Car Rental in Santana, Madeira

Where to drive

• Drive to the famous traditional houses of Santana, a mere 5-minute drive (around 2 km) from the town center, for an iconic photo opportunity.
• Embark on a scenic journey along the coastal road to Porto da Cruz, approximately 20 km away, taking about 30 minutes, to enjoy surfing beaches and stunning sea views.
• Explore the breathtaking views from Miradouro da Ponta do Rosto, at the eastern tip of Madeira, about 45 km from Santana (around 1 hour drive), offering dramatic cliff scenery.
• Visit the natural swimming pools of Seixal, on the northwest coast, roughly 40 km from Santana (about 50 minutes drive), perfect for a refreshing dip in volcanic formations.
• Take a mountain drive to Pico do Arieiro, one of Madeira's highest peaks, approximately 35 km away (around 1 hour drive), for unparalleled panoramic views above the clouds.

What documents you need

To rent a car in Portugal, you typically need a valid driving license held for at least one year, your passport or national ID card, and a credit card in the main driver's name. If your driving license is not in a Latin alphabet (e.g., Cyrillic, Arabic), an International Driving Permit (IDP) is usually required. The minimum age for car rental is generally 19 or 21, with some companies imposing a young driver surcharge for those under 25.

How much rental costs

Car rental prices in Santana vary significantly by season and vehicle class. Economy cars might start from around 20-30 EUR per day during the low season, while SUVs or premium vehicles could range from 50 EUR to over 100 EUR daily. Expect prices to be considerably higher during peak summer months, potentially doubling or tripling compared to the lowest rates.

Demand by month

Traffic rules and fines

In Portugal, you drive on the right-hand side of the road. Speed limits are typically 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 must be used in tunnels and in conditions of poor visibility. Seatbelts are mandatory for all occupants, and children under 12 or less than 135 cm tall must use appropriate child seats.

Parking

In Santana, parking is generally easier to find than in larger Madeiran towns. There are usually free public parking areas available, particularly near attractions like the traditional houses. Some areas might have metered street parking or paid car parks, especially in busier spots. Always check local signage for parking restrictions and payment requirements.

Fuel stations

Fuel stations are available throughout Madeira, including in and around Santana. Major types of fuel (gasoline/petrol and diesel) are readily available. Prices are comparable to mainland Portugal and other Western European countries, with approximate costs around 1.70-1.90 EUR per liter for gasoline and 1.60-1.80 EUR for diesel. Most stations accept credit cards, but it's always wise to have some cash, especially in more rural areas.

Which car to choose

For Santana and the mountainous terrain of Madeira, a compact or mid-size car with a good engine is highly recommended. Automatic transmission can make driving on steep, winding roads more comfortable, though manual cars are also common. An SUV might offer more ground clearance and comfort for exploring unpaved tracks, but a smaller car is often more agile on narrow village roads.

Frequently asked questions