Avis car rental on Madeira Island
Madeira Island car hire … the open road lies ahead
We make Madeira Island car rental stress free because we know you can’t wait to hit the road and begin your journey. The keys are waiting … collect your Avis hire car and have a great trip. Book NowPopular car hire locations on Madeira Island
Plan your trip to Madeira
Pretty Madeira, located off the northwest coast of Africa, is a Portuguese archipelago made up of four islands: Madeira Island, Porto Santo and two uninhabited ones. Pick up your Avis hire car from a choice of locations and explore at your leisure.Most attractions can be found on Madeira Island, often referred to as the Floating Garden because of a landscape dotted with glorious wild flowers, manicured parks and botanical gardens. There are a host of natural wonders to explore including Laurisilva, a sub-tropical forest which is UNESCO listed.
Garajau Nature Reserve is also worth considering. This protected area on the south east coast of Funchal is perfect for underwater exploration and there are numerous dive sites where a kaleidoscope of fish such as grouper, manta rays and moray can be seen.
For art and culture head to the capital, Funchal. The old town, with its 15th century cathedral, is a delight to explore and there are numerous cafes, boutiques and restaurants to be found within its cobbled streets and alleyways. Monte Palace Tropical Garden, dating back to the 18th century, is just a 10-minute drive from Funchal on the Estrada da Fundoa and displays a mix of indigenous and tropical plants.
Madeira Botanical Garden, situated around 3km from Funchal, is also worth a trip. Find a staggering array of 2,500 exotic plants and a ‘Parrot Park’ housing 300 exotic birds including Macaws and Dwarf Parrots.
Food-wise Madeira has a rich and varied gastronomy with fresh fish and seafood in abundance.
Road trips on Madeira Island
Cabo Girão SkywalkFrom the capital Funchal, via the VR1, it’s around a 25-minute drive from Cabo Girão Cliffs. The cliffs are among the highest in Europe with a sheer drop of more than 500 metres. Those with a head for heights can venture onto the Cabo Girão Skywalk, a glass-floored platform constructed in 2012; at 589 metres it’s the second highest in the world behind the Grand Canyon which comes in at a staggering 1,450 metres.
Pico do Arieiro
Drive for around 40 minutes from the capital Funchal via the ER103 to reach Pico do Arieiro, Madeira’s third-highest peak. There are excellent walking and hiking opportunities for active travellers and the 1,800-metre summit offers spectacular views across the island. For those who like a challenge there is a hiking route leading up to the highest point on the island, Pico Ruivo, which is 1,830m.
Porto Moniz
From Funchal drive for about an hour via VR1 and VE2 to the village of Porto Moniz, famous for its natural volcanic pools. Bathers can relax in the refreshing salt waters while enjoying views across the ocean. The town itself is a pleasant place for an afternoon stroll and there are numerous souvenir shops, restaurants and cafes lining the promenade.
Your journey starts here
From the moment you arrive, Avis has got your car rental covered for the duration. Whether you fancy a supermini or hot hatch for an urban jaunt, an elegant saloon for a business trip or wedding, or a people carrier for a family holiday – your perfect hire car is standing by on the tarmac.When you join Avis Preferred – you’re our priority. You’ll receive fast-track service at the counter, pre-prepared rental paperwork, and access to free rentals and upgrades. And Avis Preferred sign-up is absolutely free.