This price is the cheapest per day rate found by a KAYAK user in the last 48 hours by searching for a car rental in Madison with a pick-up date of 4/4 and drop-off date of 4/6. Fares are subject to change and may not be available at all agencies or on all dates of rental. Click the price to replicate the search for this deal.
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Cheap car rentals in Madison
Discover the best prices for you by selecting your travel dates on KAYAK.
If you book with Avis, check your card for a “uv watermark”, or they will not take your payment.
Verified travelerJul 2023
The people in Madison were helpful.
KAYAK’s top tips for renting a car in Madison
Car rentals in Madison are more convenient for regular travel outside the center. Coverage for public transportation, like the Metro bus system, is spotty, and some routes do not operate during holidays and weekends. Moreover, some routes only operate during weekday commute times, making car rentals a preferable travel option. Rental cars help you get around faster and more comfortably when exploring the urban landscapes and wilderness of Dane County. Drive to Wisconsin Dells, about 55 miles from Madison via US-12 W, or the famous Devil’s Lake State Park, roughly 35 miles northwest of Madison.
There are several locations to get a cheap car rental in Madison, and the best location will depend on your specific needs and preferences. If you are flying into Madison, renting a car at the airport, Dane County Regional Airport (MSN), is the most convenient option. If you are staying in downtown Madison and don’t need a car for the entire duration of your trip, consider renting a car from a downtown location. Some rental providers have locations on the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus, which can be convenient if you are a student or visiting the university for a conference or event.
Madison travelers will most likely fly into Dane County Regional Airport (MSN). The airport is approximately seven miles from downtown Madison by car. MSN has a car rental center in the baggage claim area where agencies like National, Hertz, Alamo, Budget, and Enterprise provide premium car rental services. The rental car lot is a short walk from the terminal. Some providers like Budget provide shuttle services outside Door 6 to the pick-up location.
There are several electric vehicle charging stations, including both public and private options, where you can charge your electric cheap car rental in Madison. It's worth noting that some charging stations may require payment or a membership to use, while others may be free to use (hotel charging stations for guests). Some popular charging stations in Madison include Alliant Energy Center - 1919 Alliant Energy Center Way, Madison, WI 53713, City of Madison Parking Ramps - Multiple locations throughout the city, East Towne Mall - 89 East Towne Mall, Madison, WI 53704, and Hilldale Shopping Center - 702 N. Midvale Blvd., Madison, WI 53705.
Observe careful driving around downtown Madison. The downtown area abounds with one-way streets, which often change direction. Navigating the intersection by Camp Randall Stadium of Monroe Street, Breese Terrace, and Regent Street can also confuse visitors. However, you can customize Madison car rentals with a GPS to help smooth navigation within the city. Being a college town, you will also encounter many cyclists on the road. Be keen in your driving to avoid hitting cyclists.
Madison, WI has important roads that are crucial for getting around the city. Interstate 90/94 is a major interstate highway that runs through Madison from east to west. U.S. Highway 151 is a major north-south highway in Madison. John Nolen Drive is a major road running along the shore of Lake Monona in downtown Madison, connecting the city to the Beltline Highway and the west side of Madison. University Avenue is a major east-west road that runs through Madison's west side, connecting the city to Middleton and the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus. East Washington Avenue is a major east-west road that runs through Madison's east side, connecting the city to Sun Prairie and the Interstate 90/94 corridor.
Some streets in Madison experience significant congestion during rush hours. Congestion is worse downtown, especially on Midland Street, Fitch Ct., S Peterson Street, and US-12 East. Traffic picks up in the morning from around 7 am to 9 am and again from 4 pm to 6 pm. Madison is home to the University of Wisconsin, meaning congestion is worse when students are in session due to its high student population.
25% of our users found rental cars in Madison for $57 or less
Book your rental car in Madison at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
Standard rental cars in Madison are around 52% cheaper than other car types, on average
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FAQs about renting a car in Madison
How much does it cost to rent a car in Madison?
On average a rental car in Madison costs $70 per day. But prices differ between operators and you can save money through a price comparison of car rental deals from different agencies. The cheapest price for a car rental in Madison found in the last 2 weeks is $40.
How much is gas price in Madison?
The average gas price in Madison is $3.40 per gallon over the past 30 days. Filling up a gas tank costs between $41 and $54, depending on the car size.
What is the most popular rental car in Madison?
Supplier choice (Class Special Car or similar) is the most frequently booked rental car type in Madison.
Which car rental companies are at Truax Field airport (MSN)?
Car rental companies onsite at Truax Field airport include Budget and Alamo.
Which car rental companies will pick you up at Truax Field airport (MSN)?
Car rental companies that offer shuttle or pick-up services from Truax Field airport to off-airport locations include Budget, and Alamo.
How much does a Special car rental cost in Madison?
A Special car rental in Madison costs $54 per day, on average.
How much does a Standard car rental cost in Madison?
A Standard car rental in Madison costs $75 per day, on average.
How much does a Premium car rental cost in Madison?
A Premium car rental in Madison costs $112 per day, on average.
What is the most popular rental car location in Madison?
In Madison, cars are most frequently rented at Enterprise Rent-A-Car 4000 International Ln (5 miles from city center).
Should I get insurance when renting a car in Madison?
Most car rental providers in Madison offer insurance but the level of protection can differ substantially. If you're unsure whether to get extra protection for your car rental in Madison, check out KAYAK's car rental insurance guide.
How many car agencies are operating in Madison?
KAYAK has deals for you to compare from 10 car rental agencies in Madison.
What do I need to know before booking a car rental in Madison?
Finding the right price, understanding the add-ons and staying up to date with policy changes can be a challenge. That’s why KAYAK has produced the ultimate guide to renting a car to help you cut though the jargon and make the right choice for your rental car. Find tips and insights for how to book your rental, what car rental insurance you’ll need, how to deal with a car rental agency and what extra fees to expect (and avoid!).
Why should I use KAYAK to rent a car in Madison?
KAYAK searches thousands of car rental agencies to provide you with offers from all car rental agencies operating in Madison so that you can compare car rental rates, reviews and pick-up and drop-off locations to find the best deal for you.
What type of car is recommended for driving in Madison?
Acquire a compact car for a rental in Madison if you’re only staying within the Madison isthmus. These can easily squeeze into the limited parking spaces within the center. They are also convenient for driving on narrow streets in Madison. An economy rental is more suitable if you don’t have much going on in the center. Visitors in town with family or a group will benefit more from an SUV, spacious to accommodate several people. During winter, a four-wheel drive equipped with winter tires is more appropriate for the snowy terrain. It is also advantageous for exploring quirky attractions outside or within the city.
What road trips can I take from Madison?
With a Madison car rental, you can easily get to Wisconsin Dells, about an hour north of Madison. It is a popular destination for its water parks, attractions, and natural beauty. Located about 1h 30min southeast of Madison, Lake Geneva is a popular destination for its lakeside activities, charming downtown area, and historic mansions.
What’s the speed limit in Madison?
Speed limits in Madison vary, and speed limits around residential areas are set at 20 mph. The limit on major streets within the city is now 25 mph. Outside city limits, car rentals in Madison should adhere to the speed limit of 55 mph. Expressways and interstates in Madison bear a speed limit of 65 mph. The police pull over speeding drivers and issue speeding tickets since the city lacks speeding cameras. Adjust your speed reasonably and prudently by slowing down during harsh conditions like winter when roads are slippery due to ice.
Are there any restricted roads in Madison?
Certain lanes on some roads (East Washington Avenue, University Avenue, Park Street, and Whitney Way) are designated for buses only during certain hours. These lanes are typically marked with signs or pavement markings, and you should avoid using them during the designated times. Certain areas of downtown Madison, such as State Street, are designated pedestrian zones where cars are not allowed.
Where are the best places to park in Madison?
Finding parking at Madison center is difficult due to the limited number of parking spaces. A permit, such as a University of Wisconsin campus permit, is essential for parking in some lots in the center. Downtown Madison has plenty of parking spaces and metered parking. For instance, Blair Lot, Overture Center Garage, and South Livingston Street Garage offer the cheapest downtown parking options with around a $1 hourly rate. Downtown metered parking costs about $2 per hour. Alternatively, you can find parking outside the city limits and use the Metro Transit System to get to the city. Evergreen Lot and Wingra Lot are some parking options outside the city center charging roughly $1.20 per hour.
Everything was awesome. The drop off was the most annoying part, but still a 9.5 out of 10. Customer services was great and super quick.
8.0 Very good
Anonymous, Oct 2022
Dropoff process was overly complicated, was sent a text to open the app to drop off, but then I had to download the app, create an Avis account, and it didn't link the reservation to my account after manually inputting the reservation info. I would've preferred an outdoors key drop-off and a simple text to let them know I dropped off the car, instead of waiting in line for 5 minutes.
8.0 Very good
Anonymous, Sep 2022
Great customer service!
4.0 Mediocre
Peter, May 2021
Pros:
The staff at pickup was overloaded. Fastbreak was very slow.
Cons:
Fastbreak could have been quicker. The car had a terrible Cigar odor that caused me an the passengers to feel sick to our stomachs. We had to periodically open the windows to try to mitigate the cigar smell and sick to stomach feeling. I'm requesting a credit towards a future car rental. Thank you.
First car was cleaned but had the maintenance light on and a low pressure tired. The second car was not not too cleaned. Also, I wanted to add an extra day but they would charge me more than twice instead of honoring the same price.
6.0 Okay
Trevor, Aug 2020
Cons:
Our car was damaged after we returned it. Unfortunately, we didn't take pictures after we dropped it off and are being charged for it. I understand their policy, and they can do what they want, but it puts a damper on our experience.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Jul 2020
Pros:
Staff was friendly, easy pick up And return
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Apr 2020
Pros:
Very fast pickup and drop off. Clean and quality car. Great price.
10.0 Wonderful
Anonymous, Apr 2020
Pros:
Dane County Airport Agent was on point with her details everything was ready for me. Durning this pandemic, vehicle was wiped down prior and could smell the cleanest when I opened the car door. When I dropped off in Charlotte Airport, the attendant was professional. Thank you Alamo!
I was refused service because the system didn't recognize my Real ID drivers license as valid. It's good enough to fly but not rent a car?!
2.0 Poor
Anonymous, Jan 2024
Intermediate
I was denied my rental because both of my credit cards “did not have a UV watermark on it”. I have never heard of such a policy, and this was completely unclear to me prior to me booking the rental. I then asked my friend to pay for me because her card had this watermark, but was again denied since the card had to be in my name. So I thought I could book it in her name and add my license too it, but apparently, in order to add my license, they need to add my credit card as well, which, as described above, they apparently couldn’t take. So, I had no choice but to cancel my booking, call the third parter insurance provider to refund my policy plan, and now I am stuck in Madison, unable to return home for a fine print rule I never knew about. Or maybe I just don’t know how car rentals are supposed to work.
6.0 Okay
NFuller, Oct 2022
I got the bait and switch that rental car companies are notorious for. I rented a medium size 'premium' car and got a Toyota Corolla... a long shot from a premium brand or mid-size car. Secondly, I thought I was renting from the Madison Airport location, but it was actually the service center, about 1/2 mile off the airport. No offer from Avis to fix it, or give me a ride, even in a dirty returned car, to the other site. Luckily the weather was nice and I was not in a hurry, so the walk was enjoyable.
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