Located off the northwest coast of Africa, Madeira is an archipelago renowned for its breathtaking natural beauty. Apart from its capital, Funchal, the island boasts charming towns such as Santana and its traditional triangular houses, or Câmara de Lobos, a picturesque fishing village.
Driving in Madeira
Just like in Britain, traffic in Madeira circulates on the right-hand side of the road, which might need some adjusting when first hitting the road. The speed limit is usually 50 km/h in urban areas and up to 120 km/h on motorways.
Hire Car Classes
Compact and economy cars are perfect for city driving in places like Funchal, while an SUV or a 4x4 may be more suitable for the island's challenging mountain roads if you plan to venture inland.
Useful to Know
- Seat belts are mandatory for all vehicle occupants.
- Drivers must yield to vehicles approaching from the right, unless otherwise indicated.
- It's illegal to use a mobile phone while driving, unless you're using a hands-free kit.
The Best Beaches
Madeira offers several fantastic beaches for you to unwind. Calheta and Prainha de Caniçal are sandy, whilst Prainha de Machico and Formosa are pebbly with beautiful surrounding landscapes.
A Quick Guide to Currency
Madeira, like mainland Portugal, uses the Euro (€) as its official currency. Credit and debit cards are widely accepted, but it's a good idea to carry some cash, especially in rural areas.
Climate and Best Time to Visit
Madeira enjoys a pleasantly mild climate year-round, so there's never a bad time to visit. However, for a balance of good weather and smaller crowds, the best times to visit are the spring months (April to June) and autumn months (September to November).
Local Events
The island's calendar is packed with exciting events including Madeira Carnival in February, Flower Festival in April/May, and the New Year's Eve fireworks show - one of the world's best!
The Magnificent Landscapes
Don't miss out on the island's stunning landscapes. From the ancient, UNESCO-listed Laurisilva Forest, to the ‘levadas’ (irrigation channels) offering amazing walks, Madeira is a paradise for nature lovers.
Now that you're equipped with the essentials, let Madeira enchant you with its natural spectacle, warm people, and its unique charm. See everything this jewel has to offer with the ease of a hire car. Safe travels!
