How to Get to Funchal. Flights, Transportation, Airlines

Air Travel

Major Airports & Airlines

Madeira International Airport Cristiano Ronaldo (FNC), also known as Funchal Airport, is the island's sole international airport. It serves as your main gateway to Funchal.

Carriers

TAP Air Portugal: Frequent connections from Lisbon (LIS) and Porto (OPO).
Low-Cost Carriers: easyJet, Ryanair, Transavia from various European cities.
Leisure Airlines: Lufthansa, British Airways, TUI, others from European hubs.

Flight Options & Pricing

Funchal does not have direct flight connections from North America, Asia, or Australia. Travelers from these regions typically have a layover in a major European hub.

Pricing & Availability

Flight frequency grows in summer and around holidays.
Prices are highest during peak times and major festivals (e.g., Flower Festival).
Book flights several months in advance for better rates, especially for peak travel. Discover cheap flights through Dollar Flight Club or Skyscanner.

Airport Services

ATMs and currency exchange. Free Wi-Fi.

Retail & Food

Duty-free shops and various restaurants and cafes.

Ground Transport

Car rental desks in arrivals. For vehicle rentals, use DiscoverCars.com.

Airport Transfer Options

Aerobus Shuttle

Frequency: Approximately every 30-40 minutes (09:00-21:00).
Journey Time: About 30-40 minutes to Funchal city center.
Cost: €5 one-way, €8 return. Stops at various hotels.
Recommendation: Good value for solo travelers, serves many hotel zones.

Taxis & Private Transfers

Taxis: Readily available outside arrivals. Fixed rates for Funchal city center.
Taxi Cost: Generally €25-€35, plus small luggage surcharge. Confirm fare before journey.
Private Transfers: Pre-book online for direct, door-to-door service.
Benefit: Convenience, especially for late arrivals or larger groups.

Check-in & Security Tips

Arrival Time

For international flights, reach the airport 2-3 hours before scheduled departure. Allow extra time during peak season.

Baggage & Online Check-in

Be aware of airline baggage drop-off deadlines. Online check-in often saves time at the airport.

Security Screening

Prepare for standard security: remove liquids and electronics from carry-on luggage.

Land Transportation

Self-Driving on Madeira

Renting a car offers flexibility for exploring Madeira's diverse landscapes.

Requirements & Tips

Valid driving license. International Driving Permit (IDP) for non-EU/EEA/Swiss licenses.
Minimum age (typically 21-25) and 1-2 years driving experience.
Credit card in main driver's name for security deposit.

Road Conditions & Parking

Madeira's roads offer unique driving situations.

Driving Notes

Roads are generally well-maintained but can be steep, winding, and narrow.
Numerous tunnels shorten travel times between distant points.
Parking in Funchal city center can be difficult and costly; use underground car parks.

Motorcycle & Scooter Rentals

Available from niche stores in Funchal.

Considerations

Require an appropriate motorcycle license.
Suitable for experienced riders comfortable with steep, winding roads.
Check fuel policy and insurance details before renting.

Bicycle Rentals

Funchal lacks widespread public bicycle sharing programs.

Options & Safety

Several shops offer bicycle rentals, including power-assisted bikes (e-bikes).
E-bikes are famous for navigating Funchal's hills with less effort.
Wear a Helmet and reflective clothing when cycling on roads.

Driving Challenges & Advice

Driving can be challenging due to mountainous ground.
Local driving habits may differ; stay aware.
Automatic transmission cars are often preferred for steep inclines.

Drive on the right; seatbelts are required.
Legal blood alcohol limit is strict.
Weather changes quickly; prepare for fog or rain at higher altitudes.

Sea & River Arrivals

Ferry Services & Cruise Ports

Funchal's port serves as a significant entry point for travel by seaers.

Sea Connections

Porto Santo Line: Daily ferry service between Funchal and Porto Santo Island (2.5 hours).
Cruise Port: Funchal is a popular destination for cruise ships, conveniently not far from the city center.
River Transportation: Not applicable; Madeira is an ocean island without navigable rivers.

Port Procedures & Connections

Understand what to anticipate upon sea arrival and how to access land transport.

Arrival Logistics

Immigration Procedures: Standard passport control upon disembarkation for international cruise ships.
Cruise Port to City: Funchal city center is inside walking distance from the cruise port.
Land Transport: Taxis are available at the port entrance. Public bus stops are nearby.

Porto Santo Escape

Go by ferry for a day trip to Porto Santo's golden sand beach.

Cruise Ship Visits

A popular stop for international cruise lines, close to city landmarks.

Marine Life Tours

Boat trips from Funchal Marina for dolphin and whale sightings.

Departure Information

Departure Procedures

Prepare for your departure from Funchal Airport (FNC).

Checklist

No specific exit fees or taxes upon departure; typically included in airfare.
Arrive 2-3 hours before international flights; allow extra time during peak season.
Online check-in can make things quicker, confirm baggage drop-off deadlines.

Airport Facilities

Funchal Airport presents various amenities for departing travelers.

Amenities Available

Restaurants and cafes for meals or snacks.
Duty-free stores for last-minute shopping.
Airport lounges for eligible passengers.

Departure Tips

Check Flight Status

Before heading to the airport, verify your flight status and gate number.

Travel Time

Allow extra time for travel to the airport, especially during rush hour.

Documents Ready

Have your passport and boarding pass readily available for security and boarding.

Departure Wisdom

Confirm your flight status and gate number before making your way to the airport.

How to Get to Funchal