Savoy Palace is the newest of Funchal’s grand hotels and the one that most clearly aims to impress. It stands on the seafront in the Lido area, at the western end of the city’s hotel zone, and it was built to look like a modern palace, with a sweeping, sculpted lobby, high atrium and art and design touches that nod to the island’s landscape and history. It belongs to the Savoy Signature collection and is part of the Leading Hotels of the World, and it is aimed at travellers who want a resort that feels like a destination in its own right. The rooms are large and contemporary, most with balconies and views over the Atlantic or the mountains, and there are suites for families and groups. Outdoors there are several pools, including infinity-style and indoor options, and terraces facing the sea, while the spa offers treatments, a thermal area and a fitness centre. Restaurants range from a big buffet to more refined dining rooms and casual bars, so guests can stay in for several nights without repeating themselves, and terrace bars add views over the bay at sunset. The hotel is lively rather than hushed, and families, couples and groups all find something to enjoy.
Location and getting around
The Lido is a pleasant, mostly flat area on Funchal’s west side, where the seafront promenade runs along the coast with restaurants, bars and a swimming complex nearby. The old town and the cable car station are a short taxi or bus ride to the east, or a longer walk along the promenade. Many guided tours pick up from hotels in this area, and the hotel can usually arrange transfers, car hire and excursions at the front desk.
The rooms
Spacious and bright, with modern bathrooms, comfortable beds and large windows. Sea-view rooms and rooms with balconies are the most popular, and suites suit families who need more space. The hotel is large, so ask about a room away from the busiest areas if you prefer quiet. Dining is a feature, with a choice of restaurants and bars, and it is worth deciding in advance whether to book bed and breakfast or a package that includes dinner.
Who it suits
Couples looking for a polished resort stay, families who want pools and plenty of facilities, and groups celebrating something together. It is a good choice if you want to relax at the hotel between excursions and prefer to have most things in one place. It is less suited to travellers who want a small, intimate hotel in the old town.
Good to know
The hotel is popular in school holidays and over Christmas and New Year, so book early for those periods. Check what is included in your rate, ask about parking if you are hiring a car and confirm spa and restaurant opening times and any reservation rules before you arrive. The walk back from the seafront is gentle, but the old town is better reached by taxi in the evening.
Why stay here
- ✓Seafront location in the Lido
- ✓Several outdoor and indoor pools
- ✓Spa with treatments
- ✓Fitness centre
- ✓Multiple restaurants and bars
- ✓Terrace bars with sea views
- ✓Balconies and sea-view rooms
- ✓Family suites
Good questions
Where is Savoy Palace in Funchal?+
It is on the seafront in the Lido area, on the west side of Funchal’s hotel zone. The old town is a short taxi or bus ride away.
Is Savoy Palace good for families?+
Yes. It has several pools, a choice of restaurants and family suites, so children and adults can each find something to do without leaving the hotel.
Does Savoy Palace have a spa and bars with sea views?+
Yes, the hotel has a spa with treatments and a fitness centre, plus terrace bars with views over the bay. Check opening times and any booking rules before you arrive.
