How to Get from Madeira Airport to Funchal

Madeira Airport to Funchal: What to Expect

Arriving in a new destination can feel overwhelming — especially after a long flight!

If you’re landing at Madeira Airport (also known as Cristiano Ronaldo International Airport) and wondering how to get into Funchal using public transport , there’s good news for you: it’s straightforward, affordable, and well- organised.

Getting from Madeira Airport to Funchal by public transport doesn’t have to be stressful. For most visitors, the Aerobus offers the perfect balance of convenience, comfort, and cost. With a little planning, you’ll be enjoying Funchal’s waterfront, cafés, and cobbled streets in no time.

Here’s everything you need to know:

Arriving at Madeira Airport

Once you land at Madeira Airport, follow the signs to the arrivals hall. After exiting customs, you’ll find transport options directly outside the terminal — including taxis, car rentals, and public buses.

Public transport in Madeira is tourist-friendly, especially between the airport and Funchal. Madeira’s public transport system is safe, affordable, and easy to use, even if it’s your first time visiting the Island. While renting a car is popular for exploring the island, public transport is more than enough for airport transfers and city travel.

Public transport is a great choice if you are travelling light, you are looking for a budget-friendly option and if you’re staying in or near central Funchal.

Taking the Aerobus to Funchal

The easiest public transport option from the airport to Funchal is the SIGA Aerobus.

The Aerobus provides a direct route from the airport into Funchal, and with your luggage stored conveniently onboard, this really is a great choice to getting to Funchal easily. The Aerobus stops at major hotels and central locations within Funchal so if you’re staying at a hotel, guesthouse, or apartment in Funchal, chances are there’s a stop within walking distance. The Aerobus is reliable and tourist-friendly.

The journey time from the airport to the last stop of the Aerobus (which is Praia Formosa) is approximately 50 minutes and the bus departs frequently from the airport (and back) every 30 minutes.

The Aerobus operates from early morning to late evening with the first bus departing from the airport at 8:30am, and the last bus departing at 10pm, Monday through Sunday.

Tickets can be purchased onboard, directly from the driver, and only cash is accepted so make sure that you have a few Euros with you. A one-way adult ticket is currently €6.70 and a child ticket is €3.30 (May 2026).

Once onboard, simply tell the driver where you’re staying — they’re used to helping visitors and will let you know the best stop to get off.

The Aerobus makes several convenient stops. With 26 stops in total, some include Avenida do Mar, Plaza Madeira, the hotel zone along Estrada Monumental, Lido, and Forum Madeira. Many stops near the marina and old town areas are also covered.

At the end of your stay in Madeira, you can take the Aerobus right back to the airport. Simply get on at the stop nearest you, pay for another one-way ticket and be on your way to the airport. The Aerobus from Funchal to Madeira Airport runs every 30 minutes and starts at stop 26 – Praia Formosa, at 7am and ends at 9pm, Monday through Sunday.
Whether it’s your first visit or your first time using public transport in Madeira, the Aerobus offers an easy start to your stay. Sit back, relax, and let your Madeira adventure begin.