Figueira has a population of 46,600 and is the second largest city found throughout the region. Because it is a seaside city, Figueira subsists off of Portuguese as well as international tourism, maintaining its pristine beaches, supplying seaport facilities, and a plethora of restaurants, gift shops, cafes, and more. Some of the beaches include Quiaios, Cabedelo, Claridade, Costa de Lavos, Murtinheira, Leirosa, Molhe Norte, Cabo Mondego, and many more. Tourists are also attracted to Figueira because it is a well-known gambling spot in Portugal with the Casino da Figueira da Foz and the Casino da Figueira present and popular. There are also popular landmarks that are recommended by tourists to visit, such as Forte de Santa Catarina and Torre de Relogio. There is also a museum that features the history of the Figueira within the city. Whether you are looking to surf or sight-see, there is much to do in Figueira da Foz, Portugal.
For some great organized tour ideas, see The Best Tours for Seniors to Portugal, The Best G Adventures Tours to Portugal, The Best One-Week (7-Day) Tours from Lisbon, and The Best 10-Day Tours from Lisbon.
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Average Daily Cost Per person, per dayFunchal €93Figueira da Foz €110
The average daily cost (per person) in Funchal is €93, while the average daily cost in Figueira da Foz is €110. 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 Figueira da Foz in more detail.
Accommodation
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Accommodation Hotel or hostel for one personFunchal €52Figueira da Foz €49
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Accommodation Typical double-occupancy roomFunchal €104Figueira da Foz €98
Compare Hotels in Funchal and Figueira da Foz
Looking for a hotel in Funchal or Figueira da Foz? 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.
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 Figueira da Foz Hotel Prices.
Local Transportation
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Local Transportation Taxis, local buses, subway, etc.Funchal €9.94Figueira da Foz €34
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
- Madeira Airport (FNC) Arrival Transfer (Airport to Funchal Hotels or Address): $54
- Madeira Airport Round Trip Shuttle Transfers Service: $49
- Madeira Airport Shuttle Transfer one way: $9.82
- 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
- Minibus Transfer: Madeira Airport - Funchal: $38
- Morning Self-Guided Hike Pico Arieiro to Pico Ruivo w/ Transfers: $33
- PR18 Levada do Rei Private transfer: $71
Is it cheaper to fly into Funchal or Figueira da Foz?
Prices for flights to both Figueira da Foz 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
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Food Meals for one dayFunchal €31Figueira da Foz €41
Typical Food Prices in Funchal
Here are some examples of typical meal expenses from previous travelers to Funchal:
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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:
- 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
Entertainment
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Entertainment Entrance tickets, shows, etc.Funchal €15Figueira da Foz €13
Tours and Activities in Funchal
Also, here are some specific examples of entertainment, tickets, and activities for Funchal.
- Portugal eSIM Tourist Data Plan: $4.79
- 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
- São Vicente Caves and Volcano Center Half-Day Tour: $27
- Christmas Lights in Funchal Tuk Tuk Tour: $27
- Amazing East Tour : $31
- Majestic West Tour : $31
- Santana / Typical Houses Tour: $33
- Exorbitant West Tour: $33
- Full Day Tour of Madeira West: $33
Alcohol
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Alcohol Drinks for one dayFunchal €16Figueira da Foz €21
Sample the Local Flavors in Funchal
Also in Funchal, these are the prices for nightlife and alcohol related activities from various tour providers:
- 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: $55
- Pub Crawl: $59
- Shore Excursion: Private Madeira Tour & Wine Tasting: $86
- Guided Toboggan Ride and Madeira Wine Tasting Tour: $98
- Tuk Tuk Wine Tour - Madeira Island: $101
- Exclusive Wine Tasting in the Wine Region of Boaventura: $103
- Weekends Madeira Wine Tasting São Vicente: $109
- Visiting local Vineyard With Wine Tasting & Lunch included: $158
- Full Day Private Madeira Wine Tour from Funchal: $171
- Full-Day Madeira Wine Tasting Tour with Lunch: $190
When we compare the travel costs of actual travelers between Funchal and Figueira da Foz, we can see that Figueira da Foz 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 Figueira da Foz would naturally cost you much more money, so you would probably want to keep your budget a little tighter in Figueira da Foz 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 Figueira da Foz Expensive?.
Which is Bigger, Funchal or Figueira da Foz?
Funchal has a larger population, and is about 8 times larger than the population of Figueira da Foz. When comparing the sizes of Funchal and Figueira da Foz, 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 Figueira da Foz?
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 Figueira da Foz in the Summer?
The summer brings many poeple to Funchal as well as Figueira da Foz.
In the summer, Funchal is around the same temperature as Figueira da Foz. Typically, the summer temperatures in Funchal in July average around 22°C (72°F), and Figueira da Foz averages at about 23°C (73°F).
The sun comes out a lot this time of the year in Figueira da Foz. People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Funchal this time of the year. In the summer, Funchal often gets less sunshine than Figueira da Foz. Funchal gets 227 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Figueira da Foz receives 308 hours of full sun.
Funchal usually gets less rain in July than Figueira da Foz. Funchal gets 10 mm (0.4 in) of rain, while Figueira da Foz receives 14 mm (0.6 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Summer Average Temperatures JulyFunchal 22°C (72°F)Figueira da Foz 23°C (73°F)
Should I visit Funchal or Figueira da Foz in the Autumn?
Both Figueira da Foz and Funchal are popular destinations to visit in the autumn with plenty of activities.
In October, Funchal is generally a little warmer than Figueira da Foz. Daily temperatures in Funchal average around 21°C (70°F), and Figueira da Foz fluctuates around 18°C (65°F).
Funchal usually receives around the same amount of sunshine as Figueira da Foz during autumn. Funchal gets 183 hours of sunny skies, while Figueira da Foz receives 184 hours of full sun in the autumn.
It rains a lot this time of the year in Figueira da Foz. It's quite rainy in Funchal. In October, Funchal usually receives around the same amount of rain as Figueira da Foz. Funchal gets 100 mm (3.9 in) of rain, while Figueira da Foz receives 101 mm (4 in) of rain each month for the autumn.
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Autumn Average Temperatures OctoberFunchal 21°C (70°F)Figueira da Foz 18°C (65°F)
Should I visit Funchal or Figueira da Foz in the Winter?
Both Figueira da Foz and Funchal during the winter are popular places to visit.
Funchal is a little warmer than Figueira da Foz in the winter. The daily temperature in Funchal averages around 16°C (61°F) in January, and Figueira da Foz fluctuates around 11°C (51°F).
In the winter, Funchal often gets more sunshine than Figueira da Foz. Funchal gets 141 hours of sunny skies this time of year, while Figueira da Foz receives 124 hours of full sun.
Figueira da Foz gets a good bit of rain this time of year. It rains a lot this time of the year in Funchal. Funchal usually gets less rain in January than Figueira da Foz. Funchal gets 110 mm (4.3 in) of rain, while Figueira da Foz receives 139 mm (5.5 in) of rain this time of the year.
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Winter Average Temperatures JanuaryFunchal 16°C (61°F)Figueira da Foz 11°C (51°F)
Should I visit Funchal or Figueira da Foz in the Spring?
The spring attracts plenty of travelers to both Funchal and Figueira da Foz.
In the spring, Funchal is a little warmer than Figueira da Foz. Typically, the spring temperatures in Funchal in April average around 17°C (63°F), and Figueira da Foz averages at about 15°C (59°F).
People are often attracted to the plentiful sunshine in Figueira da Foz this time of the year. Funchal usually receives less sunshine than Figueira da Foz during spring. Funchal gets 182 hours of sunny skies, while Figueira da Foz receives 217 hours of full sun in the spring.
In April, Funchal usually receives less rain than Figueira da Foz. Funchal gets 70 mm (2.8 in) of rain, while Figueira da Foz receives 92 mm (3.6 in) of rain each month for the spring.
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Spring Average Temperatures AprilFunchal 17°C (63°F)Figueira da Foz 15°C (59°F)
Typical Weather for Figueira da Foz and Funchal
| Funchal | Figueira da Foz | |||
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | Temp (°C) | Rain (mm) | |
| Jan | 16°C (61°F) | 110 mm (4.3 in) | 11°C (51°F) | 139 mm (5.5 in) |
| Feb | 16°C (61°F) | 80 mm (3.1 in) | 12°C (53°F) | 140 mm (5.5 in) |
| Mar | 16°C (61°F) | 60 mm (2.4 in) | 13°C (56°F) | 86 mm (3.4 in) |
| Apr | 17°C (63°F) | 70 mm (2.8 in) | 15°C (59°F) | 92 mm (3.6 in) |
| May | 19°C (66°F) | 20 mm (0.8 in) | 17°C (63°F) | 77 mm (3 in) |
| Jun | 21°C (70°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 21°C (69°F) | 49 mm (1.9 in) |
| Jul | 22°C (72°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 23°C (73°F) | 14 mm (0.6 in) |
| Aug | 23°C (73°F) | 10 mm (0.4 in) | 23°C (73°F) | 13 mm (0.5 in) |
| Sep | 23°C (73°F) | 40 mm (1.6 in) | 22°C (71°F) | 48 mm (1.9 in) |
| Oct | 21°C (70°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 18°C (65°F) | 101 mm (4 in) |
| Nov | 19°C (66°F) | 100 mm (3.9 in) | 14°C (57°F) | 128 mm (5 in) |
| Dec | 18°C (64°F) | 90 mm (3.5 in) | 11°C (52°F) | 130 mm (5.1 in) |
Budget Your Trip is all about finding out how much everything costs so that you can travel cheaper and longer. Created by avid travelers Laurie and Bryan, our goal is to help you plan your next trip on the right budget. With average daily travel costs that are calculated from the budgets of real travelers, plus an analysis of hotel and tour prices, you can find out how much money you need to plan your next adventure. We also have plenty of travel advice, accommodation reviews, and activity suggestions.