Madeira, the Portuguese island hidden in the middle of the Atlantic Ocean, combines wild nature with volcanic landscapes, charming towns and villages and a very pleasant temperature all year round. What do you need to know to travel around Madeira by car?
It is a postcard destination that we recommend you explore at your own pace and without rushing. The island is not particularly big, but it is mountainous, so it is best to drive around it, climb up to the highest viewpoints and lose yourself in the hillside villages.
Do you know what you need to travel around Madeira by car? You will find endless tunnels, roads overlooking the ocean and hundreds of attractions to make the most of your holiday. Take note of these tips.
Is travelling Madeira by car a good idea?
Absolutely. Madeira is an ideal destination to travel by car. The distances may seem short on a map, but the roads have curves, ups and downs, and that is all part of its charm.
In fact, travelling Madeira by car gives you total freedom to improvise stops, discover routes off the beaten track and even have a picnic overlooking the sea. All this, and you won't have to depend on timetables or public transport.
Another important advantage is that the climate is quite pleasant in Madeira all year round. The temperatures are mild, so you won't have to worry about cold or extreme heat. However, do check the weather forecast, because you may encounter fog or rain in the mountains, even in summer.
How are the roads in Madeira?
One of the things that most surprises tourists when they travel to Madeira is its road network. The island has invested heavily in infrastructure in recent years. The VR1 road connects Funchal (the capital) with other towns such as Caniço, Machico and Santana, and is in very good condition.
There are also other narrower back roads, as is the case in every country. Word of advice: don't rely too heavily on the times given by Google Maps or any navigation system. A 10km route can take you 30 minutes, especially if it goes through rural or mountainous areas.
Practical tips for driving in Madeira
If you rent a car in Madeira when you arrive at the airport, here are some practical tips for driving on the island:
- Take it easy: Islands tend to be more relaxed than big cities. People go at their own pace here, so enjoy the ride and don't be in a hurry.
- Stay in the lower gears: Madeira has roads with lots of descents, so use engine braking to avoid overheating the brakes, especially on steep roads.
- Don't get distracted by the scenery: We know it's difficult, because Madeira is full of amazing things to see, but it's better to stop at the viewpoints provided for this purpose.
- Be careful with parking: In Funchal and small towns it can be difficult to park, so look for parking areas or public car parks in advance.
- Plan your fuel: There are petrol stations in the main towns and cities, but it is best if you fill up before travelling to coves or more far-away places.
Things to consider when renting a car in Madeira
The best option to travel around Madeira is to rent a car, because it is the most comfortable, practical and simple. Pick up your car at the airport and explore every corner of the island at your own pace, tailored to your needs.
And what do you need to bear in mind when renting? The first thing is to think about the type of vehicle. For example, if you want to move around the city and park more easily, a compact car is best. If you are planning to travel to mountainous areas or do a lot of driving, you might want to consider a small SUV.
Traffic regulations here are practically identical to those in the rest of Europe. You drive on the right-hand side, the use of seat belts is mandatory and speed limits are usually 50km/h in the city and 90km/h on a dual carriageway. It is also a good idea to use apps like Google Maps or Waze, although with the former you can download maps to use offline that will come in handy in areas with poor coverage.
And now you are ready to discover Madeira by car at your own pace. The lunar landscapes of Pico do Arieiro, the cliffs of Cabo Girão, the laurel forests, the natural pools of Porto Moniz or hidden viewpoints such as Eira do Serrado. The island is full of attractions worth discovering.
The best option to see everything the island has to offer is to rent a car with OK Mobility at Madeira Airport. You can choose the model that suits you best, travel around the island and take home the best memories.
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