The Ultimate Guide to Driving in Madeira
With 150+ tunnels and gradients up to 30%, Madeira offers a unique driving experience. We help you navigate it safely and with confidence.
Overview of Madeira's Roads
Madeira has undergone a massive infrastructure transformation over the last 20 years. What used to be a full-day journey around the island now takes less than 4 hours thanks to the Via Rápida (VR1) and Via Expresso (VE) networks.
However, "Local Madeira" still lives on steep hills and in narrow valleys. To see the best viewpoints and reach the famous levada trailheads, you will need to venture off the highways.
Road Types & Difficulty Ratings
Expressways (VR1/VE)
Modern highways with 150+ tunnels. 80% of your driving will be here.
- Speed limit 80-100 km/h
- Well-lit tunnels throughout (lights on mandatory)
- Clear signage in Portuguese/English
- Rest areas with fuel stations
Coastal Roads
Scenic routes along the coast. Some narrow sections but generally safe.
- Watch for sharp turns
- Pull over at viewpoints safely
- Give way to uphill traffic
- Beware of rockfall zones
Mountain Roads
Steep gradients up to 30%. Hairpin turns common.
- Use low gears (1st/2nd) uphill
- Engine brake on descents to avoid brake fade
- Honk at blind corners if narrow
- Automatic transmission highly recommended
Old Coastal (ER101)
Historic route, very narrow. Not for inexperienced drivers.
- Single lane in many places
- Sheer drops without barriers
- Reversing often required to allow others to pass
- Buses and trucks always have priority
The Tunnel Network
Madeira is often called the "Swiss Cheese Island" because of its 150+ tunnels. These are modern, well-maintained, and significantly safer than the old coastal cliff roads they replaced.
Tunnel Etiquette
- Lights On: Even if your car has "Auto" lights, ensure they are on.
- Radio: Most local radio stations provide coverage inside the main tunnels.
- Distance: Maintain a safe following distance; braking in tunnels can be sudden.
Mountain Driving Tips
If you plan to visit Pico do Arieiro, Curral das Freiras, or the North Coast, you'll encounter steep gradients.
- Engine Braking: On long descents, shift to a lower gear (even in an automatic) to allow the engine to slow the car. This prevents your brakes from overheating.
- The Honk Rule: On extremely narrow single-lane mountain roads with blind corners, a short "toot" of the horn is a standard local signal to alert oncoming traffic.
- Uphill Priority: On narrow hills, the car going uphill has priority. It's much harder for them to restart on a steep incline.
Parking Secrets
Parking in Funchal can be the most stressful part of your trip.
- Avoid the Street: Funchal street parking is cheap but spaces are tiny and often on hills.
- Best Garages: Marina Shopping, Almirante Reis (near the cable car), and La Vie.
- The Blue Line: Always pay at the machine for blue line spaces. Fines are frequent.
Related Guides
Frequently Asked Questions
Is driving in Madeira difficult?
Main expressways (VR1/VE) are modern and easy. However, mountain roads and Funchal's side streets are very steep and narrow. If you're used to flat roads, we recommend an automatic car and sticking to the main highways until you feel confident.
Do I need a 4x4 for Madeira?
No, a 4x4 is not necessary for 99% of tourists. All major sights and trailheads are accessible via paved roads. A compact car with a decent engine (90hp+) is better for the narrow village streets.
How are the tunnels in Madeira?
Madeira has over 150 tunnels. They are modern, well-lit, and make traveling across the island very fast. Headlights are mandatory in all tunnels.
Is parking hard in Funchal?
Yes, street parking is very limited and narrow. We recommend using one of the large underground garages like Marina Shopping or Parque Santa Catarina. Blue lines mean paid parking.