Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH bus with FlixBus

Wed, Aug 26
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH

Showing times and prices for Aug 26

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

Cheap tickets

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.

Fast buses

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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    10:30 AM5h35
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:05 PMCincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station), OH
    1741One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    10:30 AM5h45
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:15 PMCincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati), OH
    1741One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    7:00 AM6h05
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    2:05 PMCincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station), OH
    1791One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    7:00 AM6h25
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    2:25 PMCincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati), OH
    1791One-way
    0 transfers
  • Greyhound ·
    6:10 AM10h15
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:25 PMCincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station, OH
    2181One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH

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)

Compare bus with

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)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Republic Airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH is a bus with an average price of zł236.

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.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 28m.

Other travel options to Cincinnati, OH take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 31m.

Train takes on average 8h 33m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Cincinnati, OH including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.

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.

Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
05:25PM
Duration
10h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
218
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
02:05PM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
179
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:30AM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
174
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
04:05AM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
259

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH bus times

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.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
10h15
5:25 PM Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station, OH1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
6h05
2:05 PM Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station), OH0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
6h25
2:25 PM Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati), OH0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus10:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
5h45
5:15 PM Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati), OH0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus10:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
5h35
5:05 PM Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station), OH0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
9h05
4:05 AM Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station, OH1 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 Cincinnati, OH 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 Cincinnati, OH buses with Omio?

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

Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH.
  • 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 Cincinnati, OH.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH.
  • 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 Cincinnati, OH.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

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.

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
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
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, Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OHYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as zł151. 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
5h 45m
Cheapest Price
zł151
FlixBus frequency
4 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
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
zł196
Greyhound frequency
2 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 Cincinnati, OH

Things to do in Cincinnati, OH

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

  • Must visit

Cincinnati Art Museum

A major art museum with broad global collections, strong Cincinnati ties, and free admission, set in scenic Eden Park.

  • Must visit

Cincinnati Museum Center

A family-focused museum inside Union Terminal featuring Cincinnati history, natural history, and rotating science and culture exhibits.

  • Must visit

National Underground Railroad Freedom Center

A nationally significant museum preserving Underground Railroad history through immersive exhibits on freedom and civil rights.

United States dollar ($)

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.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 10-15% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is good.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH can start from as little as zł151 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH is zł236 ; 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 Cincinnati, OH is 5h 45m to travel the 251 miles (405 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 Cincinnati, OH leaves at 12:55 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH leaves at 11:10 PM.
Yes, there are 3 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Cincinnati, OH. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Cincinnati, OH and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Chicago, IL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL . When arriving in Cincinnati, OH , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station, OH, Cincinnati, Short Vine St (University of Cincinnati), OH, Cincinnati, Gilbert Ave (Greyhound Bus Station), OH, Covington, Transit Center, KY .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cincinnati, Greyhound Bus Station, OH, located 12 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cincinnati, OH from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Cincinnati, OH including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH:
  • 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 Cincinnati, OH for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH 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 FlixBus, Greyhound.
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 Cincinnati, OH.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH:
  • 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 Cincinnati, OH:
  • 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 Cincinnati, OH. 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 Cincinnati, OH with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Cincinnati, OH 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH 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 Cincinnati, OH, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular attractions. Avoid poorly lit or isolated neighborhoods at night. Common scams include overcharging by unlicensed taxi or ride-share drivers and street vendors selling counterfeit tickets or goods. Staying alert and using reputable transportation services helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Cincinnati, OH

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.

Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Cincinnati

Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Cincinnati, OH leave from?

Buses from Chicago, IL to Cincinnati, OH leave from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

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:

Bus7 · 8m · zł14 · every ~6 min

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.

Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USAWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

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:

Bus28, 151 · 7m · zł14 · every ~13 min

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.

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