What's the Weather like in Funchal in November?
Despite it being one month away from winter, November is still extremely mild for this time of year in Funchal, Madeira. The temperatures are very pleasant, not shifting much from the previous months, and the days are long and sun-filled. There is an increase in rainfall, though, as the town heads quickly towards the rainy season.
Temperature
High temperatures can reach 21°C and above during the hottest parts of the day in November, and even the nights are warm with temperatures hardly ever dipping below 17°C. On average, though, you can expect daily temperatures to sit at around 19°C, making Funchal the perfect place to visit for some last minute sunshine before winter. Packing layers is a good idea if you're heading to Funchal at this time of year, as t-shirts and shorts are great for the daytime, but you'll definitely need a jumper or two for the chillier evenings. It's sensible to pack some suncream, too. Even though it's almost winter, the sun can still be very fierce in November.
Rainfall
Winter is also the rainy season in Funchal, which means that rainfall is on the rise in November. Around 100mm falls over an average of 12 days throughout the month, so it's likely you'll get caught in a shower or two at some point. The good thing about the Mediterranean climate that characterises Funchal is that the rains tend to pass quickly, leaving oodles of sunshine and blue skies in their wake. Slip an umbrella into your suitcase to err on the side of caution, though.
Sunshine Hours
Because of its positioning so close to North Africa, Funchal sees little change in the amount of sunlight hours throughout the year. In November you can expect to see between 5 and 6 hours of sunshine per day, which at first may not seem like a lot, but actually provides plenty of time to explore all the cultural activities that the town has to offer.
November may be partial to some showers, but the temperatures are extremely pleasant for a European destination at this time of year, making Funchal the perfect place to visit for some last minute sun before winter.
Funchal Hotels in November
Hotel Orquidea
Hotel Orquidea is ideally located right in the heart of Funchal, close to the beachfront and all of the central attractions. The rooms are simple and comfortable, with pastel colours and modern amenities like WiFi and satellite television, and many of them have their own private balconies that look out across the town. In addition, there is a delicious a la carte restauarant serving Mediterranean cuisine, and an in-house bar for guests to use in the evenings.
Hotel Monte Carlo
The Hotel Monte Carlo takes residence in a former palace in the centre of the town. Guests can enjoy the heated outdoor swimming pool that's open year round and offers amazing views across the bay, as well as the in-house Portuguese restaurant and well-stocked cocktail bar which has a charming terrace to soak up the November sun on. Rooms are simple and modern with white-washed walls and small balconies that overlook the town, plus the hotel is surrounded by beautiful gardens for guests to enjoy.
Residencial Colombo
For a budget-friendly accommodation option, check into the Residencial Colombo, which is situated in the midst of Funchal's old town. Rooms are traditionally decorated with dark-wood furniture, patterned wallpaper, and ornate fixtures and fittings. There is also an in-house snack bar for guests to eat breakfast in which has a peaceful outdoor terrace with views across the surrounding area.
Funchal Beaches for November
Calheta
Beaches in Funchal tend to be made up of black volcanic sand or pebbles and rocks, but if you're on the hunt for sand you can head to the west of the town where the beaches tend to be a little prettier. Calheta is a small town about 30 minutes from Funchal which boasts not one, but two manmade sandy beaches. The sea here is calm and there are a number of cafes and eateries dotted around for your refreshment needs. November isn't the best time to take a dip in the sea, but you can still soak up the early winter sun on the beach with a book.
Bars and Restaurants
Frango da Guia
Frango da Guia is an atmospheric Portuguese restaurant located right by the seafront in central Funchal. The décor is rich and ambient with exposed-brick walls, low lighting, and dried vegetables adorning the ceiling. The menu is fairly small but delicious, with a range of meat, fish, and salad dishes including grilled cod, typical Portuguese croquettes, and black pork.
Things to do in Funchal in November
Manor Estate of the Crosses Museum
The Manor Estate of the Crosses Museum, or the Quinta das Cruzes, is one of the most well-known museums in Funchal. It's still laid out like a traditional manor house, and visitors can wander through the numerous traditionally decorated rooms exploring the lifestyle of Funchal's elite in years-gone-by. There are also paintings pottery, photographs, and artefacts on display, and the manor is surrounded by beautifully manicured gardens which offer a little peace and quiet from the busy town centre.
Sao Tiago Fort
Sao Tiago Fort is an eye-catching yellow building that overlooks the sea. It's an unusual addition to Funchal that was once one of the main fortresses of the island and it offers spectacular views across the town and its surroundings. There's no museum here - visitors tend to visit for the views alone - but there are a number of eateries set along and inside the fort where you can grab a drink or some food and enjoy the vistas.
