Discover the Best Ways to Travel to Madeira Island, Portugal
Madeira is located approximately 1,000km (621 mi) from mainland Europe and just 500km (311 mi) from the continent of Africa. Although the islands are fairly small (Madeira with an area of 286 mi² and Porto Santo with an area of 16mi²), there is no shortage of things to do. This comprehensive guide will navigate you through various travel options to reach this Portuguese paradise.
By Air: Direct Flights to Madeira
The best and most convenient way to go get to Madeira is by flying to one of the region’s two airports located on either Madeira Island or Porto Santo Island. There are regular flights departing from mainland Portugal via Lisbon and Porto, and travelers coming from the East Coast of North America can also connect via Ponta Delgada in the Azores. As you arrive at Cristiano Ronaldo Airport in Funchal, named for the island’s international soccer superstar, be sure to stop by the building entrance for a photo op with Ronaldo’s world-famous bust.
Flights from Mainland Portugal:
- Frequent flights from Lisbon and Porto ensure seamless connectivity to Madeira. These cities act as major hubs, offering numerous daily flights to both islands.
- The short flight duration from mainland Portugal makes it a convenient option for both local and international travelers transiting through these major cities.
Connecting Flights from North America:
- For travelers from the East Coast of North America, an intriguing route involves a connection via Ponta Delgada in the Azores. This connection not only breaks the journey but also offers a glimpse into another stunning part of Portugal's archipelagos.
- These connecting flights add an extra layer of adventure to the trip, allowing travelers to experience different facets of Portuguese island life.
By Sea: Ferry & Cruise Boats
Regrettably, regular ferry or boat services to Madeira are not available unless you are part of a specific cruise itinerary. However, if you wish to explore Porto Santo, the neighboring island in the Madeira archipelago, you have the option of traveling there by ferry boat.
The ferry service to Porto Santo Island is provided by Porto Santo Line, which has been operating this popular crossing since the mid-nineties. This service connects the Portuguese islands of Madeira and Porto Santo in the North Atlantic Ocean. The journey covers a distance of about sixty kilometers and takes approximately two and a half hours. Porto Santo Line offers around two daily sailings and up to ten weekly sailings to Porto Santo Island, though the ferry schedules can vary depending on the season.
If you have fallen in love with Madeira, take a look at our hassle-free packages that allow you to plan your dream trip to this beautiful destination. Our team of local experts has thoughtfully designed all our packages, ensuring that you don't have to worry about any arrangements. Simply sit back, unwind, and make the most of your vacation!
