Just back from a week at the Imperatriz (7th to 14th November) and overall found it excellent. It ticked all the boxes as regards what I wanted which was somewhere clean, comfortable, facility to make breakfast in the room, in a good location, public transit access (bus stops) nearby and reasonably priced.
The rooms are cleaned daily and fresh towels provided. Bedding is basic; however, I found it comfortable and more than adequate. There’s a ‘mini kitchen’ in a cupboard consisting of a sink, kettle, large fridge, two ring cooker and most cooking implements with plates, cups, cutlery etc. (anything not there that you think you need simply ask at reception.) Everything I needed to make breakfast and more if I wanted.
The location is ideal; 15 minutes walk from the centre of Funchal, there’s a Spar shop 50 metres away, another small supermarket less than two minutes walk away on Avenida do Infante. As well as Bernini’s at the front of the hotel there are numerous restaurants only a couple of minutes walk away, including Moynihan’s; an Irish Sports Bar that shows all the sport live and a casino less than 2 minutes walk away, if that’s your thing.
There are two bus stops less than two minutes walk away on the Avenida do Infante, connecting you to a great public transport network.
As regards the cost, I thought the Imperatriz was incredible value and I would recommend it to anyone seeking excellent budget accommodation in a great location.