4.9
4.6The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Cheapest price
$95
Average price
$139
Fastest journey
8 h 20 m
Average duration
12 h 43 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
478 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL 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 Carbondale, IL will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $95.
Of the 5 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Carbondale, IL on Wed, Aug 05, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 478 km distance in an average of 12 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 20 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 20 h 55 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.
10:30 PM9h05Chicago, IL7:35 AMCarbondale, IL$951One-way0 transfers- 10:15 PM8h20Chicago, IL6:35 AMCarbondale, IL$1051One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM9h05Chicago, IL6:35 AMCarbondale, IL$1121One-way0 transfers
4:00 PM20h55Chicago, IL12:55 PMCarbondale, IL$1841One-way0 transfers- 7:45 PM16h10Chicago, IL11:55 AMCarbondale, IL$2011One-way0 transfers
- 10:15 PM8h20Chicago, IL6:35 AMCarbondale, IL$1051One-way0 transfers
- 10:30 PM9h05Chicago, IL7:35 AMCarbondale, IL$951One-way0 transfers
- 9:30 PM9h05Chicago, IL6:35 AMCarbondale, IL$1121One-way0 transfers
- 7:45 PM16h10Chicago, IL11:55 AMCarbondale, IL$2011One-way0 transfers
- 4:00 PM20h55Chicago, IL12:55 PMCarbondale, IL$1841One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $30. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 29m. 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 $30, and a bus costs an average of $43.
Distance: 297 miles (478 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$109 Average price | $54 Average price Cheapest | $68 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 45m Average total duration 8h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 59m Average total duration Fastest 5h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL:
A train is $54 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL costing on average $109.
Other travel options to Carbondale, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 15m.
You'll arrive about -4h -26m sooner (8h 15m by bus vs 4h 49m by car) and save roughly $-40.99 compared to fuel and tolls ($109 vs $68). 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 Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 Carbondale, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $127 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 20h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $184 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 01:35AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 16h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $111 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 16h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:15PM | Arrival Time 06:35AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 07:35AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL buses for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:30 PM Chicago, IL | 9h05 | 6:35 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:30 PM Chicago, IL | 9h05 | 7:35 AM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, August 5 | |||||
| 4:00 PM Chicago, IL | 20h55 | 12:55 PM Carbondale, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Carbondale, 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.
Aug 05
Aug 06
Aug 07
Aug 08
Aug 09
Aug 10
Aug 11
Why should you book Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL buses with Omio?
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 Carbondale, 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 Chicago, IL to Carbondale, 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 Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL run on average 4 times per day, taking around 8h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 but you can travel from only $30 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 22:00. The fastest bus covers the 297 miles (478 km) distance in 8h 20m.
Distance 297 miles (478 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 8h 20m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 10:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 14 days |
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, ILYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $30. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
Greyhound
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, 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 Carbondale, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- 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.
- 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).
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Most Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Carbondale, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Carbondale, IL leave from?
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station is 14 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances available.
Which Carbondale, IL station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Getting to Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station from Carbondale city centre
Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station bus station facilities and services
Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station. ATMs are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carbondale, Amtrak Train Station: Wheelchair accessible entry and services provided.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Carbondale, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carbondale, IL and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Carbondale, IL
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
