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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)?
Santa Cruz, on Madeira Island, is a stunning location with picturesque coastlines, charming villages, and lush landscapes. While public transportation is available, renting a car gives you the freedom to explore every corner of this beautiful region at your own pace.
Explore Scenic Routes: Madeira's roads offer breathtaking views, and having a car allows you to stop whenever you wish to capture the perfect photo or simply soak in the scenery.
Access Remote Locations: Many of Madeira's hidden gems are not easily accessible by public transport. A rental car enables you to discover secluded beaches, hiking trails, and traditional villages off the beaten path.
Flexibility and Convenience: With a rental car, you can easily plan day trips to different parts of the island without being constrained by bus schedules or taxi availability.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Before renting a car in Santa Cruz, be aware of the standard terms. These typically include age restrictions, licensing requirements, insurance options, deposit policies, and fuel guidelines. Understanding these will ensure a smooth rental experience.
Area
Approximately 81.5 km²
Population
Approximately 43,000 residents
Time Zone
GMT+1 (Western European Time)
Ideal for
Short-term rental
Rush Hours
Expect moderate traffic during morning and late afternoon commutes
Rating
4.8/5
1. Age RequirementsMost rental companies in Santa Cruz require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Drivers under 25 may face additional surcharges.
2. Driver’s License & DocumentationA valid driver’s licence is mandatory. EU citizens can use their national licence, while others may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) alongside their original licence.
3. Insurance & DepositsBasic insurance is usually included, but consider additional coverage like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW). A security deposit is required, typically held on a credit card.
4. Mileage & Fuel PolicyUnlimited mileage is often offered, but check the policy. Full-to-full fuel policy is common, requiring you to return the car with a full tank.
5. Additional FeesExtra costs may apply for additional drivers, child seats, GPS navigation, or out-of-hours pick-up/drop-off.
Car Rental Prices in Santa Cruz (Madeira Island) – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £35 / $44 / €42 per day
Electric:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
Classic:
from £9 / $11 / €10 per day
Executive:
from £26 / $33 / €31 per day
7 Seater:
from £29 / $37 / €35 per day
Automatic:
from £17 / $21 / €20 per day
SUV:
from £10 / $13 / €12 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Sees higher demand, with prices increasing by 20-30%
Low season (November to February): Often come with discounts
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)?
To book a car in Santa Cruz, compare prices, select the right vehicle, understand rental terms, book in advance, and ensure you have the necessary documents for pickup.
1. Compare Prices - Use comparison websites to find the best deals from various rental companies.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your travel needs, considering size and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Read the rental agreement carefully, paying attention to mileage, insurance, and cancellation policies.
4. Book in Advance - Booking early, especially during peak season, can help you secure better rates and vehicle availability.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Present your driver's licence, passport, and credit card at the rental desk to collect your vehicle.
General Information About Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Santa Cruz, Madeira, combines natural beauty with local charm. Exploring by car offers flexibility, though drivers should be aware of local traffic regulations, parking options, and fuel availability.
As part of the Madeira archipelago, Santa Cruz offers visitors a blend of scenic landscapes and cultural attractions. Renting a car can enhance your travel experience, allowing you to explore beyond the town centre. However, it's essential to familiarise yourself with local driving conditions, parking rules, and access to fuel stations to ensure a smooth and enjoyable visit.
Top Attractions to Discover
Madeira Airport
Known for its unique bridge-supported runway, it's a remarkable feat of engineering.
Santa Cruz Beach
A popular spot for swimming and sunbathing, offering clear waters and a relaxing atmosphere.
Aqua Park Santa Cruz
A fun water park for families, featuring slides, pools, and various attractions.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Available in the town centre and near popular attractions, offering secure parking options.
On-Street Parking
Metered parking spaces are available, but be mindful of time limits and local regulations.
Park & Ride
Some facilities offer park-and-ride services to reduce traffic in the central areas.
Gas Stations in Santa Cruz
Local Stations
Several fuel stations are located throughout Santa Cruz and along major roads.
Major Brands
Look for well-known brands offering various fuel types and services.
Navigation Apps
Use navigation apps to locate nearby gas stations in real-time.
Useful Tips for Visiting Santa Cruz
Drive Carefully
Be mindful of narrow roads and steep inclines, especially in rural areas.
Watch for Pedestrians
Pay attention to pedestrian crossings, especially in town centres.
Plan for Traffic
Allow extra travel time during peak hours to avoid delays.
Use GPS
A GPS device or smartphone app can be very helpful for navigating the island.
Key Transportation Hubs in Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)
Major Bus Stations
Santa Cruz Bus Terminal
Serves as the central hub for local bus routes throughout the municipality.
Airports
Cristiano Ronaldo Madeira International Airport (FNC)
Located in Santa Cruz, it serves both domestic and international flights, connecting Madeira to various destinations.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Santa Cruz (Madeira Island)?
Renting a car in Santa Cruz is a relatively straightforward process, but there are several requirements that you need to be aware of before you can drive off. Here's what you'll typically need
Ensure your driver's licence is valid in Madeira. EU licences are generally accepted, while others may require an International Driving Permit (IDP).
Most car rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old. Additional fees may apply for younger drivers.
You'll need a credit or debit card in your name to pay for the rental and cover the security deposit.
A passport or other form of official identification is usually required, especially for non-residents.
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Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Santa Cruz (Madeira Island) as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Madeira's Santa Cruz was stunning this summer! Getting around was a breeze thanks to our rental car, allowing us to discover hidden gems and enjoy the breathtaking coastal drives. Highly recommend!
Sarah Jones
Reviewed: 16.10.2024
Absolutely loved Santa Cruz! Exploring the island by car was effortless and the scenery was unforgettable.
Chloe Davis
Reviewed: 22.07.2025
Santa Cruz was breathtaking! Having a car made exploring so easy; the views were incredible.
Evelyn Garcia
Reviewed: 26.03.2025
Heard so much about Santa Cruz, Madeira, and it lived up to the hype! Exploring with a car was perfect. The only downside was the surprisingly limited selection at the local bakery.
Liam Miller
Reviewed: 09.08.2025
Pretty chill vibe.
Jessica Wilson
Reviewed: 11.11.2024
Relaxing, good drive.
David Lee
Reviewed: 20.11.2024
Santa Cruz exceeded expectations! So glad we rented a car; exploring was effortless and the views were incredible.
Amelia Hernandez
Reviewed: 13.01.2025
Peaceful, car helpful.
Oliver Brown
Reviewed: 08.10.2024
Santa Cruz was charming; renting a car made exploring easy. The local bakery, though, had limited pastry choices.
Ava Martinez
Reviewed: 10.12.2024
Santa Cruz was a delightful stop on our Madeira road trip. Having a car made getting around so easy, and the scenery was simply gorgeous. Highly recommend!
Benjamin Taylor
Reviewed: 10.11.2024
Summer in Santa Cruz was perfect! Having a car made exploring so easy and convenient.
Isabelle Schmidt
Reviewed: 24.09.2024
Okay, but kinda dead.
Mike Smith
Reviewed: 19.05.2025