Save money and travel like a local with the Aerobus
Taking the bus from Madeira Airport to Funchal is straightforward. Here's exactly what to do:
Exit the airport arrivals hall and follow the "Bus" signs to the exit level. The Aerobus (Route AE) departs from Stop 01, clearly marked outside the terminal.
You can purchase tickets directly from the driver for €6. Both cash and card payments are accepted. No need to buy tickets in advance.
Look for the blue bus with "AE - Aerobus" displayed. Store your luggage in the designated area under the bus or overhead compartments. Large suitcases are welcome.
Most Funchal hotels are near Stop 10 (Avenida do Infante) in the city center or Stop 26 (Praia Formosa) in the hotel district. Ask the driver if unsure!
The Aerobus operates daily from early morning to late evening. New schedules are in effect:
📱 Get the latest schedule: Download our free Madeira Bus app for offline access to all Aerobus departure times, or check the official SIGA website.
If you're boarding at an intermediate stop (not the airport), add 10-20 minutes to the base departure time shown in schedules. For example, if the schedule shows 10:00 AM from the airport, expect the bus at Avenida do Infante around 10:15-10:20 AM.
The Aerobus (Route AE) connects Madeira Airport with Funchal's main hotel and tourist areas through 24 convenient stops.
Not sure which stop? Most Funchal accommodations are within walking distance of Stop 10 (city center). The driver can also help you identify the best stop for your hotel.
Wondering which option is best for you? Here's a quick comparison:
| Transport | Price | Duration | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| 🚌 Aerobus | €6 | 40-50 min | Budget travelers, solo travelers, eco-conscious visitors |
| 🚕 Taxi | €25-35 | 20-25 min | Groups (3-4 people), families with young children, late arrivals |
| 🚗 Rental Car | €15-30/day | 20 min | Multi-day stays, planning to explore the island extensively |
For most tourists staying in Funchal, the Aerobus is the best value. It's reliable, comfortable, and saves you €20+ compared to a taxi. The extra 20-30 minutes of travel time is minimal, and you'll get to see the scenery along the coast!
Once you've arrived in Funchal, use the local bus network to explore the island's top attractions:
The Aerobus costs €6 for a one-way ticket from Madeira Airport to Funchal. You can pay cash or card directly to the driver when boarding.
The journey takes approximately 40-50 minutes depending on your destination stop in Funchal. Allow 10-20 minutes extra if you're boarding at an intermediate stop rather than the airport.
The Aerobus departs from Stop 01 at the airport exit level. When you exit the arrivals hall, follow the "Bus" signs. The stop is clearly marked and easy to find.
Yes! Large suitcases and luggage are allowed and expected. There is dedicated luggage space under the bus and in overhead compartments. This is an airport shuttle bus designed for travelers.
Most Funchal city center hotels are located near Stop 10 (Avenida do Infante). Hotels in the tourist/hotel zone are typically near Stop 26 (Praia Formosa). If you're unsure, ask the driver - they're used to helping tourists!
No, the Aerobus operates from early morning to late evening (approximately 6:00 AM to 11:00 PM, though times vary). If you have a very late flight arrival, you may need to take a taxi. Check the official schedule for exact operating hours.
No, tickets are one-way only. You'll need to purchase a separate ticket for your return journey to the airport.
Download the Madeira Bus app for offline access to all Aerobus schedules, route maps, and real-time updates.