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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI
Showing times and prices for May 18
Cheapest price
$37
Average price
$57
Fastest journey
3 h 5 m
Average duration
3 h 27 m
Buses per day
11
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 $57 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Fast buses
Of the 11 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Madison, WI on Mon, May 18, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, May 18 the direct buses cover the 198 km distance in an average of 3 h 27 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 5 m .
On Mon, May 18 the slowest buses will take 3 h 45 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.
FlixBus12:30 PM3h20Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station3:50 PMMadison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI$371One-way0 transfers- FlixBus12:30 PM3h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station3:35 PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)$371One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:00 AM3h45Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:45 PMMadison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI$511One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:00 AM3h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:25 PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)$511One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus3:00 PM3h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:40 PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)$601One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus12:30 PM3h05Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station3:35 PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)$371One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus12:30 PM3h20Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station3:50 PMMadison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI$371One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:00 AM3h25Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:25 PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)$511One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus3:00 PM3h40Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station6:40 PMMadison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)$601One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus9:00 AM3h45Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station12:45 PMMadison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI$511One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight 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 $24. 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 $24, and a flight costs an average of $215.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$44 Average price Cheapest | $352 Average price | $35 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 46m Average total duration 3h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 59m Average total duration Fastest 59m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 25m 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 Madison, WI is a bus with an average price of $44 (€35).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI:
A bus is $309 (€249) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI costing on average $352 (€285).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI is by flight with an average journey time of 59m.
Other travel options to Madison, WI take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 54m.
Bus takes on average 3h 16m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Madison, WI including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -1h -51m sooner (3h 16m by bus vs 2h 25m by car) and save roughly $-9.09 (€-7.34) compared to fuel and tolls ($44 (€35) vs $35 (€28)). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound, Vangalder Bus.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Chicago, IL to Madison, WI Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 08:25AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 12:45PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 03:50PM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 01:05PM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 07:00PM | Duration 4h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Madison, WI bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Madison, WI buses for today, Sunday, May 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 +FlixBus | 7:10 AM Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL | 5h35 | 12:45 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 7:10 AM Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station, IL | 5h15 | 12:25 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 9:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h45 | 12:45 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 9:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h25 | 12:25 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 12:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h20 | 3:50 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 12:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h05 | 3:35 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 3:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 4h00 | 7:00 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 3:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3h40 | 6:40 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 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.
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May 17
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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 and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Busbud?
- 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 and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI run on average 19 times per day, taking around 3h 16m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $24 (€19) if you book in advance.
There are 17 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 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 123 miles (198 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $24 (€19) |
Buses per day 19 |
Direct buses 17 |
Fastest bus 3h 20m |
First bus 1:30 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 3 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, 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 $24 (€19). 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 20m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
FlixBus frequency
6 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
$47 (€38)
Infobus frequency
14 a day
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
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$58 (€47)
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.
Vangalder Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 35m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
Vangalder Bus frequency
10 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI can start from as little as $24 (€19) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Madison, WI is $44 (€35) ; 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 20m 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 17 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 20m 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 2 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Madison, WI including taking a bus and flight.
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.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like downtown and near the university. Ride-sharing scams and overcharging can occur, so it's best to use official apps and verify driver details. Be aware of unsolicited offers for transportation or tours, as these may be fraudulent. Staying in well-lit areas at night and keeping personal belongings secure 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 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
The major bus station for arrivals in Madison is Madison. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madison for your trip to Madison from Chicago.
Madison
information
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)
information
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison)
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Madison, WI
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Madison, WI and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Madison, WI
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