We now head up to Fortaleza do Pico high above Funchal, as this is said to offer the best views of the city. But before we tackle the steep climb, we make a stop at the Museo Quinta das Cruzes, which we spotted in passing and luckily peeked inside since the gate was open. Here you will find a lovely little park adorned with numerous spolia and an 18th-century manor house that vividly illustrates how Madeira's wealthy citizens once lived. Unfortunately we couldn't see the collections of upper-class everyday objects from earlier times, as the exhibition was closed.
Right, now it's steeply uphill to Fortaleza do Pico, perched 111 meters above Funchal on Pico dos Frias and dating back to the 17th century. Regrettably, we cannot enjoy what is supposedly the finest viewpoint over Funchal from the fortress itself, as it is closed for restoration. However, below the fortress there is a path that also offers magnificent views, and the cafe nearby is well worth a visit too.

A little disappointed, we head back into the city center, passing the Convento de Santa Clara, a Poor Clares convent from the late 15th century (guided tours are available) and the Casa Museu Frederico de Fritas, a 17th-century villa where you can see antique furniture, azulejos and more. Another museum along our route is the Museum of Natural History (Municipal Museum of Funchal) with information about Madeira's flora and fauna. It also houses a small aquarium showcasing Madeira's marine life.