- Must visit
Cincinnati Art Museum
A major art museum with broad global collections, strong Cincinnati ties, and free admission, set in scenic Eden Park.
Cheapest price
zł174
Average price
zł197
Fastest journey
5 h 35 m
Average duration
6 h 35 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
405 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH 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 Cincinnati, OH will cost around zł197 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only zł174.
Of the 6 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Cincinnati, OH on Wed, Aug 26, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 26 the direct buses cover the 405 km distance in an average of 6 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 35 m .
On Wed, Aug 26 the slowest buses will take 9 h 5 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.
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Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from zł151. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 28m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of zł151, and a flight costs an average of zł315.
Distance: 251 miles (405 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
zł236 Average price Cheapest | zł479 Average price | zł984 Average price | zł270 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 1m Average total duration 6h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 3m Average total duration 8h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 28m Average total duration Fastest 1h 28m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 56m 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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH:
A bus is zł243 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH costing on average zł479.
A bus is zł748 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH costing on average zł984.
Other travel options to Cincinnati, OH take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 31m.
Train takes on average 8h 33m.
Tickets start at around zł236 compared to roughly zł270 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about zł34. The journey takes 6h 31m versus 4h 56m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, Greyhound.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price zł218 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price zł179 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price zł174 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 04:05AM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price zł259 |
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH buses for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 10h15 | 5:25 PM Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station, OH | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 6h05 | 2:05 PM Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station), OH | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 6h25 | 2:25 PM Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati), OH | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 5h45 | 5:15 PM Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati), OH | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus | 10:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 5h35 | 5:05 PM Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station), OH | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus+![]() | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 9h05 | 4:05 AM Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station, OH | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 31m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at zł151 if you book in advance.
There are 3 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:55, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 251 miles (405 km) distance in 5h 45m.
Distance 251 miles (405 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price zł151 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 45m |
First bus 12:55 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
Discover the best of Cincinnati, OH — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cincinnati, OH trip today.
A major art museum with broad global collections, strong Cincinnati ties, and free admission, set in scenic Eden Park.
A family-focused museum inside Union Terminal featuring Cincinnati history, natural history, and rotating science and culture exhibits.
A nationally significant museum preserving Underground Railroad history through immersive exhibits on freedom and civil rights.
The city’s signature riverfront park offers fountains, swings, events, and excellent skyline views along the Ohio River.
A lively historic district known for preserved 19th-century architecture, murals, shops, and one of the best urban walks in Cincinnati.
A civic square lined with historic buildings and event spaces, central to downtown festivals, markets, and everyday city life.
Cincinnati chili is a spiced meat sauce served over spaghetti or hot dogs, then topped with cheese. It is the city's most iconic comfort food.
Goetta is a German-American loaf of pork, beef, oats, and spices, sliced and fried crisp. It reflects the city's strong German heritage.
A cheese coney is a small hot dog in a bun topped with Cincinnati chili, mustard, onions, and shredded cheddar. It is a beloved local quick meal.
Beloved local chain serving ice cream made by the French Pot method. A must for Cincinnati's signature black raspberry chocolate chip.
Refined Midwestern restaurant known for seasonal tasting menus, polished service, and one of Cincinnati's top fine dining experiences.
Historic chili parlor famed for Cincinnati chili, cheese coneys, and a classic local diner feel in the Camp Washington area.
Moderate for U.S. city breaks: hotels are often cheaper than larger metros, dining is mid-priced, and public transit is limited so rideshares or parking can add costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is good.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH 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 Cincinnati, OH, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Cincinnati, OH bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station is 12 km from Cincinnati city centre. Public transport options include:
Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM machines available inside the station.
Ticket office support is available at Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating available.
Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati) is 3 km from Cincinnati city centre. Public transport options include:
Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Restaurants available along Short Vine St.
Wi-Fi is available at Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati). ATMs are aTMs available in nearby banks.
Ticket office support is available at Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati).
Available at Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati): Accessible pathways available.
Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station). ATMs are available at Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station).
Ticket office support is available at Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station).
Available at Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station): Wheelchair accessible facility.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need