Madeira.Vacations

Monte Palace Tropical Garden

Seven hectares of tiled terraces, koi ponds and imported cycads above Funchal.

Ornamental pond and tiled terraces in the Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Photo: H. Zell · CC BY-SA 3.0

A former hotel estate turned into an eccentric, beautiful garden: Japanese ponds, Portuguese azulejo panels dating back to the 15th century, African sculpture and a mineral museum, all on a steep hillside.

Allow more time than you think

The garden runs down a slope in a series of levels, and it takes at least two hours to see properly. Paths are steep and stepped throughout, with benches at intervals.

The tile collection is genuinely museum-grade, and the mineral and contemporary African art collections are unexpected and good.

Local tips

  • — Combine with the toboggan run, which starts a few minutes' walk away.

Guided trips here

Bookable tours that include or focus on this spot.

  • Funchal waterfront and old town at golden hour
    2 hours Funchal

    Funchal Old Town & Monte Toboggan Tour

    A private tuk-tuk through the painted doors of the Zona Velha, up to Monte and the famous wicker toboggan ride back down.

    from €80

    Check availability
  • Funchal & Monte: Private Sidecar Tour with Toboggan Stop in Madeira
    2 hours Funchal 5.0(35)

    Funchal & Monte: Private Sidecar Tour with Toboggan Stop

    Embark on an unforgettable journey through Funchal's downtown with a passionate local guide, cruising in style on a classic motorcycle with a sidecar.

    from €110

    Check availability
  • Private Tour Nun's Valley Halfday in Madeira
    3 hours Madeira 5.0(46)

    Private Tour Nun's Valley Halfday

    Our half day starts at Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint, a very nice view of all Funchal, where we can see different locations of the city and have an amazing sight for lovely pictures.

    from €160

    Check availability
  • Funchal highlights 5h Private Tour in Madeira in Madeira
    5 hours Funchal 5.0(30)

    Funchal highlights 5h Private Tour in Madeira

    Experience the essence of Madeira in just 5 hours. This immersive tour takes you through breathtaking landscapes, vibrant local culture, and scenic viewpoints, offering a true taste of island's unique charm.

    from €200

    Check availability
  • Funchal Christmas lights sightseeing night tour in Madeira
    1.2 hours Funchal 4.9(79)

    Funchal Christmas lights sightseeing night tour

    Enjoy the Christmas decorations all around Funchal. View the magnificent light decorations. Experience the nostalgia of our classic cars.

    from €35

    Check availability
  • Nun's Valley & Sea Cliff - Half Day - Shared Tour in Madeira
    4 hours Madeira 4.9(49)

    Nun's Valley & Sea Cliff - Half Day - Shared Tour

    We invite you to explore some of the most isolated places on the island, without straying too far from Funchal.

    from €47

    Check availability

Stay nearby

Where to base yourself for this part of the island.

Nearby

Within a short drive, so they combine into one day.

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