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Cheapest Car Hire Rates in Madison
Madison
Mini
Fiat 500 or similar
4
1
3
A/C
Auto
€ 24
per day
Madison
Economy
Toyota Yaris or similar
5
2
5
A/C
Auto
€ 29
per day
Madison
Compact
Volkswagen Golf or similar
5
3
5
A/C
Auto
€ 33
per day
Madison
Intermediate
Skoda Octavia or similar
5
4
5
A/C
Auto
€ 39
per day
The average cost of car hire is €34 per day, with 1,878 vehicles available and an average hire duration of 6 days.
Why Rent a Car in Madison?
Madison, Wisconsin, is a city brimming with attractions, from the stunning State Capitol building to the vibrant State Street and the beautiful shores of Lake Mendota. While Madison offers public transportation, renting a car provides unmatched flexibility and convenience for exploring all that this dynamic city and its surrounding areas have to offer.
Explore Beyond Downtown. A rental car allows you to easily visit attractions like the Olbrich Botanical Gardens, the University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, and nearby natural areas without relying on bus schedules or ride-sharing services.
Day Trips Made Easy. Madison is a gateway to the scenic Wisconsin countryside. With a rental car, you can take day trips to charming towns like New Glarus, explore the rolling hills of the Driftless Area, or visit state parks for hiking and outdoor recreation.
Convenience for Families and Groups. Travelling with family or a group of friends? A rental car provides ample space for passengers and luggage, making your trip more comfortable and stress-free compared to navigating public transportation.
Rental Terms and Conditions in Madison
Before booking a rental car in Madison, it's essential to understand the standard rental terms and conditions to ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience. Familiarise yourself with age requirements, licensing stipulations, insurance options, and other key policies.
Area
Approximately 94.9 square miles (245.8 square kilometres)
Population
Around 260,000 residents
Time Zone
Central Time Zone (CT): GMT-6 (CST) / GMT-5 (CDT)
Ideal for
Exploring the city and surrounding areas
Rush Hours
Expect heavy traffic during weekdays from 7:00 AM to 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM to 6:00 PM
Rating
4.5/5
1. Age RequirementsMost car rental companies in Madison require drivers to be at least 21 years old. However, drivers under 25 may be subject to additional young driver fees.
2. Driver's Licence and DocumentationA valid driver's licence is required for all rentals. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) if their licence is not in English.
3. Insurance and DepositsStandard rentals usually include basic insurance coverage, but additional options like Collision Damage Waiver (CDW) and Supplemental Liability Protection (SLP) are available. A security deposit is typically required and held on your credit card.
4. Mileage and Fuel PolicyMileage policies vary, with some rentals offering unlimited mileage and others having restrictions. Fuel policies also differ, but many require you to return the car with a full tank to avoid extra charges.
5. Additional FeesBe aware of potential extra charges for additional drivers, one-way rentals, late returns, or optional extras like GPS navigation systems and child safety seats.
Car Rental Prices in Madison – How Much Does It Cost?
Estimated Daily Prices
Business:
from £40 / $50 / €45 per day
Electric:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
Classic:
from £10 / $12 / €11 per day
Executive:
from £30 / $38 / €34 per day
7 Seater:
from £35 / $44 / €40 per day
Automatic:
from £20 / $25 / €22 per day
SUV:
from £12 / $15 / €14 per day
Seasonal Trends
Peak season (June to August): Expect prices to increase by 20-30% due to higher demand from tourists and holidaymakers.
Low season (November to February): Enjoy potential discounts and lower rates due to reduced travel activity.
*Additional costs may apply for insurance, extra drivers, and one-way rentals. Booking early and comparing offers can help secure the best deal.
How to Book a Car in Madison?
Booking a car rental in Madison involves a few simple steps. Compare prices, select the right car for your needs, review the rental terms carefully, book in advance to secure the best rates, and ensure you have all the required documents when you pick up the vehicle.
1. Compare Prices - Use a car rental comparison website to find the best deals from various rental companies based on your travel dates and vehicle preferences.
2. Choose the Right Car - Select a vehicle that suits your needs, whether it’s an economy car for city driving or an SUV for more space and comfort.
3. Check Rental Terms - Review mileage limits, insurance coverage, and deposit requirements to avoid unexpected surprises.
4. Book in Advance - Secure lower prices and better vehicle availability by booking early, especially during peak seasons.
5. Pick Up Your Car - Bring your driver’s licence, credit card, and any other required identification when collecting your rental car.
General Information About Madison
Madison is a vibrant city known for its blend of cultural attractions, natural beauty, and academic institutions. Navigating the city by car requires understanding local traffic laws, parking regulations, and fuel availability.
As the capital of Wisconsin, Madison offers a unique mix of urban and natural attractions. From the iconic State Capitol building to the scenic lakes and parks, there's something for everyone. Renting a car is a convenient way to explore the city and its surrounding areas, but it's important to be aware of local driving conditions and regulations.
Top Attractions to Discover
Wisconsin State Capitol
Visit the impressive State Capitol building, a landmark of Madison's skyline.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Explore beautiful gardens and a stunning Thai pavilion.
State Street
Stroll along State Street, a pedestrian-friendly area with shops, restaurants, and cultural venues.
Where to Find Parking
Public Parking Garages
Use city-operated parking garages for secure and convenient parking options in the downtown area.
On-Street Parking
Metered on-street parking is available but can be limited, especially during peak hours.
Park & Ride
Consider using park-and-ride facilities located outside the city centre and taking public transportation into downtown.
Gas Stations in Madison
Major Brands
Find gas stations from major brands like BP, Shell, and Mobil throughout Madison.
Convenience Stores
Many convenience stores also offer fuel services.
Fuel Availability
Gas stations are readily available throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Useful Tips for Visiting Madison
Plan for Traffic
Expect heavier traffic during weekday rush hours (7:00 AM - 9:00 AM and 4:00 PM - 6:00 PM).
Check for Events
Be aware of local events that may impact traffic and parking availability.
Use Navigation Apps
Utilise navigation apps like Google Maps or Waze to find the best routes and avoid congestion.
Watch for Pedestrians and Cyclists
Madison is a bike-friendly city, so be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians, especially in the downtown area.
Key Transportation Hubs in Madison
Major Bus Stations
Madison Metro Bus System
Provides extensive bus services throughout the city and surrounding areas.
Railway Stations
Madison Station
Serves as a passenger rail station for Amtrak's Empire Builder line.
Airports
Dane County Regional Airport (MSN)
Located northeast of Madison, it offers flights to various domestic destinations.
What Do You Need to Rent a Car in Madison?
Renting a car in Madison requires meeting a few key requirements to ensure a smooth rental process. Here's what you'll typically need:
A current and valid driver's licence is required. International visitors may need an International Driving Permit (IDP) in addition to their home country licence.
Most rental companies require drivers to be at least 21 years old, with potential surcharges for drivers under 25.
A credit or debit card in the renter's name is needed for the security deposit and rental fees.
A passport or other government-issued photo ID may be required.
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This page was edited, fact-checked, and/or translated by our experts who are passionate about helping travellers experience the world by car. Our team of seasoned travel writers and editors has driven across more than 50 countries, hired cars on six continents, and explored countless scenic routes — from Icelandic fjords to Moroccan deserts.
Our Customer Reviews
Our clients rate such place as Madison as
To ensure every review is from a real customer, we do not allow reviews to be posted directly on this page. Instead, we invite every customer to leave a review after they have returned their hire car. This way, you can be sure that all reviews are authentic.
Summer in Madison was perfect; easy driving, beautiful scenery.
Amelia Jones
Reviewed: 23.05.2025
Quick business trip, but Madison charmed me! Easy to get around, and the state capitol was stunning.
David Lee
Reviewed: 11.11.2024
Honestly, Madison exceeded my expectations! Having a car was great for exploring, but the farmer's market was a bit underwhelming. Otherwise, beautiful city, friendly people!
Chloe Garcia
Reviewed: 09.06.2025
Pretty chill vibe
Kevin Brown
Reviewed: 20.09.2024
Low-key, pretty chill.
Olivia Davis
Reviewed: 22.06.2025
Madison was fantastic! Having a car made exploring the lakes and charming downtown so easy. I even took a day trip to the coast for some much-needed relaxation. Highly recommend!
Sarah Miller
Reviewed: 09.12.2024