13. Planning Bus Trips and Finding Schedules

Using Apps for Bus Schedules

When it comes to finding bus connections and schedules in Funchal and its immediate surroundings, Google Maps can be quite helpful. It provides routes, departure times, and shows bus stops, making it easier to know exactly where to catch your bus.

However, Google Maps doesn't display bus routes beyond Funchal and the nearby areas, so for exploring the rest of the island, you'll need to use other resources. This is where the app Rome2Rio becomes invaluable. We've found Rome2Rio to be a reliable companion for navigating bus routes across Madeira, especially in regions where other apps fall short. It not only helps you find the best routes but also shows bus stops, so you're never unsure about where your bus departs from.

We highly recommend using these apps because they make planning your trips simpler and more efficient, ensuring you won't miss your bus due to confusion about departure points.

Checking Bus Timetables Online

We recommend double-checking schedules on the official SIGA website or at bus stops, as timetables may change. For those who prefer to dive directly into the schedules, you can use the official website:
🔗 siga.madeira.gov.pt/horarios

Here's how to navigate it:

1. Municipality: Select the area where your bus journey begins.

2. Type: Choose between:

   • Urbano: Urban buses serving Funchal city

   • Interurbano: Intercity buses covering areas outside Funchal

3. Route: Enter either the bus number or your destination if you know where the bus terminates.

Keep in mind that on Madeira, these timetables usually only show the departure times from the first stop. This means you'll need to estimate when the bus will arrive at your chosen stop. Factors like traffic and the driver's pace can affect the timing, so it's a bit of a guessing game.

That's why using apps like Google Maps or Rome2Rio can be incredibly helpful—they provide more precise estimates for intermediate stops.

💡 Pro Tip: Always aim to be at your bus stop at least 5–10 minutes before the scheduled departure time indicated by the app. Buses can sometimes run late by 10–15 minutes, so a little patience goes a long way.

Understanding the Timetables

The timetables on the SIGA website are typically divided into:

• Working days (Dias Úteis)

• Every day (Todos os Dias)

• Saturdays (Sábados)

• Sundays and Holidays (Domingos e Feriados)
  

Departure and Arrival Points

Each table shows both outbound journeys (from the starting point) and return journeys (back to the starting point).

• Outbound times are listed from the first stop on the route (e.g., Funchal or Machico).

• Return journey times are also listed from the first stop of the return route (e.g., Lombo Chão or Funchal).

Bus Fare Guide

1. Aerobus – Airport Shuttle

The Aerobus provides a convenient connection between Madeira Airport and central Funchal, with stops at several key points along the way. The bus stop is located right in front of the exit from the arrivals area of the airport, making it easy to find.
It operates as a one-way service only, with no round-trip option.

Ticket Prices:

• Adults: €6 (one-way)

• Children: €3 (one-way)

Important: Tickets can only be purchased with cash, so make sure to have some on hand before boarding.

🔗 Official Aerobus info

2. Funchal City Buses

A. Tickets Purchased from the Driver

• One-Way Ticket: €1.95

• Valid for a single trip within Funchal city limits

• Payment: Cash only — have small change if possible

B. Prepaid Cards (Currently Limited Availability)
Due to system updates, new prepaid cards are unavailable for tourists. Only those who already have valid cards can reload them at select kiosks.
Tourists must currently buy single tickets from the driver.

💡 Final Tip: Don’t hesitate to ask the driver for help — they’re used to assisting travellers.

3. Inter-municipal Buses (Across Madeira)

Inter-municipal buses connect Funchal with other towns and villages across the island.

Ticket Price: €2.60 per journey

• One-Way Only: No transfers; buy a new ticket for each segment.

Bus Stops Are on Demand

A unique aspect of Madeira’s bus system is that all bus stops are "on-demand."

• Boarding: Signal the driver as the bus approaches, or it may not stop.

• Alighting: Press the "stop" button inside the bus to get off at your stop.

By planning ahead and utilizing these resources, you'll find that getting around Madeira by bus is not only doable but can also add a charming layer to your travel experience. Embrace the journey, and you'll see parts of the island that you might have missed whizzing by in a car.