- Must visit
Museum of Fine Arts, Boston
One of the largest art museums in the United States, known for major collections spanning ancient to contemporary art.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Showing times and prices for May 25
Cheapest price
$220
Average price
$249
Fastest journey
22 h 35 m
Average duration
1 d 1 h 36 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
1368 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA will cost around $249 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $220.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA without transferring at least once.
FlixBus+
7:15 PM25h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station9:50 PMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2201One-way1 transfer- · · 7:00 AM27h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:25 AMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2371One-way2 transfers
- · +FlixBus11:10 PM33h15Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL9:25 AMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2401One-way2 transfers
- · 6:00 PM23h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:25 PMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2471One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus12:25 PM22h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:00 PMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2691One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus12:25 PM22h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:00 PMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2691One-way1 transfer
- · 6:00 PM23h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:25 PMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2471One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+7:15 PM25h35Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station9:50 PMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2201One-way1 transfer
- · · 7:00 AM27h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station11:25 AMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2371One-way2 transfers
- · +FlixBus · FlixBus10:15 AM29h00Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL4:15 PMBoston, Bus Terminal South Station$2821One-way3 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $62. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 35m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $62, and a train costs an average of $90.
Distance: 850 miles (1368 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$201 Average price | $190 Average price Cheapest | $365 Average price | $303 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
25h 57m Average total duration 25h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 35m Average total duration Fastest 2h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 22h 31m Average total duration 22h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
1.4 - 3.4kg CO2 emissions | 4.1 - 8.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.4 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is a flight with an average price of $190 (€153).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA:
A flight is $11 (€9) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA costing on average $201 (€163).
A flight is $176 (€142) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA costing on average $365 (€296).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 35m.
Other travel options to Boston, MA take longer:
Train takes on average 22h 1m.
Bus takes on average 25h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Boston, MA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 27h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 27h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 22h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 23h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $122 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 25h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $120 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 09:25AM | Duration 33h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $126 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Boston, MA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Boston, MA buses for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · +FlixBus | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 27h55 | 3:10 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 22h35 | 12:00 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 1 transfer | |
| · | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 23h25 | 6:25 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus+ | 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 25h35 | 9:50 PM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 1 transfer | |
| · +FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 33h15 | 9:25 AM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 27h25 | 11:25 AM Boston, Bus Terminal South Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Chicago, IL to Boston, MA buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA.
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 Boston, MA.
- 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 Chicago, IL to Boston, MA.
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 Boston, MA.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 25h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $91 (€74) but you can travel from only $62 (€50) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 01:30, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 850 miles (1368 km) distance in 22h 35m.
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 $62 (€50)
Distance 850 miles (1368 km) |
Average bus duration 25h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $91 (€74) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 22h 35m |
First bus 1:30 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Flight from $62 (€50)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Boston, MA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $62 (€50). 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
22h 35m
Cheapest Price
$94 (€76)
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
23h 25m
Cheapest Price
$91 (€74)
Greyhound frequency
3 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 Boston
Things to do in Boston
Discover the best of Boston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Boston trip today.
- Must visit
Isabella Stewart Gardner Museum
A distinctive Venetian-style museum with art, architecture, and a celebrated courtyard; one of Boston’s most memorable cultural sites.
- Must visit
Museum of Science
A major science museum with interactive exhibits, family-friendly displays, and a planetarium on the Charles River.
- Must visit
Freedom Trail
Boston’s best-known walking route linking many of the city’s historic sites, ideal for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Boston Common
The oldest public park in the United States and a central green space for strolling, events, and city views.
- Must visit
Public Garden
A beautifully landscaped historic garden known for its lagoon, footbridge, flowers, and Swan Boats.
New England Clam Chowder
A creamy soup with clams, potatoes, and onions, closely associated with Boston and the wider New England coast.
Lobster Roll
A classic New England sandwich of lobster meat in a toasted split-top bun, often served warm with butter or chilled with mayo.
- Gluten-free
Boston Baked Beans
Slow-cooked beans traditionally baked with molasses and salt pork; the dish helped give Boston its nickname, Beantown.
Oleana
Highly regarded Cambridge-area restaurant near Boston known for refined Eastern Mediterranean cooking and a warm, upscale atmosphere.
Neptune Oyster
Small, famous North End seafood spot celebrated for lobster rolls, oysters, and polished raw bar service.
Mike's Pastry
Iconic North End pastry shop best known for cannoli and other Italian-American desserts in a lively, casual atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Boston is expensive by U.S. standards, especially for hotels and dining, though casual eats and transit are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA can start from as little as $91 (€74) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is $201 (€163) ; 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 Boston, MA is 22h 35m to travel the 850 miles (1368 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 Boston, MA leaves at 1:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA leaves at 11:15 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Boston, MA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Boston, MA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Boston, MA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 22h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Boston, MA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Boston, MA are:
- Best sights: Freedom Trail, a 2.5-mile-long path through downtown Boston that passes by 16 significant historical sites
- Fenway Park, the iconic baseball stadium and home of the Boston Red Sox
- Museum of Fine Arts, one of the largest art museums in the United States with an extensive collection of artworks
- Boston Common, the oldest public park in the United States offering green space and historical landmarks
- New England Aquarium, a popular attraction featuring a wide variety of marine life and interactive exhibits.
The best things to do in Boston, MA include:
- Things to do: Explore the historic streets of Beacon Hill, known for its charming cobblestone streets and Federal-style rowhouses
- Take a scenic walk along the Charles River Esplanade, offering beautiful views of the Boston skyline
- Visit the Boston Public Library, a stunning architectural landmark with impressive collections and exhibits
- Enjoy a guided tour of the historic USS Constitution, the world's oldest commissioned naval vessel still afloat
- Discover the vibrant atmosphere of Quincy Market, with its diverse food stalls and unique shops.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA:
- 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 Boston, MA:
- 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 Boston, MA. 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 Boston, MA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Boston, MA 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA 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 Boston, MA, travelers should be aware of pickpocketing and bag theft, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and overcharging by unlicensed taxi drivers. It's advisable to use official transportation services, stay alert in busy areas, and avoid sharing personal information with strangers to 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 Boston, MA
Chicago
Boston
The major bus station for departures 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 from Chicago to Boston.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Boston is Boston, Bus Terminal South Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Boston, Bus Terminal South Station for your trip to Boston from Chicago.
Boston, Bus Terminal South Station
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Boston, MA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Boston, MA and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Boston, MA
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