Santa Cruz is one of Madeira's oldest and most atmospheric coastal towns. Located just minutes from the airport, it offers a relaxing atmosphere, a beautiful palm-lined promenade, and a window into the traditional Madeiran lifestyle.
Getting there and back
Which route
Where to board
The 702 sheet has Funchal and Machico columns and notes for individual variants. It does not give a separate Santa Cruz timing column. Confirm the specific town stop and journey before boarding; do not assume an airport or express trip stops in the centre.
From the stop
The permitted bus sources do not establish an exact stop-to-promenade walking route here. Confirm your town stop first, then plan the pedestrian leg to the church, beach or accommodation.
The way back
Choose the last usable return on the route page before leaving. Use its dated timetable where available, otherwise its linked SIGA sheet. Match the day, direction and stop; a departure from the terminus is not a departure from your stop.
Good to know
- Only selected journeys follow this alignment. A bus with the right number can use a different branch: check the named stop in both directions.
- The bus sources name stops, but do not establish a step-free walking route or the entrance location. Check the final approach and the return boarding point before leaving the bus.
Top attractions in Santa Cruz
Seaside Promenade
Walk along the coast, enjoy the sea breeze, and watch the planes landing at Madeira's iconic airport.
Palmeiras Beach
A well-maintained pebble beach with a public swimming pool complex and crystal-clear waters.
Sao Salvador Church
A beautiful 16th-century church with Manueline architectural details, located in the town's historic heart.
Pro Tip: Santa Cruz is famous for its 'Bolo do Caco' and fresh seafood. Head to the local market in the morning to see the freshest catch from the Atlantic.
