Local transport

Created by Marie Convert, Modified on Tue, 18 Feb, 2025 at 12:56 PM by Mirthe van den Beuken

Bus 
Madeira is a beautiful island that offers many public transportation options. Getting around by bus is a great way to discover the island at a lower cost. 

Several bus companies serve Madeira: 
- Horários do Funchal: This company manages the urban buses of Funchal and the connections between Funchal and the surrounding areas. You can consult the schedules and routes on their website: http://www.horariosdofunchal.pt/mobile/horarios.php?lang=pt 
- SAM: This company mainly serves the east of the island, including the towns of Santa Cruz and Caniço. 
- Rodoeste: This company covers the west of the island, with destinations such as Porto Moniz and São Vicente. 
- EACL: This company provides the connection between Caniço and Funchal. 

Here is some useful information about buses in Madeira: 
- Tickets: You can buy your tickets directly from the bus driver. Fares vary depending on the distance traveled. There are also transport cards that can be more economical if you plan to use the bus frequently. 
- Schedules: Bus schedules may vary depending on the company and the line. It is advisable to check the schedules before you travel. You can find the schedules on the companies' websites or in tourist offices. 
- Routes: Buses serve the main towns and attractions of Madeira. However, some more remote areas may not be served by buses. In this case, you may consider renting a car or taking a taxi. 

Tips: 
Buses can be crowded during peak hours, especially in Funchal. If you have difficulty finding your way, do not hesitate to ask locals for help, who are generally very helpful. Enjoy the bus ride to admire the landscapes of Madeira! 

 

Taxi 

You can request a taxi from the front desk of your accommodation or restaurant. You may also wait for a taxi at the taxi rank. 

Before you get in the taxi, you must inform the driver of your direction. Ask the taxi driver to activate the Taximeter, and when you reach your destination, you pay the amount of the ride which is indicated on the screen. Additionally, you and the taxi driver can agree on an amount to pay before getting in the taxi. You can pay with cash. If you need a receipt, remember to ask the driver if it is possible to get it, before the ride starts. 

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