{"id":63096,"date":"2026-08-16T23:18:46","date_gmt":"2026-08-16T20:18:46","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/hire-car-on-madeira\/"},"modified":"2026-08-16T23:18:48","modified_gmt":"2026-08-16T20:18:48","slug":"hire-car-on-madeira","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/hire-car-on-madeira\/","title":{"rendered":"Madeira by car &#8211; car rental and driving nuances you need to know"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\" id=\"h-\"><strong>Madeira<\/strong> is one of those islands where having a car not only makes your journey more comfortable, but opens up a completely different level of experience. Thanks to having a car, we were able to see most places where public transport either doesn\u2019t go or runs so rarely that you can lose half a day just waiting for a bus.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are planning a <strong>trip to Madeira<\/strong> and have a driver&#8217;s license, my advice is simple \u2014 <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/discovercars.tpo.lv\/K83b4Oex\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">rent a car<\/a><\/strong>. Yes, driving here has its own peculiarities, but after a day or two you get used to the local roads and start to really enjoy the trips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here\u2019s what you should know before getting behind the wheel on this incredible island.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recommended reading: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/madeira-for-7-days\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Madeira \u2013 7-day itinerary<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-do-you-need-a-car-in-madeira\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Do you need a car in Madeira?<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_E7476-1024x576.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_E7476-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Car rental in Madeira\" class=\"wp-image-45763\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_E7476-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_E7476-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_E7476-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_E7476.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you only plan to walk around Funchal and relax by your hotel pool, or explore Madeira <a href=\"https:\/\/getyourguide.tpo.lv\/efTqF9hg\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">on group tours<\/a>, you will probably not need a car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But if you want to see the real Madeira \u2014 Ponta de S\u00e3o Louren\u00e7o, the natural pools of Porto Moniz, Veu da Noiva waterfall, dozens of viewpoints, lava coastlines, mountain roads and popular hiking trailheads \u2014 it will be difficult without a car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">There are buses on the island, but some routes require several transfers. A car lets you build your itinerary to suit you, rather than adapting to the transport schedule.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-documents-are-needed-to-rent-a-car-in-madeira\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What documents are needed to rent a car in Madeira<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To rent a car in Madeira, you\u2019ll need the standard documents:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>international passport;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>plastic driver\u2019s license;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>credit card in the main driver\u2019s name;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>usually at least one or two years\u2019 driving experience.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I never once needed an international driving permit. New model Ukrainian plastic licenses were readily accepted by all rental companies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-where-to-look-for-a-car\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Where to look for a car<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I have been searching for cars for many years through <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/discovercars.tpo.lv\/K83b4Oex\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DiscoverCars<\/a><\/strong>. It\u2019s convenient, as you can quickly compare prices, rental conditions, deposit amount, and reviews of rental companies.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Madeira, it&#8217;s most convenient to pick up your car right at the airport. When booking, just enter your flight number and arrival time \u2014 if the plane is delayed, the rental company will know.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Keep in mind<\/strong> that most rental companies without an airport office include a charge for car delivery to the airport. This costs 15 euros (almost the same as the bus from the airport to Funchal), so there\u2019s no point in taking the bus to town first.<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-which-car-is-best-to-rent-in-madeira\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Which car is best to rent in Madeira<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Many tourists try to save as much as possible and choose the smallest and cheapest car. In Madeira, I wouldn\u2019t do this.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The island is very mountainous. There are constant steep climbs, long descents and switchbacks. A weak engine quickly makes itself known.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7394-1024x768.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7394-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Car rental in Madeira\" class=\"wp-image-45770\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7394-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7394-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7394-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7394.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We rented a <strong>Smart ForFour<\/strong> with an automatic transmission and a 0.9-liter turbo engine. Despite the small volume, the car handled even very steep climbs perfectly. It gripped the road confidently, and the automatic transmission made trips much more comfortable. Especially on steep hills.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If I were to choose a car again now, I would still recommend:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>car no lower than <strong>class B<\/strong> (or if two people \u2014 <strong>class A<\/strong> with a turbo engine);<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>engine with enough power;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>automatic transmission.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>In Madeira, an automatic is not a luxury<\/strong> but a real help for the driver. Constantly working a manual gearbox on steep slopes is quite tiring.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-how-much-does-it-cost-to-rent-a-car-in-madeira\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>How much does it cost to rent a car in Madeira<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">We were on the island in winter. For seven days we paid:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>320 euros<\/strong> for the car rental with full insurance;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>about <strong>65 euros<\/strong> for fuel, having driven about 500 kilometers.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In high season, prices can be higher, so it\u2019s better to book your car a few months before your trip.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-why-i-recommend-full-insurance\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Why I recommend full insurance<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It was in Madeira that I first took out full insurance coverage without hesitation. The reason is simple \u2014 without it, the deposit can be <strong>1,100\u20131,500 euros<\/strong>. Personally, I didn\u2019t want such an amount to be blocked on my card during the vacation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In addition, local roads are quite challenging:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>narrow streets;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>steep switchbacks;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>tight parking lots;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>high curbs.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Full insurance lets you enjoy your trip much more calmly, without worrying about every scratch.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-what-are-the-roads-like-in-madeira\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>What are the roads like in Madeira<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ascata-1024x576.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ascata-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"roads in Madeira\" class=\"wp-image-46010\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ascata-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ascata-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ascata-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ascata-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/ascata.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">What surprised me most was the quality of the roads. Almost the entire island is connected by a modern ring highway with numerous tunnels, bridges and overpasses. <strong>All roads are free<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">But even on the new highways, you need to pay attention.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Madeira you\u2019ll encounter:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>very steep climbs;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>sharp turns;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>narrow local roads;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>wavy terrain.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Some streets in towns are so steep it feels as if the car is driving almost vertically.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-peculiarities-of-local-driving\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Peculiarities of local driving<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/road-7352142_1280-1024x682.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"682\" src=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/road-7352142_1280-1024x682.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-45969\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/road-7352142_1280-1024x682.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/road-7352142_1280-300x200.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/road-7352142_1280-768x512.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/road-7352142_1280-700x465.jpg 700w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/road-7352142_1280.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Locals drive very confidently, but not aggressively. They know the roads very well, take the switchbacks quickly and do not always change lanes to let a car from a side road onto the main road.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If you are on Madeira for the first time, don\u2019t try to keep up with the locals. It\u2019s better to drive calmly, take your time and don\u2019t hesitate to let faster cars pass.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After a day or two, you\u2019ll adapt naturally.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-gas-stations-and-fuel\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Gas stations and fuel<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Refueling in Madeira is very easy. You can pay by card or cash. At many gas stations there are attendants.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Approximate prices for 2026:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>petrol (<strong>Gasolina<\/strong>)\u2014 about <strong>1.9 \u20ac per liter<\/strong>;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>diesel (<strong>Gasoleo<\/strong>)\u2014 around <strong>1.77 \u20ac per liter<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The only thing \u2014 pay close attention to what fuel you\u2019re pumping. Don\u2019t mix up the Portuguese names <strong>Gasolina<\/strong> and <strong>Gasoleo<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-parking-in-madeira\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Parking in Madeira<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/IMG_7549-1024x768.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/IMG_7549-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Car rental in Madeira\" class=\"wp-image-61372\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/IMG_7549-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/IMG_7549-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/IMG_7549-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2026\/07\/IMG_7549.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Near most natural attractions, viewpoints, and hiking trailheads, parking is free. But the parking areas are often small.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If there aren&#8217;t enough spaces, locals often leave their cars along the road as long as they don\u2019t block the traffic.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In cities the situation is different \u2014 here parking is paid, and in the old districts and the center, it is extremely scarce. So I suggest looking for accommodation with private parking.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-parking-in-funchal\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Parking in Funchal<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It is in the capital that finding a spot can be most difficult.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Here:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>narrow streets;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>few parking spaces;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>most parking is paid.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">That\u2019s why I specifically booked accommodation with parking. If you plan to stay in Funchal for a few days, I highly recommend paying attention to this when choosing an apartment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"> <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/hotel\/pt\/travellers-pearl-by-storytellers.uk.html?aid=1142978&amp;sid=8f567599e01bf3ca5491fd28ecbd5c60&amp;all_sr_blocks=300037502_110694168_2_2_0_645445&amp;checkin=2025-02-19&amp;checkout=2025-02-20&amp;dest_id=-2166199&amp;dest_type=city&amp;dist=0&amp;group_adults=2&amp;group_children=0&amp;hapos=1&amp;highlighted_blocks=300037502_110694168_2_2_0_645445&amp;hpos=1&amp;matching_block_id=300037502_110694168_2_2_0_645445&amp;no_rooms=1&amp;req_adults=2&amp;req_children=0&amp;room1=A%2CA&amp;sb_price_type=total&amp;sr_order=popularity&amp;sr_pri_blocks=300037502_110694168_2_2_0_645445_10107&amp;srepoch=1738590472&amp;srpvid=a07160ed963108d4&amp;type=total&amp;ucfs=1&amp;lang=uk&amp;soz=1&amp;lang_changed=1#hotelTmpl\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Travellers Pearl by Storytellers<\/a><\/strong> \u2013 an aparthotel in the historical center of Funchal, where we stayed for several nights. Convenient self-check-in and access by code. I chose this place for its private parking and the possibility to prepare breakfast or dinner \u2013 there\u2019s a kitchen and all necessary utensils, as well as a washing machine. <strong>Parking in the center of Funchal<\/strong> is a very important option for travelers with a rented car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<blockquote class=\"wp-block-quote is-layout-flow wp-block-quote-is-layout-flow\">\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Recommended reading: <a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/where-to-stay-in-madeira\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Where to stay in Madeira \u2013 places and types of vacation, advice from personal experience<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-navigation\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Navigation<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/rr-1024x576.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/rr-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"Car rental in Madeira\" class=\"wp-image-45965\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/rr-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/rr-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/rr-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/rr-1536x864.jpg 1536w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/rr.jpg 2048w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">I used several apps at once:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Google Maps<\/strong> \u2013 didn&#8217;t always show the correct road, especially in Funchal.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Waze<\/strong> \u2013 works great on the island throughout;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Maps.cz<\/strong> \u2014 especially convenient for hiking routes.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your car supports <strong>Android Auto or Apple CarPlay<\/strong>, using navigation is even more comfortable. Make sure to check for this when choosing a car to rent.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-fines-and-traffic-rules\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Fines and traffic rules<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">In Portugal, traffic violations are not taken lightly. There are many speed cameras on the roads, and fines can range from <strong>150 to 2,500 euros<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the car is rented, the fine first goes to the rental company, after which the money is withdrawn from your card along with an administrative fee. So it&#8217;s definitely not worth experimenting with speed.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>We were pulled over by the police once<\/strong>, who were randomly checking driver documents. They checked everything: the contract with the rental company, the car registration, the driver\u2019s license, and even my passport. Why? No idea, but everything was fine \u2013 I hadn&#8217;t broken any rules.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-a-few-tips-from-personal-experience\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>A few tips from personal experience<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7339-1024x768.jpg\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"768\" src=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7339-1024x768.jpg\" alt=\"Car rental in Madeira\" class=\"wp-image-45774\" srcset=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7339-1024x768.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7339-300x225.jpg 300w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7339-768x576.jpg 768w, https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/01\/IMG_7339.jpg 1200w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/a><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After a week of driving around the island, I came to a few conclusions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>book your car in advance<\/strong> \u2014 there will be much more choice;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>don\u2019t skimp on <strong>engine power<\/strong>;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>automatic transmission<\/strong> really makes traveling easier;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>full insurance<\/strong> in Madeira is really worth the money;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>if you plan to stay in Funchal, <strong>choose a hotel or apartment with parking<\/strong>;<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>don\u2019t rush on switchbacks<\/strong> and don\u2019t try to drive as fast as the locals.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-conclusion\" class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Conclusion<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">After our trip, I can say one thing: Madeira is exactly the island best discovered behind the wheel of a car.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Yes, at first the steep climbs and switchbacks can seem a bit intimidating. But after a few hours, you realize that the roads here are excellent, the traffic is calm, and the car gives you the main thing \u2014 freedom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">It was thanks to having a car that we saw dozens of places we would hardly have reached by bus. We watched sunrises from viewpoints, stopped at waterfalls, explored small fishing villages, and could change our route at any moment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">For me, a car became one of the main factors that made the trip to Madeira so unforgettable.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 id=\"h-useful-articles-and-links\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Useful articles and links:<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/top-10-madeira\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Top 10 in Madeira \u2013 for those planning their first trip<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/madeira-guide\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Going to Madeira \u2013 island guide<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/funshal\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Funchal \u2013 a guide to Madeira\u2019s capital<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/madeira-vs-mallorca\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\"><strong>Madeira VS Mallorca \u2013 which island to choose for your next trip<\/strong><\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Car rental\u00a0<\/strong>\u2013 affordable options are always on the\u00a0 <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/discovercars.tpo.lv\/K83b4Oex\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">DiscoverCars<\/a><\/strong>\u00a0<br><strong>Medical insurance<\/strong> \u2013 online at\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/hotline.finance\/ua\/?utm_source=postaffiliatepro&amp;utm_medium=cpa&amp;a_aid=6696307684ee5\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">HotlineFinance<\/a><\/strong><br><strong>Hotel\u00a0<\/strong>and apartment bookings \u2013\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/www.booking.com\/searchresults.uk.html?aid=1142978\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Booking.com<\/a><\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 id=\"h-subscribe-on-nbsp-facebook-nbsp-and-nbsp-instagram-join-my-nbsp-telegram-nbsp-fresh-travel-news\" class=\"wp-block-heading\">Subscribe on&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/journeys6senses\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Facebook<\/a>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<a href=\"https:\/\/www.instagram.com\/savinairyna\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Instagram<\/a><br>Join my&nbsp;<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/t.me\/journeys6senses\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noreferrer noopener\">Telegram<\/a><\/strong>&nbsp;\u2013 fresh travel news<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Rent a car on Madeira &#8211; how to driving on this island, what type of the car the best for choose, what kind of the roads on Madeira.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":46853,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"_acf_changed":false,"_monsterinsights_skip_tracking":false,"footnotes":""},"categories":[249,251],"tags":[230,1162,256,209],"class_list":["post-63096","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-advises","category-transport","tag-europe","tag-madeira","tag-portugal","tag-road-trips"],"acf":[],"yoast_head":"<!-- This site is optimized with the Yoast SEO Premium plugin v28.2 (Yoast SEO v28.2) - https:\/\/yoast.com\/product\/yoast-seo-premium-wordpress\/ -->\n<title>Rent a car on Madeira - how to driving on this island<\/title>\n<meta name=\"description\" content=\"Rent a car on Madeira - how to driving on this island, what type of the car the best for choose, what kind of the roads on Madeira.\" \/>\n<meta name=\"robots\" content=\"index, follow, max-snippet:-1, max-image-preview:large, max-video-preview:-1\" \/>\n<link rel=\"canonical\" href=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/hire-car-on-madeira\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:locale\" content=\"en_US\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:type\" content=\"article\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:title\" content=\"Madeira by car - car rental and driving nuances you need to know\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:description\" content=\"Rent a car on Madeira - how to driving on this island, what type of the car the best for choose, what kind of the roads on Madeira.\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:url\" content=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/en\/hire-car-on-madeira\/\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:site_name\" content=\"journeys-6-senses\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:publisher\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/journeys6senses\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:author\" content=\"https:\/\/www.facebook.com\/journeys6senses\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:published_time\" content=\"2026-08-16T20:18:46+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"article:modified_time\" content=\"2026-08-16T20:18:48+00:00\" \/>\n<meta property=\"og:image\" content=\"https:\/\/www.journeys6senses.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/02\/caee.jpg\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:width\" content=\"960\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:height\" content=\"718\" \/>\n\t<meta property=\"og:image:type\" content=\"image\/jpeg\" \/>\n<meta name=\"author\" content=\"Iryna Savina\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:card\" content=\"summary_large_image\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:creator\" content=\"@IrynaSavina\" \/>\n<meta name=\"twitter:site\" content=\"@IrynaSavina\" \/>\n<script type=\"application\/ld+json\" class=\"yoast-schema-graph\">{\"@context\":\"https:\\\/\\\/schema.org\",\"@graph\":[{\"@type\":\"Article\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.journeys6senses.com\\\/en\\\/hire-car-on-madeira\\\/#article\",\"isPartOf\":{\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.journeys6senses.com\\\/en\\\/hire-car-on-madeira\\\/\"},\"author\":{\"name\":\"Iryna Savina\",\"@id\":\"https:\\\/\\\/www.journeys6senses.com\\\/en\\\/#\\\/schema\\\/person\\\/28aa386a25f84e91c36efd8ffab02476\"},\"headline\":\"Madeira by car &#8211; 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