- Must visit
The Charleston Museum
Often called America's first museum, it covers Charleston and Lowcountry history, decorative arts, natural history, and regional culture.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$147
Average price
$231
Fastest journey
1 d 3 h 30 m
Average duration
1 d 10 h 26 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
1217 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC will cost around $231 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $147.
Fast buses
Of the 5 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Charleston, SC on Sat, Jun 20, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 1217 km distance in an average of 1 d 10 h 26 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 3 h 30 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 1 d 18 h 20 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.
6:00 PM28h30Chicago, IL10:30 PMCharleston, SC$1471One-way0 transfers
4:10 AM42h20Chicago, IL10:30 PMCharleston, SC$1541One-way0 transfers- 4:00 PM31h30Chicago, IL11:30 PMCharleston, SC$2471One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 AM42h20Chicago, IL11:30 PMCharleston, SC$2841One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 PM27h30Chicago, IL10:30 PMCharleston, SC$3251One-way0 transfers
- 7:00 PM27h30Chicago, IL10:30 PMCharleston, SC$3251One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 PM28h30Chicago, IL10:30 PMCharleston, SC$1471One-way0 transfers
- 4:00 PM31h30Chicago, IL11:30 PMCharleston, SC$2471One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 AM42h20Chicago, IL11:30 PMCharleston, SC$2841One-way0 transfers
- 4:10 AM42h20Chicago, IL10:30 PMCharleston, SC$1541One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $127. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 1m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $127, and a train costs an average of $237.
Distance: 756 miles (1217 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$237 Average price Cheapest | $329 Average price | $407 Average price | $195 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
35h 41m Average total duration 35h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 1m Average total duration Fastest 3h 1m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 27h 49m Average total duration 27h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is a bus with an average price of $237 (€195).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC:
A bus is $91 (€75) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC costing on average $329 (€269).
A bus is $169 (€139) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC costing on average $407 (€333).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 1m.
Other travel options to Charleston, SC take longer:
Train takes on average 27h 19m.
Bus takes on average 35h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Charleston, SC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 42h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $154 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 42h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $284 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 31h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $162 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 31h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $150 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 28h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $143 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 31h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $247 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 28h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $147 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 27h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $325 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+ | 1:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 28h30 | 6:30 PM Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station), SC | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 4:10 AM Chicago, IL | 42h20 | 10:30 PM Charleston, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:10 AM Chicago, IL | 42h20 | 11:30 PM Charleston, SC | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:00 PM Chicago, IL | 31h30 | 11:30 PM Charleston, SC | 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 Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC buses with Omio?
FlixBus operates all buses services from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- 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 Charleston, SC.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC run on average 3 times per day, taking around 35h 11m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $127 (€104) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 10:00, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 756 miles (1217 km) distance in 27h 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
Distance 756 miles (1217 km) |
Average bus duration 35h 11m |
Cheapest ticket price $127 (€104) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 27h 25m |
First bus 10:00 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Bus providers: FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SCYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC with FlixBus for as low as $127 (€104). 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
27h 25m
Cheapest Price
$127 (€104)
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.
Complete guide to Charleston
Things to do in Charleston
Discover the best of Charleston — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charleston trip today.
- Must visit
Old Slave Mart Museum
A small but important museum interpreting the domestic slave trade in Charleston through exhibits in a historic market building.
- Must visit
Gibbes Museum of Art
Charleston's leading art museum, known for American art with strong ties to the South, rotating exhibitions, and a distinguished permanent collection.
- Must visit
The Battery
Charleston's famous waterfront promenade is lined with grand historic homes, harbor views, and classic postcard scenery.
- Must visit
Waterfront Park
A popular riverfront park known for its pier, lawns, and the photogenic Pineapple Fountain.
- Must visit
King Street
Charleston's best-known commercial corridor, mixing historic architecture, shopping, nightlife, and frequent social media visibility.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp And Grits
A Lowcountry classic of sautéed shrimp served over creamy grits, often with bacon or gravy. It is one of Charleston’s signature dishes.
- Gluten-free
She-Crab Soup
A rich Charleston soup made with crab meat, crab roe, cream, and sherry. It is a historic local specialty associated with the city’s coastal cuisine.
- Gluten-free
Hoppin’ John
A traditional rice and field pea dish, usually cooked with pork for flavor. It is an iconic Southern and Lowcountry comfort food.
FIG
One of Charleston’s most acclaimed restaurants, serving ingredient-driven Southern cuisine with a polished but approachable feel. Reservations are highly sought after.
Fleet Landing Restaurant & Bar
A popular waterfront restaurant known for Lowcountry seafood, shrimp and grits, and relaxed harbor views. It is a dependable choice for classic Charleston flavors.
Husk
A celebrated restaurant focused on refined Southern cooking using seasonal local ingredients. Stylish and upscale, it is one of Charleston’s best-known dining rooms.
United States Dollar
Prices are moderate by U.S. standards. Historic district dining and hotels cost more, while casual food and transport stay manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for casual spots or takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 75-150+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and valet. Tipping is expected for most service roles.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC can start from as little as $127 (€104) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is $237 (€195) ; 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 Charleston, SC is 27h 25m to travel the 756 miles (1217 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 Charleston, SC leaves at 10:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC which require at least one change with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Charleston, SC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Charleston, SC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Charleston, SC from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 27h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Charleston, SC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC for bus company FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC depends on the bus companies:
- 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 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 Charleston, SC.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC:
- 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 Charleston, SC:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC. 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 Charleston, SC with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC 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 Charleston, SC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the historic district and popular tourist spots. Beware of overly aggressive street vendors and unofficial taxi services that may overcharge. Additionally, travelers should avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when using ride-sharing apps to ensure the driver matches the booking details. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized services helps minimize safety 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 Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Chicago
Charleston
The major bus station for departures in Chicago is Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) for your trip from Chicago to Charleston.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Charleston is Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station) for your trip to Charleston from Chicago.
Charleston, Gaynor Avenue (Greyhound Bus Station)
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Charleston, SC and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Charleston, SC
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