How to find a cheap car hire deal in Santa Cruz
Make your move with a cheap rental car in Santa Cruz. With prices averaging $338 a day, it's travel freedom that doesn't cost a fortune. From no-frills city cars to big-capacity SUVs, we'll help you find the right wheels at a price that works.
December is the cheapest month to rent a car in Santa Cruz. With average daily rates of $55, you can keep your spending in low gear.
Snap up a cheap rental car in Santa Cruz by booking in advance. You're more likely to grab the best car at the best price, simple as that.
Sort out your rental with driving madeira rent a car. This popular provider has some of the best car hire deals in Santa Cruz.
Always check if a collision damage waiver (CDW) is part of your Santa Cruz car hire policy, whether with driving madeira rent a car or another supplier. Some may charge separately for it instead of including it in the base rental.
Look into booking a one-way rental. You might be able to land a bargain if the provider needs to move cars between branches. Find the best available rates for a car for rent in Santa Cruz by clicking 'Return car to a different location.'
Search for a vehicle with a 'Fair fuel policy.' You'll pick up and drop off your car hire in Santa Cruz with a full tank, so you're only paying for what you use. No surprise fuel add-ons when you hand back the keys either.
Hit the road without tracking every mile and racking up additional fees. Go to the 'Policies' filter and pick 'Unlimited mileage' to find a car that lets you explore further.
Compare car hire types in Santa Cruz
Small: These cheap rental cars in Santa Cruz may be small in size, but they're big where it counts. Including mini and economy vehicles, they're agile, light on fuel, and just the thing for city driving.
Medium: A top choice when you want something that's easy to manoeuvre but with a few more features. This category covers compact and intermediate models that offer a little extra leg room compared to smaller options.
Large: Offering a more comfortable driving experience and improved tech features, this Santa Cruz car hire option includes full-size cars. With larger back seats and plenty of storage space, they let you load up and and take everyone, and everything, with ease.
SUV: SUVs are your four-wheel ticket to adventure. All-wheel drive and everyday versatility equip them for city streets and scenic routes alike.
Van: With options like commercial vans and trucks, this category of car for rent in Santa Cruz handles big loads and group travel with ease. They're spacious, functional, and ready to take on any task.
Insurance and optional extras
Excess insurance covers what you'd otherwise have to pay if your Santa Cruz car hire is damaged or stolen. While not mandatory, it can be a real lifesaver if something goes wrong. Just remember that not all insurance policies are equal, so make sure you know exactly what's offered.
Level up your ride with handy extras like a reverse camera and GPS unit. These features can turn your drive into a smoother experience when you rent a car in Santa Cruz.
Good to know
You generally have to be at least 21 years old to rent a vehicle in Portugal. Younger drivers aren't always turned away — just be prepared for extra fees or rules. Check the companies' terms and conditions before you book.
If the kids are coming with you, find out if you need to add a car seat to your Santa Cruz car hire reservation. Whether local laws require them or not, they're always the safest way for little ones to travel.
Hit the road: Where to drive from Santa Cruz
Line up a car hire deal in Santa Cruz and then get ready to discover the city's leading attractions, like Praia Santa Cruz and Madre d'Água waterfall. Driving may not necessarily be the best way to reach them, but you'll want to check out these highlights before you go anywhere else.
When you're ready to rest your head, Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel and Quinta Funchal Gardens - Adults Only will help you feel right at home in Santa Cruz.
Câmara de Lobos should be on your to-do list if you're eager to visit Madeira Portugal and Teleférico das Fajãs do Cabo Girão. This city is around 16 kilometres west of central Santa Cruz.
You'll be well looked after at Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel and Quinta Funchal Gardens - Adults Only, two accommodation options in Câmara de Lobos.
Or collect your cheap car hire in Santa Cruz and then head out to São Martinho. About 14 kilometres west of Santa Cruz, Levada and Funchal City Centre are highlights that make the extra drive worth it.
Put your feet up after a long day in São Martinho at Pestana Carlton Madeira Ocean Resort Hotel. Or hit the brakes and recharge at Quinta Funchal Gardens - Adults Only.
