How to find a cheap car hire deal in Madeira
Pick up a cheap rental car in Madeira and start your adventure for around $381 a day. From solo getaways to family escapes, we'll help you find a rental that keeps up with your trip.
The cheapest daily rental price in Madeira is $41.
Staying a while and want to explore beyond the tourist trail? $287 is the best rate for a weekly rental.
Timing can make all the difference when it comes to finding the best price on a Madeira car hire. Try booking around one week before you go.
Way 2 azores, Magic Islands Rent A Car and Surprice are some of the most popular providers in the city. They're a great starting point for comparing offers.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Madeira car hire policy, whether you book with way 2 azores or a different supplier. Some companies offer it as a paid extra instead of including it.
Choosing a one-way car hire can be the key to cheaper deals. Simply click 'Return car to a different location.' Providers often have to move vehicles from one location to another, which means you can snag some awesome one-way prices on a car for rent in Madeira.
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. No hidden refueling charges at drop-off either.
Want to explore without stressing about how many miles you rack up? Find rentals with 'Unlimited mileage' under the 'Policies' filter and drive as far as you like without the extra costs.
Best value car hire options right now
You'll find the best value with this company. Prices average $131 a day.
Next in line is [this provider](this provider), which offers daily rates of around $173.
The third option also performs well on price. Ride away in one of their rentals for roughly $337 a day.
The Compact rental category is a reliable option if you're unsure which wheels are right for you. It's also the vehicle type that's rented the most in Madeira.
Flying to Madeira? Think about an airport pick-up
Start exploring Madeira sooner by picking up a car hire at Madeira Airport. The city centre is about 18 kilometres from this airport, which is a drive of around 25 minutes.
Compare car hire types in Madeira
Small: These cheap rental cars in Madeira may be small in size, but they pack a big punch. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, light on fuel, and perfect for city runs or weekend trips.
Medium: A reliable pick when you need something that has a few more features but is still easy to drive. This category covers compact and intermediate models that come with a bit of extra space compared to smaller options.
Large: You've got the kids, the luggage, the snacks, the lot. Large vehicles have got the space to fit it all in without a hassle. Ideal for longer drives, this Madeira car hire category includes full-size cars.
SUV: SUVs are ready whenever wanderlust hits. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and country routes alike.
Van: Choose this vehicle category when you need a car for rent in Madeira that can handle the big jobs. Featuring commercial vans and trucks, they're made to carry more, whether that's supplies, baggage or big groups.
Insurance and optional extras
Car rental excess insurance isn't a necessity, but it's worth considering. If your vehicle is damaged, no matter how minor, it can help you avoid paying a big excess fee. Different Madeira car hire providers have varying insurance policies and cover levels, so check the terms before booking.
Make your trip smoother when you rent a car in Madeira by adding some nifty extras. Think things like a navigation system to make wrong turns a thing of the past, or reverse cameras that upgrade your parking game.
Good to know
You usually have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in Portugal. Younger drivers can sometimes still qualify — just be prepared for extra fees or rules. Check the suppliers' terms and conditions before you book.
Add a car seat to your Madeira car rental reservation if you're bringing the kids. Rules vary from place to place, but using a child seat suited to their age and size is always the safest option.
You'll likely be asked for these three things when collecting your rental car: a current driver's licence, another form of photo ID, and a credit card to cover the deposit amount. Debit cards are generally not accepted. Your booking will flag any other must-haves.
Driving in Portugal might take some adjustment for first-time visitors. Keep in mind you'll need to stay on the right side of the road.
Local speed limits may vary, but it's normally around 45kph in urban areas and 110kph or so on highways. Always obey the road signs.
The blood alcohol concentration (BAC) limit in Portugal is 0.05%. Because alcohol affects everyone differently, the only way to be certain you're safe to drive is to skip the drinks.
One of the busiest times for traffic in this destination is around 8am. Make life easier by steering clear of rush hours in general.
The euro (EUR) is the currency you'll be using for general expenses and activities. Use cards when it's convenient, but have some cash ready when electronic payments aren't an option.
Best hotels in Madeira for drivers
Pull in, drop your bags, and start relaxing at Terrabona Nature & Vineyards. Offering accessible parking as well as a laundry and a pool, this hotel is around 6 kilometres from central Madeira.
Or take advantage of the parking at Ilha & Montanha - Turismo Rural. The city centre is roughly 8 kilometres from this option, which also features a bar and a games room.
Browse the lineup of hotels in Madeira for even more choice. Use the 'Parking,' 'Valet parking,' and 'Outdoor parking' filters to find exactly what you're after. You can also use the 'Electric vehicle (EV) charging station' filter to include places with charging facilities.
After you've found a car hire deal in Madeira and your hotel, it's time to plan your adventures. Madeira Island, Miradouro de Santa Luzia and Monte Palace Madeira are some of the city's best experiences.
Hit the road: Where to drive to from Madeira
Shift gears and take off to Caniço. Around 18 kilometres southeast of central Madeira, you'll find must-see sights like Cristo Rei and Garajau Partial Nature Reserve.
Popular accommodation options with parking in Caniço include Pestana Carlton Madeira, Premium Ocean Resort and Quinta Funchal Gardens - Adults Only.
Alternatively, pick up your cheap car hire in Madeira and then head for Machico. About 19 kilometres east of Madeira, PR10 Levada do Furado (endpoint) and Praia de Machico are major attractions that make the drive worthwhile.
Vila Gale Santa Cruz Resort Hotel and Albatroz Beach & Yacht Club are comfortable places to stay in Machico if you're settling in for a while. Book one of these and enjoy an easy pull-up-and-check-in experience.
