A botanical garden with colorful flower beds, a palm tree, and a cityscape in the background.

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Check prices for these dates

Tonight
22 Aug - 23 Aug
Tomorrow
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Next weekend
28 Aug - 30 Aug
In two weeks
4 Sept - 6 Sept

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Our top choices for Santa Maria Maior hotels

Breakfast included
Hotel
Reserve now, pay later
Pool
Wi-Fi included

1. Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal

Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal
Funchal
Canada
Michael
NZ$310
includes taxes & fees
26 Aug - 27 Aug
Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal

2. PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only

PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only
Old Town Funchal
United States
Christina
NZ$631
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only

3. Residencial Funchal

Residencial Funchal
Funchal
United States
Deborah
NZ$174
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Residencial Funchal

4. Alojamento Central 1

Alojamento Central 1
Funchal
United States
stan
NZ$177
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Alojamento Central 1

5. Three House Hotel

Three House Hotel
Funchal
United States
Mark
NZ$320
includes taxes & fees
14 Sept - 15 Sept
Three House Hotel

6. Zarco Apartments by Mercado Funchal

Zarco Apartments by Mercado Funchal
Funchal
United Kingdom
Susan
NZ$281
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Zarco Apartments by Mercado Funchal

7. Casa Strelitzia by An Island Apart

Casa Strelitzia by An Island Apart
Funchal
United Kingdom
Paul
NZ$981
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
Casa Strelitzia by An Island Apart

8. The Editory Garden Carmo Funchal

The Editory Garden Carmo Funchal
Funchal
United Kingdom
Morgan
NZ$324
includes taxes & fees
12 Sept - 13 Sept
The Editory Garden Carmo Funchal

9. Madeira Turim Santa Maria Hotel

Madeira Turim Santa Maria Hotel
Funchal
United States
Brian
NZ$284
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Madeira Turim Santa Maria Hotel

10. Zarco Bed&Breakfast

Zarco Bed&Breakfast
Funchal
United Kingdom
Richard
NZ$201
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Zarco Bed&Breakfast

11. Moon & Sun Funchal

Moon & Sun Funchal
Funchal
United States
Rabbit
NZ$375
includes taxes & fees
23 Aug - 24 Aug
Moon & Sun Funchal

12. Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

Castanheiro Boutique Hotel
Sao Pedro
United States
John Wayne
NZ$414
includes taxes & fees
27 Aug - 28 Aug
Castanheiro Boutique Hotel

13. Sé Boutique Hotel

Sé Boutique Hotel
Funchal
United Kingdom
Irene
NZ$342
includes taxes & fees
30 Aug - 31 Aug
Sé Boutique Hotel

14. Hotel Madeira

Hotel Madeira
Funchal
United States
Jennifer
NZ$294
includes taxes & fees
2 Sept - 3 Sept
Hotel Madeira

15. Barcelo Funchal Oldtown

Barcelo Funchal Oldtown
Funchal
United States
robert
NZ$516
includes taxes & fees
28 Aug - 29 Aug
Barcelo Funchal Oldtown

16. Hotel Ocean Gardens

Hotel Ocean Gardens
Funchal
Canada
Jayne
NZ$399
includes taxes & fees
21 Sept - 22 Sept
Hotel Ocean Gardens

17. The Vine

The Vine
Funchal
United States
AK
NZ$412
includes taxes & fees
25 Aug - 26 Aug
The Vine

18. Hotel Quinta da Penha de França

Hotel Quinta da Penha de França
Funchal
Canada
Roberto
NZ$280
includes taxes & fees
13 Sept - 14 Sept
Hotel Quinta da Penha de França

19. Apartamentos Turisticos Atlantida

Apartamentos Turisticos Atlantida
Funchal
United States
Gary
NZ$174
includes taxes & fees
3 Sept - 4 Sept
Apartamentos Turisticos Atlantida

20. Casa do Ribeiro Frio

Casa do Ribeiro Frio
Santana
Canada
Jacqueline
NZ$162
includes taxes & fees
18 Sept - 19 Sept
Casa do Ribeiro Frio
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Stay near popular Santa Maria Maior attractions

A fruit market with various fruits like mangoes, bananas, and oranges displayed in baskets.
Photo by Sylwia Olejnik-Antkowiak

Funchal Farmers Market

8.6/10 (1,393 reviews)
During your trip to Santa Maria Maior, you can search for that perfect souvenir at Funchal Farmers Market. Stroll along the area's seaside or simply savour its top-notch restaurants.
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A botanical garden with colorful flower beds, a palm tree, and a cityscape in the background.

Madeira Botanical Garden

9.0/10 (1,625 reviews)
One of Madeira’s most famous attractions is known for its scenic views and fascinating display of colorful flowers.
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A large fish exhibit in a museum.

Museum of Natural History

8.0/10 (4 reviews)
See a collection of more than 40,000 artifacts dedicated to the flora and fauna of the archipelago at the oldest museum in Madeira.
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Madeira Stadium

8.2/10 (163 reviews)
Catch an event at Madeira Stadium during your trip to Santa Maria Maior. Stroll along the seaside in this relaxing area or visit its lively bars.
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Funchal-Monte Teleferico

9.0/10 (369 reviews)
You can take time to visit Funchal-Monte Teleferico during your travels to Santa Maria Maior. Amble within picturesque gardens or visit the shops in this relaxing area.
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Fort of Sao Tiago

After visiting Fort of Sao Tiago, make a plan to see the other sights and activities in Santa Maria Maior.
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Vila Guida Garden Viewpoint

You can find out about the history of Santa Maria Maior with a stop at Vila Guida Garden Viewpoint. Wander the seaside and gardens in this relaxing area.
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Complexo Balnear Barreirinha

6.0/10 (1 review)
Why not spend a lazy afternoon at Complexo Balnear Barreirinha during your trip to Santa Maria Maior? Wander through the picturesque gardens and seaside in this relaxing area.
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Learn more about Santa Maria Maior

Explore relaxing Santa Maria Maior: its history, oceanfront, parks and more!

See all hotels in Santa Maria Maior
A botanical garden with colorful flower beds, a palm tree, and a cityscape in the background.

Top Santa Maria Maior Hotel Reviews

Recent Reviews in Santa Maria Maior

Barcelo Funchal Oldtown

Barcelo Funchal Oldtown

8/10 Good
"The hotel is conveniently located in the old town area of Funchal. This is close to many restaurants, near the marina (where all the tour boats go from), near public transport, taxi’s and quick Bolt pick ups, and also where the cable car goes up to Monte. The hotel itself was very nice, good rooms and staff were very helpful. We did have an issue with the drains (producing an awful smell) in our original room and after a little bit of discussion we were given a new room for the trip. Breakfast was very good."
James 7-night trip
Posted 14 hours ago
Barcelo Funchal Oldtown
Baía Madeira Hotel

Baía Madeira Hotel

10/10 Excellent
"Good value for money, and friendly, helpful staff. Exceeded expectations."
Matthew 1-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
Baía Madeira Hotel
PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only

PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only

10/10 Excellent
"A fabulous hotel in an excellent location. Rooms were immaculately clean and cleaned everyday. Staff could not do enough and were so friendly and helpful. The grounds and pool area were very well kept. Excellent buffet breakfast with extensive choice. Never a problem getting a sun-bed and sitting around the pool was very relaxing. Would highly recommend this hotel!"
Mark 4-night trip
Posted 15 hours ago
PortoBay Santa Maria, Adults Only
 Saccharum Resort

Saccharum Resort

10/10 Excellent
"Great stay. Loved the location and ocean access."
Chris 7-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Saccharum Resort
Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira

Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira

10/10 Excellent
"Reid’s Palace was such a lovely hotel - we didn’t want to leave! The ocean lounge area, pool, restaurants, rooms, and views - everything was spectacular."
Jennifer 5-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
Reid's Palace, A Belmond Hotel, Madeira
NEXT - Savoy Signature

NEXT - Savoy Signature

10/10 Excellent
"The hotel was lovely. We had a view of the sea. The cleaners were very attentive. But maybe the hotel was designed for the younger type of couples. The music around the hotel was the same beat type music. A very big entrance/reception area and lots of chairs. Seemed a waste of space."
jacqueline Ann Elizabeth 8-night trip
Posted 1 day ago
NEXT - Savoy Signature
Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal

Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal

10/10 Excellent
"I loved this hotel. Very peaceful in the garden, and the breakfast was great. The room is larger than I was expecting and had a small kitchenette that was very useful. The bathroom space is very functional. The staff were super helpful and friendly especially during our very early checkin in and check out to catch our flights. Would stay here again for sure"
Michael 6-night trip
Posted 2 days ago
Arts In Hotel Conde Carvalhal
The Vine

The Vine

10/10 Excellent
"Had a great stay. AC went out in the entire building the last night of our stay, so that wasn't great but had an amazing stay other than that!"
AK 4-night trip
Posted 3 days ago
The Vine
Calheta Beach - All Inclusive

Calheta Beach - All Inclusive

10/10 Excellent
"Excellent facilities, nice and clean. Staff is very helpful. I would make more fish/seafood choices at the buffet and less meat. Also, the actual beach which I understand ids not really the hotel’s property is there, but the water is not very clean. But the swimming pool is great. In genrral, excellent all inclusive"
Vera 7-night trip
Posted 7 days ago
Calheta Beach - All Inclusive

More cheap accommodation in Santa Maria Maior

Gardens Guest House-hostel

Gardens Guest House-hostel

Estrada da Furna Nº23 São Vicente Madeira Region
NZ$172
15 Sept - 16 Sept
includes taxes & fees
Gardens Guest House-hostel
Residencial Funchal

Residencial Funchal

Rua do Hospital Velho 19A Funchal
NZ$174
23 Aug - 24 Aug
includes taxes & fees
Residencial Funchal
Zarco Suites by Sé Funchal

Zarco Suites by Sé Funchal

R. João Tavira 3 Funchal Madeira
NZ$198
28 Aug - 29 Aug
includes taxes & fees
7.8/10 Good! (7 reviews)
Zarco Suites by Sé Funchal
Zarco B&B - Bed and Breakfast

Zarco B&B - Bed and Breakfast

Rua da Alfândega, 113 Funchal Madeira Region
Get rates
8.8/10 Excellent! (44 reviews)
Zarco B&B - Bed and Breakfast
Lazareto 148 Hostel

Lazareto 148 Hostel

R. do Lazareto 148 Funchal Madeira
Get ratesLazareto 148 Hostel
São Lourenço Guest House

São Lourenço Guest House

Estr. de São Lourenço Machico Madeira
Get ratesSão Lourenço Guest House

Find out more about Santa Maria Maior

Top reasons to visit Santa Maria Maior

  • Stunning Beaches: Santa Maria Maior boasts beautiful beaches perfect for sunbathing and relaxation.
  • Rich Cultural Experiences: Explore the vibrant Mercado Funchal and immerse yourself in local traditions.
  • Outdoor Activities: Enjoy walking tours, botanical gardens, and golf courses for adventure seekers.
  • Scenic Views: Take a cable car ride for breathtaking views of the coastline and lush landscapes.
  • Welcoming Hospitality: Experience the warmth of friendly locals and a variety of comfortable accommodation options.

Find great hotels near Santa Maria Maior

Discover a range of delightful accommodation options in Santa Maria Maior, Funchal, perfect for every type of traveller. Choose from inviting hotels and guesthouses that cater to adventure seekers, business travellers, and families alike. With pet-friendly options and holiday rentals available, your stay in this vibrant area promises comfort and convenience, ensuring a memorable experience in the heart of Madeira.

  • Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World - Savoy Signature: A luxurious 5-star accommodation, Savoy Palace stands out with its exceptional guest rating of 9.6 out of 10. This property is ideal for those seeking a blend of opulence and comfort, while also being pet-friendly. It features a range of amenities, including provisions for pets such as food and water bowls. Located 3.2km from Santa Maria Maior, the hotel caters to both leisure and business travellers looking for a sophisticated escape with top-notch facilities and services.
  • The Vine: Celebrated for its adventurous spirit, The Vine is another 5-star hotel with a guest rating of 9.4 out of 10. This property, also situated 3.2km away from Santa Maria Maior, is perfect for families seeking excitement and outdoor activities. Guests can enjoy nearby adventure sports like hiking, waterskiing, and windsurfing. The hotel also provides family-friendly amenities, including childcare services, making it a great choice for those travelling with children while enjoying the thrill of Madeira's natural beauty.
  • NEXT - Savoy Signature: A charming 4-star eco-certified hotel, NEXT - Savoy Signature boasts a guest rating of 9.0 out of 10. Located in the vibrant city centre, it offers a serene spa experience complete with treatment rooms and pool services. Ideal for eco-conscious travellers, the property features amenities designed for relaxation, including massage services and sun loungers by the pool. At 3.2km from Santa Maria Maior, it provides an inviting escape for those wanting to unwind in a stylish, urban setting.

Where to stay in Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior in Funchal, Madeira, offers a delightful blend of historical charm and tropical relaxation. As you explore this inviting parish, you’ll encounter friendly locals and family-friendly attractions. Nearby, enjoy the romantic atmosphere of the coastline and vibrant neighbourhoods. Whether you’re soaking up the sun on the beach or wandering through the quaint streets, Santa Maria Maior promises a memorable vacation filled with unique experiences and warm hospitality.

  • Funchal: Funchal, the vibrant capital city of Madeira, is a delightful blend of culture, history, and natural beauty. Nestled in a stunning harbour, it offers a plethora of outdoor activities, from exploring scenic beaches to hiking along breathtaking coastal trails. The city is renowned for its public market and aquatic centre, making it a family-friendly destination. As you wander through Funchal, you’ll encounter charming local landmarks like the marina and family beach, perfect for relaxation and leisure.
  • Old Town Funchal: Just a stone's throw from Santa Maria Maior, Old Town Funchal encapsulates the island's rich heritage. This picturesque neighbourhood features cobbled streets lined with colourful buildings, quaint shops, and inviting cafes. It’s a great spot for outdoor enthusiasts and families alike, with easy access to vibrant markets and the local aquatic centre. The area is also close to the beach and marina, providing ample opportunities for sunbathing and water sports. With a lively atmosphere, Old Town is perfect for soaking up the local culture.
  • Sao Goncalo: Located about a mile from Santa Maria Maior, Sao Goncalo is a charming parish that offers a mix of outdoor adventure and relaxation. This area is perfect for sports enthusiasts, especially golf lovers, with its well-maintained golf course. Visitors can also enjoy the local market and the stunning nearby botanical garden. With its proximity to the beach and marina, Sao Goncalo provides a peaceful retreat for those looking to unwind amidst Madeira's natural splendour.

Things to do in and around Santa Maria Maior

Shopping

In Santa Maria Maior, explore local markets like Mercado dos Lavradores for fresh produce and traditional crafts. If you're up for a drive, check out Madeira Shopping and Forum Madeira, both offering a variety of shops and dining options just over 16.1km away.

Recreation

Explore the tranquil setting of the Jardim do Mar wellness centre, where you can indulge in soothing spa treatments and yoga sessions. For outdoor recreation, take a leisurely stroll along the coastline or hike the nearby levadas for stunning views and fresh air.

Adventure

Experience breathtaking views on the Funchal-Monte Teleferico, a scenic cable car ride in Santa Maria Maior. For more thrills, head to the Funchal Cable Car - Monte Station, located 1.6km away, or venture to the Achadas da Cruz Cable Car, situated 37.0km from the area, both offering family-friendly adventures.

Nightlife

The nightlife in Santa Maria Maior buzzes with energy, featuring vibrant bars like O Barqueiro for local wines and the lively atmosphere at Taberna da Esquina. For a relaxed vibe, enjoy a drink at the rooftop terrace of Hotel Porto Santa Maria, overlooking the stunning harbour.

*Distances are measured in a straight line; actual driving distances may vary depending on the route.

Find the best attractions in and around Santa Maria Maior

Santa Maria Maior in Funchal is perfect for outdoor and family getaways, offering attractions like botanical gardens, cable car gondolas, and lively piazzas. Explore the beautiful city of Funchal and discover its rich culture, including the vibrant Mercado Funchal. Whether you’re after scenic views or family-friendly activities, Santa Maria Maior has something for everyone to enjoy.

  • Madeira Botanical Garden: Nestled within Santa Maria Maior, this botanical garden offers a tranquil retreat with stunning flora from around the world. Its family-friendly atmosphere, combined with romantic spots, makes it ideal for leisurely strolls amidst vibrant plant life.
  • Town Square: Located 1.6km away from Santa Maria Maior, this lively piazza is a hub of cultural activity. With its charming architecture and vibrant atmosphere, it’s a great place to soak in the local culture and enjoy a coffee at a nearby café.
  • Funchal-Monte Teleferico: Experience an exhilarating ride on this gondola, situated in Santa Maria Maior. Perfect for families and adventure seekers alike, it offers breathtaking views of the surrounding landscape as you ascend to Monte.

Best time to go to Santa Maria Maior

The best time to visit Santa Maria Maior is dependent on what kind of holiday you are seeking. August is its hottest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are slightly high and weather is sunny with no rain. February is its coolest month on average. At this time, visitor numbers are average and weather is mostly sunny with light rain.

calendar iconCalendar Monthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinessoccupation rate iconOccupancyprice iconPricing
January56.5°F (13.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowSlightly Low
February55.4°F (13.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
March56.3°F (13.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
April57.6°F (14.2°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
May60.3°F (15.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly High
June63.5°F (17.5°C)No RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage
July67.3°F (19.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
August69.1°F (20.6°C)No RainSunnySlightly HighSlightly High
September67.5°F (19.7°C)No RainMostly SunnyAverageAverage
October65.7°F (18.7°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly HighAverage
November61.2°F (16.2°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverageSlightly Low
December58.8°F (14.9°C)Light RainMostly SunnySlightly LowAverage

The nearest major airports for your trip to Santa Maria Maior

Flying into Santa Maria Maior is convenient with Funchal Airport (FNC-Cristiano Ronaldo) located 11.3km away. Excellent hotel options near the airport include the 5-star Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club, just 322m away, which offers easy access to the airport. Other nearby hotels are Pestana Casino Park Ocean and SPA Hotel and Savoy Palace - The Leading Hotels of the World, both 14.5km from the airport. Alternatively, you can consider Porto Santo Airport (PXO), situated 67.6km away, with nearby options like the 5-star Pestana Porto Santo Beach Resort & Spa, 3.2km from the airport, and Torre Praia Hotel, just 1.6km away.

Frequently asked questions

What is the best area to stay in Santa Maria Maior?
The best area to stay in Santa Maria Maior is the Old Town, also known as Zona Velha, which sits along the Funchal waterfront.This area is the historic heart of Funchal and is highly walkable, with narrow, cobbled streets and colourful buildings. It's particularly known for Rua de Santa Maria, an art-filled street where building doors are painted with murals. The Old Town is well-connected to the rest of Funchal, with easy access to the cable car up to Monte and the Funchal Marina.Couples often find the Old Town ideal for a romantic and convenient stay. They can enjoy leisurely strolls through the historic streets, dine at a variety of restaurants, and easily access attractions like the Mercado dos Lavradores (Workers' Market) for fresh local produce and handicrafts. The waterfront promenade provides lovely views and opportunities for relaxed evenings.For travellers who appreciate a blend of history and convenience, the Old Town offers a central base with a distinct character.
When is the best time to go to Santa Maria Maior?
The best time to visit Santa Maria Maior is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April to May) and autumn (September to October) when the weather is pleasantly mild and the area is less crowded.During these months, you'll experience comfortable temperatures, ideal for exploring the district's historic streets and enjoying outdoor activities without the peak summer heat or larger crowds. This allows for a more relaxed and authentic experience of Santa Maria Maior.Couples looking for a romantic getaway will find these periods particularly appealing. The pleasant weather is superb for leisurely strolls through the Old Town, exploring the local markets, or enjoying a quiet meal at a waterside restaurant. You can easily access the cable car to Monte for stunning views or visit the nearby Botanical Garden.Families travelling with children will also appreciate the milder temperatures, which make sightseeing more enjoyable. The reduced crowds mean easier access to popular attractions and a more relaxed pace for everyone.
Can I cancel my hotel reservation on Expedia?
You can cancel your hotel reservation on Expedia, although it depends on the cancellation policy of your booking. Most bookings are refundable if cancelled within 24 to 48 hours of the scheduled arrival. Be sure to check your booking confirmation for the exact cancellation policy. If free cancellation is available, you can cancel directly through your Expedia account by logging in, going to 'My Trips' and selecting your reservation. To find flexible deals, filter your search by 'Fully refundable property' for hotels in Santa Maria Maior.
How can I save on a hotel booking in Santa Maria Maior with Expedia?
One Key™—Expedia's free travel rewards program—gives you instant access to discounts with Member Prices on Santa Maria Maior hotels. Plus, you'll earn OneKeyCash™* on eligible bookings to use on future trips. Booking an Expedia hotel and flight package is another great way to save, where bundling can result in significant savings. *Excludes taxes and fees. OneKeyCash is not redeemable for cash and can only be used on Expedia and other participating brands.
How much is the nightly rate for a hotel in Santa Maria Maior?
Prices for hotels in Santa Maria Maior often vary, but you can find a great deal from NZ$172 on Expedia. All sorts of factors affect price, such as the time of year or the days of the week you choose for your stay. Find the best deals by being flexible with your dates, and sort search results by 'Price: low to high' for our cheapest rates.

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