Funchal Weather in December

December weather

December feels mild in Funchal, not wintry. Daytime highs reach 18°C, while nights stay near 16°C. Rain falls on about 10 days, and cloudy spells can come and go, so you may need to shift plans.

It's a good month for wandering the Old Town, visiting the Mercado dos Lavradores or riding the cable car up to Monte. After rain, levada paths can be slippery, so choose a town day instead if the trails look wet. The sea and beach days are less reliable than in summer.

Christmas in Funchal

Funchal puts up Christmas lights across the city, and festive stalls and decorations bring a seasonal feel to streets around Avenida Arriaga. Christmas Eve and Christmas Day are public holidays, so some shops and restaurants may close or change hours.

The best-known event is the New Year's Eve fireworks over the bay. If you're staying for them, expect a much busier city and a lively waterfront. Travelling with kids? The lights around the centre are an easy evening outing, without committing to a long trip.

Crowds and costs

December is quieter than the May-to-November stretch for much of the month, but Christmas and New Year are exceptions. Hotels and flights can cost more around the holidays, and central spots fill up. Early December is usually a calmer choice if you want to explore at an easier pace.

For a practical local tip, take the cable car to Monte on a clear day: clouds can hide the views from above Funchal. Then try a basket toboggan ride back down towards Livramento, a traditional wooden-sledge ride steered by local drivers. The route ends short of the centre, so leave time for the walk or a taxi.