Taxis, Uber and Bolt in Madeira
How taxis work in Madeira, typical fares, using Uber and Bolt, and when a taxi is the smartest way to reach a trailhead or a viewpoint.
Taxis are a practical part of getting around Madeira, especially for walks that start where no bus goes. Ride-hailing apps are an alternative in and around Funchal.
Taxis
Madeiran taxis are yellow, with a blue stripe on many cars. You find them at ranks in Funchal, at the airport, the cruise pier and in most town centres. You can also ask your hotel or a restaurant to call one.
- Short trips in Funchal are metered.
- For longer trips, many drivers agree a fixed price. Ask before you get in.
- Night, weekend and holiday surcharges apply, as well as a charge for large luggage.
- Most drivers in Funchal speak some English.
Taxis for walks and sightseeing
A taxi can drop you at the start of a linear walk and pick you up at the end, or take you around the island for a day. Agree the price, the route and the pick-up time clearly, and save the driver’s number. For popular walks such as Pico do Arieiro to Pico Ruivo, or Caldeirão Verde, this is often easier than driving and solves the parking problem.
Uber and Bolt
Both apps work in Madeira, mostly in and around Funchal, the airport and the south coast. In the far west and north, cars are fewer and waits can be long, so don’t rely on an app to get you back from a remote trailhead.
Tuk-tuks
Electric tuk-tuks offer short city tours and trips to viewpoints from the seafront and the cruise pier. They are fun for an hour, but are not a way to cross the island.
Tips
- Keep small notes for paying taxis; many take cards but not all.
- Rounding up the fare is a normal tip.
- In bad weather and on festival nights, book ahead or expect to wait.