Updated 2026
GIRO Card Madeira: Complete Guide
Everything you need to know about bus fares, passes, and saving money on public transport
The GIRO card is Madeira's reloadable smart card for paying bus fares on the SIGA network. It costs just €0,50 for a paper card and saves you up to 30% compared to paying cash on the bus. For tourists spending more than a day or two using buses, it is an essential purchase.
What Is the GIRO Card?
GIRO is SIGA's contactless fare card. The unified SIGA network launched in July 2024, and multi-operator GIRO products have expanded in phases since then. Check the official conditions for your specific ticket or pass before travel, because validity can vary by product.
Where to Buy a GIRO Card
GIRO cards are widely available across Funchal:
- SIGA ticket offices — main office on Avenida do Mar near the cable car station
- Newsagents (tabacarias) — look for the GIRO logo in the window
- Kiosks throughout Funchal center and shopping centers
A basic paper GIRO card costs €0,50. For longer stays, a reusable plastic GIRO pass costs €5,00 and is valid for 5 years.
Current Bus Fares (2026)
| Ticket Type | GIRO Card | Cash (on bus) | You Save |
|---|---|---|---|
| Urban (within Funchal) | €1,45 | €2,05 | 29% |
| Inter-municipal | €2,00 | €2,65 | 25% |
| Child urban (6-12) | €0,75 | €1,00 | 25% |
| Aerobus (airport) | €5,55 | €6,70 | 17% |
Tourist Day Passes
If you plan to take 4 or more bus rides in a day, a day ticket offers better value than individual fares. The prices below are the 2026 municipal day tickets (valid within one municipality, such as Funchal); inter-municipal versions cost more. Load them onto your GIRO card at any ticket office:
For island-wide travel, the Bilhete Regional Turístico (€13,75 for 24 hours) covers all SIGA lines across every operator, with 2- to 7-day versions also available — useful if you're planning an island-wide tour.
How to Use the GIRO Card
Simply tap the card on the reader when boarding the bus. The correct fare is automatically deducted based on the route type (urban or inter-municipal). Make sure you have enough credit loaded before your journey — the driver cannot add credit.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I share a GIRO card with my travel partner?
Yes, a basic paper GIRO card is not personalized and can be shared. However, you must tap once per passenger — tell the driver how many people are traveling.
What happens if I don't have a GIRO card?
You can pay cash directly to the driver when boarding. However, you will pay the higher cash fare (€2,05 urban instead of €1,45, or €2,65 inter-municipal instead of €2,00).
Do children need a GIRO card?
Children under 6 travel free. Children aged 6-12 pay a reduced fare (€0,75 with GIRO, €1,00 cash). Children over 12 pay the adult fare.
Can I get a refund on unused credit?
Unused credit on paper GIRO cards is non-refundable. For the reusable plastic card, refunds may be available at SIGA ticket offices. Load only what you expect to use.