How to Get to Madeira: Flights, Ferries & Routes

How to get to Madeira, in short

Madeira Island, Portugal, is a stunning Atlantic destination located approximately 1,000 km (621 miles) from mainland Europe and just 500 km (311 miles) from Africa. Despite its relatively small size—Madeira covering 741 km² (286 mi²) and Porto Santo spanning 42 km² (16 mi²)—this island paradise offers endless opportunities for adventure, relaxation, and cultural exploration.

If you're wondering how to get to Madeira, this comprehensive travel guide will walk you through the best ways to reach this breathtaking destination. Whether you're flying from Europe, North America, or beyond, there are multiple travel options to ensure a smooth journey to this Portuguese gem.

Flying to Madeira: routes and airport

The best and most convenient way to get to Madeira is to fly into Funchal's Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC), named after the island's famous footballer. There is a second, smaller airport on Porto Santo (PXO).

• From Lisbon or Porto: multiple direct flights daily, with a flight time of about 1 hour 45 minutes.
• From major European cities: direct flights to Funchal from hubs such as London, Paris, Frankfurt, Amsterdam and Madrid.
• From North America: there are no direct flights from the U.S. or Canada. The easiest connections are via Lisbon or Porto (TAP Air Portugal flies from several North American cities, then a short hop to Funchal), via a European hub such as London, Paris or Frankfurt, or via Ponta Delgada in the Azores.

Once you land, the airport is a short drive from Funchal, reachable by airport bus (aerobus), taxi or a pre-booked transfer. For getting around once you are on the island, see our guide on how to get around Madeira.

Is there a ferry from mainland Portugal to Madeira?

No. There is no regular passenger ferry between mainland Portugal (Lisbon, Porto or anywhere else) and Madeira. Despite how often people search for a "Lisbon to Madeira ferry", the crossing is not served by a scheduled passenger line, so flying is the way to reach the island. Occasionally Madeira is included on cruise itineraries, with ships calling at the port of Funchal, but that is a cruise stop rather than a point-to-point ferry.

The ferry from Madeira to Porto Santo

The one ferry that does matter is the inter-island crossing between Funchal and Porto Santo, operated by Porto Santo Line on the ship Lobo Marinho. The journey takes roughly 2 to 2.5 hours and there are usually one to two sailings a day, though schedules and frequency change with the season. Check current timetables and fares directly with Porto Santo Line before you plan around it.

Our Madeira vacation packages

Prefer to have flights, hotels and transfers arranged for you? These packages are built around Madeira, with options for first-timers, road trips with a car, and combinations with the rest of Portugal.

Portugal Getaways builds your trip with local experts: hand-picked hotels, the right flights and transfers, travel protection, and all-in pricing with no surprises.

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