Santa Maria Street in Funchal is a treasure trove of art and charm. It is well worth a visit during your stay on Madeira Island. This street is full of murals, street art, and the famous ‘painted doors of Funchal’, amongst bars, cafes, and restaurants. I last visited Santa Maria Street Funchal in the summer of 2023.

Explore the vibrant street art of Madeira with doors adorned in colorful murals, featuring diverse figures and murals.

Below I will show you all of my photos from Santa Maria Street, plus I will provide some information on how to get there, the best time to go, and what to do in Santa Maria Street Funchal.

Contents show

I may earn a commission at no extra cost to you if you make a purchase through my affiliate links.

Before we start, you might like to check out my main Madeira Travel Guide. My last visit to Madeira was summer 2023 and I have published several Madeira posts to help you plan your trip.

Getting to Santa Maria Street.

Santa Maria Street is conveniently located in the heart of Funchal’s Old Town (Zona Velha). If you’re staying in Funchal, it’s easily accessible by foot, and most accommodations in the city centre are within walking distance. Alternatively, you can take a local bus or a taxi to reach this historical gem. I’ve included a map at the bottom of this post.

Here are two of the painted doors from my last visit (2023), and I will include 21 more doors throughout this post! Please note that the photos belong to me and are copyrighted.

A painted wooden door on Santa Maria Street in Funchal depicts a woman in a red dress with blonde hair, perfectly complementing the building's vibrant yellow and red facade.
A vibrant mural of a fisherman holding a large fish, with fishing nets in the background, graces the facade on Santa Maria Street Funchal, perfectly complementing the nearby chalkboard menu.

The best time to go to Santa Maria Street Funchal.

For the full Santa Maria Street experience, consider visiting during the late afternoon or early evening. The fading sunlight casts a warm glow on the colourful façades, creating a magical atmosphere. The street truly comes alive during this time, with shops and restaurants opening their doors, inviting you to immerse yourself in the local culture.

What you can see at Santa Maria Street.

1. Painted doors: 

As you step onto Santa Maria Street, you’ll be greeted by various vibrantly painted doors. Each door is a canvas, showcasing the artistic talents of local painters. I loved admiring the intricate designs and colourful scenes that adorn these entrances. 

A vibrant door art piece on Santa Maria Street in Funchal showcases two yellow figures in colorful attire against a textured wooden background, framed by rustic brick.
Colorful mural on a door depicting two Indigenous figures, a woman with a bow and a man holding a spear and shield, set against a blue sky background.

2. Art galleries and studios: 

Santa Maria Street is an artistic haven, dotted with galleries and studios. There are great opportunities to own an original piece of art whilst also supporting local artists.

Colorful mural with abstract urban designs and notes on cards, located next to tables and chairs outside a restaurant with a "Galeria Restaurante" sign.
Mural of a woman with a guitar, painted on a door between two potted plants and wall lamps.
Santa Maria Street Funchal Painted Doors

3. Historical architecture: 

The architecture along Santa Maria Street reflects centuries of history. There are narrow alleys lined with well-preserved buildings, each telling a story of Funchal’s evolution over the years.

4. Street art and murals: 

In addition to painted doors, you’ll encounter striking murals and street art. These expressions of creativity contribute to the bohemian and eclectic vibe of Santa Maria Street (or Rua Santa Maria).

Colorful mural on a building wall depicting bundled corn on the left and green bananas on the right.
Colorful mural on a door depicting a face with a headdress of fruits, flowers, and leaves, a white bird in flight, and a yellow sun against a blue background.
Santa Maria Street Painted Doors

5. Cafés and restaurants: 

Santa Maria Street is lined with charming cafés and restaurants, offering a variety of culinary delights. From traditional Madeiran dishes to international cuisine, there is a lot on offer.

Venda Velha (below) is a popular place to drink poncha (the local alcoholic drink which you must try – see more in my Madeira food and drink post).

Restaurant entrance with wooden door and mural of a sailor carrying a cask. Two tables with blue tablecloths and glasses are set outside.
A small café with a yellow and red façade on Santa Maria Street in Funchal, proudly displaying "Venda Velha." Inside, a person stands close to a menu board featuring an array of colorful drinks.

6. Unique shops

Browse through boutique shops selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products. It’s an excellent opportunity to pick up a one-of-a-kind keepsake to remember your visit. I particularly liked this rubber duck shop below!

Open door reveals a room filled with shelves displaying various rubber duckies. Duck designs are painted on the white door.
Shop window with green shutters displaying colorful ceramic plates and jewelry. A planter with purple flowers and greenery hangs below the window.
Discover the vibrant door mural on Santa Maria Street in Funchal, showcasing painted jungle animals like giraffes, lions, and ostriches surrounded by lush green foliage and earthy brown tones.
A door with a woman's face painted on it in Santa Maria Street Funchal.
Painting of a woman’s face on Rua Santa Maria

A blue door with a painting on it in Madeira in Santa Maria Street Funchal
Santa Maria Street Painted Doors
A door with a painting on it in Madeira in Santa Maria Street Funchal
Futuristic style painting on Santa Maria Street

Map showing Santa Maria Street, Funchal

FAQs about Santa Maria Street Funchal.

Below are some frequently asked questions about Santa Maria Street, Funchal.

Q: What is unique about the art on Santa Maria Street?


A: Santa Maria Street is renowned for its vibrant and eclectic art scene. The street features a collection of painted doors, murals, and street art, creating a visually captivating atmosphere.

Q: Are the painted doors on Santa Maria Street permanent installations?


A: While some painted doors may be permanent, others are periodically changed or updated by local artists, making each visit a potentially new and unique experience.

A door painted with silhouettes of three dancers in yellow, red, and purple. Two plaques with text are mounted on the adjacent wall. Building exterior features yellow and red walls.
Santa Maria Street Painted Doors
Mermaid mural on a blue door, depicting a mermaid on a swing with marine life around her. Door number 105.
Santa Maria Street Funchal Painted Doors
Q: Who creates the artwork on Santa Maria Street?


A: The artwork on Santa Maria Street is often created by local artists and painters who contribute to the street’s vibrant and dynamic aesthetic.

Q: Can I purchase art from Santa Maria Street?


A: Yes, many of the galleries and studios along Santa Maria Street offer artworks for sale. Visitors can explore and purchase unique pieces that showcase the local artistic talent.

Q: Are there specific themes or motifs commonly found on the painted doors?


A: The themes and motifs on the painted doors vary widely, ranging from traditional Madeiran scenes to abstract art. Each door is a unique expression of the artist’s creativity.

Colorful mural on a door featuring a surreal design with eyes, lips, mountains, and a figure with wings. The scene is surrounded by bright yellow borders with floral designs.
Mural of a lion and cub resting under a ship wheel and anchor on a striped red and green background.
Q: Are there guided tours available to learn more about the art on Santa Maria Street?


A: Yes, guided tours are available that provide insights into the art, history, and culture of Santa Maria Street Funchal. These tours offer a deeper understanding of the significance of the painted doors and other artistic elements.

Q: Do the artists ever hold exhibitions or events on Santa Maria Street?


A: Yes, artists occasionally organise exhibitions or events along Santa Maria Street, providing opportunities for visitors to engage with the local art community. It is worth checking local news papers and events pages.

Cat sitting in front of a decorated door painted with grapevines and abstract patterns.
A weathered, hand-painted door with nautical and nature motifs, including a sailboat, pelican, and flowers, on a textured wall.
Q: Can I commission a custom-painted door on Santa Maria Street?


A: Some artists may offer custom commissions. If you’re interested in a personalised painted door or artwork, you should enquire directly with local artists or galleries.

Q: Are there any restrictions on photographing the painted doors on Santa Maria Street? 


A: In general, photography is welcomed on Santa Maria Street. However, it’s courteous to respect any signage or requests from artists or gallery owners regarding photography in specific locations.

Q: Where is Santa Maria Street located in Funchal?


A: Santa Maria Street is situated in the heart of Funchal’s Old Town (Zona Velha), a historic district known for its narrow cobblestone streets and vibrant atmosphere.

Q: How can I get to Santa Maria Street from the city centre?


A: If you’re staying in Funchal, Santa Maria Street is easily accessible on foot. Most accommodations in the city centre are within walking distance. Alternatively, you can take a local bus or a taxi. See map above.

Door with a mural depicting a woman and a black cat looking out a window. The door frame is brown, and the door is yellow with house number 5. There's a small wall plaque beside it.
Vibrant mural on a door depicting a stylized horse with colorful abstract patterns in blue, green, and red hues.
Q: What is the best time to visit Santa Maria Street?


A: The late afternoon or early evening is ideal for a visit. The warm glow of the fading sunlight enhances the street’s charm, and many shops and restaurants open during this time.

Q: What can I see on Santa Maria Street?


A: Santa Maria Street is known for its painted doors, art galleries, historic architecture, street art, murals, cafés, restaurants, and unique shops. It offers a delightful blend of artistic and cultural experiences.

Q: Are there specific attractions on Santa Maria Street for art enthusiasts?


A: Yes, the street features numerous art galleries and studios showcasing the talents of local artists. Visitors can explore and purchase unique artworks that capture the essence of Madeira.

Q: Are there recommended cafés and restaurants on Santa Maria Street Funchal?


A: Yes, the street is lined with charming cafés and restaurants offering a variety of culinary delights. It’s a great place to sample traditional Madeiran dishes and international cuisine.

Set against patterned wallpaper, the door crafted as a large vinyl record features "Vintage Bar" elegantly inscribed on it, capturing the nostalgic allure of Santa Maria Street Funchal.
A restaurant with tables and chairs in front of it in Santa Maria Street Funchal
Q: Can I find unique souvenirs on Santa Maria Street?


A: Absolutely! The street is home to boutique shops selling handmade crafts, souvenirs, and local products. It’s a perfect opportunity to pick up distinctive souvenirs from Madeira.

Intricate art on a wooden door featuring a figure with flowing hair, surrounded by colorful peacock feathers, and a dark figure below. Door set in a weathered stone frame.
A mural on Santa Maria Street, Funchal, depicts a young girl in a pink dress sitting on a rock by the sea, beautifully painted on a door set within the weathered wall.

Please note I am happy to share my photos with you, but please don’t use them without permission. Thank you.

Here are some quick links to help you plan your Madeira trip.

Related Posts for Santa Maria Street, Funchal.

Below are some further posts relating to this article about Santa Maria Street in Funchal, Madeira.

Pinterest pins for Santa Maria Street, Funchal.

If you have enjoyed reading this guide to seeing the street art on Santa Maria Street Funchal, Madeira, or found it useful, please feel free to use the images below to pin this article to your Pinterest boards.

Wooden door in Santa Maria Street, Funchal, painted with an image of a woman in a red dress. Surrounding walls are red and yellow. Text overlays read "Street Art & Painted Doors" and "Madeira.
Collage of 23 street art photos from Santa Maria Street, Funchal, featuring various colourful murals and artistic door paintings. Website link included at the bottom.

General Travel Resources:

Booking.com is the best site for hotels with free reservation and cancellations.
Viator and Get Your Guide are the best sites for tours and activities.
Discover Cars is the best comparison site for car rentals.
Trip.com is good for booking flights and packages.
See my Travel Resources page for a full list of helpful booking links.

Popular Destinations: London | Edinburgh | Malta | Scotland | Madeira | Cyprus | Italy | Canary Islands

Tags: , , , ,