Car Rental in Ponta Do Sol

Where to drive

• Drive to Funchal, the capital city, approximately 30 minutes (25 km) east, to explore its historic center, Mercado dos Lavradores, and cable car to Monte.
• Visit the natural volcanic pools of Porto Moniz, a scenic drive of about 1 hour (45 km) along the island's dramatic north coast.
• Explore the Paul da Serra plateau, Madeira's largest and most accessible plateau, offering stunning views and hiking trails, reachable in about 40 minutes (25 km).
• Discover the charming village of Jardim do Mar, known for its surfing and relaxed atmosphere, just a 15-minute (8 km) drive west along the coast.
• Embark on a scenic journey to the highest peak, Pico Ruivo, a challenging but rewarding drive of around 1.5 hours (60 km) from Ponta Do Sol, followed by a hike.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Portugal, you typically need a valid driver's license (held for at least 1 year), a passport or national ID card, and a major credit card in the main driver's name. An International Driving Permit (IDP) is recommended for non-EU license holders, and sometimes required. The minimum age to rent is usually 21, with surcharges for drivers under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Ponta Do Sol vary significantly by season and car class. Economy cars might start from around 20 EUR per day in the low season, while SUVs and premium models can range from 50 EUR to 100+ EUR daily. Expect prices to be considerably higher during peak summer months and holidays.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Portugal, drive on the right. Speed limits are generally 50 km/h in urban areas, 90 km/h on rural roads, and 120 km/h on motorways, unless otherwise signposted. The legal blood alcohol limit is 0.05%. Headlights are mandatory in tunnels. Seatbelts are compulsory for all occupants, and children under 12 or less than 135 cm tall must use appropriate child seats.

Parking

In Ponta Do Sol, parking can be found along the streets, often with designated paid zones. Look for blue lines indicating paid parking, usually paid via parking meters or mobile apps. Free parking areas might be available further from the town center. Always check signage for restrictions.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are readily available across Madeira, including near Ponta Do Sol and along major routes. You'll find unleaded gasoline (Gasolina) and diesel (Gasóleo). Prices are regulated and tend to be similar across the island, typically around 1.70-1.90 EUR per liter for gasoline and 1.50-1.70 EUR for diesel, subject to market fluctuations. Most stations accept credit cards, but having some cash is advisable for smaller, remote stations.

Which car to choose

For navigating Madeira's winding, often steep roads, a compact or mid-size car with a good engine is recommended. An automatic transmission can make driving more comfortable on hills. If you plan to explore unpaved roads or need more space, an SUV might be suitable, though larger vehicles can be challenging on narrow village streets.

Frequently asked questions