Madeira Introduction

We chose to explore Madeira on a 125cc Scooter, and it’s definitely something we would recommend for experienced riders. In this blog we will answer how to rent a scooter in Madeira. From how it works, to what to expect riding around this stunning island. 

Madeira is a beautiful Portuguese island located in the Atlantic Ocean, off the northwest coast of Africa. Known for its dramatic mountains, lush forests, colourful flowers and warm year-round climate, it’s the perfect destination for both relaxation and adventure. We enjoyed hiking the famous levada trails, exploring charming towns like Funchal, and tasting the island’s famous Madeira wine and local cuisine.

We also have a post on Renting a Scooter in Portugal – Algarve Adventure if you are interested in seeing more scooter adventures. 

Renting a Scooter in Madeira

We thought it would be helpful to quickly let you know what our experience of getting a bike in Madeira was like and share the requirements in case you are considering it. This is based on our experience, so you should do your own research and speak to the rental company, but hopefully this helps you out. Also, please make sure that you are confident and qualified to ride! 

We rented a 125cc bike for a few days, which cost us £25 per day including helmets and a phone holder – a must for navigation around Madeira. We rented it from Rent-a-Scooter Madeira in the centre of Funchal which we would happily recommend. They were friendly, helpful and took the process seriously. When you rent the bike, take some photos or a video of any damage just to cover yourself. 

In Portugal we found you could rent a 125cc bike with a UK driving licence Category B if you are over 25. We also took an International Driving Permit (1968) as we already had it. You don’t usually need this in Portugal, but check with your rental company. If you have an A1 or above licence you will also be fine. 

Madeira Roads and Driving

The big topic in Madeira is the ‘crazy’ roads, and we had heard a few stories from friends that the roads were pretty scary. There’s also plenty of information online to back this up. It did concern us and we therefore decided if any journey felt unsafe we would turn around. This is our best advice, stay in your own comfort zone and put your safety first. 

The roads could be steep and windy at times, however they were well maintained and we found the overall driving experience to be fine and at times very enjoyable with the stunning scenery. There are also several highways, featuring many tunnels which avoid the steep, windy roads. 

The 125cc bike was just about powerful enough for the steepest slopes and was easy to navigate around the tight turns. If it’s your first time riding a bike, then Madeira is probably not the best place for you, but for experienced riders a scooter is a great option. 

The mountain roads can get very windy, and this is the only point we once turned around. Close to a viewpoint the strength of the wind felt unsafe to continue and it was an easy choice to change plans. 

Lastly, there are many petrol stations around Madeira, though these are typically in the towns and larger villages. If you are going off for a day of exploring, we recommend filling up first. There was one occasion we got a little low on fuel, but luckily we were heading downhill and got to a petrol station in time! 

Scooter Parking

Overall it was very easy to find parking spots for our scooter, both in Funchal and around the attractions. There was free parking usually available for scooters and we didn’t pay for parking once. 

There are some dedicated bike spaces available around the island. Blue spaces are charged, but white spaces (without a ‘M’) are free to use. We found you could also park sensibly where there were no markings / yellow lines. 

Our Madeira Scooter Adventure

We had an amazing few days exploring Madeira by scooter. We wanted to share the key spots we visited by bike to help you plan your Madeira adventure. We also have a post on Flat Hikes in Madeira if you want to explore more!

Miradouro Pico da Murta (Viewpoint)

There are several viewpoints located close together around here, on the way to PR17. It can be a slightly challenging ride towards the end, especially with the strong winds we experienced. However, the views are well worth it, and it was a spot we enjoyed resting at. 

Miradouro Água d’Alto and Miradouro do Véu da Noiva

On the drive to Seixal, there are several stunning waterfalls to stop off at. Miradouro Água d’Alto is located on the main road (VE2 / ER101) between Sao Vicente and Seixal. It’s a tall waterfall right at the entrance of a tunnel, with beautiful views over the coast on the other side. It’s easy to stop nearby, but can get busy. 

Miradouro do Véu da Noiva is located just 5 minutes further, right before Seixal and falls directly into the sea. There’s a great viewpoint to see this waterfall and to get some photos! 

Seixal

Seixal is one of Madeira’s most picturesque coastal villages, where dramatic cliffs meet the ocean. Famous for its natural pools and striking black sand beach, it’s the perfect place to slow down, take in the scenery, and experience the island’s wild, unspoiled beauty. The overall drive from Funchal is around 50 minutes and will mainly follow the main roads, going through many tunnels. The car park at Seixal can get busy, but having a bike meant free parking was easy to find. 

Praia Formosa

Praia Formosa is considered Funchal’s closest ‘proper’ beach, located just 15 minutes drive away. Again, free parking was easy to find just before the beach. We visited for sunset, and enjoyed a drink from one of the local beach bars. 

PR11 – Vereda dos Balcões

The next morning we started at PR11 – Vereda dos Balcões. This is a stunning view point reached via a short hike. It’s a popular option, so we recommend going before 10:00am to experience it with less crowds. Around a 40 minute drive from Funchal, with well maintained roads. The ride could be steep and windy but very enjoyable. Again, there was parking available, but it did get busy!

Ribeiro Frio Waterfall

Located very close to PR11 is Ribeiro Frio Waterfall. This is often overlooked, but it was a favourite spot for us, for a natural waterfall which was easy to reach. It was very quiet when we visited. When we arrived we were the only people, shortly joined by another couple. It made a scenic lunch spot, and if it had been a bit warmer in the morning, it would have made a perfect swimming spot. 

Levada da Serra do Faial

On the way back towards Funchal we stopped halfway at Levada da Serra do Faial. This is a quiet and easy Levada walk which might not be the most picturesque across Madeira, but it was definitely still very scenic and enjoyable. 

Cristo Rei

Perched high above Funchal, Cristo Rei is one of Madeira’s most peaceful viewpoints. This was another great spot, with fantastic views over the coast. Located around 20 minutes from Funchal, and with plenty of parking available. 

Praia do Garajal

Praia do Garajal was probably our favourite beach spot, located just below Cristo Rei around a 15-20 minute ride from Funchal. There is free parking, and the drive is pretty straightforward with a few routes available. 

The beach is quiet, and very stunning with dramatic cliffs and crystal clear water. It has one restaurant which also rents sunbeds for €5. The easiest access to the beach is by a direct cable car, costing €5 per person for the return journey. 

Madeira Final Thoughts

We hope this has helped answer how to rent a scooter in Madeira and if it’s the right choice for you. If you have experience riding, then it’s an amazing, affordable way to explore the Island. We really enjoyed our adventure, and were very happy we chose to see Madeira on a scooter. The roads can be a little ‘crazy’ so take some care and have an amazing time!