- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$362
Average price
$409
Fastest journey
2 d 20 m
Average duration
2 d 2 h 43 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
2968 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around $409 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $362.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Berkeley, CA for Chicago, IL on Thu, Jul 09, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct buses cover the 2968 km distance in an average of 2 d 2 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 20 m .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest buses will take 2 d 6 h 55 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
10:05 PM48h20Berkeley, CA10:25 PMChicago, IL$3621One-way0 transfers- 8:30 PM48h55Berkeley, CA9:25 PMChicago, IL$3981One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM54h55Berkeley, CA9:25 PMChicago, IL$4681One-way0 transfers
- 10:05 PM48h20Berkeley, CA10:25 PMChicago, IL$3621One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM48h55Berkeley, CA9:25 PMChicago, IL$3981One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM54h55Berkeley, CA9:25 PMChicago, IL$4681One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $168. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 12h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $168, and a train costs an average of $286.
Distance: 1844 miles (2968 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$410 Average price | $488 Average price | $250 Average price Cheapest | $426 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
47h 30m Average total duration 47h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 52h 36m Average total duration 52h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 30m Average total duration Fastest 12h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 30h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL is a flight with an average price of $250 (€206).
This is compared to other travel options from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL:
A flight is $160 (€132) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $410 (€337).
A flight is $239 (€196) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average $488 (€402).
The fastest way to travel from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 12h 30m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 47h 0m.
Train takes on average 52h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berkeley, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 63h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $365 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 54h55 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $417 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 48h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $398 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 48h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $460 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 48h20 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $362 |
Compare prices and tickets Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Thu
Jul 09
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Why should you book Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 10 times per day, taking around 47h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $362 (€297) but you can travel from only $168 (€138) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1844 miles (2968 km) distance in 48h 20m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $168 (€138)
Distance 1844 miles (2968 km) |
Average bus duration 47h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $362 (€297) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 48h 20m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $168 (€138)
Bus providers: Greyhound from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound for as low as $168 (€138). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
48h 20m
Cheapest Price
$362 (€297)
Greyhound frequency
9 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Complete guide to Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
A top natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, fossils, and broad science collections.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large hands-on science museum with a German submarine, space exhibits, and interactive engineering displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and major seasonal events.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, and bustling urban energy along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A popular pedestrian waterfront with excellent skyline views, bridges, and easy access to boat architecture tours.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $362 (€297) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL is $410 (€337) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL is 48h 20m to travel the 1844 miles (2968 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Berkeley, CA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Berkeley, CA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 48h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Berkeley, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
- Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
- Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
- Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
- Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
- Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
- Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
- Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
- Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL depends on the bus companies:
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Berkeley, CA nor Chicago, IL are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and United States. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United States is the US Dollar (USD). For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially credit and debit cards, while cash is useful for small purchases or places that do not accept cards.
In Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL
Most Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL buses use the Oakland, West Oakland BART Station to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Use this guide to compare Berkeley, CA and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Berkeley
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Berkeley, CA
More options for your journey from Berkeley, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Berkeley, CA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
