Experience in Funchal, Portugal by Mateus

What is it like to live in Funchal? Would you recommend it? What is the city like?

Funchal is the centre of Madeira, it's the city where you find everything. The college (Universidade da Madeira) is about 2km from the downtown. It is a very cultural city with old buildings, many from 500 years ago.

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What is the student lifestyle like in Funchal?

Students here like to party a lot. Madeiran are also very helpful with erasmus students when needed. ECTS in Madeira are very high so you easily afford your subjects. Professors like Erasmus students, so easilly pass.

How much does it cost to live in Funchal?

If you go to the college residence, it's cheap. Don't chose live on an apartment of your own because you pay at least 3 times more than you'd pay in the college residence. Bus costs 45€ per month.

Is it difficult to find accommodation in Funchal? Is there any advice you can give?

It's not difficult but always chose college residence. Is situated in a very cozy and cultural place, where you make great friends and it is veeeeery cheap.

What is the food like? What are your favourite dishes?

Food is great!

Typical food here are: espetada (beef), bolo do caco (typical bread), poncha (alcohoolic drink made with fruit juice), peixe espada (fish), and many others!

What places would you recommend visiting in Funchal?

Do as many levadas as you can! Explore the whole island and if you have some extra budget, search for boat cruises to Porto Santo, a very little island that is really beautiful!

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Is it good to eat out in Funchal? Can you tell us your favourite spots?

If you know where to eat, you eat good and cheap. Always go to the places where you don't see tourist, usually are cheaper places and with great food. If you have hurry, there's always a McDonalds, Burger King near. And if you stay in the college residence, buy pizza in Xaramba! Great flavour!

Is the nightlife good in Funchal? Where is good to go?

Nighlife in Funchal are like this:

First you go to "zona velha" (means "old town") where have many pubs and party.

Then, there are three discos in Funchal: Vespas, Copacabana and Trap.

Vespas is more pop music, more for teens and young adults.

Copacabana is also pop but more chic, where young adults and adults go to.

Trap is cozy and small and is more frequented by more older people.

What advice would you give future students heading to Funchal?

The subjects in the degree of "Language and Business Studies" (Linguas e Relações Empresariais) are like 90% of them taught in English! Try Madeira, ECTs high, great place, nice people.