- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the US, known for Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and the iconic bronze lions at its entrance.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$76
Average price
$103
Fastest journey
8 h 25 m
Average duration
8 h 58 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
478 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Carbondale, IL for Chicago, IL on Sun, Jun 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 478 km distance in an average of 8 h 58 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 25 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 9 h 30 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.
1:00 PM9h30Carbondale, IL10:30 PMChicago, IL$761One-way0 transfers- 12:40 PM8h25Carbondale, IL9:05 PMChicago, IL$1311One-way0 transfers
- 12:40 PM8h25Carbondale, IL9:05 PMChicago, IL$1311One-way0 transfers
- 1:00 PM9h30Carbondale, IL10:30 PMChicago, IL$761One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 37m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $32, and a bus costs an average of $51.
Distance: 297 miles (478 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$120 Average price | $60 Average price Cheapest |
10h 10m Average total duration 9h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 7m Average total duration Fastest 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL is a train with an average price of $60 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL:
A train is $60 (€49) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL costing on average $120 (€98).
The fastest way to travel from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL is by train with an average journey time of 5h 37m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 9h 40m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carbondale, IL and Chicago, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $199 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 18h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $219 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $75 |
Live departures
Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL buses for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 12:40 PM Carbondale, IL | 8h25 | 9:05 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:00 PM Carbondale, IL | 9h30 | 10:30 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sun
Jun 21
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Why should you book Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 9h 40m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $51 (€42) but you can travel from only $32 (€26) by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 297 miles (478 km) distance in 8h 25m.
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 $32 (€26)
Distance 297 miles (478 km) |
Average bus duration 9h 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $51 (€42) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 8h 25m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 42 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 $32 (€26)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $32 (€26). 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
8h 25m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
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
18h 30m
Cheapest Price
$140 (€115)
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
Major natural history museum famous for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and extensive science collections that appeal to both adults and children.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park featuring a submarine, space exhibits, engineering displays, and immersive family-friendly experiences.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
The city’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, events, and major skyline views that define modern Chicago.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of Michigan Avenue lined with historic buildings, shops, hotels, and frequent first-time visitor photo stops.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Highly popular waterfront promenade with architecture views, bridges, and one of the best urban walks in the city.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
Gene & Georgetti
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is manageable, but hotels, attractions, and downtown dining can be pricey.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis about 10-15%, and hotel staff a few dollars.
FAQs: Bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $51 (€42) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL is $120 (€98) ; 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL is 8h 25m to travel the 297 miles (478 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Carbondale, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Carbondale, IL and Chicago, IL including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL
Most Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL buses use the Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station
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 Carbondale, IL
More options for your journey from Carbondale, IL to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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