Is There Uber In Madeira In 2024? No, But Here Are Alternatives

Are you planning a trip and wondering if Uber is in Madeira?

Well, then, you’ve come to the perfect place! I have visited Madeira and have developed a complete guide to Uber in Madeira.

Madeira is a Portuguese island off the coast of Africa widely visited for its jaw-dropping, diverse landscape. There are so many activities to do that you just might need more than one trip to see it all!

But you’re probably wondering how the transportation works on the island so that you can reach the incredible destinations, right?

It’s no wonder that travelers often ask, “Is there Uber in Madeira?” before a visit.

The rideshare app is becoming an industry leader in certain parts of the world thanks to its convenience.

When planning my trip to Madeira, I didn’t know whether Uber operated on the island. I’ve traveled around other cities in Portugal, such as Porto, where Uber does work.

After an unforgettable journey to Madeira and seeing its stunning viewpoints and nature offerings, I’m finally ready to address this question in depth.

Now, here’s a complete guide to Uber in Madeira.

Is There Uber in Madeira?

To get straight to the point, the answer is no. Uber does not have operations in Madeira.

Uber was available on the island in previous years, but unfortunately, that is no longer true. Even though you can’t use Uber, this post will explain the other options available to get you around Madeira.

Why Is There No Uber in Madeira?

The rideshare app’s operations ended in 2021 following regulations restricting the number of TVDE vehicles allowed on the island. In Portugal, TVDE vehicles are those like Uber and Bolt, where passengers can order a ride from an online platform.

The restriction was set at only 40 TVDE vehicles out of all operators! Due to this, Uber could not provide a feasible supply around Madeira and chose to suspend their operations. They had only been in Madeira since 2019.

Since then, no reports of the company returning to Madeira have been made. However, if the regional government does make changes, there’s a chance you could see a comeback in the future.

Luckily, other transportation methods will allow you to explore Madeira’s beautiful landscape and activities.

But to answer the question, “Is there Uber in Madeira?” no, there isn’t.

What Is The Uber Equivalent In Madeira?

If you depend on using a ridesharing app while in Madeira, you’re still in some luck. There is only one service provider in Madeira that is similar to Uber: Bolt.

As mentioned, Bolt is the only equivalent to Uber due to the government regulations that limit the number of TVDE vehicles allowed in Madeira. The app also has operations across Portugal, including Lisbon.

Bolt is very similar to Uber and allows you to order a ride to a destination with the ease of an app. It provides convenience and lower fares than a traditional taxi.

The fare is also given upfront, so you’ll know the full cost before entering the car. In addition, you can pay by credit card using the app. You can also order a taxi through the app if you wish.

However, note that the 2021 regulation restricts Bolt to only operating 40 cars across the island! Madeira is a tropical island that sees tourists at all times of the year. Given that, you may be waiting a long time to connect with a driver to reach your destination.

There may also be some days when there are little to no Bolt drivers circulating the island. Due to this, it’s best not to depend on Bolt as your main method of transportation.

Another drawback is that the Bolt cars mainly offer rides within the capital city, Funchal. While you can find someone willing to take you outside the city, ordering one back to Funchal will be difficult.

Despite the drawbacks, Bolt offers a convenient way to get around Madeira when available, so download it if you want to use a ridesharing service.

How Do I Get Around Madeira?

Don’t worry; even though ridesharing apps are not the norm for getting around Madeira, other transportation options are available! Thankfully, they also can meet the needs of various budgets.

Here are the main transportation options in Madeira:

Taxis in Madeira

When organizing your transportation logistics, one of the initial factors is whether you prefer self-driving or having someone else do this task.

Fortunately, there are several options available if driving isn’t your preference. Taxis are a great option since there is no Uber in Madeira.

Moreover, taxis are plentiful on the island and can transport you to most destinations.

👉TRAVEL TIP: Taxis are only permitted to carry four people. If you have more in your group, you must order another one.

How Can I Find a Taxi in Madeira?

Finding a taxi in Madeira is relatively easy across the island. You can hail one directly in the street, visit a taxi stand, or use the Bolt app to request one.

In Funchal, taxis are everywhere; you should not have difficulty finding one. If you are staying at a hotel, the receptionist should also be able to order a taxi for you.

What are Madeira Taxi Prices?

The cost of your taxi fare in Madeira will depend on the length of your ride and the time you request it.

Fares from the airport to Funchal are more fixed and should cost €30 ($32) from 5:00- 0:00 and €40 ($43) at night 0:00- 5:00.

While in Funchal, taxi rates start with the following base fares:

	Base Fare 6:00-21:00	Base Fare 21:00- 6:00
Weekdays	€3.00	€4.00
Weekend	€3.60	€4.80

The price per kilometer following the base fare is then €.47 on weekdays and €.56 on weekends.

Buses in Madeira

In Madeira, buses are the sole public transportation choice and, consequently, the lowest-cost option. As a result, they represent an optimal choice for budget travelers and are a reliable and safe way to get around.

Four operators run the buses in Madeira: Horários do Funchal, EACL, SAM, and Rodoeste. They cover various destinations across the island.

Just note that if you only use the bus, there are many potential viewpoints, levadas, and other remote attractions they will not take you to.

Operator	Transportation Area	Timetable
Horários do Funchal	Funchal Area, Camacha, Câmara de Lobos, Ribeiro Frio, Santana	Here
EACL	Caniço and other eastern areas	Here
SAM	Faial, Machico, Madeira Airport, Santa Cruz, Santo da Serra	Here
Rodoeste	Ponto do Sol, Porto Moniz, São Vicente, and other western areas	Here

What are Madeira Bus Prices?

Bus prices differ among different operators. Below are the prices for basic fares:

• Horários do Funchal (Urban): €1.95 for single-trip, €4.50 for a one-day pass
• Horários do Funchal (Interurban): Between €1.30-6.00 depending on the zone
• EACL: €1.30 for single-trip and €2.20 round-trip in Funchal zone, €0.85 for single-trip and €1.30 round-trip in Caniço zone
• SAM: Single-trip between €1.30-4.00 and round-trip between €2.50-7.20 depending on route
• Rodoeste: Single-trip between €1.30-6.00 depending on the zone

👉TRAVEL TIP: You can only purchase bus tickets with cash. Make sure you don’t only have your card!

Rental Cars in Madeira

If flexibility is what you’re after, renting a vehicle is your best bet! This is also the most popular way for tourists to get around Madeira.

With a rental car, you can explore your destinations without worrying about finding a taxi or catching the bus on time. Get ready to visit every Miradouro (viewpoint), levada, and fascinating area you want!

👉TRAVEL TIP: U.S. citizens only need to get their International Driving Permit (IDP) if they are staying longer than six months in Portugal.

I rely on Discover Cars for booking rental vehicles, as they offer selections from both international and domestic companies. They were the perfect choice for when I was in Madeira.

Where Can I Rent a Car in Madeira?

The Madeira Cristiano Ronaldo Airport is the most favorable option for picking up your rental car. You can easily book your rental vehicle through the Discover Cars platform.

Even if your rental agency does not have an office at the airport, they most likely offer a shuttle to pick you up and take you directly to your vehicle.

If you cannot get your vehicle at the airport, there are rental car offices all over the island. Funchal comes in second in being the best place to get a rental car.

Alternatively, if you prefer not to rent a car, you can hire an ATV, scooter, or buggy at numerous rental shops across the island.

➡️Book your rental through Discover Cars for the best rates!

What Are Madeira’s Car Rental Prices?

The cost of renting a vehicle can vary depending on whether you’re visiting during the off-peak or peak season and the type of vehicle you choose.

During the low season, daily car rates typically range from €15-90+ ($16-97+). However, as expected, the higher demand in peak season results in higher rates, with rental cars costing around €25-100+ ($27-108+) per day.

Booking your rental car in advance can assure that you’ll get your preferred car and a lower rate.

Transfers in Madeira

Transfers offer a fantastic, hassle-free option for reaching your accommodation from the airport. It can also ensure a safe journey to destinations in popular areas such as Funchal, Santa Cruz, and Caniço.

I suggest using this private transfer from the Madiera airport, which holds an impressive 5-star rating on Viator.

➡️For a stress-free journey, book this Premium Airport Transfer.

What Is the Best Way to Get Around Madeira?

The best way to get around Madeira will ultimately depend on personal preferences and how much you’re willing to spend.

Whether you prefer public transit, self-driving, or hiring a driver, various choices are available to suit your needs!

Renting a vehicle is the best option to get the most flexibility for exploring the island. This guarantees you can reach every viewpoint, hike, and other activity planned for your trip.

You can select from various vehicles, such as cars, off-road vehicles, ATVs, and more options.

On the other hand, if you’re aiming for the least expensive choice, taking the bus is your best bet. Just remember that the buses cannot reach all the tourist attractions around Madeira. Given that, you may miss out on some activities.

FAQs: Is There Uber in Madeira?

I hope this information helps you know that although Madeira does not have Uber, other options exist for getting around the island.

Next, I’ll answer some frequently asked questions related to the question, “Is there Uber in Madeira?”

How much is a taxi from Madeira Airport to Funchal?

On average, you can expect the fare to be around €30 ($32) from 5:00- 0:00 and €40 ($43) at night 0:00- 5:00 for a one-way trip from Madeira Airport to Funchal.

The trip from the airport to Funchal is around 20-30 minutes. Taxis should be plentiful when you arrive at the airport to reach the capital.

Does Uber Work in Funchal?

Unfortunately, if you plan to use Uber in Funchal, the rideshare has no operations in Madeira. As of late, there are no plans to reintroduce Uber in Funchal either.

This is due to regulations in 2021 that limit the number of TVDE vehicles on the island. Bolt is the most similar service to Uber, but wait times can be long due to limited drivers available.

Is There Uber in Madeira Airport?

No, Uber is unavailable at Madeira Airport. The rideshare app is not allowed to operate in Madeira due to regulations.

To reach your destinations from the Madeira Airport, you can order a taxi or bus or use Bolt as an alternative.

Can I Use My Uber App in Portugal?

The regulations restricting Uber in Madeira do not apply to all of Portugal! Yes, you can use your Uber app in Lisbon and other destinations in Portugal.

The full list of Portugal cities where Uber is available can be found here.

Uber offers a safe and reliable way to get around your destinations. Its prices are often lower than traditional taxis, too.

Can You Hire a Driver in Madeira?

Yes, hiring a driver in Madeira is possible and a convenient option if you seek personalized transportation services.

However, hiring a driver will be expensive in Madeira. It is recommended to either hire a rental car or use public transportation instead.

What Travel Insurance Should I Get for Madeira?

You should always purchase travel insurance ahead of a trip. It’s better to be safe than sorry!

Safety Wing offers excellent plans tailored for nomads embarking on their travels. They offer medical and travel insurance coverage to prevent disruptions during your trip.

➡️For ease of mind, I recommend Safety Wing Travel Insurance

To Sum Up: Is There Uber in Madeira?

So, is there Uber in Madeira? No, unfortunately, if you were planning to use Uber on Madeira, it doesn’t have operations on the island.

However, there are alternative ways to get around Madeira. If you’re looking for the closest option to Uber, you can go with Bolt.

Just note that Bolt is limited to 40 cars to assist everyone on the island. As a result, the wait times for Bolt can be long, and some days, very few drivers are even available.

Madeira benefits from having a reliable bus system that has routes across the island. However, the buses miss a lot of unique Miradouros and levadas for example, so if you have a lot of bucket list items to see, it’s not the best option.

Renting a car is the most popular option for getting around Madeira. This way, you can see every place that you have on your list and enjoy the island to the fullest!

Enjoy your time getting around all the gems in Madeira!