Madeira Island Car Rental

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Madeira Island

Renting a car in Madeira Island offers the freedom and flexibility to explore the beautiful surroundings at your own pace. This is especially appealing for families, outdoor enthusiasts, and those looking to enjoy beach experiences. With a rental car, you can easily visit the stunning Madeira Botanical Garden, located 9 km away, or embark on an adventure to Pico do Ariero, which is less than 1 km from your location. The convenience of managing luggage and travel plans adds to the comfort of your journey.

In addition to key attractions, a rental car allows you to discover popular destinations such as Curral das Freiras, just 3 km away, where you can explore more gardens and scenic views. São Roque do Faial, located 4 km from Madeira Island, features attractions like Pico do Ariero and Monte Palace Gardens, making it a perfect stop for nature lovers. Similarly, Ribeiro Frio, also 4 km away, offers access to beautiful landscapes and outdoor activities. Renting a car ensures you can make the most of your trip with ease, allowing you to create memorable experiences around Madeira Island.

Most popular car rentals around Madeira Island

• Compact: The Compact car option is one of the most popular choices for travellers in Madeira Island. It comfortably accommodates up to 5 travellers and allows for up to 3 medium suitcases, making it ideal for solo adventurers, couples, or families. This option offers a balance of size and efficiency, providing the freedom to navigate the island's roads while managing luggage easily.
• Economy: The Economy car type is another frequently booked option among visitors to Madeira Island. Like the Compact, it accommodates 5 travellers but offers space for up to 2 medium suitcases. This makes it a perfect choice for solo travellers, couples, and small families looking for a more budget-friendly vehicle without sacrificing comfort and convenience during their exploration of the island.
• Mini: For those travelling light, the Mini car option is an excellent choice when visiting Madeira Island. This vehicle accommodates up to 4 travellers and allows for 2 small suitcases, making it perfect for solo travellers or couples. The Mini provides a compact and agile driving experience, ideal for navigating the charming streets and scenic routes of the island.

Top rated car suppliers around Madeira Island

• Sixt: Sixt has one rental location situated 10 km away from Madeira Island, making it a convenient option for travellers. Known for its well-maintained vehicles, Sixt is especially popular for Compact and Economy car rentals, allowing you to navigate the island with ease. With a focus on quality service, Sixt provides flexibility for your travel plans, making it a top choice for exploring Madeira's stunning landscapes.
• AutoUnion: With two rental locations, the nearest being only 4 km from Madeira Island, AutoUnion offers excellent accessibility for tourists. This supplier is well-regarded for its Economy and Mini vehicles, ideal for those looking to save on fuel and parking while enjoying the island. AutoUnion is a popular choice among travellers, providing a seamless rental experience and the freedom to discover Madeira at your own pace.
• Guerin: Located 9 km away from Madeira Island, Guerin has one rental location that makes it easy for visitors to get on the road quickly. This supplier is favoured for its Economy and Compact vehicles, catering to a wide range of travellers. Guerin is known for its commitment to customer satisfaction, ensuring you have all the essentials for your journey through Madeira’s beautiful terrain.

Where to stay around Madeira Island

• Curral das Freiras: Located 3 km from Madeira Island, Curral das Freiras is perfect for outdoor and family experiences. This parish offers access to hiking trails and an aquatic centre, making it a great base for adventure seekers. Notable attractions include the Madeira Botanical Garden, ideal for family outings, and Cabo Girao, known for its breathtaking views. Visitors can also explore the local park and mountain scenery, ensuring a memorable stay.
• Santana: Situated 9 km from Madeira Island, Santana is a vibrant city that caters to outdoor enthusiasts and beach lovers. The area features hiking trails and an aquatic centre, along with a nearby marina and beautiful beaches. Key points of interest include Pico Ruivo, a mountain perfect for adventure seekers, and the Parque Florestal das Queimadas, a national park rich in natural beauty. Santana also boasts local wineries for a unique culinary experience.
• Monte: Just 5 km away from Madeira Island, Monte is an inviting parish ideal for families and beachgoers. With access to an aquatic centre and golf courses, this area provides ample recreational activities. Visitors can explore the Monte Palace Gardens, a stunning botanical garden, and the Madeira Botanical Garden, both suitable for outdoor and romantic outings. The Town Square adds a cultural touch, making Monte a well-rounded destination for your stay.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Madeira Island

1. Use filters to find the right car: Refine your search by selecting vehicle type and features. Whether you require an SUV for additional space, a convertible for summer enjoyment, or an economy car for budget-friendly travel, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the best option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it's advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking in advance, you’re more likely to lock in lower rates and benefit from better availability, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Compact cars are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in busy areas. Mid-size vehicles offer a balanced combination of cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily fees, and certain types of vehicles—such as SUVs or premium models—might not be accessible. This can also apply to renters over 70 years old. Always verify the age requirements before finalising your booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rental companies operate under a full-to-full fuel policy, meaning you must return the car with a full tank to avoid additional charges. This is generally the most favourable option. Others may provide full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling choices, which can also be convenient. Just remember to return the car empty in that scenario.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: Picking up your rental car at airports often incurs a surcharge, but the added convenience may justify the extra cost.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies primarily accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Car rental insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind in case of unforeseen events during your trip. It's simple to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you’re planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to prevent incurring extra charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is essential for renting a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Madeira Island

The best value period to rent a car in and around Madeira Island is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is moderately high. February and March follow closely, maintaining similar pricing and average demand. Moving into the summer, July and August see prices rise to moderately high levels, coinciding with average demand. This makes August the most expensive month for rentals, while September also experiences moderately high demand with average pricing. October and November show moderately high prices with steady demand.