SIGA: Madeira’s Unified Bus Network
For decades, navigating Madeira required a collection of different tickets and a deep knowledge of four separate bus companies. That era ended with SIGA, a unified network that consolidated the island’s transport under one brand. As we enter 2026, the final stages of this transition are rolling out. Here are the 20
20 Answers on Travelling Madeira by Bus with SIGA
What Is The SIGA Network?
SIGA is the integrated transport system for Madeira and Porto Santo. It exists since 2024 and replaced the independent operations of SAM, Rodoeste, and Caniço buses. While the companies still exist as operators, they all function under the SIGA name with a common ticket system.
Can I Use The Same Ticket For Every Bus On The Island?
Yes. Whether you are boarding a yellow bus in Funchal or a white SIGA bus in Porto Moniz, the ticketing system is now unified. You no longer need to worry about which company owns the route.
How Much Does A Single Trip Cost In 2026?
If you pay cash on the bus, a municipal trip costs €2.00 and an inter-municipal trip costs €2.60. Using a pre-paid GIRO card is cheaper, with municipal trips costing approximately €1.45 and intermunicipal €1.95.
What is a GIRO Card?
There are two kinds of prepaid GIRO bus titles:
Prepaid GIRO tickets - load trips onto a card and use them whenever you need. These work across the entire SIGA network and are perfect if you travel occasionally. Costs: €0.5 card fee + discounted prices for tickets.
Monthly / long-term GIRO passes - personalised cards (with your photo) for unlimited travel during the month, so-called passes. Ideal if you ride regularly. Costs: €5.00 card fee + price for the pass, valid for 5 years.
Both options are valid on all buses in the SIGA network, including CAM, Horários do Funchal, and SIGA Rodoeste
Where Can I Buy Or Recharge A GIRO Card?
You can purchase cards at main hubs like the Anadia Shopping ticket shop, the booths along Avenida do Mar, or at "Payshop" locations (Pontos de Venda). The paper card costs €0.50, while the plastic pass that allows you to have a monthly pass card costs €5.00 (one time fee).
Can I Still Use My Old Bus Tickets?
Yes, the old GIRO bus cards are soon coming to an end - you can use any remaining trips until February 28, 2026. After that, unused credit will not transfer and will not be refunded. They are being replaced by the new SIGA ticketing system, which works across all buses in Madeira.
Is The Yello Funchal City Service Fully Integrated?
Yes. The yellow buses of Horários do Funchal are now part of the SIGA ecosystem. They use the same GIRO validators and follow the same regional fare rules.
Can I Pay With A Contactless Bank Card?
While new validators are said be more common in the future, the system primarily relies on the GIRO card or cash. You should always bring cash or your GIRO card. If you pay cash, bring the right amount in case the driver can not give you change, which can happen.
What Are The 2026 Prices For The 30-Day Pass?
The pricing is now simplified. A "Municipal" pass costs €40.00 per month for travel within one town. An "Inter-municipal" pass costs €50.00 and allows you to travel anywhere on the island.
Do Residents Get Additional Discounts?
Yes. Residents over 65 and students up to age 23 can travel for free with the Social Pass, provided they have registered with the transport authority and paid the €5.00 card fee. Residents get a discount:
Municipal pass: €30.00
Intermunicipal pass: €40.00
How Much Does A Ticket For A Child Cost?
Children between ages 6 and 12 pay a reduced rate. An on-board municipal ticket is €1.00, while a pre-paid GIRO trip for a child is only €0.75.
Is There A Bus Pass For Tourists?
Visitors can buy a 24-hour "Giro 24" ticket for €12.50. This covers all SIGA lines. There are also 3-day and 7-day options available at the Funchal ticket offices.
Are The Buses Wheelchair Accessible?
The regional government has replaced a large portion of the fleet. Most buses now have low floors and ramps. However, some older vehicles on narrow mountain roads may still lack these features.
Can I Take A Pet On The Bus?
Pets are allowed on SIGA transport if they are healthy and stay in secure, clean carriers inside the passenger cabin. Animals cannot sit on seats, and dangerous breeds like Pit Bulls are strictly prohibited. Transport companies have the right to refuse animals during busy times to ensure the safety and comfort of all passengers using the service.
How Do I Get From The Airport To Funchal In 2026?
The Aerobus remains the most convenient link. It follows a specific route through the hotel district and costs €6.50 for a one-way trip. Unlike regular buses, this fare is often paid directly to the driver in cash. The Aerobus stops at several points in Funchal, including main hotels and central locations, and runs roughly 60 minutes. Unfortunately, the Aerobus does not run late at night.
Do Regular SIGA Buses Stop At The Airport?
Yes, lines 113 and 103 pass the airport. These are cheaper than the Aerobus but have very limited space for luggage and make many more stops. If you go to the Airport, consider the Aerobus instead or take a Bolt / Uber.
Where Is The Main Bus Station In Funchal?
There is no single central building. Instead, stops are grouped by destination. Most buses start in central Funchal, while those for the east and city center congregate along Avenida do Mar.
How Do I Signal The Bus To Stop?
You must be proactive. If you are the only person at the bus stop, make sure you wave your hand clearly as the bus approaches, else the driver might just continue its travel. Once inside, press the "Stop" button well before your destination.
Is There A Reliable Mobile App For Schedules?
The official SIGA website now offers digital timetables, but a real-time tracking app is still not available. Most travelers rely on third party apps like Moovit or Rome2Rio, which are not ideal but are a must to travel conveniently.
You Have More Questions on SIGA?
Make sure to check out the offical FAQ provided by SIGA and check the Guide for Public Transport in Madeira. Any pressing quetions that have not been answered? Leave a comment and we’ll figure it out together.
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