Planning a trip to Madeira? Whether you’re attracted by its volcanic landscapes, towering cliffs, levadas or the lively atmosphere of Funchal, the first step is to organize your arrival!
Plane, car, local transport… Find out more about our practical advice and the different options for getting to Madeira and around the island.
This opinion is completely independent, based on our experiences. We made our own choices, visited the area anonymously, and paid our bills in full.
How to get to Madeira: quick answer
There are several options for reaching Madeira:
- By plane: Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport (Funchal) is the only gateway to the island, with many direct connections from Europe. – see available flights.
- By ferry: only possible from Porto Santo Island, arriving in Funchal, but not usually used for first-time arrivals. – please check availability.
- By car: essential once you’re here to explore the island and discover exceptional panoramas on steep roads! Cabs are also available for transfers in the region, but these cost considerably more for a full stay.
- Local transport: several bus companies provide regular connections between Madeira’s different towns, especially in high season.
To reach your accommodation from Funchal Airport, opt for a private transfer. – see options.
See our map of Madeira to locate the main areas of the island:
WHERE TO STAY IN Madeira
Our independent picks for the accommodation of your dreams:
Option 1: by plane
- Madeira can only be reached by air via Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport, about a 20-minute drive from Funchal.
- Direct flights link Madeira to many European cities, all year round or depending on the season. – see available flights.
- From the airport, you can reach your accommodation by cab, private transfer, bus or directly with a rental car.
- Aerobus services link the airport to Funchal and other tourist areas on the island.
OUR TIPS FOR RENTING YOUR CAR AT Madeira
- Compare prices on our preferred platform: DiscoverCars – one of the best rated sites.
- Take a car with a good engine for hilly roads, but not too big for manoeuvring.
- There’s plenty of demand and few cars, so book early.
Option 2: by ferry
- Madeira is an island: there are no ferry links from mainland Portugal.
- The only regular sea link is between Madeira and Porto Santo, the neighboring island.
- This crossing is operated by Porto Santo Line.
- The trip takes around 2.5 hours and is a popular option for a day trip or a combined stay on the 2 islands.
- The ferry arrives at the Port of Funchal and can also transport vehicles.
- Find out more about the Funchal-Porto Santo ferry routes here!
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Option 3: by car
In our opinion, driving around Madeira is the best way to explore the island freely and discover its most beautiful scenic routes. The road network is modern, well-maintained and impressive, with numerous tunnels and expressways linking the different regions.
- From the airport to Funchal: approx. 20 min.
- Funchal to Porto Moniz: about 55min
- Funchal to Santana: about 45min
However, driving can be surprising in places, with very steep and narrow roads, especially in remote villages. In Funchal, traffic can be heavy and parking can be tricky, especially at rush hour. To help you plan your trip and choose the most suitable solution for your itinerary, we recommend you read our article “How to get around Madeira”, where we detail the different transport options on the island, as well as our practical advice.
Option 4: by bus
Madeira’s bus network is primarily designed for local travelers, making it less convenient for travelers wishing to explore the island on their own. However, it is possible to reach most of Madeira’s towns and villages, especially from Funchal, which is the main connecting hub. Local companies include:
- Horários do Funchal (Funchal and surroundings)
- Rodoeste (south and west of the island)
- SAM (east of the island)
- EACL between Caniço and Funchal.
Routes often involve numerous stops, which significantly lengthen journey times. Access to more remote areas is limited, if not impossible by bus. Frequency is often low, especially off the main roads.
Getting around Madeira
Depending on how you travel, your budget and your level of comfort at the wheel, some transport options will be more suitable than others in Madeira.
- If you want to explore as much of the island as possible, we strongly recommend renting a car. Rates are reasonable, and you can plan your day to avoid peak times. Contrary to popular belief, driving in Madeira remains generally accessible.
>> See car offers and prices // or see all our tips - If you’d rather avoid the mountain roads or take advantage of your hotel’s facilities, opt for organized excursions, of which there are many from Funchal, or for targeted cab trips.
>> See available guided tours - If budget is your priority, buses may suffice to connect the main cities. On the other hand, journeys are often long because of the many stops.
PLAN YOUR STAY IN Madeira
Best of
Things to do in Madeira
Most beautiful viewpoints
Madeira’s most beautiful beaches
Most beautiful gardens
Natural pools
Most beautiful hikes
Most beautiful roads
Secret places
Practical advice
Getting around Madeira
Rent a car in Madeira
Driving in Madeira
Itineraries: 3 days – 4 days – 5 days – 6 days – 7 days – 10 days
SHE MADE THE TRIP Claire
