- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 03
Cheapest price
$121
Average price
$123
Fastest journey
11 h 55 m
Average duration
12 h 33 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
729 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL will cost around $123 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $121.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
· 11:05 PM11h55Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1211One-way1 transfer- · 7:55 AM13h10Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center8:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1251One-way1 transfer
- · 11:05 PM11h55Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1211One-way1 transfer
- · 7:55 AM13h10Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center8:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1251One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $58. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $58, and a flight costs an average of $94.
Distance: 452 miles (729 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$116 Average price Cheapest | $207 Average price | $357 Average price | $149 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
14h 3m Average total duration 13h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 3m Average total duration 10h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 58m Average total duration Fastest 1h 58m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $116 (€96).
This is compared to other travel options from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $91 (€75) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL costing on average $207 (€171).
A bus is $240 (€198) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL costing on average $357 (€294).
The fastest way to travel from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 58m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 10h 33m.
Bus takes on average 13h 33m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Buffalo, NY 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.
Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 13h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $78 |
Live departures
Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL buses for today, Thursday, July 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · | 11:05 PM Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center | 11h55 | 10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, July 3 | |||||
| · | 7:55 AM Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center | 13h10 | 8:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Buffalo, NY 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.
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Why should you book Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.
- 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 13h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $58 (€48) but you can travel from only $57 (€47) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 04:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 452 miles (729 km) distance in 11h 55m.
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
Train from $57 (€47)
Distance 452 miles (729 km) |
Average bus duration 13h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€48) |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 11h 55m |
First bus 4:45 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 70 days |
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
Train from $57 (€47)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $57 (€47). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
19h 5m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€50)
FlixBus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
11h 55m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€48)
Greyhound frequency
2 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $58 (€48) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL is $116 (€96) ; 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL is 11h 55m to travel the 452 miles (729 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 2 buses a day from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Buffalo, NY is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Buffalo, NY and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- 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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Buffalo, NY 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Buffalo, NY 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Most Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL buses use the Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Buffalo, NY 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 Buffalo
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Buffalo, NFTA Metro Center
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Most popular bus connections from Buffalo, NY
More options for your journey from Buffalo, NY to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Buffalo, NY
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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