For a Funchal walking tour, it'd be tough to find a better guide than a student of Madeira University's Heritage program. Hear tales of the island's past as you see the centuries-old cathedral, the historic Jesuits' College and visit both the City of Sugar Museum and Blandy Wine Lodge – testaments to the important wine and sugar industries here.
There's a trip to the colonial-style City Hall – located on an optically challenging two-toned mosaicked esplanade – before finding out about the history of Madeira's trade in ‘white gold' with a visit to the City of Sugar museum.
Then, after a guided tour of the Jesuit College, enjoy exploring the wonderfully ornate Funchal Cathedral. Last but not least, it's on to the renowned Blandy Madeira Wine Lodge for a tasting of delicious local wines.