Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH bus with FlixBus

Tue, May 26
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH

Showing times and prices for May 26

Cheapest price

$63

Average price

$68

Fastest journey

7 h 20 m

Average duration

8 h 21 m

Buses per day

10

Distance

444 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Columbus, 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 Columbus, OH will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.

Fast buses

Of the 10 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Columbus, OH on Tue, May 26, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, May 26 the direct buses cover the 444 km distance in an average of 8 h 21 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 20 m .

On Tue, May 26 the slowest buses will take 9 h 35 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 · FlixBus+Greyhound
    10:30 AM9h35
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    9:05 PMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
    $631One-way
    2 transfers
  • Greyhound ·
    6:00 PM10h25
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:25 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
    $631One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    6:00 PM10h15
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:15 AMColumbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH
    $631One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    11:30 AM7h20
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    7:50 PMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH
    $631One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    7:15 PM7h25
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    3:40 AMColumbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH
    $631One-way
    0 transfers

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 $45. 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 $45, and a flight costs an average of $52.

Distance: 275 miles (444 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Flight
Driving

$73

Average price

Cheapest

$332

Average price

$78

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)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

United

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 $73 (€59).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH:

A bus is $259 (€209) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH costing on average $332 (€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 $73 (€59) compared to roughly $78 (€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

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
12:00AM
Arrival Time
10:25AM
Duration
10h25
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:15AM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:15AM
Arrival Time
08:40AM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$71
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
06:55PM
Duration
14h05
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
$78
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
9h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:30AM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$63
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
07:50PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
12:35AM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
01:05AM
Duration
9h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$75
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
05:15AM
Duration
10h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$63
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:15PM
Arrival Time
03:40AM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:45PM
Arrival Time
04:35AM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$93
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:50PM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
14h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$66
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:00PM
Arrival Time
09:25AM
Duration
10h25
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$101
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10PM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
13h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
$66

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH buses for today, Monday, May 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus7:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
9h10
5:10 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH0 transfersDirect
Greyhound · 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
9h50
9:05 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
8h35
7:50 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus+Greyhound10:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
9h35
9:05 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus11:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
7h20
7:50 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH0 transfersDirect
Greyhound · 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
8h50
12:35 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
10h15
5:15 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
7h25
3:40 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH0 transfersDirect
Greyhound · 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
14h05
1:55 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer
Greyhound · 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
13h45
1:55 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH by bus or flight

Compare 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.

Tue
May 26
Wed
May 27
Thu
May 28
Fri
May 29
Sat
May 30
Sun
May 31
Mon
Jun 01

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
USAUSA
Icon of bus

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 $45 (€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
$45 (€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 $45 (€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
$53 (€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
$45 (€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

Columbus Museum of Art

Major art museum known for American and European modern art, rotating exhibitions, and a strong local reputation. A core cultural stop in Columbus.

  • Must visit

COSI

Large science museum with interactive exhibits, a planetarium, and family-friendly displays. One of the city’s best-known attractions.

  • Must visit

Franklin Park Conservatory and Botanical Gardens

Botanical conservatory with glasshouses, seasonal displays, and art installations including works by Dale Chihuly. Very popular for photos and events.

United States Dollar

Moderate by U.S. standards. Dining and coffee are reasonable, while hotels vary by season and events.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-15 for fast food or casual lunch.
Mid-range
USD 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
USD 4-6 for a latte or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 20% at bars, USD 2-5 for hotel staff, and round up or tip 10-15% for taxis.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH can start from as little as $45 (€36) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Columbus, OH is $73 (€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

Chicago
Columbus
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 Columbus.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
information

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