- Must visit
Birmingham Museum Of Art
Major regional art museum with a strong collection spanning Asian, European, American, African, and decorative arts. A top cultural stop in downtown Birmingham.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$133
Average price
$135
Fastest journey
14 h 55 m
Average duration
17 h
Buses per day
7
Distance
929 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL will cost around $135 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $133.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL without transferring at least once.
· 10:30 PM14h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:25 PMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1331One-way1 transfer
FlixBus+9:45 AM16h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:55 AMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1331One-way1 transfer- · 2:45 PM15h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:15 AMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1341One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+6:00 PM18h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:25 PMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1341One-way1 transfer
- · 10:15 AM20h00Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL6:15 AMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1341One-way1 transfer
- · 10:30 PM14h55Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:25 PMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1331One-way1 transfer
- · 2:45 PM15h30Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:15 AMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1341One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+9:45 AM16h10Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1:55 AMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1331One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+6:00 PM18h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:25 PMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1341One-way1 transfer
- · 10:15 AM20h00Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL6:15 AMBirmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority$1341One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $106. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $106, and a train costs an average of $235.
Distance: 577 miles (929 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$175 Average price Cheapest | $415 Average price | $401 Average price | $142 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
15h 32m Average total duration 15h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 37h 33m Average total duration 37h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 48m Average total duration Fastest 2h 48m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 49m 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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL is a bus with an average price of $175 (€143).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL:
A bus is $226 (€185) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL costing on average $401 (€328).
A bus is $240 (€197) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL costing on average $415 (€340).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 48m.
Other travel options to Birmingham, AL take longer:
Bus takes on average 15h 2m.
Train takes on average 37h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL 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.
Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 16h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 20h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $111 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 19h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $111 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 18h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 22h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $112 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 22h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $112 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · | 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 15h30 | 6:15 AM Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 18h25 | 12:25 PM Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority | 1 transfer | |
| · | 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 14h55 | 1:25 PM Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority | 1 transfer | |
| · | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 22h50 | 9:40 PM Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority | 1 transfer | |
| · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 22h30 | 9:40 PM Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 9:45 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 16h10 | 1:55 AM Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority | 1 transfer | |
| · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 20h00 | 6:15 AM Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL.
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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL.
- 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL.
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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL run on average 6 times per day, taking around 15h 2m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $106 (€86) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:45, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 577 miles (929 km) distance in 14h 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
Distance 577 miles (929 km) |
Average bus duration 15h 2m |
Cheapest ticket price $106 (€86) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 14h 55m |
First bus 1:45 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 5 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
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, ALYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $106 (€86). 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
16h 10m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€86)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
14h 55m
Cheapest Price
$107 (€88)
Greyhound frequency
5 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 Birmingham
Things to do in Birmingham
Discover the best of Birmingham — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Birmingham trip today.
- Must visit
Birmingham Civil Rights Institute
Influential interpretive museum documenting the Civil Rights Movement and Birmingham’s central role in it. One of the city’s most important educational attractions.
- Must visit
Barber Vintage Motorsports Museum
World-class motorcycle museum east of central Birmingham, known for its vast collection and modern display style. A standout for transport and design fans.
- Must visit
Railroad Park
Large urban park with skyline views, walking paths, lawns, and event space. One of the city’s most popular public places for both locals and visitors.
- Must visit
Civil Rights District
Historic area centered on key sites of the Civil Rights Movement, including churches, museums, and memorial spaces. Essential for understanding Birmingham.
- Recommended
Five Points South
Well-known historic neighborhood with distinctive streetscape, nightlife energy, murals, and easy walking access to local landmarks. Popular with younger visitors.
- Gluten-free
Alabama Barbecue
Slow-smoked pork or chicken is a Birmingham staple, often served with the region’s distinctive tangy white sauce or classic red sauce.
- Gluten-free
Barbecue Ribs
Tender smoked ribs are deeply rooted in Birmingham’s barbecue culture and are a must-try at long-running local smokehouses.
- Vegetarian
Fried Green Tomatoes
A Southern classic popular in Birmingham, made from unripe tomatoes sliced, breaded, and fried until crisp.
Highlands Bar and Grill
An iconic fine-dining restaurant known for refined Southern cooking, excellent service, and a long-standing national reputation.
Niki's West Steak and Seafood Restaurant
A classic Birmingham meat-and-three institution, famous for hearty Southern cafeteria-style meals and an old-school local feel.
Bottega Restaurant
A polished, established restaurant offering Italian-influenced fine dining with Southern hospitality and a sophisticated setting.
United States Dollar
Costs are moderate by U.S. standards. Dining and coffee are fairly priced, while upscale restaurants and central hotels cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% in restaurants before tax; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff USD 2-5, and round up for coffee only if desired.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL 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 Birmingham, AL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL can start from as little as $106 (€86) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL is $175 (€143) ; 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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL is 14h 55m to travel the 577 miles (929 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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL leaves at 1:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Birmingham, AL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Birmingham, AL from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 14h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL 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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL:
- 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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Birmingham, AL 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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL 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 Birmingham, AL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Avoid poorly lit or unfamiliar neighborhoods after dark. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or ride-share drivers and distraction techniques used to steal wallets or phones. Staying alert and using reputable transportation services helps ensure safety.
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 Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL
Most Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Birmingham, AL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Birmingham
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
Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority
City-centre transport
Getting to Birmingham Jefferson County Transit Authority from Birmingham city centre
Bus22, 23 · 7m · $1 · every ~2 min
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Birmingham, AL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Birmingham, AL and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Birmingham, AL
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