Paul Do Mar Car Rental — from €49/day

Car Rental in Paul Do Mar

Embark on your Paul Do Mar adventure during the glorious springtime, when the coastal roads are alive with vibrant blossoms and the sea breeze is perfectly refreshing. With your own rental car, you can effortlessly navigate the scenic climbs to Faja da Ovelha or cruise along the dramatic seafront, pausing wherever a breathtaking view demands your attention.

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Car Rental in Paul Do Mar

Paul Do Mar (Madeira), Portugal

Where to drive

Drive to the natural volcanic pools of Porto Moniz, approximately 45 minutes (30 km) north, for a refreshing swim.
Explore the Fanal Forest, about 1 hour (40 km) inland, known for its ancient laurel trees and mystical atmosphere, perfect for hiking.
Visit the fishing village of Câmara de Lobos, roughly 40 minutes (35 km) east, famous for its picturesque harbour and association with Winston Churchill.
Take a scenic route along the south coast to Ponta de São Lourenço, the easternmost tip of Madeira, about 1.5 hours (70 km) away, offering dramatic cliff views and hiking trails.
Head to the iconic Cabo Girão skywalk, approximately 30 minutes (25 km) east, one of the highest sea cliffs in Europe with a glass platform.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Portugal, you'll generally need a valid driving license held for at least one year, a passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your license is not in a Roman alphabet (e.g., Cyrillic, Arabic), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is highly recommended or often required. The minimum age for rental is typically 18-21, with surcharges for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Paul Do Mar vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars can start from around 20-30 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs and premium models might range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Prices typically peak during the summer months and holidays, often doubling compared to off-peak rates. Expect the lowest daily prices to be around 20 EUR in the quietest months.

Price by month, €

25€

Jan

28€

Feb

35€

Mar

45€

Apr

50€

May

65€

Jun

75€

Jul

80€

Aug

60€

Sep

40€

Oct

30€

Nov

40€

Dec

Demand by month

30%

Jan

35%

Feb

50%

Mar

65%

Apr

70%

May

85%

Jun

95%

Jul

100%

Aug

80%

Sep

60%

Oct

40%

Nov

55%

Dec

Traffic rules and fines

In Portugal, speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90-100 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights are not mandatory during the day but are advisable in tunnels or poor visibility. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants. Children under 12 or less than 135 cm tall must use an appropriate child restraint system.

Parking

In Paul Do Mar, parking is generally available along the waterfront and in designated areas, often free of charge, especially outside peak tourist times. In larger towns on Madeira, you may find paid parking zones (blue lines) or underground car parks, requiring payment via meters or apps. Always check local signage for specific rules.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Madeira, though less frequent in very remote areas. Unleaded petrol (gasolina) and diesel (gasóleo) are standard. Prices are regulated and tend to be consistent across the island, typically around 1.70-1.90 EUR per litre for unleaded and slightly less for diesel in 2026. Most stations accept major credit cards, but it's wise to carry some cash for smaller, rural stations.

Which car to choose

For Paul Do Mar and the rest of Madeira, a compact or economy car is often sufficient for navigating narrow village streets and winding coastal roads. However, if you plan to explore the island's mountainous interior or tackle steeper ascents comfortably, an SUV or a car with a slightly more powerful engine is highly recommended. Manual transmission cars are very common, but automatics are available and can make driving on hilly terrain less strenuous.

Pros

Freedom to explore Madeira's diverse landscapes and hidden gems at your own pace.
Access to remote levada walks and viewpoints not served by public transport.
Convenience for carrying hiking gear, beach essentials, or picnic supplies.
Flexibility to stop whenever you wish for photos or spontaneous discoveries.
Easier access to local restaurants and accommodations outside main tourist hubs.

Cons

Madeira's roads can be steep, narrow, and winding, requiring confident driving skills.
Parking in popular Funchal or other busy towns can be challenging and costly.
Fuel costs can add up, especially with extensive island exploration.
Some rental companies may have high deductibles or require significant security deposits.
Driving on the right-hand side may be unfamiliar to some visitors.

Frequently asked questions

What is the minimum age to rent a car in Paul Do Mar?

The minimum age to rent a car in Portugal is typically 18 or 21, depending on the rental company, with most applying a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

Do I need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in Paul Do Mar, Portugal?

An IDP is generally recommended if your national driving license is not in Portuguese or English, or does not use the Latin alphabet. It serves as a translation of your license.

What payment methods are accepted for car rental?

Most car rental companies require a major credit card in the main driver's name for the security deposit and payment. Debit cards are sometimes accepted for payment but rarely for the deposit.

Can I cancel my car rental reservation?

Cancellation policies vary by rental company and booking platform. Many offer free cancellation up to 24 or 48 hours before pickup, especially if booked through platforms like RentoRika. Always check the specific terms of your reservation.

Is it better to pick up a car at Madeira Airport (FNC) or in Paul Do Mar?

Picking up your car directly at Madeira Airport (FNC) is often more convenient and can sometimes be cheaper due to higher competition. It allows you to drive directly to Paul Do Mar without needing airport transfers.

Are there any toll roads on Madeira?

Madeira does not have traditional toll roads, but some tunnels and expressways were previously subject to tolls. Currently, all roads on the island are free to use.

Available cars — Paul Do Mar (Madeira)