Faial
Quiet north-coast parish below the towering Penha de Águia rock, in the Santana municipality.
About Faial
Faial is part of the municipality of Santana, with a population of around 1,611
Faial sits where thick laurisilva forest and waterfalls meet the sea, which shapes its layout and its everyday rhythm — fishing, agriculture, and increasingly tourism. Spending half a day here gives a much better feel for the island than only visiting Funchal.
What to know before you go
- Most cafés, bakeries and family-run restaurants take cards; small village shops sometimes still prefer cash for under €5.
- Buses run a handful of times a day on the north and west coasts — a rental car removes the timetable problem entirely.
- Old-town streets are tight and one-way; use the signed car parks on the outskirts and walk the last few minutes in.
Best time to visit
Faial is comfortable year-round, but spring and early autumn give the best mix of warm afternoons and low cloud cover.
Location
North coast, Madeira · Open in OpenStreetMap · Google Maps
32.79560, -16.86250
Visitor reviews
Honest first-person notes from people who have actually been to Faial. Reviews are moderated before they appear — no account needed.
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Frequently asked
Is Faial worth visiting?+
Yes. Faial shows a quieter, more local side of Madeira than central Funchal, and pairs naturally with the trails, beaches and viewpoints in the same valley.
How do I get to Faial from Funchal?+
Allow 45–75 minutes from Funchal via the VE1 and the north-coast tunnels — the drive itself is one of the scenic highlights.
Plan around Faial
The nearest town, viewpoint and walk — the three things most visitors pair with Faial in a day.
Nearby on Madeira
Other places within easy reach of Faial.
Plan the rest of your trip
The four guides most first-time visitors reach for.