Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC bus with Greyhound

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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC

Showing times and prices for Jun 20

Cheapest price

$127

Average price

$129

Fastest journey

20 h

Average duration

21 h 19 m

Buses per day

12

Distance

944 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC will cost around $129 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $127.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    6:00 PM23h20
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    6:20 PMCharlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
    $1271One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    6:00 PM23h00
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    6:00 PMCharlotte, Freedom Drive (Planet Fitness), NC
    $1271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    10:15 AM21h25
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    8:40 AMCharlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
    $1271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    9:55 AM21h45
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    8:40 AMCharlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
    $1271One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound · ·
    2:45 PM20h00
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    11:45 AMCharlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)
    $1271One-way
    2 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $91. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 39m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $91, and a train costs an average of $182.

Distance: 586 miles (944 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Flight
Train
Driving

$201

Average price

$187

Average price

Cheapest

$384

Average price

$173

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

21h 7m

Average total duration

20h 37m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 39m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 39m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

26h 12m

Average total duration

25h 42m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 44m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Spirit Airlines

Most popular airline

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC is a flight with an average price of $187 (€153).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC:

A flight is $14 (€11) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC costing on average $201 (€164).

A flight is $197 (€161) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC costing on average $384 (€314).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 39m.

Other travel options to Charlotte, NC take longer:

Bus takes on average 20h 37m.

Train takes on average 25h 42m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
05:05AM
Duration
21h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$123
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:55AM
Arrival Time
08:40AM
Duration
21h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$123
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
30h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$123
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
11:30AM
Duration
21h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$121
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
11:45AM
Duration
20h00
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$123
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:15PM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
23h45
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$143
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
23h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$123
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:50PM
Arrival Time
11:10PM
Duration
23h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$129
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10PM
Arrival Time
11:25PM
Duration
23h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$129

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
21h55
5:05 AM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)1 transfer
Greyhound · 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
21h45
8:40 AM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)1 transfer
Greyhound · 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
21h25
8:40 AM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)1 transfer
Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
30h45
6:00 PM Charlotte, Freedom Drive (Planet Fitness), NC2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus1:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
21h30
11:30 AM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)1 transfer
Greyhound · · 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
20h00
11:45 AM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
23h00
6:00 PM Charlotte, Freedom Drive (Planet Fitness), NC1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
23h20
6:20 PM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)1 transfer
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
23h20
11:10 PM Charlotte, Freedom Drive (Planet Fitness), NC1 transfer
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
23h35
11:25 PM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)1 transfer
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
23h15
11:25 PM Charlotte, W 4th St (Greyhound Bus Station)1 transfer
Greyhound+FlixBusFlixBus11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
23h00
11:10 PM Charlotte, Freedom Drive (Planet Fitness), NC1 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 Charlotte, NC 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.

Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26

Why should you book Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC buses with Omio?

Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC.

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 Charlotte, NC.
  • 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 Charlotte, NC.

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 Charlotte, NC.
  • 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 Charlotte, NC.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC run on average 12 times per day, taking around 20h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $101 (€82) but you can travel from only $91 (€75) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 586 miles (944 km) distance in 20h 10m.

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 $91 (€75)
Distance
586 miles (944 km)
Average bus duration
20h 37m
Cheapest ticket price
$101 (€82)
Buses per day
12
Fastest bus
20h 10m
First bus
12:45 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Oct
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
7 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 $91 (€75)

Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NCYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $91 (€75). 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
21h 30m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€82)
FlixBus frequency
3 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
20h 10m
Cheapest Price
$114 (€93)
Greyhound frequency
9 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 Charlotte

Things to do in Charlotte

Discover the best of Charlotte — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charlotte trip today.

  • Must visit

Mint Museum Uptown

Major art museum in Center City with American, contemporary, and craft collections in a modern high-rise setting.

  • Must visit

NASCAR Hall of Fame

Interactive museum celebrating NASCAR history, drivers, and racing culture; one of Charlotte's signature visitor attractions.

  • Recommended

Mint Museum Randolph

The original Mint Museum campus, known for decorative arts, fashion, and historic collections in a quieter setting.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. standards. Hotels vary, while casual dining, coffee, and local transport are fairly manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
USD 4-6 for a coffee drink.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip bartenders USD 1-2 per drink, taxis 10-15%, hotel staff a few USD, and round up for casual services.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC can start from as little as $101 (€82) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC is $201 (€164) ; 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 Charlotte, NC is 20h 10m to travel the 586 miles (944 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 Charlotte, NC leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Charlotte, NC. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Charlotte, NC and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Charlotte, NC from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 20h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Charlotte, NC including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC:
  • 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 Charlotte, NC for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Charlotte, NC are:
  • NASCAR Hall of Fame, an interactive museum dedicated to the history and heritage of NASCAR with exhibits and simulators
  • Discovery Place Science, a hands-on science and technology museum featuring interactive exhibits and an IMAX theater
  • Freedom Park, a 98-acre park offering walking trails, sports fields, and a picturesque lake
  • Mint Museum Uptown, an art museum showcasing American, contemporary, and European art collections
  • Levine Museum of the New South, focusing on post-Civil War Southern history and culture.
The best things to do in Charlotte, NC include:
  • Carowinds, a large amusement park featuring roller coasters and a water park
  • U.S. National Whitewater Center, offering outdoor activities like whitewater rafting, kayaking, and rock climbing
  • NoDa, Charlotte's historic arts and entertainment district with galleries, music venues, and unique dining experiences
  • Charlotte Motor Speedway, hosting NASCAR races and other motorsport events
  • Billy Graham Library, a museum and library dedicated to the life and legacy of the famous evangelist.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC 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.
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 Charlotte, NC.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC:
  • 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 Charlotte, NC:
  • 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 Charlotte, NC. 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 Charlotte, NC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC 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 Charlotte, NC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and parking lots. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi or rideshare drivers and fake ticket sellers near popular attractions. It's advisable to use licensed transportation services and keep valuables secure to avoid 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 Chicago, IL to Charlotte, NC

Chicago
Charlotte
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 Charlotte.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information

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