Getting from Madeira Airport to Funchal
Madeira Airport is about 13–16 km from Funchal. Here are your options for the ~20-minute trip into town, from the cheap public bus to a door-to-door transfer.
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The easiest way into Funchal is the Aerobus shuttle (line 500), about
€6.70 and 20–25 minutes to the hotel zone. A taxi is ~€25–35,
public buses ~€3–5, and a pre-booked private transfer ~€20–60.
| Option | Price | Time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Aerobus (airport shuttle) Line 500 (airport ⇄ Funchal hotel zone) | ~€6.70 (one-way); ~€3.30 reduced | ~20–25 min | Direct shuttle along the Funchal seafront/hotel zone. Buy on board; cash only. The simplest option for most visitors. (cash only) |
| Public bus Lines 20, 53, 78, 113 and others | ~€3–5 | ~30–45 min | Cheapest option. Slower, with stops; not all lines run late. Good if you're not in a hurry. |
| Taxi | ~€25–35 to central Funchal | ~20 min | Metered/fixed fares; surcharges at night, on Sundays/holidays and for luggage. Fastest door-to-door without pre-booking. |
| Private transfer | ~€20–60 (per car, varies by zone) | ~20 min | Pre-booked private or shared transfer; convenient for groups and for hotels outside central Funchal (e.g. Caniço, Calheta). |
Frequently asked questions
How do you get from Madeira Airport to Funchal?
The Aerobus shuttle (line 500, ~€6.70, ~20–25 min) is the simplest option to central Funchal. A taxi costs around €25–35, public buses €3–5, and pre-booked transfers €20–60. The airport is about 13–16 km from the city.
How far is Madeira Airport from Funchal?
Madeira Airport is at Santa Cruz, roughly 13–16 km east of central Funchal — about a 20-minute drive.
Is there a bus from Madeira Airport?
Yes — the Aerobus (line 500) runs to the Funchal hotel zone, and regular SAM public buses also serve the airport. Buy Aerobus tickets on board with cash.