Pestana Casino Park

Pestana Casino Park Visiting Hours, Tickets, and Travel Guide – Funchal, Portugal

Date: 04/07/2025

Introduction

Perched along Madeira’s dramatic coastline in Funchal, Pestana Casino Park is a striking convergence of modernist architecture, cultural heritage, and vibrant leisure. Designed by the renowned Oscar Niemeyer and adapted by Viana de Lima, this 5-star hotel and casino complex has been a cornerstone of Madeira’s tourism and architectural identity since opening in 1976. With panoramic ocean views, innovative engineering, and a lively cultural calendar, Pestana Casino Park is both a landmark and a destination.

This guide provides a comprehensive overview, including historical context, architectural highlights, practical visitor information, accessibility, nearby attractions, and tips to make the most of your visit. For official updates on hours, tickets, and special events, consult the Pestana Hotel Group website and Casino da Madeira site. (Pestana Stories, Oyster, Wikipedia)

Introduction
The History and Architectural Vision
Design Features and Cultural Role
Visiting Hours and Ticketing
Accessibility and Visitor Tips
Accommodation and Amenities
Dining, Nightlife, and Events
Leisure, Wellness, and Family Activities
Location and How to Get There
Nearby Attractions
Travel Tips and FAQs
Conclusion and Further Resources

The History and Architectural Vision

Origins: A Landmark is Conceived

In 1966, the Barreto family, Goan entrepreneurs with roots in Mozambique, sought to create a world-class hotel and casino to complement Madeira’s scenic beauty. Oscar Niemeyer’s passion for organic forms and integration with nature led to a visionary design, sketched in just 24 hours in Paris. Portuguese architect Viana de Lima and engineer Madeira Costa translated these sketches into reality, overcoming complex engineering challenges—most notably the construction of a pillarless, ocean-facing restaurant platform (Pestana Stories, P55 Magazine).

Construction and Opening

Construction began in the late 1960s, with Pestana Casino Park opening in 1976. It was the largest hotel in Portugal at the time, featuring a hotel, circular casino, and extensive convention facilities. The complex’s modernist curves, glass facades, and seamless integration with the landscape set a new standard for architecture on the island (P55 Magazine, Oyster).

Design Features and Cultural Role

Architectural Highlights

Integration with Nature: Elevated on stilts, the structure’s curves echo the contours of the island, while floor-to-ceiling glass maximizes Atlantic views (The Dashing Rider).
Engineering Innovations: The 3,500 m² pillarless restaurant platform, transparent lobby, and swooping walkways are feats of modern engineering.
Interiors: Daciano da Costa’s original 1970s interior design remains a highlight, complemented by artwork from Fernando Conduto and Maria Velez.

Cultural Significance

Pestana Casino Park is a hub for concerts, festivals, and exhibitions, hosting events like the Madeira Flower Festival and Atlantic Festival (Sintra Explorers, Madeira Web). Its conference and event spaces welcome both international and local gatherings, reinforcing its role as a cultural anchor (Casino da Madeira).

Visiting Hours and Ticketing

Hotel Public Areas: Open year-round, 24/7 for guests.
Casino: Sunday–Thursday, 3:00 PM–3:00 AM; Friday, Saturday, and bank holiday eves, 4:00 PM–4:00 AM. Entry is restricted to guests 18+ with valid ID.
Special Events & Tours: Some exhibitions and guided tours require advance ticket purchase (€10–€20), available via the Casino da Madeira website or hotel reception.
Spa & Wellness: Magic Spa, daily from 8:00 AM–8:00 PM.
Rooftop Pool: Open to guests over 16, typically 10:00 AM–6:00 PM.

For the most current ticketing, hours, and event info, always check the official website.

Accessibility and Visitor Tips

Mobility: Entire complex is wheelchair accessible, with ramps, elevators, and adapted rooms and restrooms (PlanMyTour).
Getting There: 20–25 minutes by taxi from Madeira International Airport; public buses and shuttles available.
Location: 5-minute walk from Funchal’s historic center and adjacent to the cruise port.

Tips

Book sea-view rooms for the best vistas.
Visit the infinity pool at sunset for unforgettable scenery.
Check the dress code for casino and restaurants (smart casual).

Accommodation and Amenities

Rooms: 379 rooms and suites, many with balconies and views of Funchal Bay, the ocean, or gardens. Amenities include air conditioning, minibars, safes, Wi-Fi, and modern bathrooms.
Pools: Outdoor infinity pool, heated indoor pool, rooftop pool (16+), all offering panoramic views.
Wellness: Magic Spa with body treatments, massages, and gym facilities.

Dining, Nightlife, and Events

Panoramic Restaurant: Themed buffets, breakfast, and live music with sea views.
Dockside: Terrace for casual lunches and drinks overlooking the marina.
ON Restaurant: Poolside international and Portuguese cuisine.
Bars: Cocktails, wines, and snacks for relaxing evenings.

Casino & Nightclub: Gaming rooms, live shows, and the Copacabana nightclub with themed parties and live DJ sets.

Event Spaces: 14 meeting rooms, auditorium (628 seats), Blue Room for exhibitions, plus gardens for outdoor events.

Leisure, Wellness, and Family Activities

Gardens: 15,000 m² of subtropical gardens.
Family: Children’s pool, tennis courts, library, games room, and concierge services for local tours.

Location and How to Get There

Address: Rua Imperatriz Dona Amélia, 9004-513 Funchal, Portugal
Phone: +351 291 209 100
Email: [email protected]

Easily accessible by taxi, shuttle, or bus from the airport, and within walking distance of Funchal’s city center and marina.

Nearby Attractions

Funchal Old Town and Farmers’ Market
Madeira Botanical Gardens
CR7 Museum (Cristiano Ronaldo Museum)
Monte Palace Tropical Garden
Santa Catarina Park: Adjacent to the hotel, perfect for walks.
Funchal Marina: 10 minutes on foot, with boat tours and dolphin watching.

Travel Tips and FAQs

Travel Tips

Pre-book spa treatments, special events, and sea-view rooms.
Bring a camera for the property’s architectural and natural vistas.
Euro is the local currency; credit cards are widely accepted.
English is commonly spoken, though Portuguese is official.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Is there an entry fee for Pestana Casino Park?
A: No fee for hotel public areas; casino entry is free but requires ID and age check.

Q: What are the casino’s hours?
A: 3:00 PM–3:00 AM Sunday–Thursday, 4:00 PM–4:00 AM Friday/Saturday/bank holiday eves.

Q: Are guided tours available?
A: Architectural and cultural tours can be arranged via the hotel concierge or booked online for special exhibitions.

Q: Is the site family-friendly?
A: Yes, though casino and nightclub access is restricted to adults (18+).

Q: Can non-guests use the spa?
A: Yes, day visitors are welcome with advance booking.

COVID-19 and Health Protocols

Most restrictions have been lifted, but enhanced cleaning and sanitizing continue. Check local guidelines before your visit.

Visual Experience

Explore virtual maps and galleries for panoramic views and suggested photo spots, including the infinity pool, lobby, and terraces.

Conclusion

Pestana Casino Park is a defining landmark of Funchal—where modernist architecture, cultural celebration, and luxury hospitality unite. Whether you’re drawn by Oscar Niemeyer’s design, the lively events calendar, or the breathtaking views, the complex offers an experience that captures the spirit of Madeira.

For up-to-date visitor information, travel planning, and exclusive offers, download the Audiala app or visit the Pestana Casino Park website. Let Pestana Casino Park be the highlight of your Madeira adventure.