Madison car hire

Driver's age: 26-65
Thu 2/5
Thu 9/5

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Madison car hire information

Pick-up locationMadison
Car types
Hire locations19
Airport locations8

Cheap car hire in Madison

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Mini
Economy
Compact
Intermediate
Standard
Full-size
Luxury
People carrier
Passenger van
SUV
Commercial
Pick-up truck

KAYAK’s top tips for hiring a car in Madison

  • Car rental in Madison is a great way to add more flexibility to your journey compared to if you travelled using an alternative mode of transport such as a bus. With a hire car, you can come and go as you please, as well as travel directly to your destination. For example, you can drive to Verona in about 20 minutes. This same journey via bus takes close to 50 minutes, and normally requires a transfer along the way.
  • Madison Airport (MSN) is one of the closest terminals to the city and is a great location to collect your hire car from. Once you have arrived at the airport and passed through Customs, you can locate the car hire agencies easily. For instance, Alamo is located in the airport terminal, whilst Hertz can be reached via a free shuttle. Your Madison car hire company will then ask you to complete your paperwork, show ID and pay before they take you to your vehicle.
  • Car rental in Madison is a great way to explore this city. Drivers are relaxed and polite, which is ideal if you are new to driving on the roads in the city. It’s worth remembering that, even though jaywalking is illegal in the United States, you might get unknowing tourists crossing in areas that aren’t designated for pedestrians. For that reason, you should drive with vigilance in the centre. Madison usually experiences a lot of snow in the winter months, which can make driving particularly hard. If it has been snowing, you should only drive if it’s considered safe to do so.
  • When driving a Madison hire car, you will find that there can be lots of traffic jams, particularly during rush hour when the locals are heading to and from their places of work. This is normally from about 6:00 to 9:00 and around 15:00 to 17:00. If you don't like driving on the roads with lots of cars, it’s recommended that you don't drive at these times and instead use the roads in the late morning and early afternoon. One road that gets very busy is Highway 51, which travels through the heart of the city. An alternative, and perhaps quieter route is a back road, such as Williamson Street.
  • Book your car hire in Madison at least 1 day before your trip in order to get a below-average price
  • Intermediate car hire in Madison are around 17% cheaper than other car types, on average

Madison car hire experiences: the best tips from KAYAK users

Insights shared by verified travellers who hired a car in Madison 
Verified travelerJan 2024
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.

FAQs about hiring a car in Madison

  • How much is the price of fuel in Madison?

    The average price of fuel in Madison is R74,61 per litre over the past 30 days. Filling up a tank of fuel costs between R895 and R1 194, depending on the car size.

  • What is the most popular car hire in Madison?

    Intermediate (Nissan Rogue or similar) is the most frequently booked car hire type in Madison.

  • How can I find car hires near me in Madison?

    Take a look at our extensive car hire location map to find the best car hire deals near you.

  • How much does an Intermediate car hire cost in Madison?

    An Intermediate car hire in Madison costs R1 270 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Special car hire cost in Madison?

    A Special car hire in Madison costs R1 166 per day, on average.

  • How much does a Mini car hire cost in Madison?

    A Mini car hire in Madison costs R2 308 per day, on average.

  • What type of car is recommended for driving in Madison?

    Car rental in Madison is a top idea for those that want to explore the city at their own speed. If you’re staying in the town, then you won’t need much more than a compact vehicle, which will help you manoeuvre on busy streets as well as park in tight spaces. Alternatively, you can blend in with the locals with a larger vehicle, such as an SUV. This type of vehicle will help you if you want to drive on the rural roads, as they are often 4x4 and have superior grip.

  • What’s the speed limit in Madison?

    It’s important that you abide by the speed limits when you’re driving in Madison, otherwise you risk being prosecuted by the police. If you are snapped by a speed camera, then you will automatically be fined by your car hire agency. They will also be required to pass your information over to the police. The maximum speed you can do in the city it 35 mph (56 km/h). On rural roads, you can go as fast as 55 mph (89 km/h), whilst if you’re on a motorway, the top speed is 70 mph (113 km/h).

  • Where are the best places to park in Madison?

    There are lots of places to park in Madison, which makes it great for those with a hire car. For instance, Buckeye Parking Lot costs around $5 (about ₹410) for 3 hours. You can find this car park in the centre on Gorham Street. Alternatively, you can park on State Street Campus Garage on Lake Street. This costs about $1.50 (₹120) per hour or $8 (₹650) for the whole day on weekends.

Madison car rental reviews and directory

Hertz

Best rated

Cleanliness

6.4

Comfort

6.9

Pick-up/Drop-off

5.8

Value for money

5.9

3 locations in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

2101 Darwin Road

+1 608 241 5597

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00

4000 International Lane

+1 608 241 3803

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

6514 Odana Road

+1 608 833 1118

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Mar 2024

KAYAK
They did not have the vehicle available. I had to pay almost double and rent same day from Enterprise

10,0 Wonderful

Nov 2021

KAYAK
Nothing different

8,0 Very Good

Nov 2021

KAYAK
Hassel to get to, but that's all rentals at share. Once there, the pick-up/return could not have been more convenient or smooth. FAST!

4,0 Mediocre

May 2021

KAYAK

Cons:

When I first arrived, I was told the minivan I rented had been sold. Then I was told he had to speak to the manager to see if he could find a minivan (which I needed to move my daughter out of her apartment). They "found" another minivan and it was filthy. Then I requested to be able to pay for tolls and they said this vehicle did not have that option. One would think that all rental vehicles would have that options. I then had to figure out how to attach the plate and pay for tolls on the highway to Illinois. I have rented vehicles from Hertz many times and this was not the best experience I have had.

8,0 Very Good

Apr 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

Very friendly staff and clean car

Cons:

Wasn’t able to change drop off location

6,0 Okay

Mar 2021

KAYAK

Pros:

The drop off was very easy and friendly. The car didn't break down.

Cons:

The car wasn't clean but I understand they were busy.

1 out of 44

Alamo

9,4

Wonderful

49 reviews

Cleanliness

9.6

Comfort

9.5

Pick-up/Drop-off

9.1

Value for money

9.4

One location in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

4000 International Ln

+1 833 749 2430

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

Reviews

8,0 Very Good

Aug 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Price and fast service

Cons:

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

Aug 2020

KAYAK

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

Jul 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was friendly, easy pick up And return

10,0 Wonderful

Apr 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Very fast pickup and drop off. Clean and quality car. Great price.

10,0 Wonderful

Apr 2020

KAYAK

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!

Cons:

No

8,0 Very Good

Aug 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

easy and friendly staff. car close to desk.

Cons:

nothing particular.

1 out of 9

Enterprise Rent-A-Car

8,3

Very Good

94 reviews

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.4

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.5

Value for money

7.9

5 locations in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

1864 E Washington Ave

+1 608 242 5000

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

2 Eastpark Ct

+1 608 241 8901

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

200 W Beltline Hwy

+1 608 260 0063

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

4000 International Ln

+1 833 749 2428

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

6646 Odana Rd

+1 608 833 2220

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

Reviews

10,0 Wonderful

Jun 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

very friendly staff. clean car. free upgrade due to car I ordered not in lot yet. car worked well. very positive experience.

10,0 Wonderful

Feb 2020

KAYAK

Pros:

Staff was excellent treated very well go to business there again

Cons:

In my opinion they did very well and again I will do business with them again

10,0 Wonderful

Oct 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

The young fellow was very accommodating, changing cars for me when another renter left the car with terrible smoke smell. He also walked around and marked things I wouldn't have seen to avoid getting "pinged" later....one ways can get you like that.

10,0 Wonderful

Aug 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff was the best! He asked why we were renting & made a suggestion to he could give me a truck vs suv for the same cost. That was the best! The truck met our needs even better than the suv would have.

Cons:

Best experience I have ever had when renting a car!

8,0 Very Good

Jul 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

The airport Enterprise desk sent me across town to another Enterprise location that was closed till noon.

2,0 Poor

Jul 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

Rented the car to pick up close to my apartment. Did not get the details, requested several times, no response. Went to pick up the car at the place, the car was not available!! Poor performance!!

1 out of 16

Budget

7,9

Cleanliness

8.3

Comfort

8.1

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

7.7

3 locations in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

1136 East Washington Avenue

+1 608 251 2181

Monday14:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:30
Tuesday14:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:30
Wednesday14:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:30
Thursday14:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:30
Friday14:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

2320 Darwin Road

+1 608 242 0429

Monday08:00 - 17:0014:00 - 17:30
Tuesday14:00 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Wednesday14:00 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Thursday14:00 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Friday14:00 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00

4000 International Lane

+1 608 249 5544

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

8,0 Very Good

Oct 2022

KAYAK
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

Sep 2022

KAYAK
Great customer service!

4,0 Mediocre

May 2021

KAYAK

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.

10,0 Wonderful

Jul 2020

KAYAK

Cons:

Nothing, it was great!

5,2 Fair

Oct 2019

KAYAK

Cons:

It was fairly expensive for the car I got.

8,0 Very Good

Oct 2018

KAYAK

Cons:

I felt rushed when picking up the car and signing the lease papers. The agent added the gas option before asking me if I wanted it.

1 out of 8

Avis

6,6

Cleanliness

6.9

Comfort

7.7

Pick-up/Drop-off

6.9

Value for money

6.4

3 locations in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

1136 East Washington Avenue

+1 608 251 1717

Monday07:30 - 12:3014:00 - 17:30
Tuesday07:30 - 12:3014:00 - 17:30
Wednesday07:30 - 12:3014:00 - 17:30
Thursday07:30 - 12:3014:00 - 17:30
Friday14:00 - 17:3007:30 - 12:30
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

2320 Darwin Road

+1 608 242 0429

Monday08:00 - 17:0014:00 - 17:30
Tuesday08:00 - 17:0014:00 - 17:30
Wednesday08:00 - 17:0014:00 - 17:30
Thursday14:00 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Friday14:00 - 17:3008:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00

4000 International Lane

+1 608 242 0600

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00
Sunday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Jan 2024

KAYAK
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

Jan 2024

KAYAK
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

Oct 2022

KAYAK
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.

10,0 Wonderful

Aug 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

Very friendly

Cons:

Better signage about leaving car and walking in n.

4,8 Mediocre

Jun 2019

KAYAK

Pros:

The staff at the counter were very pleasant and helpful.

Cons:

The car was in pretty poor condition. It had some dents and scratches, and if it had been cleaned the cleaning didn't show. Candidly, the car wasn't worth the high rental cost; I've had much nicer cars for a lower cost at other airports.

10,0 Wonderful

Nov 2018

KAYAK

Pros:

Briana (I think it was Briana) at the Dane County Airport helped me quickly get into a great car after a disastrous experience with having a flight canceled without warning. I was in a hurry and on a tight budget. She was kind and helpful and got me a wonderful, reliable and comfy car, fast.

1 out of 5

National

8,0

Very Good

1 review

Cleanliness

8.0

Comfort

8.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

8.0

Value for money

6.0

One location in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

4000 International Ln

+1 833 749 2429

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday08:00 - 17:00
Sunday08:00 - 17:00

Filters

No reviews available

Thrifty

2,0

Cleanliness

2.0

Comfort

2.0

Pick-up/Drop-off

2.0

Value for money

2.0

One location in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

6514 Odana Road

+1 608 833 1118

Monday08:00 - 17:00
Tuesday08:00 - 17:00
Wednesday08:00 - 17:00
Thursday08:00 - 17:00
Friday08:00 - 17:00
Saturday09:00 - 12:00

Filters

Reviews

2,0 Poor

Aug 2023

KAYAK
Firstly there is no Thrifty in Madison

1 out of 1

Sunnycars

No score available yet

One location in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

4000 International Lane

Opening times not available

Filters

No reviews available

VIPCars Recommendation

No score available yet

One location in Madison

Show locations

Locations in Madison

4000 International Lane, Madison, , USA Wisconsin

+1 914 368 0091

Monday00:00 - 00:00
Tuesday00:00 - 00:00
Wednesday00:00 - 00:00
Thursday00:00 - 00:00
Friday00:00 - 00:00
Saturday00:00 - 00:00
Sunday00:00 - 00:00

Filters

No reviews available

459 travellers who hired a car in Madison gave the car agency they used an average rating of 7.4

Car hire locations in or near Madison

Good to know

Most popular car type

Intermediate

When to book a car hire in Madison

Average daily price per month
Car hire prices as pick-up date approaches