- Must visit
Columbus Museum Of Art
Major art museum known for American and European collections, the Wonder Room, and strong rotating exhibitions. A top cultural stop in Columbus.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH
$771•One-way
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
$901•One-way
+Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH
$871•One-way
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
$901•One-way
Fastest
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH
$681•One-way
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
$1091•One-way
2nd cheapest
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
$861•One-way
Cheapest, 2nd Fastest
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH
$631•One-way
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
$1031•One-way
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
$1031•One-way
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Chicago, IL to Columbus, OHShowing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$88
Fastest journey
7h 20m
Average duration
9h 52m
Buses per day
10
Distance
444 km
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Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH bus with FlixBus
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 27m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $44, and a flight costs an average of $51.
Distance: 275 miles (444 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$72 Average price Cheapest | $326 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 22m Average total duration 7h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 27m Average total duration Fastest 1h 27m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH is a bus with an average price of $72 (€59).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH:
A bus is $254 (€209) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH costing on average $326 (€268).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 27m.
Other travel options to Columbus, OH take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 52m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 $72 (€59) compared to roughly $77 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $5 (€4). The journey takes 7h 52m versus 5h 14m 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.
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 Columbus, OH Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 12:35AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 03:40AM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 14h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $56 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH buses for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 9h10 | 5:10 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 0 transfersDirect | |
 · | 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 9h50 | 8:45 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
| · +FlixBus | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 8h35 | 7:50 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 2 transfers | |
| · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 9h30 | 8:45 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 11:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 7h20 | 7:50 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 0 transfersDirect | |
| · | 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 8h50 | 12:35 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
| · | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 10h15 | 5:15 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 7h25 | 3:40 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 0 transfersDirect | |
| · | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 14h00 | 1:50 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
| · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 13h40 | 1:50 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 1 transfer | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH by bus or flight
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Why should you book Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 Columbus, 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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 52m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $44 (€36) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 275 miles (444 km) distance in 7h 20m.
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 275 miles (444 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 52m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€36) |
Buses per day 8 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 7h 20m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 77 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
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OHYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $44 (€36). 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
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
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
8h 50m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
Greyhound frequency
4 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 Columbus
Things to do in Columbus
Discover the best of Columbus — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Columbus trip today.
- Must visit
COSI
Hands-on science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly programming. One of Columbus's most visited attractions.
- Recommended
National Veterans Memorial And Museum
National museum telling veterans' stories across all branches and conflicts through immersive exhibits. Architecturally distinctive and widely praised.
- Must visit
German Village
Brick streets, preserved 19th-century homes, and intimate lanes make this the city's most charming historic neighborhood for strolling.
- Must visit
Short North Arts District
Trendy arts corridor known for galleries, murals, nightlife, and constant street activity. One of the most popular areas for visitors.
- Must visit
Scioto Mile
Riverfront promenade linking parks, fountains, and skyline views. A top walking area for photos, sunset views, and downtown access.
Johnny Marzetti
A Columbus-born baked pasta casserole with ground beef, tomato sauce, and cheese, long tied to local school cafeterias and home cooking.
Columbus-Style Pizza
A local pizza style known for its thin, crisp crust, edge-to-edge toppings, and small square-cut slices, popular across the city.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Buckeyes
Ohio’s signature sweet: peanut butter fudge partially dipped in chocolate to resemble the buckeye nut, strongly associated with Columbus and Ohio State.
Lindey’s
Well-established upscale restaurant in German Village serving polished American cuisine, seafood, steaks, and brunch in an elegant atmosphere.
The Pearl
Popular Short North restaurant offering elevated tavern fare, oysters, cocktails, and a stylish but approachable atmosphere.
Schmidt’s Sausage Haus und Restaurant
Historic German Village restaurant known for sausages, schnitzel, sauerkraut, and its famous cream puffs in a lively traditional setting.
United States Dollar
Generally moderate by U.S. standards. Dining and coffee are reasonable, while hotels and fine dining vary by area and season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-40 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at full-service restaurants. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff and delivery drivers.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH can start from as little as $44 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH is $72 (€59) ; 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 Columbus, OH is 7h 20m to travel the 275 miles (444 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 Columbus, OH leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Columbus, OH. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Columbus, OH from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Columbus, OH are:
- Columbus Zoo and Aquarium, a renowned zoo featuring diverse animal exhibits and conservation programs
- Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens, a horticultural landmark with seasonal exhibitions and a stunning glasshouse
- Ohio Statehouse, a Greek Revival-style capitol building offering guided tours and historical insights
- Scioto Mile, a scenic urban oasis with parks, fountains, and trails along the Scioto River
- Wexner Center for the Arts, a contemporary art gallery showcasing innovative exhibitions and performances.
The best things to do in Columbus, OH include:
- COSI (Center of Science and Industry), an interactive science museum offering hands-on exhibits and educational programs
- Short North Arts District, a vibrant neighborhood known for its art galleries, boutiques, and dining options
- German Village, a historic area with charming brick streets, unique shops, and traditional German cuisine
- North Market, a bustling public market featuring diverse food vendors and local products
- Columbus Museum of Art, offering engaging exhibitions and a dynamic collection of American and European art.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 Columbus, 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 Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Columbus, 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 Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and vehicle break-ins, especially in crowded areas and popular nightlife districts. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and fake ticket sellers for events. It's advisable to use authorized transportation options and stay in well-lit, populated areas to enhance safety.
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 Columbus, OH
Most Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station) station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Columbus, 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 Columbus
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
BusGreyhound US0100 · 20m · $2
29 · 47m · $4 · every ~11 min
29 · 48m · $4 · every ~11 min
SubwayRed Line · 24m · $6 · every ~23 min
Red Line · 25m · $6 · every ~23 min
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Columbus, OH and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Columbus, OH
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