Navigating the island

Like a pro!

Rideshare & Car Rental

Bolt Rideshare

Madeira primarily uses Bolt (similar to Uber). We recommend downloading the Bolt app before arrival.

This app can be used all over the island, but while it is extremely reliable in the city, rides may be harder to find in remote locations, especially after hikes.

Car Rental

Madeira is very hilly, BUT parking spaces in Funchal are small and often do not comfortably fit SUVs. So if you plan to only stay around the capital city of Funchal and prefer renting a car we strongly recommend renting a smaller vehicle.

However, if you plan to drive around the island, particularly through the steep mountain roads, a 1.2L turbocharged engine (100+ horsepower) is generally recommended for comfort and safety, but not required.

Giro Bus Use

For guests staying in Funchal who don’t want to drive, the bus system is excellent but can be confusing.

Enter the Giro Card. It’s a rechargeable card they can buy at kiosks. It makes fares significantly cheaper than paying the driver in cash, and it’s valid for the “Horários do Funchal” (yellow buses) that cover the main city area.

Official Giro Ticket Website: https://madeira-by-bus.com/giro-ticket/

List of Locations to Purchase a Giro Ticket: https://siga.madeira.gov.pt/pontosvenda

Currency

Portugal uses the Euro (€). Credit cards are widely accepted, but some smaller local shops do not accept international credit cards. So we recommend carrying some Euros in cash for smaller cafés or shops.

Tipping Culture

Tipping is appreciated but not mandatory.

  • Restaurants: 5–10% for good service
  • Taxis/Bolt: Round up or add a few Euros
  • Bars/Cafés: Small change appreciated but not expected

Parking in Funchal

Parking at the wedding venue

If you are staying with us at Savoy Palace, there is an official hotel parking deck for guests here: R. Imperatriz Dona Amelia 92, São Martinho, 9004-542 Funchal, Portugal

Unfortunately, the parking lot is not free for guests.

Parking TO EXPLORE FUNCHAL

Parking in the capital city can be challenging and is almost never free in the city center. Parking garages are more expensive than street parking, but significantly easier to pay for, and to find spots.

By far the best parking garage to explore the capital, Funchal is by parking at Almirante Reis Car Park. It’s the most reliable and strategic base for sightseeing, located right next to the Old Town (Zona Velha) and the cable car station. Its address is: R. José da Silva “Saca” 1109, 9060-291 Funchal, Portugal

However, for street parking these are the “simple” rules:

White Lines: Free Parking Rules in Madeira

  • The Rule: Generally, white lines indicate free parking.
  • The Trap: Look for a large letter “M” painted on the ground or a sign saying “Moradores”. This means the spot is strictly for local residents only.
  • The Risk: Parking on a residential “M” spot can result in a 60€ fine.

Blue Lines: Paid Parking Zones (Zona Azul)

  • The Rule: Blue lines mean “Pay and Display”. You must find a nearby machine (parquímetro), pay for your time, and put the ticket on your dashboard.
  • Cost: Usually between 1.00€ and 2.00€ per hour in city centers like Funchal.
  • Hours: Typically paid Mon-Fri (8:00–20:00) and Sat (8:00–14:00). Sundays and holidays are usually free.

Yellow or Red Lines: Absolute NO

  • The Rule: Total prohibition of parking or stopping.
  • Location: Found near bus stops, intersections, and narrow tunnels.
  • The Risk: Your car will likely be towed or clamped very quickly.

Zig-Zag Lines: Loading Zones

  • The Rule: Reserved for loading and unloading (Cargas e Descargas). Do not park here even for a minute, as police are very strict about keeping these clear for local businesses.

How to Pay for Street Parking in Madeira

Paying for parking on the island is a mix of old-school methods and modern updates. Here is what you need to know to stay out of trouble:

  • Always Carry Coins: Many street ticket machines (parquímetros) in Madeira still only accept coins. Keep a stash of 0.50€, 1€, and 2€ coins in your car’s console. Most machines do not give change, so you’ll need the exact amount.
  • Card Payments: While street machines are hit-or-miss with cards, most large underground garages in Funchal accept all major credit and debit cards.
  • The Ticket Display: Once you pay at a street machine, it will spit out a paper ticket. You must place this clearly on your dashboard. Local wardens are very efficient—if they can’t see the time on your ticket, you might get a fine even if you paid.

There are apps (iParque) but they are extremely confusing. Even we have not really figured out how to use them, so it’s best to hold small coins.

If you are booking an Airbnb in Funchal, double-check if it comes with a dedicated parking spot. Be aware that many of these underground parking spots are small in size, best suited for sedans and compact cars.

Madeira Micro-Climates

Madeira is such a diverse landscape that regions of the island can be very different forecasts. It can be 77°F (25°C) and sunny in Funchal, but 50°F (10°C) and foggy in the mountains (like the Fanal Forest).

Webcam Use:

We encourage guests to check the “Madeira Weather” webcams (Netmadeira) before they head out for a day trip. It will let you see in real-time if the mountain peaks are clear or covered in clouds.

Designed by David Huang