Funchal Car Hire
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About Funchal
Funchal is the capital of Madeira. Madeira is a small archipelago off the west coast of North Africa, belonging to Portugal. This spectacular city has a lot to offer, places to visit, and things to see. Walking through the streets of Funchal, you can easily imagine the extensive history that the city and the whole island of Madeira have to offer.
Funchal is one of the safest cities in Europe, with spotless and modern shopping facilities and is known for a wide range of world-class restaurants, stunning hotels and extreme natural beauty. Located in the south of Madeira, Funchal is on the sunniest coastline, with growing bananas and beautiful flowers blooming all year round in the shelter of the mountains. Exploring Madeira Island means learning about its historical culture, nature and architectural heritage. If you are an outdoor adventurer, you can ride horseback or play golf. You can swim with dolphins, go whale watching or hike through the mountain forests, to name a few.
Basic info and car hire in Funchal
- Location: Madeira (Portugal)
- Population: 112,000 (2011)
- Official language: Portuguese
- Currency: Euro (EUR)
- Weather: Funchal has a subtropical Mediterranean climate with even yearly temperatures. The climate can be divided into three main seasons - warm and dry season from May to September with temperatures of 22 to 26 °C, a warm and humid season from October to November with average temperatures of 25 to 23 °C and a slightly cooler wet season from December to April with average temperatures of 20 to 21 °C.
- Holidays in Funchal: Funchal is a uniquely exciting city full of history and culture to immerse yourself in, offering you the opportunity to enjoy the city the way you want, whether on a budget or luxury.
- Internet coverage: Hotels, bars, restaurants and cafes offer Wi-Fi.
- Road conditions: Overall, the roads are good, and the highways are in good condition, but the smaller roads that run through small villages or along the coast can be narrow, and you should expect warning signs if rocks fall on the road.
- Car hire in Funchal: Hiring a car at Funchal Airport with Orbit Car Hire gives you plenty of freedom to travel around the island of Madeira. With a wide range of vehicles to choose from, you can be sure to find the one that suits your needs and gives you the most benefit on your trip.
Driving in Funchal
You do not have to be an expert to drive on Funchal, but you should remember that some stretches can be steep, both uphill and downhill, narrow, but the views and the experience are worth it. Care should be taken when driving along the coast, as some places may not be fenced.
Although driving can be challenging in some places, it is usually relaxing as there is very little traffic. So sit back, relax and enjoy.
- Age limits: The age limit is between 21 and 25, depending on the car rental agency. Many agencies will either charge a young driver fee if you are under this age or not allow you to rent a car.
- International Driving Permit: Yes, if your driver's license is not identifiable as Driving License, for example, if it is written in a non-Latin alphabet (e.g. Arabic, Chinese, Cyrillic, Japanese).
- Additional papers: Identification (passport), a valid driver's license, and valid proof of insurance. (Taking out insurance with the car rental company is advisable if your policy does not cover you when driving in Madeira).
- Additional requirements: Warning triangles, spare wheels and a hands-free kit with hearing aids are required if you are talking on the phone while driving.
- Children in the car: All vehicle occupants must wear a seat belt. Children under twelve or over 5 feet tall may ride in the front passenger seat.
- Driving side of the road: Right.
- Lights: Headlights must always be on (day and night).
- General speed limits: 80 mph / 130 km/h on motorways, 49 mph / 80 km/h on main roads outside built-up areas and 31 mph/50 km/h inside built-up areas.
- Parking suggestions: Almost all car parks are metered, with the average price per hour being around GBP 1.90/ € 2.20.
Car Hire in Funchal
Most popular car hire at Funchal
The most selected hire car in Funchal is the Fiat 500, with the Peugeot 108 and Fiat Panda also being popular options. The most popular car types in Funchal are Mini, Economy and Premium car categories.
Popular Driving Routes
One-Way car hire from Funchal
To explore Madeira Island, it's best to hire a car, because there's a lot more to see than just the Funchal city centre. Funchal is located on Madeira Island, an archipelago with Porto Santo and Desertas. Exploring and navigating between the islands can be fascinating by taking your hired car on the ferries between the islands. However, not all car hire companies will allow you to take your vehicle to another island. If you want this option, you must get permission from the car hire company you are working with.
What to see in Funchal
Madeira is the island of flowers, and thanks to its subtropical climate and fertile soil, almost anything can grow there! Therefore, you will not find many cities with as many gardens and parks as Funchal. The most famous gardens and parks with tourists are Santa Catarina Park, Botanical Garden, Monte Palace Tropical Garden, Quinta Vigia, and The Gardens of Quinta do Palheiro Ferreiro. Still, they all have different histories, and some have museums and exhibitions.
Funchal has many beautiful buildings and churches that have a fascinating history. Most of this architectural heritage is located in the centre of Funchal. São Tiago Fortress dated back to 1614 and was built to protect the city from pirate attacks. Since 1992, the fortress has housed a museum, exhibitions and a restaurant. The magnificent São Lourenço Palace not only houses a presentation on the history of the defence but also serves as the residence for the Prime Minister of the Autonomous Region and the Military Command. The architecture of the Regional Legislative Assembly was built in 1519 and combined ancient and modern styles, but they fit together amazingly well. What was once a hospital for the poor now houses the Governing Board of the district, is the Palace of the Governing Board. You will find Portuguese glazed tiles from the 17th century in this building. You can discover this and much more magnificent architectural history as you stroll through the streets of Funchal.
Funchal has a great selection of museums to explore, as the city and the whole island have a long and significant history. If you visit the Madeira Story Center, you will learn about it in one place. The museum is trendy as visitors can go on a virtual tour of the past, which gives them a unique experience as they can imagine what Funchal was like in the old days.
Want to do something unique and different? You can only do two things in Funchal: Cable Car Ride over the city and Monte Toboggan Ride. The cable car ride is an exciting opportunity to see the hidden gems of Funchal from above and enjoy the breathtaking views. Monte Toboggan Rides were once used for quick transportation for the residents of Monte but are now very popular with tourists. The "sleighs" are pushed and steered at high speed through the narrow streets of Funchal by two men dressed in traditional white cotton clothing and straw hats.
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Where to stay in Funchal
Restaurants, shops, museums and all the essentials are within easy walking distance in Funchal. Funchal offers you a wide range of accommodations in Funchal, depending on your preferences.
If you are looking for luxury, the five-star hotel Belmond Reid's Palace offers classic and refined rooms with a touch of modernity while maintaining the hotel's traditional interior design and charm. The hotel is renowned for its timeless elegance, centuries-old gardens and beauty.Set on a cliff in Funchal is another luxury hotel, the Cliff Bay - PortoBay Hotel, which offers stunning 360-degree views and direct access to the sea. The hotel has two Michelin-star restaurants serving Mediterranean and Iberian cuisine, a fantastic bar, a large spa, a Turkish steam bath, a Jacuzzi, a sauna, a modern fitness centre and three swimming pools.
If you want value for money, you'll like Castanheiro Boutique Hotel. It is ideal for families and offers various activities for children. The hotel is also great for relaxing. Enjoy the pool and the bar on the rooftop and the breathtaking view of the city.
Hotel Alto Lido is one of the newest hotels in the Lido district, chic and modern. The hotel offers three restaurants and three pools and is close to the beach.The Allegro Madeira - Adults Only is the most popular budget hotel for a cheap choice. The location is fantastic, and it has a rooftop bar with excellent views, two restaurants, a swimming pool, a spa and a fitness centre.
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Enjoy the culture in Funchal
Where to eat, drink, and party in Funchal
After a day of adventure, there's an excellent choice of restaurants where you can recharge your batteries before heading to one of the many trendy cocktail bars for a nightcap.
Go for a meal at William Restaurant, a Michelin-starred Cliff Bay - PortoBay Hotel restaurant. There's no finer way to spend an evening with award-winning food made from local produce and a first-class view.
Kampo is a relatively new restaurant in Funchal and offers an original, modern and seasonal menu. Thanks to the open kitchen, you will be entertained during your meal.
Mercearia Dona Mécia is a small outdoor bar tucked away in a courtyard, a bit away from the hustle of the shopping district. As well as being a good bar in the evening, Mercearia Dona Mécia is also a café during the day, serving various small dishes at lunchtime.
FugaCidade is craft beer heaven, the best place in Madeira for craft beer. It's a small and unassuming bar hidden behind a shopping centre. If you are a craft beer fan, you will not be disappointed.
Madeira Beer Lab is a nice place for a glass of beer with a view. It's a relatively new rooftop patio bar with a small but nice selection of beers.
And now for clubbing and nightlife! You can not help but hit the dance floor at the Vespas Club. Themed nights with different genres of music make it a place for everyone. Many delicious drinks are on the menu, so be prepared to spend a lot of time there.
At Casino de Madeira, you will find one of the coolest bars in Funchal, the Copacabana. A DJ will play the latest world hits for you, and you will enjoy great drinks and have a great night.
How do you make a booking with Orbit Car Hire?
You can easily book your vehicle with Orbit Car Hire. First, you must choose the date and location of your rental in our booking form. In the next step, you can pick the vehicle you want from the list. After filling out the personal information form, there is a step where you choose the payment method and fill in your credit card information. Finally, you can print out your voucher needed at pick-up time.
What are the charges for security deposits?
Every car rental has a security deposit policy. You will find the information about the security deposit while booking the vehicle or on your voucher.
What if I would like to change my booking?
If you need to change the booking you made through Orbit Car Hire. Don't hesitate to contact our customer support team at customerservice@orbitcarhire.com or by phone at +44 20 8089 0089. You can cancel your booking free of charge at least forty-eight hours before your rental is due to start. For further information, please read the Terms of Use.
How do I cancel my booking?
You can cancel your booking free of charge at least forty-eight hours before your rental is due to start. For further information, please read the Conditions of Use. Our customer service team will address your requests in due time:
- Phone:+44 20 8089 0089
- Email: customerservice@orbitcarhire.com
When do I pay for the rental car?
You pay a small deposit when making the booking as a guarantee. The remaining balance is paid when you pick up your rental vehicle. Please keep in mind that the payment at the counter is paid in local currency.
What is included in the price?
Most of the reservations made by Orbit Car Hire include unlimited mileage, local tax, mandatory fees, and collision damage waiver. In steps 1 and 2 in the booking process or on your voucher, you can see all the details about your booking inclusions.
Are there any hidden fees?
There are no hidden charges! All mandatory surcharges and fees are presented in the 3rd step of the booking process and our Terms and Conditions. Please note that additional charges may apply for some rentals in the case of:
- Out-of-hours surcharge (when picking up the vehicle outside of office hours),
- One-way fee (when returning the vehicle at a different location),
- The service charge for fuel (prepaid fuel policy),
- Young/senior driver fee (the car hire company sets this condition and is usually not about the regulation of the specific country),
- Excess and deposit amount (before hiring, you need to ensure your credit card limit is high enough for the deposit amount to be blocked, which usually equals the excess amount or higher).
We advise our clients to read the Terms and Conditions carefully before the rental to avoid surprises. Our knowledgeable customer service agents will gladly help you with any questions via phone, email, or live chat during our opening hours.
What is a voucher, and why do I need it?
A voucher is a document that confirms your booking, the price, and the payment of your booking. Having your voucher with you at the time of pick-up is mandatory. If you do not have the voucher at the pickup, the vehicle provider may refuse to release the vehicle to you or change the rental price.
What is an airport or premium location fee?
A Premium location/airport fee is a fee that covers the location service costs. This fee is usually included in the price but may still occur at some locations and is charged locally.
What is Premium Coverage, and how does it work?
Premium Coverage is an optional service by Orbit Car Hire that, if accepted, covers your financial accountability for damage or theft to the hired vehicle. This is not insured with a car hire company that reduces the excess amount, but a cover refunds you if the car hire company charges you for damage or theft. With this option, you will be reimbursed up to 3000 EUR. You can read the Terms and Conditions or contact us for more information.
How do I find cheap car hire online?
Prices vary frequently. Booking a car 3 to 8 weeks before your desired pick-up date is best - this will ensure you get the cheapest rental rate. Alternatively, it is also possible to find cheap last-minute car hire.
How many countries do you compare to?
We at Orbit Car Hire compare car hire prices in over 140 countries, including popular destinations within Europe such as Portugal, Spain, Turkey, Greece, Cyprus, Iceland, Croatia, Malta, France, Slovenia, and Germany.
What currency should I use to pay for the car?
You can pay the confirmation fee on Orbit's page in EUR, GBP, ISK and USD. When you pick up your car hire, you will pay the remaining balance in the currency of the pickup country.
Can I rent a car from inside the terminal?
You can hire a car from inside the terminal. When you compare our offers, you can filter "In Terminal" to see all the offers we have that are inside the terminal.
What is the cheapest car to rent?
The cheapest car to rent is the Fiat 500, Volkswagen Up and Fiat Panda.
Can I add a driver to my booking?
You can always add a driver to your booking when finding your car hire deal on Orbit Car Hire. If you have already made a booking, you can contact us to add the additional driver. You can also add a driver to your booking when you pick up the vehicle.
What payment methods are accepted?
You can pay with a debit and credit card when booking with Orbit Car Hire. We accept Mastercard and Visa.
Can I drop off my car at a different location?
Yes, you can. When you look for car hire deals on our webpage, you can press "Yes" to "Different drop-off location" and see all the best deals for one-way car hire.
How can I add a flight number to my booking?
You can add a flight number on our webpage when booking. If you already have a booking, email us at customerservice@orbitcarhire.com, and our customer service will add your flight number to the booking.
Do I have to pay for toll roads?
If you drive where toll roads are required, you are responsible for paying for the toll roads on which you drive the rental vehicle.
What does deductible mean?
If a rental car is damaged or even stolen while on rent, there will be a limit to how much the renter has to pay to repair or fix it. Excess (also known as deductible) is a name for the amount that has to be paid. This excess is different between countries and car rental companies in each country. Depending on the car rental company, this can include fire, vandalism, theft, or loss of use while the car is being repaired. You can read more about deductibles right here.
What is a Collision Damage Waiver?
Collision Damage Waiver, or CDW, is a basic car rental insurance offered to renters by a car company. CDW limits your financial liability in case of damages to the body of the hired vehicle with an excess. The driver is responsible for paying for the excess, but the car rental company waives the rest of the cost. This excess can be different between rent a car company.
What is Theft Protection?
Theft Protection is a car rental insurance that car rental companies offer. It protects the renter up to a certain amount from the risk of stealing the rental car or somebody trying to steal it. An excess, also known as a deductible, comes with each Theft Protection. This excess is the limit to what the renter would have to pay if the car is stolen or if somebody tries to steal it.
Which brands can I compare with Orbit?
With Orbit Car Hire, you can compare car hire with all the major car rentals like Europcar, Enterprise, Alamo, Sixt and Budget. You can also compare over 100 local companies from all over the world.
