Funchal, the capital of Madeira, is an ideal place to rent a motorbike or scooter. The compact streets, stunning coastlines, and scenic mountain passes make two-wheeled exploration a top choice for travelers craving flexibility and fun. We love how riding a scooter allows you to soak in breathtaking views, from the colorful harbor to rugged cliffs, all at your own pace. One highlight is the Private Vespa Tour Funchal & Câmara de Lobos, offering the freedom to explore vibrant neighborhoods and coastal stretches while enjoying local culture.
In this list, we’ve included the best motorbike and scooter rental experiences based on reviews, itinerary richness, and uniqueness. Whether you want a relaxed city tour, a mountain adventure, or a coastal ride, each option offers something special. Below, you’ll find detailed descriptions of each tour to help you decide which suits your style.
1. Private Vespa Tour Funchal & Câmara de Lobos
At number 1, this 3-hour Vespa tour combines city highlights with the charm of Câmara de Lobos. Starting from Rua Princesa Dom Amélia, Miguel, the guide, takes you through Funchal’s lively streets, past landmarks like the Fortaleza de São João Baptista do Pico, and into the heart of Câmara Lobos, a fishing village famed for its colorful boats and local taverns. The itinerary includes visits to the Farmers’ Market, the Funchal Cathedral, and scenic stops with plenty of opportunities for photos and short walks.
What makes this tour stand out is the personal touch—reviews consistently praise Miguel’s storytelling, with one saying, “Miguel was amazing! He created a custom tour for us, showing us breathtaking spots we might never find alone.” The Vespa itself is in excellent condition, and the ride is smooth, offering the perfect balance of sightseeing and fun. The tour’s length and manageable pace make it ideal for first-timers or those short on time but eager to see key sights.
Bottom line: If you want a guided yet flexible introduction to Funchal and Câmara Lobos, this Vespa tour delivers excellent value. It’s especially suited for travelers who enjoy a friendly atmosphere and personalized experiences.
2. Private Vespa Tour Nun´s Valley, Câmara de Lobos, Cabo Girão
Coming in at number 2, this 4-hour Vespa tour ventures beyond the city into the stunning Nun’s Valley (Curral das Freiras). The tour starts from Rua Princesa Dom Amélia and takes you through Funchal’s neighborhoods, then up to Pico dos Barcelos for panoramic views of Funchal and the Atlantic Ocean. The highlight is riding into the mountains, where the winding roads lead to Eira do Serrado, offering sweeping views of the valley below.
A key feature of this tour is the visit to the secluded village of Câmara de Lobos, with time to explore and sample local chestnut dishes like roasted chestnuts and chestnut cake. The reviews highlight Miguel’s expertise and friendliness, with one guest noting, “We thoroughly enjoyed the tour, especially the stop at Nun’s Valley. Miguel’s local knowledge makes all the difference.”
This experience balances mountain scenery with cultural insights and includes stops like the Cabo Girão skywalk, known for its glass-floored platform over a dramatic cliff. The Vespa ride along scenic mountain roads makes this tour perfect for those craving a mix of nature and local flavor.
Bottom line: For travelers who want to combine mountain vistas with cultural experiences, this tour is a rewarding choice. It’s best suited for those comfortable with a bit of adventure and scenic driving.
3. Private Vespa West Tour – Seixal, São Vicente, Porto Moniz
Rounding out our list at number 3, this 4-hour Vespa adventure explores Madeira’s rugged northwest coast, from the lush valleys of Serra de Água to the volcanic pools of Porto Moniz. The tour begins in Funchal, with a scooter ride heading north through scenic landscapes. Stops include the Serra de Água viewpoint for photos of the cascading valleys, then Sã Vicente, a charming town famous for its caves and lush surroundings.
What makes this tour distinct is the focus on dramatic coastal scenery. You’ll ride along cliffs and through lava pools, with dedicated breaks at places like Seixal to enjoy natural swimming pools carved from volcanic rock. The trip also features a stop at Porto Moniz’s famous lava pools for a dip, making it more than just sightseeing—it’s an active experience.
Guests praise the guide’s local knowledge and the quality of the Vespa, with one reviewer noting, “Feeling the wind as we drove along the cliffs was unforgettable. The stops at Seixal and Porto Moniz were highlights.” The tour is suitable for those wanting to combine scenic drives with some time for swimming and relaxing.
Bottom line: If you’re drawn to coastal landscapes and volcanic pools, this Vespa tour offers an exhilarating way to see Madeira’s wild side.
How to Choose the Right Motorbike or Scooter Tour
When choosing your motorbike or scooter experience in Funchal, consider your budget, time constraints, and what kind of scenery or activities appeal most. For a quick, city-focused adventure, the Private Vespa Tour Funchal & Câmara de Lobos is ideal. If mountain vistas and cultural stops appeal, the Nun´s Valley Tour offers a memorable day out. For those wanting a coastal drive with swimming stops, the West Tour hits the mark.
Be sure to book early, especially in peak season, and check the availability of starting times. Also, confirm whether your chosen tour includes helmets, insurance, and if a valid motorcycle license is required.
Final Thoughts
Funchal offers a fantastic variety of motorbike and scooter rentals that open up the island’s landscapes and local culture in a way that is both flexible and exhilarating. For a personalized introduction, the Private Vespa Tour Funchal & Câmara de Lobos is hard to beat. If mountain adventures call you, the Nun’s Valley trip provides scenic thrills, while coastal explorers will love the West Tour.
Whatever your style, booking early and choosing the right tour will make your Madeira trip even more memorable. Riding a scooter through Madeira’s varied terrain truly makes for a unique and active way to experience this stunning island—so gear up and enjoy the ride!
