Funchal Cheap Car Rentals & Car Hire Deals

Reasons to book a car rental in and around Funchal

Renting a car in Funchal offers the freedom and flexibility to explore this beautiful city and its surroundings at your own pace. With a rental car, you can easily manage your luggage and create flexible travel plans, making it ideal for families and outdoor enthusiasts. Key attractions such as Funchal Marina, which is perfect for adventure and beach experiences, and the Madeira Botanical Garden, a great spot for family and romantic outings, are all within easy reach. The CR7 Museum also provides a cultural experience that adds to your itinerary.

Additionally, a rental car makes it convenient to visit nearby destinations like Old Town Funchal, featuring the Funchal-Monte Teleferico and Town Square, or São Martinho, where you can relax at Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools. Santa Maria Maior, home to more attractions like the Madeira Botanical Garden, is also easily accessible. Whether you are traveling with family, seeking outdoor adventures, or exploring cultural sites, having a car allows you to enjoy the diverse experiences Funchal has to offer without the constraints of public transport.

Most popular car rentals in Funchal

• Economy: The Economy car is a popular choice among travellers in Funchal, accommodating up to 5 passengers with room for 2 medium suitcases. This option is ideal for solo travellers, couples, or families who seek an affordable yet practical vehicle to explore the area. With its compact size, the Economy car provides easy manoeuvrability through the streets of Funchal, allowing for a comfortable and flexible travel experience.
• Compact: The Compact car option also caters for up to 5 travellers, offering space for 3 medium suitcases. This makes it a fantastic choice for those who need a bit more luggage capacity while still enjoying the benefits of a smaller vehicle. Perfect for solo adventurers, couples, or families, the Compact car allows for easy navigation in and around Funchal, ensuring that your travel plans remain smooth and convenient.
• Mini: The Mini car is a great option for smaller groups, accommodating up to 4 travellers and allowing for 2 small suitcases. This vehicle is particularly suited for solo travellers or couples looking to explore Funchal without the need for extensive luggage space. Its smaller size makes it perfect for navigating the city’s narrow roads and parking in tight spots, offering a hassle-free driving experience during your stay.

Top rated car suppliers in Funchal

• Europcar: Renowned for its convenient rental location in Funchal, Europcar is a preferred choice among travellers looking to explore Madeira. They provide a variety of vehicles, with the Compact SUV being the most popular option. This supplier offers the flexibility to manage your itinerary and luggage with ease, making your journey enjoyable as you discover the attractions of Funchal at your own pace.

Where to stay in and around Funchal

• São Martinho: This parish in Funchal is perfect for those seeking a beach and outdoor family experience. It's home to landmarks like the Doca do Cavacas Natural Pools and Ponta Gorda Bathing Complex, both ideal for beach holidays. Visitors can also explore the Funchal Marina for adventure and outdoor activities. São Martinho boasts accessible shopping centres and an aquatic centre, making it a convenient choice for families looking to enjoy the sun and local attractions.
• Sé: Located less than 1 km from Funchal, Sé offers a vibrant city-themed experience with easy access to beaches and outdoor activities. Key highlights include the Funchal Marina and the CR7 Museum for culture enthusiasts. The Town Square is nearby for those looking to savour local food and drinks, including options for wine and cheese. Sé is well-suited for visitors wanting a mix of city life and coastal charm.
• Canico: Situated 7 km from Funchal, Canico is ideal for outdoor lovers and sports enthusiasts. The area features attractions like Ponta da Oliveira for stunning views and the Cristo Rei monument for cultural exploration. Additionally, the Madeira Botanical Garden offers a beautiful spot for family outings and romantic strolls. Canico's golf courses and cable cars enhance its appeal, providing a diverse range of activities for visitors.

10 tips to save on your car rental in and around Funchal

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-friendliness, utilise the filters on Expedia to help you discover the ideal option for your journey.
2. Book in advance to help lower costs: Rental prices can vary based on demand, so it is advisable to secure your car well ahead of your trip. By booking early, you are more likely to obtain lower rates and enjoy a greater selection, particularly during peak seasons.
3. Consider a smaller car for savings: Smaller vehicles are typically more affordable to rent and easier to manoeuvre in congested areas. Mid-size rentals strike a good balance between cost, comfort, and fuel efficiency.
4. Age guidelines: Drivers under the age of 30 may encounter higher deposits or daily surcharges, and certain vehicle types—such as SUVs or premium models—may not be available. This can also apply to renters aged over 70. Always verify the age requirements prior to booking.
5. Check fuel policies: Some rentals operate on 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 advantageous option. Others may offer full-to-empty or prepaid refuelling options, which are also acceptable. Just ensure you return the car empty in that case.
6. Save on city and airport pickups: You will often incur a surcharge for picking up your rental car at airports, but it might be worth it for the added convenience.
7. Know your payment options: Many car rental companies only accept credit cards for payment.
8. Understand your insurance coverage: Rental car insurance can help you avoid unnecessary expenses and provides peace of mind should something unexpected occur during your trip. It is straightforward to add car rental insurance when booking through Expedia.
9. Consider unlimited mileage: If you are planning long road trips, seek out rentals that offer unlimited mileage to steer clear of additional charges.
10. Bring your driver's license and ID: A valid driver's license is necessary to rent a car.

Best time to rent a car in and around Funchal

The best time to rent a car in and around Funchal is January, when prices are moderately low and demand is quite low. February also offers a quieter experience, although prices rise to an average level. March sees a spike in demand, making it a busier period, while April through June generally maintain average prices and demand. However, November tends to be the most expensive month, accompanied by moderately high prices and low demand, which makes it less appealing for rentals.

Calendar Month	Temperature	Precipitation	Cloudiness	Demand	Pricing
January	56.5°F (13.6°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately Low
February	55.4°F (13.0°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Average
March	56.3°F (13.5°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	High	Moderately Low
April	57.6°F (14.2°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
May	60.3°F (15.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
June	63.5°F (17.5°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	Average	Average
July	67.3°F (19.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Average
August	69.1°F (20.6°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Sunny	Average	Moderately High
September	67.5°F (19.7°C)	No Rain (Dry)	Mostly Sunny	High	Average
October	65.7°F (18.7°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately High
November	61.2°F (16.2°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Low	Moderately High
December	58.8°F (14.9°C)	Light Rain	Mostly Sunny	Average	Moderately Low