- 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 Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 18
Cheapest price
$185
Average price
$197
Fastest journey
23 h 20 m
Average duration
23 h 40 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
889 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL will cost around $197 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $185.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
· +
FlixBus7:15 AM23h55Charlottesville, Union Station, VA6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1851One-way2 transfers- · 9:40 AM23h20Charlottesville, Union Station, VA8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$2031One-way1 transfer
- · 9:40 AM23h45Charlottesville, Union Station, VA8:25 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2031One-way1 transfer
- · 9:40 AM23h20Charlottesville, Union Station, VA8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$2031One-way1 transfer
- · 9:40 AM23h45Charlottesville, Union Station, VA8:25 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2031One-way1 transfer
- · +FlixBus7:15 AM23h55Charlottesville, Union Station, VA6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1851One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $105. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 5h 5m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $105, and a flight costs an average of $185.
Distance: 552 miles (889 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$182 Average price Cheapest | $259 Average price | $316 Average price | $160 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
24h 4m Average total duration 23h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 19m Average total duration 20h 49m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 5m Average total duration Fastest 5h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 11h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $182 (€149).
This is compared to other travel options from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $77 (€63) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL costing on average $259 (€212).
A bus is $133 (€109) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL costing on average $316 (€258).
The fastest way to travel from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 5h 5m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 20h 49m.
Bus takes on average 23h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA 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.
Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 23h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $155 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $146 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 23h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $108 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 23h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 23h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $120 |
Live departures
Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL buses for tomorrow, Thursday, June 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · +FlixBus | 7:15 AM Charlottesville, Union Station, VA | 23h55 | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| · | 9:40 AM Charlottesville, Union Station, VA | 23h20 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 1 transfer | |
| · | 9:40 AM Charlottesville, Union Station, VA | 23h45 | 8:25 AM 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 Charlottesville, VA 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 23h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $105 (€86) but you can travel from only $102 (€84) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 06:10, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 552 miles (889 km) distance in 23h 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
Train from $102 (€84)
Distance 552 miles (889 km) |
Average bus duration 23h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $105 (€86) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 23h 20m |
First bus 6:10 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 $102 (€84)
Bus providers: Charlottesville Area Transit from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL with Charlottesville Area Transit for as low as $102 (€84). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Charlottesville Area Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
23h 45m
Cheapest Price
$214 (€175)
Charlottesville Area Transit frequency
1 a day
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 Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $105 (€86) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL is $182 (€149) ; 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 Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL is 23h 20m to travel the 552 miles (889 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 Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL leaves at 6:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Charlottesville Area Transit. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Charlottesville Area Transit for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Charlottesville, VA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Charlottesville, VA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 23h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Charlottesville, VA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL.
No, luggage for the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL.
Since neither Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL
Charlottesville
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Charlottesville is Charlottesville, Union Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Charlottesville, Union Station for your trip from Charlottesville to Chicago.
Charlottesville, Union Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Chicago is Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station for your trip to Chicago from Charlottesville.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
information
More options for your journey from Charlottesville, VA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Charlottesville, VA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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