Free Capitol Tours
Beautiful building with free tours.
Save $10-15Budget tool
Madison Trip Cost Calculator
Madison costs $80-130/day for budget travelers. Isthmus capital with lakes, cheese curds, and Badger spirit.
days
traveler
Accommodation$0
Hostel/Budget
$0 per night
0
Budget Hotel
$0 per night
0
Mid-Range Hotel
$0 per night
0
Luxury Hotel
$0 per night
0
Food & Dining$0
State Street Dining
$0 per meal
0
Mid-Range Restaurant
$0 per meal
0
Fine Dining
$0 per person
0
Transportation$0
Metro Bus
$0 per ride
0
BCycle Bike
$0 per day
0
Uber
$0 per ride
0
Activities & Attractions$0
State Capitol
$0 per person
0
Dane Co. Farmers Market
$0 per person
0
Lake Activities
$0 per person
0
Memorial Union Terrace
$0 per person
0
Miscellaneous$0
Wisconsin Cheese
$0 varies
0
Craft Beer
$0 per pint
0
Madison Budget Guide
Your Madison Budget at a Glance
Madison is Wisconsin’s charming capital. Budget travelers should expect $80-130 per day, mid-range travelers $150-280 per day, and luxury seekers $400+ per day.
Where Your Money Goes
Accommodation is moderate. Food scene is excellent. The good news: lakes are free, Capitol is free, and farmers market is legendary.
Budget Traveler Tips
Maximize your dollar by:
- Taking free Capitol tours
- Biking the isthmus
- Visiting the farmers market
- Enjoying free lake access
- Eating cheese curds everywhere
Money-Saving Tips
Bike the Isthmus
BCycle is cheap for full day.
Save $15-20 per dayFree Farmers Market
Saturday on Capitol Square.
Save Free entertainmentLake Access Free
Public beaches and paths.
Save FreeBest Time to Visit
Prices can vary by 40% depending on the season
Peak Season (More Expensive)
- UW Football Season
- Graduation (May)
- Summer
Low Season (Best Deals)
- January - March
Frequently Asked Questions
How much does a week in Madison cost?
A week in Madison costs $560-910 for budget travelers, $1,050-1,960 for mid-range, and $2,800+ for luxury travelers.
Is Madison expensive?
Madison is moderate. College town with good value and walkable downtown.
Keep exploring
Ready to Explore Madison?
Check out our curated travel guides from local experts.