Madeira Without a Car

It is entirely possible — with buses, transfers and a few well-chosen tours.

By Madeira.Vacations · 6 min read · Last checked 30 July 2026

Funchal seafront and marina

Base yourself in Funchal

Everything within the city is walkable, and the Horários do Funchal network covers the south coast frequently. Rural routes are built around school and work times, not tourism.

Prices, opening hours and trail access change often. We last checked this on 30 July 2026 — confirm before you set off.

Use tours as transport

A guided levada walk or a west-coast jeep day is often cheaper than a rental car for that day, and removes the mountain driving entirely.

Airport and taxis

The Aerobus runs into Funchal, and a fixed-price private transfer is straightforward if you land late. Taxis are metered and reasonable for short hops.

Prices, opening hours and trail access change often. We last checked this on 30 July 2026 — confirm before you set off.

Do it guided

Tours that cover this

Booked through Viator — the price is the same as going direct.

Coastal road on Madeira leading towards Funchal
20–60 minutes Airport

Madeira Airport Private Transfer

Fixed-price private transfer between Cristiano Ronaldo Airport and your accommodation, day or night.

Open 4x4 jeep on a mountain track above green Madeiran valleys
Full day Island-wide pickup

West Madeira 4x4 Tour

Paúl da Serra plateau, Fanal's twisted laurel trees and the north-west coast road, in a small open jeep with a local driver.

Levada footpath winding through misty Madeiran laurel forest
6 hours Rabaçal

Levada das 25 Fontes Guided Walk

The island's best-known levada walk through the Rabaçal valley to a waterfall amphitheatre, with transfers and a guide who knows the shortcuts.

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