It is possible to get around Madeira without a car, to see the major sights: Bus – There is a network of public transportation – Especially if you are staying in Funchal.
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The capital of Madeira is the perfect city to explore at your own pace. Walking around Funchal is always a pleasant experience, as the green of the mountains and the blue of the ocean accompany you while you discover this city by the sea.
Renting a car on Madeira Island is the perfect way to experience all the beauty and charm this Portuguese paradise has to offer. With winding roads that offer breathtaking views of the coastline and amazing mountain landscapes, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore the island at your own pace.
Walking Tours in Funchal, PortugalCreating your own self-guided walk in Funchal is easy and fun. Choose the city attractions that you want to see and a walk route map will be created just for you. You can even set your hotel as the start point of the walk.
Visiting MadeiraHowever, there are other means of transport available such as buses, taxis, tuk-tuks, bicycles and scooters. It is also worth mentioning the importance of the cable cars, which connect to some of the archipelago's most iconic points of interest.
Funchal is generally considered safe for female travelers. The city is known for its friendly locals and low crime rate. Women should still take the usual precautions when traveling, such as avoiding walking alone at night and keeping valuables out of sight.
Madeira is a pretty small island, and so luckily you don't need very long to see all of the incredible things that this destination has to offer. If you're looking to experience the must-dos then a short four-day break would be fine. However, a week is the perfect amount of time to really make the most of the island.
Overall, the roads are really good. The only challenging part about driving in Madeira is when you go to some of the hikes. The incline on some of the smaller roads can be pretty crazy and something you may not be used to. It's a volcanic island so steep inclines are to be expected!
For those searching for somewhere to stay in Funchal with easy access to the city's attractions, the Old Town – also known as Zona Velha – is your best option. This historic district is made up of ancient streets and traditional Madeiran buildings, many of which date back to the 15th century.
Located in a bay bathed by the Atlantic Ocean on Madeira's south coast, Funchal is the capital and the archipelago's tourist, cultural and commercial centre.
Our prices do not include a tip. In Madeira Island tips are not compulsory. As is standard across the globe if you feel your driver has been friendly and courteous, then a small tip is the norm.
A rental car is by far the best option to explore not only Funchal, but the whole of the Madeira island, as you will have the freedom to go anywhere you want and make as many scenic stops along the way as you please.
Most places in Madeira do take cards, but you'll need some cash for buses, and I've heard that some of the cable cars only take cash too (the cable car from the promenade in Funchal does take cards). The small shops and cafes I visited all took cards but it's best to have some money just in case.
Weather in FunchalThe average temperature is around 26°C, which lowers to around 20°C to 25°C from October to March. The best time to go to Funchal for the most heat is in the summer. August is the hottest time of the year with just nine rainy days spread over the month.
Tap water is absolutely fine to drink in Madeira, and we often don't even bother with bottled water in restaurants and just ask for a jug or glass of tap water. I think your husband may be in for quite a big surprise when he returns to the island after 35 years - mostly changes for the better but not all.
The Portuguese have three meals a day, between 7:30 and 10 a.m. we have breakfast, consisting of drinking coffee or fruit juice with toast or a sandwich. The main meals are lunch, between 12:00 and 2:30 p.m., and dinner between 7:30 and 10:30 p.m.