How to get to Funchal

Funchal is the picturesque capital of the Madeira archipelago, located in the Atlantic Ocean and belonging to Portugal. Despite its island location, this "floating garden" is excellently connected to the outside world and attracts travelers with its mild climate and unique nature. You can reach here primarily by air or on cruise liners, making the journey itself the beginning of an exciting adventure.

The fastest and most popular way to reach the city is by air. The main air gateway to the island is the international Madeira Airport (FNC), which receives regular flights from Lisbon, Porto, and many major European capitals.

The airport is located in close proximity to the island's capital and is known for its unique runway built on pillars over the ocean. Thanks to its high capacity and well-established infrastructure, it ensures the comfortable arrival of tourists year-round, being well connected to Funchal itself.

Since Funchal is located on an island in the open ocean, there is absolutely no railway connection with mainland Europe or the continental part of Portugal. There are also no railways on the island of Madeira itself, so trains are not used as a mode of transport either for arrival or for moving around the region.

Tourists accustomed to traveling by rail should take this geographical feature into account when planning their route. The main alternative for moving between the island's settlements are roads and bus services.

It is impossible to get to the city of Funchal by bus from other countries or continental Portugal due to the lack of a land connection with the island. Intercity bus routes exist exclusively within the island of Madeira, connecting the airport and various resort villages with the capital.

If you are already on the island, the bus network will be a reliable helper. However, for initial arrival in the region, this mode of transport is not suitable, and travelers should choose air travel or a sea route.

Arriving in Funchal in your own vehicle from the mainland is extremely difficult, as there are practically no regular car ferries for tourists from continental Portugal, and the ocean distance is significant. There are no land roads, bridges, or tunnels leading to the island.

Nevertheless, a car remains the most convenient means of transport once you arrive. Most tourists prefer to rent a car directly at the airport to comfortably explore the winding mountain roads and picturesque spots around the capital. Taxis are also available and widely used for transfers to hotels.

A trip to Funchal promises to be unforgettable if you consider a few important nuances of island life in advance. To ensure your holiday is as comfortable as possible, we have prepared a list of practical recommendations.

1. Clothing and Footwear. The weather on the island is changeable, so dress in layers. Be sure to bring comfortable flat shoes, as the city abounds with steep ascents and cobblestones.
2. Transport. The city's terrain is very hilly. To move between the lower and upper parts of the city, it is better to use the cable car or local buses to avoid tiring yourself with long uphill walks.
3. Finances. The currency is the Euro (EUR). Bank cards are accepted almost everywhere, but it is recommended to carry some cash for paying for small souvenirs or fares on older buses.
4. Health. The sun here is active even in cloudy weather, so the use of sunscreen is mandatory. Tap water is safe, but many tourists prefer bottled water due to its specific taste.
5. Language. The official language is Portuguese. However, thanks to developed tourism, staff in hotels, restaurants, and shops speak excellent English.
6. Driving Features. If you rent a car, be prepared for narrow roads, steep winding paths, and short acceleration lanes on highways.
7. Safety. The city is very calm and safe, however, one should observe standard precautions and not leave valuables unattended on beaches.

Following these simple rules will help you relax and fully immerse yourself in the atmosphere of eternal spring for which this amazing Portuguese city is so famous.