How to Get Around Porto Santo

Madeira International Airport (FNC) is located about 20 km from Funchal’s city centre — roughly a 20–25 minute drive. From the terminal, there are plenty of ways to reach the city: the Aerobus shuttle runs regularly and drops you in central Funchal in around half an hour, local buses crisscross the island, taxis are plentiful, and there’s also the possibility of renting a car if you’d like the freedom to discover Madeira on your own time.

Porto Santo is a year-round destination, but the best time to visit would be either late spring (May–June) or early autumn (September–October) when the weather is warm and sunny, the sea is inviting, and the island feels relaxed without the peak-summer crowds. These months are perfect for beach days, walking trails, and exploring at an unhurried pace. July and August bring the hottest temperatures and liveliest atmosphere, with more visitors, especially from mainland Portugal and Madeira, and events like summer concerts and the annual Columbus Festival in September, which celebrates the island’s maritime history. Winter is noticeably quieter, with cooler temperatures and far fewer visitors. It’s a good time for walking, coastal views, and getting a sense of daily life on the island.

Getting around Porto Santo is pretty straightforward. The island’s small size means many visitors find walking, cycling, or short taxi rides to be the easiest ways to explore. Public transport on Porto Santo is limited but functional for certain trips, particularly if you need to reach the port or visit areas outside Vila Baleira without a car. The island has a small bus network, with its main hub near the central service station. Buses run daily to and from the ferry terminal and along a few key routes across the island. Tickets are purchased directly on the bus, as there is no dedicated transport card. Keep in mind that there are only a handful of buses that cover the island, so frequency, especially outside peak hours or on certain routes, may be low. Taxis are easy to find, with a main rank near the service station at the end of Rua João Gonçalves Zarco. Most drivers can also be called directly or booked through the Taxiin Madeira App. Ride‑sharing apps operate via licensed taxis through Bolt. For late-night trips or journeys beyond Vila Baleira, it’s advisable to book in advance, as availability can be limited. For many visitors, walking is the simplest way to get around, particularly if your accommodation is in or near Vila Baleira. Cycling is another enjoyable option, thanks to a 5 km bike path along Estrada Regional 111, stretching from Ribeiro Cochino to Praia da Calheta. Mostly flat and scenic, this route offers a relaxed way to explore the island at your own pace.

Citizens of the European Union (EU) and European Economic Area (EEA) countries do not need a visa to enter Portugal, only a valid ID. Many other countries, including the United Kingdom, United States, Canada, United Arab Emirates, Australia, and New Zealand, benefit from visa-free entry for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. Visitors from visa-exempt countries must hold a valid passport and, starting in late 2025, will need to apply for an ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) authorisation online before travelling. For those requiring a visa, such as travellers from some Middle-East, African, or Asian nations, a Schengen visa must be obtained prior to arrival. All travellers should ensure their passport is valid for at least three months beyond their intended stay.