20% of my clients have rented a car, however they choose to book a private tour with me so that they can sit back, and enjoy the view from a higher vantage point of a 4×4.
Most of the driving experiences are consistent: narrow roads, steep hills, and unique local habits can make it a nerve racking ordeal. Combine that with the desire to take pictures and videos, it is absolutely safer to leave the driving to someone else.
Driving is still one of the best ways to explore the island’s wild beauty, charming villages, and jaw-dropping coastal and mountain views, it’s good to know what to expect before taking the wheel.
Whether you’ve rented a car or are simply curious about the rules of the road, here’s your essential guide to driving in Madeira—featuring tips for roundabouts, steep climbs, and local driving etiquette.
🛣️ 1. Driving in Madeira: The basics
- Drive on the right-hand side of the road.
- Seatbelts are mandatory for all passengers.
- Using a phone while driving is illegal unless you have a hands-free device.
- Speed limits are generally:
- 50 km/h in towns
- 90–100 km/h on expressways (like the VR1)
- Always follow posted signs, as limits can vary.
- Drinking and driving is strictly prohibited: the legal blood alcohol limit is 0.5 g/l (lower than in many countries).
🔄 2. Roundabouts: Who goes first?
Roundabouts are common across Madeira, especially in Funchal and near major junctions.
Roundabout rules:
- Vehicles already inside the roundabout have priority.
- Use your right turn signal to exit, and indicate left if you’re going more than halfway around.
- If you’re not taking the first exit, you should generally enter the inner lane (left lane), and move to the outer lane (right) with your indicator as you prepare to exit.
- Don’t rush: locals are generally patient, but it’s important to signal clearly and yield as expected.
- Always check mirrors and blind spots before changing lanes inside the roundabout.
🧗♂️ 3. Steep hills: A daily reality
Madeira is a mountainous island, and you’ll quickly realize that steep climbs and hairpin turns are part of the daily drive—especially in smaller towns and rural areas.
Key tips:
- Use low gears when climbing or descending—this helps control your speed and reduces wear on brakes.
- Avoid stopping mid-hill unless absolutely necessary.
- As a rule of thumb: vehicles going downill have priority over those going upnhill. It’s both a courtesy and a practical necessity.
- Be cautious on blind corners: honk gently if visibility is poor (locals often do this).
- Manual transmission cars are common, so make sure you’re confident on hill starts if driving stick.
🚘 4. Parking & navigation
- Street parking in towns may be metered or limited by time—look for signs or markings.
- In villages, roadside parking is often informal but respectful. Don’t block driveways or narrow paths.
- Google Maps and Waze work well, but sometimes the quickest route involves hair-raising backroads—use discretion!
⚠️ 5. Local driving style
- Most Madeirans are careful and courteous drivers.
- Don’t be alarmed if someone passes you confidently on a narrow road—they know the terrain well.
- Flashing headlights may mean they’re giving way or warning of a tight spot ahead.
- On rural roads, don’t expect perfect signage. If in doubt, stop safely and ask—locals are usually happy to help.
🏞️ Final thoughts
Driving in Madeira might feel intimidating at first, but it quickly becomes one of the island’s great pleasures. With every winding road comes a new view, a hidden valley, or a seaside village waiting to be explored.
Just take it slow, respect the hills, and remember: the journey here is just as rewarding as the destination.