Car Rental in Madeira, Portugal: Top Tips and Rental Suggestions

Madeira in Portugal is a beautiful island in the Atlantic Ocean. Known for its stunning landscapes, lush greenery and breathtaking cliffs, Madeira has mild weather and is ideal for outdoor activities, like hiking and swimming.

Car hire in Madeira is the best option to explore this wonderful island at your own pace and discover off-the-beaten-path beauties. Read here everything you need to know about car rental in Madeira and the best tips for driving around Madeira.

If you are wondering if it is easy to drive in Madeira, Portugal, keep in mind that the island has unique road conditions and diverse landscape. The winding roads and the sharp turns require careful driving, but the panoramic views are rewarding. However, the driving safety in Madeira is adequate, if you are cautious.

Road Conditions

Madeira's road conditions are generally good, as the roads are well-maintained, especially the main highways and routes. However, some rural and mountainous areas have narrow and steep roads. Plus, in high altitude, a common phenomenon is fog and heavy rain. 

Driving Regulations and tips

Madeira follows Portuguese driving laws, meaning that exist the same standards like in all continent European countries:

• Drivers drive to the right side of the road.
• The use of seat belts is mandatory for all passengers, and children under 12 years old must use appropriate child seats.
• Speed limits are 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads and 120 km/h on highways.
• Driving after having drunk alcohol is strictly prohibited.

Safety Considerations

When driving in Madeira, it's crucial to take into account the following safety tips:

• Use headlights during the day in tunnels and on shaded roads to improve visibility.
• Drive at a cautious speed.
• Be prepared for sudden changes in weather conditions.
• Don’t drive at night if you are not familiar with fog, steep roads and sharp turns.

Funchal, the capital of Madeira, offers various transportation options according to your needs and preferences. Let’s see the best transportation options in Funchal to choose what suits you best.

Public Transportation

Funchal has a reliable public transportation system, with buses that connect the various parts of the city. However, keep in mind that during the high season buses are overcrowded and thus not very convenient.

Walking and Biking

Funchal has not long distances and thus walking and biking are excellent ways to explore the city. Many of the city's attractions are within walking distance of each other, and there are also pedestrian streets and promenades by the sea. For biking lovers, there are bike lanes all over the city, but keep in mind that biking can be challenging due to uphill roads.

Benefits of Having a Rental Car

Car rental in Funchal is the perfect way to explore areas outside the city. By car, you can enjoy the astonishing landscape of Madeira at your own pace, have access to remote villages and beaches and take the most out of what this amazing island has to offer.

Especially for families, it is advisable to rent a car in Funchal, as it is the most time-efficient way to discover the island.

Traveling to Madeira by car ferry is a popular option for those wanting to explore the island by car. Car ferries services in Madeira offer a convenient way to reach the island and enjoy the sea breeze and the gulls following the boat.

Availability of Car Ferries

The main ferry service departs from the port of Portimão in the Algarve region, but there is limited availability due to high demand. We recommend you booking the ferry early. 

Routes and Schedules

The primary route for car ferries to Madeira runs from Portimão to Funchal and the journey lasts about 24 hours. Schedules vary depending on the season, with more frequent trips during the summer months.

Costs and Booking Information

The cost of ferry travel to Madeira depends on the size of the vehicle, the number of passengers, and the type of accommodation. Prices can range from around €200 to €600 or more. Reservations can be made online through the ferry operator’s website or travel agencies.

Car ferry services are ideal for natives that have their own car. However, for travelers it is more affordable to rent a car in Madeira and avoid the cost to take the car by boat to the island.

Are you wondering if you need to hire a car in Madeira, Portugal? Let’s see the pros and cons of car hire in Madeira to decide what is best for you and your family.

Advantages of renting a car in Madeira

Renting a car in Madeira offers significant advantages for visitors. A car gives you the freedom to travel flexibly, visit remote areas and explore off-the-beaten-track attractions that are not accessible by public transportation.

Another advantage of having a car is that it makes it easier to carry luggage, equipment and supplies, which are essential for those planning outdoor activities, like hiking or surfing.

Situations where a car may not be necessary

However, there are situations where renting a car may not be necessary. If you stay only in Funchal and you don’t want to drive outside the city, public transportation, walking and biking are convenient ways to get around. Thus, you will avoid the challenge to find a parking spot in the capital. 

In Madeira, there are many popular car rental locations, such as Funchal, Calheta and Machico. In regard to where to rent a car in Funchal, you can rent a car at Funchal airport or at the city center.

But how to find the best car rentals in Madeira? There are some useful tips that help you with that:

• Compare prices and deals & check online.
• Consider the rental location that is convenient for your itinerary.
• Choose the best rental agreement with many coverage options in insurance.
• Read the terms and conditions to avoid hidden fees.
• Assess the vehicle options to find what is the most convenient and safest for you.
• Check if the rental agency offers 24/7 customer support and roadside assistance​.

Abbycar is one of the most reliable and affordable car rental companies in Madeira, as it offers discounts all-year-long, 24/7 customer service and road assistance as well as a large fleet of modern cars at the lowest prices.

Can You Drive Around Madeira in a Day?

Driving around the island of Madeira can be done in a single day, although it depends on how many stops you plan to make. The total circumference of the island is about 150 kilometers, so without stopping, you only need 2-3 hours.

Driving Distances and Times

Madeira driving distances are not very long, but the roads are narrow and steep, so the speed is necessarily low. There are some recommended driving routes you should definitely do, if you want to see the best of Madeira.

The key distances and times between them are:

• Funchal to Porto Moniz: 50 km, about 1.5 hours.
• Funchal to Santana: 40 km, about 1 hour.
• Porto Moniz to Santana: 60 km, about 1.5 hours.
• Funchal to Ponta do Sol: 25 km, about 40 minutes.
• Funchal to Machico: 25 km, about 30 minutes.

Tips for a One-Day Drive Around Madeira

If you want to drive around Madeira in only one day, you should consider the following:

• Start early: Begin your journey early in the morning to make the most of the daylight.
• Organize your stops: Plan ahead which attractions you want to visit and how much time to spend at each.
• Charge your phone: A navigation app is completely necessary.
• Drive carefully: Madeira’s roads are narrow and winding. Take your time, especially on the mountainous roads.
• Check the weather: Fog and rain are emerging fast and often in mountainous roads.
• Fuel up: Ensure your car is fully fueled before starting your trip, as gas stations are rare in rural areas.

Madeira is located 960 kilometers southwest of Lisbon, Portugal. From Lisbon, you can go to Madeira by airplane or ferry.

By flight, you need 1-2 hours, and there are many frequent flights from various airlines. On the other hand, by ferry you need about 24 hours, but you can take your car with you. However, for foreign travelers is much more convenient to go to Madeira by airplane and rent a car there.

The most important tips for getting to Madeira are:

• Book early, as in the high season is difficult to find tickets.
• Check for deals online.
• If you’re flying, consider traveling with carry-on luggage to avoid the long queues at the airport.

Rent a car in Madeira with Abbycar and explore this beautiful Atlantic island flexibly and on a budget!