Renting a car in Madeira without the stress

Buses reach some points (e.g. Ribeiro Frio, Queimadas via Santana), but they run rarely and need transfers. Our day planner shows which trails are realistic without a car.

With a car you cross from the south to the north coast in 30–50 minutes and can combine a hike with viewpoints. On one-way trails (PR1, PR2) the car stays at the start. Plan a taxi/transfer back or hike out and back.

In season (April–October) the best prices disappear weeks ahead. Book early; most offers include free cancellation.

Aggregators list international chains next to local family companies. Locals are often cheaper and more flexible, chains have bigger airport fleets. Always read recent reviews of the exact pickup point.

International desks at the airport usually block a deposit on a credit card, roughly from a few hundred up to about €2,000 depending on the car and package. Debit and multi-currency cards (e.g. Revolut) may be refused. Check the rental terms before booking.

Some local companies rent with no deposit and no credit card, with full insurance included. A convenient option if you don't have a credit card. Just verify reviews and the fuel/mileage rules.

Standard CDW usually comes with an excess, in case of damage you pay up to the deposit amount. Full coverage (zero excess) can be bought from the rental desk or as an aggregator package. The latter is often cheaper but works on a reimbursement basis.

On narrow roads and tight trailhead car parks small scratches happen easily. Full coverage removes that stress for the whole trip.

Local road gradients can exceed 20%. Pick a car with a stronger engine (at least ~90 hp); an automatic is more comfortable here. The via rápida (VR1) along the south coast is fast and easy.

Car parks at popular trailheads (Pico do Areeiro, Rabaçal) fill up early in season. Plan to start before 8:30. Our planner gives a rough driving time from your base.

Full-to-full fuel policy is the standard; avoid prepaid-tank offers. A second driver and a child seat are often paid extras at chains and free at locals.

From June 2026 a regional rental fee applies (roughly €2 per day), added to the bill; you will see the exact amount at booking.