Arriving at Madeira Airport
Madeira, a Portuguese archipelago located off the coast of North Africa, is a popular tourist destination known for its rugged coastline, stunning views, and subtropical climate. Most visitors to the island arrive at the international airport in Funchal, the capital city of Madeira. In this travel blog, we will explore what to expect when arriving at the Funchal airport and why renting a car with Automatic Rental Cars is the most convenient option to travel around the island.
The Funchal airport is serviced by several airlines, including TAP Portugal, Ryanair, easyJet, and British Airways. Flights to Madeira depart from major cities across Europe, such as London, Paris, Madrid, and Frankfurt, making it an accessible destination for travellers from all over the continent.
One interesting fact about the Funchal airport is that it was once considered one of the most dangerous airports in the world due to its short runway and challenging approach. However, in recent years, the airport has undergone significant improvements, and it is now considered one of the safest airports in Europe.
Upon arrival at the Funchal airport, passengers can enjoy the beautiful mozaic murals inside the airport terminal. These stunning works of art depict the natural beauty of Madeira, including its flora, fauna, and landscapes.
Passengers can also take advantage of the duty-free shopping available at the airport. From local souvenirs to international luxury brands, the duty-free shops offer a range of products at tax-free prices. Be sure to check the allowances and restrictions for duty-free items when returning to your home country.
If you are planning to travel to Funchal city centre, the fare from the airport to Funchal is around €30-€35 (more or less a car rental daily rate) and takes approximately 20 minutes, depending on traffic. However, to truly experience all that Madeira has to offer, renting a car is highly recommended. The island’s rugged terrain and winding roads make it difficult to navigate by public transportation, and a car offers the freedom and flexibility to explore at your own pace.
When renting a car in Madeira, it is important to choose a company that offers airport drop-off and pick-up. This option saves you the hassle of arranging transportation to and from the rental car office and allows you to start exploring the island right away.
Having a car allows you to explore the island’s stunning landscapes, from the rugged cliffs of Ponta do São Lorenço to the lush greenery of the Laurissilva Forest. You can also discover charming towns and villages like Santana, known for its traditional triangular houses, and Camara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village.
In addition, having a car allows you to visit the island’s famous levadas, which are narrow irrigation channels that crisscross the island and offer stunning views of the mountains and the sea. These levadas are a popular hiking destination and offer an unforgettable experience for nature lovers.
Arriving at the Funchal airport is an exciting experience that marks the beginning of a memorable trip to Madeira. Whether you are interested in exploring the island’s natural beauty, discovering its culture and history, or simply relaxing on its beaches, renting a car is the most convenient option to travel around the island. With airport drop-off and pick-up, you can start exploring Madeira right away and make the most of your time on this stunning island.
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