Chicago, IL to Madison, WI bus with FlixBus

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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI

Showing times and prices for Feb 16

Cheapest price

$46

Average price

$55

Fastest journey

3 h 5 m

Average duration

3 h 24 m

Buses per day

13

Distance

198 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI will cost around $55 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.

Fast buses

Of the 13 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Madison, WI on Mon, Feb 16, 8 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Feb 16 the direct buses cover the 198 km distance in an average of 3 h 24 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 5 m .

On Mon, Feb 16 the slowest buses will take 3 h 40 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
12:30PM3h20
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
03:50PMMadison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI
$461One-way
0 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus
12:30PM3h05
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
03:35PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)
$461One-way
0 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus
09:00AM3h45
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
12:45PMMadison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI
$501One-way
0 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus
09:00AM3h25
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
12:25PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)
$501One-way
0 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus
03:00PM3h40
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
06:40PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)
$511One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus, flight, and train for Chicago, IL to Madison, WI

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €20. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 59m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €20, and a flight costs an average of €174.

Distance: 123 miles (198 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Flight

€33

Average price

Cheapest

€57

Average price

€276

Average price

3h 48m

Average total duration

3h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 24m

Average total duration

2h 54m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 59m

Average total duration

Fastest

59m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Chicago, IL to Madison, WI Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
11:30AM
Duration
5h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
5h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$48
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
12:45PM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$48
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
08:25AM
Arrival Time
02:00PM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
3h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:00AM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
03:50PM
Duration
3h20
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
01:05PM
Arrival Time
05:15PM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$62
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:00PM
Arrival Time
06:40PM
Duration
3h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
Amtrak
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
07:35PM
Duration
4h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$62

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Madison, WI bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Madison, WI buses for tomorrow, Monday, February 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 10:19 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
amtrak329 Hiawatha Service · 8179 AMTRAK12:10 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
5h20
5:30 PM Madison, WI1 transfer
greyhound+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus1:10 PM Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL
5h35
6:45 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI1 transfer
greyhound+meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus1:10 PM Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL
5h15
6:25 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus3:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
3h45
6:45 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus3:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
3h25
6:25 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus5:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
3h30
8:30 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus5:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
3h50
8:50 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus6:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
3h20
9:50 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus6:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
3h05
9:35 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)0 transfersDirect
amtrak335 Hiawatha Service · 8183 AMTRAK7:05 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h10
11:15 PM Madison, WI1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus9:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
3h40
12:40 AM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)0 transfersDirect
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus9:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
4h00
1:00 AM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI0 transfersDirect
amtrak337 Hiawatha Service · 8185 AMTRAK9:15 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
4h20
1:35 AM Madison, WI1 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 Madison, WI by bus, flight, or train

Compare bus, flight, and train 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 Madison, WI buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Infobus, Greyhound, Vangalder Bus and more offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.

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 Infobus, Greyhound or Vangalder Bus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
  • 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, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Infobus, Greyhound or Vangalder Bus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI run on average 23 times per day, taking around 3h 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $26 (€20) if you book in advance.

There are 21 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:30, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 3h 15m.

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
123 miles (198 km)
Average bus duration
3h 18m
Cheapest ticket price
$26 (€20)
Buses per day
23
Direct buses
21
Fastest bus
3h 15m
First bus
01:30
Last bus
23:15
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, Infobus, Greyhound, Vangalder Bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WIYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Madison, WI with FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound, Vangalder Bus for as low as $26 (€20). 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
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€23)
FlixBus frequency
2 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.

Infobus

About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€38)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.

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
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€26)
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.

Vangalder Bus

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€32)
Vangalder Bus frequency
11 a day

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI can start from as little as $26 (€20) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Madison, WI is $42 (€33) ; 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 Madison, WI is 3h 15m to travel the 123 miles (198 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 Madison, WI leaves at 1:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 21 direct buses a day from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI with FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound, Vangalder Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI, you can count on FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound, Vangalder Bus for the best way to get you to Madison, WI. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Madison, WI and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Madison, WI from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Madison, WI including taking a bus, flight, and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI:
  • Infobus
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
  • 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 Madison, WI for bus company FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Madison, WI are:
  • Wisconsin State Capitol, an iconic building with a stunning dome and guided tours available
  • Olbrich Botanical Gardens, a 16-acre garden featuring diverse plant collections and a Thai pavilion
  • University of Wisconsin-Madison Arboretum, a research facility with extensive trails and ecological communities
  • Chazen Museum of Art, a museum with a vast collection of artworks from different periods and cultures
  • Henry Vilas Zoo, a family-friendly zoo with a variety of animal exhibits and free admission.
The best things to do in Madison, WI include:
  • Stroll through the Dane County Farmers' Market, the largest producer-only farmers' market in the U.S., offering fresh local produce and artisanal goods
  • Enjoy outdoor activities at Lake Mendota, where you can kayak, sail, or relax by the lakeside
  • Attend a performance at the Overture Center for the Arts, featuring a variety of shows from Broadway productions to local performances
  • Explore the vibrant Monroe Street, known for its unique shops, cafes, and local eateries
  • Take a bike ride along the Capital City State Trail, offering scenic views and a connection to other regional trails.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI depends on the bus companies:
  • Infobus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
  • 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, Infobus, 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 Madison, WI.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI:
  • Infobus
    • One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
  • 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 Madison, WI:
  • Infobus
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • 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 Madison, WI. The following conditions apply:
  • Infobus
    • Small pets allowed in carriers
    • larger pets may require a separate ticket.
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI with the following bus company: FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI

Chicago
Madison
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 Madison.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago
information
Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station
information

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