A pebble beach with people sunbathing and swimming, a white building with a red roof, and a rocky coastline with houses on a hillside in the background.

$20 Cheap Flights to Santa Cruz

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Popular airlines to Santa Cruz

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How much is the cheapest flight to Santa Cruz?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $20 for one-way flights and $50 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Ryanair
easyJet
TAP Portugal
Jet2
Iberia

Alternative airports near Santa Cruz

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to Santa Cruz

Flights to Santa Cruz at a glance

Traveling to Santa Cruz is a breeze; simply select from a range of full-service or budget airlines. Compare travel times to find the best fit for your budget and schedule as you plan your adventure to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports in and around Santa Cruz: Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC), Porto Santo Airport (PXO)
  • Closest airport to Santa Cruz: Cristiano Ronaldo Airport, FNC (within Santa Cruz)
  • Flights per week: 270+ flights arriving across Santa Cruz airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Santa Cruz: around 15+ carriers

Popular airports in and around Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz is a charming city ideal for outdoor enthusiasts and families seeking beach getaways. Visitors are drawn to its stunning scenery, adventurous activities, and family-friendly atmosphere. The city is conveniently served by two major airports, making travel a breeze.

  • Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC): Situated in the Madeira Region, this airport provides both domestic and international flights, linking approximately 4 domestic cities and 30 international spots. Airlines such as TAP Portugal, Ryanair, and easyJet operate here, and travelers can opt for business class service for enhanced comfort, depending on their chosen route.
  • Porto Santo Airport (PXO): Found in the Madeira Region, roughly 37 miles from Santa Cruz, this airport caters exclusively to domestic flights. Binter Canarias is the main airline servicing this airport.

Top routes to Santa Cruz

  • Lisbon (LIS) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with one-way tickets available from around $40
  • Porto (OPO) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with one-way airfare from around $30
  • Boston (BOS) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with one-way tickets available from around $260
  • Newark (EWR) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with one-way flights starting at around $210
  • New York (JFK) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with one-way flight options from around $210

Cheapest routes to Santa Cruz

  • Porto (OPO) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with low one-way fares from around $30
  • Lisbon (LIS) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with low one-way fares from around $40
  • Dublin (DUB) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $40
  • London (LGW/LHR/STN) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with budget one-way fares from around $45
  • Ponta Delgada (PDL) to Santa Cruz (FNC), with affordable one-way prices from around $55

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Santa Cruz

  • TAP Portugal: Offers flights to Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC), making up roughly 44% of arrivals in Santa Cruz. One-way fares average around $380, with a premium cabin option that may include business class depending on the route.
  • easyJet: Serves Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC) and accounts for about 17% of arrivals in Santa Cruz. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of approximately $170.
  • Ryanair: Operates flights to Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC), providing around 16% of arrivals to Santa Cruz. The typical one-way fare is approximately $90, making it an economical choice.
  • SATA International-Azores Airlines S.A.: Flies to Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC), contributing around 8% of arrivals to Santa Cruz. The average one-way fare is about $370, with premium cabin options that might include business class based on the route.
  • United: Routes to Cristiano Ronaldo Airport (FNC) account for approximately 3% of Santa Cruz arrivals. The average one-way fare is around $620, reflecting its position in the market.

Best time to fly to Santa Cruz

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Santa Cruz are March, April, and June, when peak temperatures in Santa Cruz can reach up to 68.4°F in June. If you prefer quieter travel, consider November, the least busy and relatively cheaper time to visit with fewer crowds and temperatures around 67.1°F. For better deals, September usually offers the lowest average one-way fare around $205, roughly 21% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? November and January offer average one-way fares of around $216, making them good options for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January62.6°F (17.0°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$216
February61.3°F (16.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$246
March61.7°F (16.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately High$242
April63.0°F (17.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately High$251
May65.3°F (18.5°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$233
June68.4°F (20.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyModerately High$283
July71.1°F (21.7°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$294
August73.0°F (22.8°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$287
September72.7°F (22.6°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyAverage$205
October71.2°F (21.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$227
November67.1°F (19.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$215
December64.9°F (18.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyModerately Low$421

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Santa Cruz

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Santa Cruz is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Santa Cruz hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Santa Cruz flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Santa Cruz

Santa Cruz welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Santa Cruz efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Cristiano Ronaldo Airport, Funchal, the Seaport, a seaport, is conveniently located just 0.1 miles away, making it easily accessible by foot for travelers arriving at the airport.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Santa Cruz, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Santa Cruz is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Santa Cruz on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in and around Santa Cruz

  • Canico: Canico is located in the area of Santa Cruz and is a great destination for those seeking outdoor adventures and beach activities. Visitors can enjoy a round of golf, take a scenic cable car ride, or relax at the beautiful Reis Magos Beach. Additionally, the Madeira Botanical Garden offers a lovely spot for families and couples alike, while Ponta da Oliveira provides breathtaking views that are perfect for a picturesque beach getaway.
  • Ribeiro Frio: Ribeiro Frio is located 9 miles drive away from Santa Cruz and is a charming village known for its outdoor and adventure opportunities. Nature enthusiasts can explore the stunning Pico do Ariero, which offers incredible scenery and hiking options. Families will appreciate the Ribeiro Frio Natural Park, which is perfect for outdoor fun. Don’t miss the historic town hall and nearby park, which add to the village's quaint charm.
  • Gaula: Gaula is located in the area of Santa Cruz and offers an eco-friendly experience ideal for families. This parish features activities such as golfing and scenic cable car rides. Visitors can unwind at Palmeiras Beach, which is perfect for sun-soaked relaxation. Outdoor lovers can also explore the Madeira Botanical Garden for a family-friendly outing, while Ponta da Oliveira serves as a stunning vantage point for enjoying the coastal beauty.

Tips for short-haul flights to Santa Cruz

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—when flying with budget airlines, it's usually more economical to travel with just a carry-on. Maximize your space by choosing mini toiletries, wearing your bulkiest clothing, and planning your outfits wisely. This approach also helps you dodge the wait at baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—short-haul flights often lack in-flight entertainment options. Download your favorite TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time and carry a book to keep yourself engaged. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for even short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to reach the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, considering potential traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—pack some snacks and a refillable water bottle to stay nourished and hydrated, while also saving money at the airport.

Tips for long-haul flights to Santa Cruz

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, picking your seat is essential for comfort. Full-service airlines often allow free seat selection once online check-in begins, typically 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may even offer earlier seat selection.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—aim to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before your departure for international flights to accommodate check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to browse the shops, find a coffee shop, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is generally free and available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin to sync your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination’s time zone. Try to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time of your arrival to help minimize jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Santa Cruz?
The cheapest month to fly to Santa Cruz is October when demand is low. Off-peak months are typically when you'll find cheap fares. To save money, avoid flying during public holidays and school breaks.
Which US cities fly direct to Santa Cruz?
The only city in the US where you can fly to Santa Cruz without a layover is New York. Browse all the available departure times and dates to Santa Cruz by selecting "Direct flights only" when you start your search.
How to find a cheap flight to Santa Cruz?
Book your trip early to increase your chances of finding cheap flights to Santa Cruz. Also, consider visiting during off-season months like January and May. If you leave on a Thursday, you can save an average of 16% compared to departing on a Sunday.* Save time searching every day and track your flight prices using the Expedia app. We'll notify you when fares drop.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Santa Cruz?
Being flexible about your travel plans can help you to secure last-minute offers on cheap flights to Santa Cruz. To see all the available options, consider looking at different ticket types, changing your Santa Cruz trip dates, jetting out of an alternative airport or going with another carrier.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Santa Cruz?
To snap up some of the biggest savings on domestic journeys, book your flight to Santa Cruz 28 days ahead of your travel dates. For international flights, search for your ticket two to four months in advance. This gives you a better chance of securing the departure dates and times you want.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Santa Cruz?
You can save an average of 8% if you purchase tickets on a Sunday rather than Fridays, which tend to be the priciest day to book.* When it comes to scoring a cheap flight to Santa Cruz, the key is good timing.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Can I save money by booking a Santa Cruz trip package?
It's possible to save hundreds of dollars if you secure a Santa Cruz flight and hotel package deal on Expedia. And you'll make life easier by having all your travel plans in one place. Try bundling your flight and hotel with add-ons like activities and car rentals for your own personalized Santa Cruz escape.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Santa Cruz?
You can typically cancel or change your flight to Santa Cruz within 24 hours of booking. However, keep in mind that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may be issued a credit toward future flights instead of a direct refund. Remember to check the airline's terms and conditions in your itinerary for specific details. Use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters during your search to find cheap flights to Santa Cruz with flexible change policies. For additional information, browse our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Santa Cruz

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Santa Cruz on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

October is the cheapest month to fly to Santa Cruz. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Santa Cruz. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Santa Cruz, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Santa Cruz

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Santa Cruz in 2026 starts from from $50, while one-way tickets start from from $20. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Santa Cruz. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Santa Cruz

Ryanair, easyJet, TAP Portugal, Jet2, Iberia are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Santa Cruz. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Santa Cruz and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Santa Cruz, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Santa Cruz. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Santa Cruz plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Santa Cruz

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Santa Cruz.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Santa Cruz are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Santa Cruz. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Santa Cruz for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Santa Cruz. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Santa Cruz flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Santa Cruz. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Santa Cruz

Travel information

Destination airport
Cristiano Ronaldo
Destination airport IATA code
FNC
Destination city name
Funchal
Roundtrip price
$61

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