Car Rental Funchal
Funchal is the capital of one of the autonomous regions of Portugal, the Pearl of the Atlantic. Funchal was founded in 1421 by Joao Gonçalves Zarco, the colonizer of the archipelago. But it was not until later, with the construction of its port, that the city became the economic and political epicenter of the island. Beginning in the 17th and 18th centuries, it attracted merchants, sailors, and pirates who stopped off on their journey to the Indies. Even more so after the agreements between Portugal and England were signed. However, this commercial and maritime hub gave way in the following years to nobles and international personalities who fell in love with the island and chose it as a refuge. It doesn't matter whether you are perched on its nearby peaks or viewing its magnificent bay from the sea on a boat; the colorful capital always appears welcoming and boastful in the eyes of the traveler.
With more than 110,000 inhabitants and very picturesque neighborhoods steeped in history, you have much to see and experience in Funchal. Despite not being a large city, Funchal has many places to discover. But the good thing is that, except for a few corners, most visits are concentrated in the lower part of the city. Make your car rental reservation in Funchal and discover its monuments, fortresses, gardens, and historic neighborhoods. Drive to its surroundings to explore magnificent shores, splendid vistas, and lush greenery. Imperial Car Rental has you covered in Funchal!
Car Hire Funchal
One of the island's most beautiful areas, Funchal is built amphitheatrically inside a lush valley and surrounded by slopes and cliffs. Despite its size, it has a curious relief that offers many interesting viewpoints and observation decks. Furthermore, Funchal is full of gardens and parks, monuments, and fortresses that date back to the time of explorers. When wandering around its old town, you will come across the cobblestone streets with mosaics that are authentic works of art. The aromas of the sea and tropical fruit intermingle with the sounds of fado and the winds that come from the nearby cliffs. A good starting point for discovering the city of Funchal is its zona velha. It is especially interesting to walk along Rua de Santa María, where the majority of the doors of the houses and shops are painted with authentic works of art, the famous Portas Abertas.
Mercado dos Lavradores is a traditional market located in the historic center of Funchal, which is full of stalls selling fruits, vegetables, flowers, and souvenirs, among others, distributed over two floors. A must-do activity is riding the Funchal Cable Car. It connects the lower part of the city with Monte, the hill that extends upwards. A route of almost 4 kilometers, with a gradient of 560 meters, which is covered in just over 15 minutes. Things to do and see in Funchal are endless, and if you want to visit its surrounding beaches and forest areas, then car hire is your go-to choice. Browse our website, find the car that suits you best, and make your reservation in four easy steps. And there is no need to worry about deposits or credit card prepayment; we make your driving experience flawless and flexible!
Rental Car Funchal
The Forte de São Tiago is perched above the Bay of Funchal, with its bright yellow color overlooking the bay. The Fort of São Tiago was built at the beginning of the 17th century as a defensive bastion against the constant attacks of pirates. Today, it houses the Museum of Contemporary Art, and there is also a restaurant where you can dine, offering spectacular views. The ideal miradouro in Funchal to enjoy breathtaking views and take photographs is the Pico dos Barcelos viewpoint. This observation deck offers amazing vistas of Funchal and the surrounding valley. Besides being a popular spot for panoramic views, this viewpoint also features picnic areas and hiking trails, making it an ideal destination for enjoying nature and relaxing outdoors. The seaside promenade Câmara de Lobos is another unique spot in Funchal where you can enjoy leisure walks, cycling, and marveling at the sunset. The nearby beaches of Praia de Vigário and Fajã dos Padres Beach are ideal for those who want to be away from the crowds and enjoy the rugged natural scenery of Funchal.
Rent a Car Funchal Aeroporto
Funchal Airport is situated in Santa Cruz, a 20-minute drive away from Funchal. Funchal Airport is the main airport on the island, serving as a major transportation hub for both passenger and cargo transportation. It is constructed on stilts and perched between the high cliffs and mountains of the island's east coast. Funchal Airport is a small airport with only one passenger terminal which is located largely underground. It features 16 boarding gates and 40 check-in counters and has an annual passenger capacity of approximately 4 million. In 2016, Funchal Airport benefited from improvements and developments by ANA Aeroportos de Portugal for the design and optimization of its facilities and areas. Funchal Airport opened its 1.800 square meter commercial gallery in 2016, and it now has a fully modern and optimized shopping and duty-free area. The airport's refurbishment made it possible to maximize available space and provide customers with a greater range of services. Remodeled check-in counters, redesigned passenger screening areas, new departure gates, and border control sections were among the further upgrades. Funchal Airport is now fully operational and contemporary to meet the passengers' needs. Rent a car from Funchal Airport and discover Funchal’s sightseeing options from the comfort of your Imperial car!