The 9 Best Airbnbs in Madison, Wisconsin

We research and recommend travel destinations based on a number of factors, including our writers’ own experience, user reviews and more. We may earn a commission when you book or purchase through our links. See our editorial policy to learn more.

Madison is Wisconsin’s exciting capital city, famous for its vibrant culture, art scene, and unique location on an isthmus surrounded by four beautiful lakes.

It’s a city that goes by many names, but whether you call it Mad City, the City of Four Lakes, or Mad Town, you’re sure to have a fantastic experience; it’s consistently rated as one of America’s most livable cities. In the heart of downtown, you’ll find the iconic capitol square (encircling the striking Capitol building) lined with restaurants operated by some of the country’s top chefs. Every Saturday, a bustling farmers’ market fills the square and is a great spot to pick up fresh produce, locally made honey, and freshly baked goods.

The University of Wisconsin-Madison also calls Madison home, filling the streets with die-hard Badger fans and a young, exciting atmosphere in the fall, especially during football weekends. Other top activities you won’t want to miss include sipping a local brew at the colorful Memorial Union Terrace, grabbing a bite in the funky Willy Street neighborhood, or visiting for one of the city’s popular festivals like the Beer, Bacon, and Cheese Fest.

No matter what brings you to the city, you’re sure to have a fantastic time in one of these beautiful Madison airbnbs.

1. Boutique Eco Hideaway

Why you should stay: Bright, inviting home in the quirky Willy Street neighborhood.

Sleeps: 4
Minimum stay: 30 days
Rates from: $175/night

Perfect for those seeking a cozy stay, this boutique eco hideaway is a one-bedroom guest house featuring modern and eco-friendly decor. In the living room, a pull-out sofa bed offers a second bed for extra guest, and each booking of this Madison airbnb comes with a complimentary welcome basket that includes coffee, tea, chocolate, and cheese.

The home also features little luxuries such as heated floors, organic linens, and name-brand appliances. In your downtime, be sure to lounge in the yard’s partially covered garden seating area. This rental is in a great spot, too. It’s close enough to explore downtown Madison, yet far enough away to enjoy the peace and quiet of the Atwood and Williamson neighborhoods in the evenings.

Check Availability

2. Residential Home

Why you should stay: Big home with a bigger backyard a block from the Lake Loop.

Sleeps: 8
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Rates from: $229/night

This pet-friendly residential home is a homey Madison airbnb not far from the southern shores of Lake Monona. It offers three bedrooms to accommodate large groups, as well as a beautiful kitchen fully stocked with all you need to whip up a hearty meal.

Bikers and walkers will appreciate the proximity to the Lake Monona Loop, a 12-mile path that encircles the lake and showcases some of the best views of Madison’s skyline. If you want to spend time on the water either paddling, on a boat cruise, or fishing, it’s a great spot.

Check Availability

3. Monroe 3BR Home

Why you should stay: The best spot to catch a Badgers game near the University’s historic Camp Randall stadium.

Sleeps: 8
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Rates from: $664/night

There’s nothing quite like witnessing the red-clad sea of Badger football fans on game day, and this Madison 3BR home puts you in the heart of the action come football season. Outside of game days, Monroe Street is known for locally owned restaurants and cafes, as well as the free Henry Vilas Zoo. It’s a really cool part of town, whether you’re a football fan or not.

If that’s not enough of a draw for you, the thoughtfully designed interior of this three-bedroom should do it. The host will leave the home stocked with everything for coffee and tea, and the screened-in patio in the backyard is a great spot to take advantage of Wisconsin’s perfect summer weather, minus the bugs.

Check Availability

4. Lakefront Three-bedroom

Why you should stay: Upscale flat with a sauna just 10 minutes from the Monona Terrace.

Sleeps: 7
Minimum stay: 1 night
Rates from: $350/night

This lakefront 3BR can is in Madison’s artsy Willy Street neighborhood and offers the best of a quiet locale while still being close to the busy city center. The home’s beautiful interior has unique amenities like a window reading nook and a functioning fireplace. The hosts also provide complimentary coffee and tea so you can start your day right.

Off of the living room, a screened-in balcony is set with a large outdoor dining table overlooking the beauty of the lake. From the balcony, a spiral staircase leads you down to the lovely yard where a wood-barrel sauna and a fire pit await. The hosts also provide kayaks for those interested in paddling on the calm waters of Lake Monona.

Check Availability

5. Sunny Bedroom

Why you should stay: Cheery private bedroom for a cheap Madison getaway.

Sleeps: 2
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Rates from: $50/night

This sunny bedroom on Madison’s East Side embodies the bohemian and artsy spirit. Filled with warm tones, colorful art, and mid-century modern furniture, this eclectic stay is sure to make you feel right at home. Guests have access to the kitchen and living spaces shared with the host and her two cute cats. It’s also one of the cheapest airbnbs in Madison, leaving you with a few extra bucks to spend on nightlife and activities.

“Erin is a lovely host and her home was the perfect location from which to explore Madison. The room was tidy, and she welcomed you to her home, free with both her time and thoughtfulness in offering recommendations.”

Matt, Brookline, MA

Check Availability

6. Madison A-Frame

Why you should stay: A-Frame with fantastic interior design and luxurious amenities.

Sleeps: 6
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Rates from: $150/night

Architecture lovers – or anyone who appreciates a unique stay – will fall in love with this Madison A-frame, not far from the pretty gardens of the UW Arboretum. The first thing to catch your eye when you arrive is the impressively tall windows that make up the entirety of the exterior wall. Inside, the style continues with a vaulted ceiling and eye-catching spiral staircase that leads up to the lofted main bedroom.

Other lovely features include knotty pine surfaces, exposed brick, and panoramic views of the surrounding neighborhood and city skyline. The home also features a sauna, two fireplaces, and a projector perfect for movie nights in. From this Madison airbnb, State Street and the Capitol Square are about a 13-minute drive, so it’s easy to sightsee.

Check Availability

7. East Side Home

Why you should stay: Good Madison airbnb for large groups 15 minutes from the Dane County Regional Airport.

Sleeps: 11
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Rates from: $449/night

This East Side home has five bedrooms and numerous beds to comfortably sleep large families visiting Madison. The property is tucked away in a new subdivision a short drive from Madison attractions like the East Towne Mall and Olbrich Botanical Gardens.

The backyard features a wooden deck with comfortable patio furniture and has plenty of space for everyone to relax in the fresh air. There’s an impressive five bedrooms, so no one has to sleep on the couch. And it’s in a quiet neighborhood, so you don’t have to worry about street noise or hearing U of W kids coming back late at night after celebrating a game day at the college bars.

Check Availability

8. Historic Home

Why you should stay: Sophisticated home a couple of blocks from Williamson Street, famous for great eats and fun nightlife.

Sleeps: 4
Minimum stay: 1 night
Rates from: $550/night

Experience a taste of Madison’s past in this historic home just off of Williamson Street. Classic touches such as wide bay windows and wooden floors coupled with tasteful decor create a cozy, slightly vintage atmosphere. Although most of the home maintains a certain historic charm, the kitchen is updated with modern fixtures and appliances.

One of the best things about this Madison airbnb is the location. The city center is only about a mile away and easily accessible via public bus or on foot. However, the surrounding neighborhood also offers great things to do, including highly reviewed cafes and restaurants and boutique shops and coffee houses. You also have two entrances, which can be helpful for coming in and out without disturbing any guests who may have gone to bed early.

Check Availability

9. Lake Monona Home

Why you should stay: The epitome of mid-century modern on the lake just 15 mins from Capitol Square

Sleeps: 4
Minimum stay: 2 nights
Rates from: $625/night

This Lake Monona home is both stylish, welcoming, and in a prime location. The expansive backyard is furnished with a grill and a fire pit overlooking the lapping waters of the lake, and the home comes with a private pier, canoes, rowboat, and kayak for your use.

Inside, you’ll feel at home in the classically mid-century decor that flawlessly marries colorful textiles with natural wood and stone accents. Both bedrooms enjoy luxurious bathrooms with rain showers and glamorous fixtures. The thoughtful touches continue into the kitchen, where a coffee corner stands ready for you to make your perfect cup of joe before heading out for the day.

Check Availability