- Must visit
Detroit Institute of Arts
World-class museum with Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry murals and major collections spanning ancient to contemporary art.
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$50
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$62
Fastest journey on Sep 01
6 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
7 h 35 m
Buses on Sep 01
6
Distance
384 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $50.
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 6 buses from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct buses cover the 384 km distance in an average of 7 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 5 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest buses will take 9 h 30 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.


FlixBus+
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FlixBus
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FlixBus+
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $47 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 24m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, while a flight costs an average of $218.
Distance: 238 miles (384 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $70 Average price | $218 Average price | $73 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 27m Average total duration 6h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 24m Average total duration Fastest 1h 24m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 1m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.1 - 2.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() 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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI:
A bus is $23 (€19) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI costing on average $70 (€57).
A bus is $171 (€138) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI costing on average $218 (€176).
Other travel options to Detroit, MI take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 55m.
Train takes on average 6h 57m.
Tickets start at around $47 (€38) compared to roughly $73 (€59) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27 (€21). The journey takes 5h 55m versus 4h 1m 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 Greyhound, 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 03:40PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 11h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 10h25 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 10:55PM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $45 |
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI buses for today, Monday, August 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 11:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 6h15 | 6:50 AM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, September 1 | |||||
· | 6:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 8h10 | 3:40 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 9:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 7h55 | 6:25 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
· · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 11h40 | 10:55 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+![]() | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 9h30 | 10:55 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 1 transfer | |
![]() | 3:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 6h05 | 11:00 PM Detroit, Greyhound Terminal | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI run on average 6 times per day, taking around 5h 55m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) if you book in advance.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 04:56, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 238 miles (384 km) distance in 4h 45m.
Distance 238 miles (384 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 45m |
First bus 4:56 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Detroit, MI — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Detroit, MI trip today.
World-class museum with Diego Rivera’s Detroit Industry murals and major collections spanning ancient to contemporary art.
Immersive museum of African American history, culture, and achievement with strong regional and national storytelling.
Motown’s original Studio A preserves the sound and stories behind legendary recordings that shaped popular music worldwide.
Riverfront promenade with public art, plazas, and skyline views; one of the city’s best places for a scenic walk.
Large island park with gardens, trails, beaches, and major attractions, offering a nature escape minutes from downtown.
Revived public square at the city center, hosting events, seasonal programming, and easy access to downtown landmarks.
A square deep-dish pizza with a crisp, caramelized cheese edge and striped sauce. It is Detroit’s signature pie, born in blue steel auto pans.
A hot dog topped with chili, mustard, and diced onions on a steamed bun. It is a classic Detroit street food tied to Greek-American diners.
A layered sandwich of corned beef, swiss cheese, coleslaw, and Russian dressing on grilled rye. It is a beloved deli staple in metro Detroit.
Acclaimed fine-dining restaurant focused on seasonal tasting menus and polished service. One of Detroit’s top special-occasion destinations.
Beloved Eastern Market bakery known for paczki, cakes, and old-school sweets. Expect a busy, nostalgic counter-service experience.
Historic downtown institution famous for Detroit-style square pizza in a lively, casual setting with old-school local character.
Moderate for US city breaks: hotels and dining are mid-priced, transit is limited, and car or rideshare costs can raise daily spend.
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and spare change or about 10% in cafes if there is table service.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI 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 Detroit, MI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Chicago, IL to Detroit, MI buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Detroit, Greyhound Terminal station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Detroit, MI 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.
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station is 14 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station. ATMs are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station.
Available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, 95th Red Line Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances available.
Detroit, Greyhound Terminal is 1 km from Detroit city centre. Public transport options include:
Detroit, Greyhound Terminal has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Fast food and coffee shops available.
Free Wi-Fi available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTM located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Detroit, Greyhound Terminal.
Available at Detroit, Greyhound Terminal: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Detroit, Greyhound Terminal: Wheelchair accessible facilities available.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need