Madeira Airport, also known as Cristiano Ronaldo Airport, is located in the town of Santa Cruz, about 16km (east) from Funchal city centre. Madeira Airport is officially designated by IATA code as FNC and by ICAO code as LPMA.

Madeira Airport was inaugurated in 1964 to replace the old Santa Catarina Airport, which was not meeting the region's growing needs. In 2016, the airport's name was changed to Cristiano Ronaldo Airport, in honour of the famous Portuguese footballer Cristiano Ronaldo, who was born on the island of Madeira.

On average, the airport receives approximately 60 to 70 flights daily, including domestic and international flights. Madeira Airport is an important entry point to the island and receives a large number of passengers annually: before the pandemic of COVID-19, the airport registered an annual traffic of approximately 3 million passengers. Now it is exceeding those figures, Madeira is one of the most sought-after destinations in the world for holidays and tourism.

There are several transport options available for travellers wishing to reach Funchal city centre from the airport. Find out which option is best for you or your group.

Public Bus from Madeira Airport to/from the centre of Funchal

The public bus connecting to the centre of Funchal is known as the Aerobus (line 1). The Madeira Airport bus terminal is located outside the arrivals terminal, on the right as you exit the main airport building.

The journey between Madeira Airport and the centre of Funchal usually takes about 30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The ticket price for the Aerobus is approximately 5 euros per journey. The interval between buses ranges from 15 to 30 minutes.

Bus Madeira Airport - Funchal City: Aerobús, line 1

Time: 05h30 - 01h00

Duration: 30 mins (Airport - centre of Funchal)

Waiting time: 15-30 min

Price: EUR 5,00

Tickets:

• Vending machines;
• Onboard buses (it is important to have the exact amount as change may not be provided).

Tips:

• Check bus timetables;
• Opt for physical cash (you can withdraw cash at the airport, from an ATM);
• Consider the traffic;
• At peak times, keep transport alternatives in mind.

Pros:

• Cost-effective;
• Frequent and flexible connections;
• Convenience.

Cons:

• Limited space for luggage;
• Time restrictions;
• Possible allotment;
• Less privacy;
• Possibility of occasional delays.
   

Accessibility: Equipped to accommodate passengers with reduced mobility (access ramps and reserved seats).

Taxi Madeira Airport to/from central hotels in Funchal

The taxi terminal at Madeira Airport is located opposite the arrivals terminal, close to the arrivals area, which allows easy and fast taxi access.

The average journey time by taxi from Madeira Airport to central hotels in Funchal under normal conditions is around 20 to 30 minutes. The average taxi fare from Madeira Airport to central hotels in Funchal is generally between 25€ and 35€. Taxis are always available and ready to serve passengers arriving at the airport, operating continuously.

Taxi Madeira Airport - Funchal City

Opening hours: 24h

Duration: 20-30 mins (Airport - Funchal centre)

Waiting time: 0 - 5 min (depending on the queue for travellers taking taxis)

Price: EUR 25,00-35,00

Tickets: Driver, cash recommended.

Tips:

• Choose licensed and properly identified taxis;
• Opt for physical cash (you can withdraw cash at the airport, from an ATM);
• Plan your journey with possible delays in mind.
  
  Pros:
   
• Convenience and speed;
• Spacious;
• Flexible working hours;
• Comfort and privacy.
  
  Cons:

• Higher cost;
• Possibility of traffic and congestion;
• Limited availability at peak times;
• Luggage space limitations.
   

Accessibility: Sufficient space to accommodate a folding wheelchair or mobility scooter, for people with reduced mobility (it is recommended to contact the local taxi service in advance to check the availability of adapted taxis).

Madeira Airport Private Transfer to/from central hotels in Funchal

Booking a transfer from Madeira airport to Funchal city centre is a quick and easy task. Designated drivers wait for passengers at the arrivals terminal, making the departure process quick and efficient. Private transfer services offer a faster transport option compared to other alternatives. Passengers enjoy a fast and efficient journey as they are driven directly to Funchal city centre.

Private transfers are known for offering a personalised and exclusive service. They are tailored to the passengers' individual needs, ensuring a tailor-made travel experience.

Private Transfer Madeira Airport - Funchal City

Opening hours: 24h

Duration: 20 min (Airport - centre of Funchal)

Waiting time: 0

Price: EUR 25-35 (per vehicle)

Tickets: Online

Tips:

• It is recommended to book the private transfer in advance to guarantee its availability.
• Make sure you communicate to the transfer driver the precise details of your arrival and departure, thus ensuring an efficient organisation of the service.

Pros:

• Private transfers guarantee a high level of comfort for passengers, combining speed and efficiency.
• The vehicles used are modern and spacious, equipped with amenities such as air conditioning, Wi-Fi and comfortable seating.
• This transport option offers personalised and exclusive service, providing a peaceful and relaxing experience for passengers.
• The flexibility of schedules is an advantage, being suitable for both large groups and travellers with a lot of luggage.

Cons:

• It is important to consider the possibility of delays due to unforeseen traffic or other external factors when opting for a private transfer.
• It is worth mentioning that if you are travelling alone, this option may not be the most economical, as the cost of the service tends to be more advantageous for larger groups.
   

Accessibility: Although the vehicles are not initially equipped to meet the needs of people with reduced mobility, you can contact [email protected] to find a personalised and comfortable solution for you

Transfers from Madeira Airport to other destinations around Funchal:

• Transfer from/to Santa Cruz

• Transfer to/from Machico

• Transfer from/to Santana

• Transfer to/from São Vicente