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Car rental in Santa Cruz
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Car rental in
Santa Cruz

4.5
Our customers love us
4.5 stars from 4,096 reviews in Santa Cruz.
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Our top branches in Santa Cruz

4.5
Madeira Funchal Airport
24h Return
Madeira Airport
9100-105 Santa Cruz
Portugal
Read more about Madeira Funchal Airport

Our services at Santa Cruz

SIXT Car rental in Santa Cruz

A car rental in Santa Cruz with SIXT allows you to experience Madeira’s natural beauty in premium comfort. Our fleet offers top-quality vehicles suited for exploring everything from scenic coastal roads to lush mountain landscapes. Enjoy our flexible rental periods, whether you need a car for a quick weekend getaway, an extended family holiday, or even a long-term car rental solution. With convenient pick-up locations, such as near Madeira Funchal Airport (FNC), and options to rebook anytime, your journey can start with ease. SIXT also provides English-speaking agents and budget-friendly rates, so you can drive premium, pay economy without compromise.

Driving Tips for Santa Cruz

Enhance your Santa Cruz car rental experience with these practical tips:

  • Parking options: Free and paid parking is available near the main attractions, including Praia das Palmeiras. Your best bet may be designated parking areas near beaches and main attractions. Street parking can be limited during peak hours.
  • Mountain driving: Be prepared for steep inclines and sharp turns when venturing into Madeira’s interior. A sedan or SUV will help you explore these beautiful yet challenging routes.
  • Weather changes: Madeira’s coastal and mountain weather can change quickly. Keep an eye on forecasts and plan accordingly, as roads can become slippery in the rain.
  • Traffic rules: Observe local speed limits—50 km/h in towns and 90 km/h on main roads. Always keep an eye out for signs and other drivers on narrow streets.
  • Pedestrian zones: Santa Cruz's charming town center includes pedestrianized areas. Park nearby and enjoy a leisurely walk to explore shops and eateries.
  • Navigating tunnels: Madeira’s impressive tunnel system connects towns like Santa Cruz. Keep headlights on and maintain consistent speed when driving through.

Best places to visit in and around Santa Cruz

With a car rental in Santa Cruz, you can easily explore the best destinations in and around this charming coastal town.

  • Praia das Palmeiras: Relax at this scenic beach with its natural swimming pools, perfect for enjoying a sunny day. Get there early to take advantage of the convenient parking nearby.
  • Pico do Facho: Take your rental car from Santa Cruz up to this stunning viewpoint for panoramic vistas of Madeira’s dramatic coastline. The route itself offers breathtaking sights, making it a memorable part of your journey.
  • Machico: Visit Madeira’s historical first settlement, where you’ll find a golden-sand beach, cozy cafes, and a relaxed coastal atmosphere, all accessible at your own pace, in your own time.

From beaches to mountains, the area offers plenty to explore. A SIXT car rental in Santa Cruz gives you the flexibility to enjoy every corner of Santa Cruz and its surroundings, creating your own personalized and memorable adventure.

Customer reviews & feedback

4.5
4.4542804
Based on 4096 reviews
from our Customer Excitement Score survey*

What our customers are saying

4.7
Vehicle handover
4.6
Vehicle return
4.6
The way to SIXT
A.
5.0
Thanks to Laura 🙂
Mariel O.
5.0
Alfonso was very friendly and quick for checking out the car. pickup by the airport had signage which other rental spots don't have. I appreciated their trust and concern for tourists. Madeira roads are epic and sort of dangerous so a good car for the island needs to be well maintained, small and handle the tight parking garages.
Isabella S.
5.0
This was our first time renting a car abroad, and we are considered ‘young drivers’. We were going in circles with who to book with as all the reviews for car rental in Madeira are very poor, and those that aren’t are extremely expensive. Booked through Indigo Cars which meant we could hire with a debit rather than credit card, and was pleasantly surprised by the ease and friendliness of the service for a great price. Easy pickup directly from airport, and free of charge change to slightly later drop off after realising bag check in times. No scamming for extra purchases or invisible damage, a surprisingly honest car rental company. I would recommend to anyone looking to hire a car in Madeira.

*Our Customer Excitement Score is based on a survey sent to all customers who booked in Santa Cruz. The score is an average of all customer responses.

Good to know when renting in Santa Cruz

What's the minimum age to rent a car in Santa Cruz?
To rent a car with SIXT in Santa Cruz you need to be at least 18 with a valid license. Some car categories have a higher minimum rental age, and an underage driver fee may apply.
Can I modify, extend, or cancel my reservation?
You can modify, extend, or cancel your reservation in Santa Cruz through your manage booking section or through the app.
Can I choose a different drop-off location in Santa Cruz?
It is possible to rent a car one way between stations for pick-ups in Santa Cruz. A fee may apply.
You need a valid driver’s license held for at least 1 year, depending on the car category. You might also need an International Driving Permit or official translation of the license.

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