If you’re visiting Madeira between January and early April 2026, there’s one planning detail you should know: the Funchal Cable Car (Teleférico do Funchal) will be closed for around 3 months for its biggest renovation in 25 years. The good news? It should reopen with larger cabins and upgraded tech for a smoother, more comfortable ride.
Open this article side-by-side with our Interactive Madeira Map and group nearby stops on the same route — it helps you avoid unnecessary back-and-forth driving and makes it easier to spot viewpoints, short walks, and good places to eat around Monte and Funchal.
Closure dates (and reopening)
The cable car is scheduled to close on January 5, 2026 and reopen in early April 2026 (approximately 3 months). This happens right after the Christmas & New Year peak season, when demand is naturally lower.
What’s changing (the renovation)
This is the first major intervention of this scale since the cable car opened in 2000. The reported investment is €4 million, and it includes:
- Larger-capacity cabins for more comfort.
- Full cable replacement (even though the current one is in good condition).
- Reinforcement of support towers.
- Technology upgrades across the system.
- Better energy efficiency and sustainability.
According to the administration (Ricardo Pinto Correia), the upgrade aims to provide more comfort and confidence for passengers, with improved sustainability.
What this means for your trip (January–April 2026)
No stress: Monte remains fully accessible during the closure. You’ll simply use one of the alternatives below.
Best alternatives while the cable car is closed
1) Go by car (most flexible)
Driving is the easiest way to keep your day smooth — and it also lets you combine Monte with other viewpoints or coastal stops without depending on schedules.
2) Take the bus (budget-friendly)
You can use bus lines 20 or 21 from central Funchal to Monte (often around 12 minutes, typically €2). It’s not as scenic as the cable car — but it’s practical and affordable.
Local tip
Visit Monte early in the morning on a weekday. You’ll avoid crowds and get the best light for photos in the gardens and viewpoints.
Is it worth waiting until after April 2026?
If your dates are flexible: yes. The Funchal Cable Car is one of Madeira’s iconic experiences — those views over the bay and the natural amphitheatre of the city are unforgettable. Visiting after early April 2026 means you’ll likely enjoy the renewed version with upgraded cabins and technology.
Use our Interactive Map to group stops by area, check live webcams before you drive, and if you want a guided day, browse our Tours & Experiences. For full-day routes, start here: Island Tours (East & West).
Source: Diário de Notícias da Madeira
— Beyond Madeira
