Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA bus with Greyhound

Sun, May 24
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA

Showing times and prices for May 24

Cheapest price

$154

Average price

$171

Fastest journey

19 h 20 m

Average duration

1 d 2 h 56 m

Buses per day

6

Distance

1340 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA will cost around $171 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $154.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA without transferring at least once.

  • Greyhound ·
    6:10 AM26h25
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    8:35 AMNew Orleans, LA
    $1541One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    10:30 PM19h20
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:50 PMNew Orleans, LA
    $1561One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    1:00 PM27h55
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    4:55 PMNew Orleans, LA
    $1601One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    11:10 PM30h20
    Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    5:30 AMNew Orleans, LA
    $1811One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    10:50 PM30h40
    Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    5:30 AMNew Orleans, LA
    $1811One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $99. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.4 - 1.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $99, and a train costs an average of $123.

Distance: 832 miles (1340 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$197

Average price

Cheapest

$248

Average price

$197

Average price

$189

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

24h 6m

Average total duration

23h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

20h 13m

Average total duration

19h 43m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 38m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 38m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

13h 29m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

1.3 - 3.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.4 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

4.0 - 8.0kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

Spirit Airlines

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is a bus with an average price of $197 (€159).

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA:

A bus is $0.12 (€0.10) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA costing on average $197 (€159).

A bus is $52 (€42) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA costing on average $248 (€201).

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 38m.

Other travel options to New Orleans, LA take longer:

Train takes on average 19h 43m.

Bus takes on average 23h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.

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 New Orleans, LA Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:30AM
Arrival Time
10:50PM
Duration
19h20
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$212
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:50AM
Arrival Time
10:30AM
Duration
30h40
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$122
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:30AM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
19h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$217
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
11:30AM
Duration
30h40
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
08:35AM
Duration
26h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$107
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:15AM
Arrival Time
04:55PM
Duration
30h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$107
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10AM
Arrival Time
01:35PM
Duration
26h25
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$166
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
04:55PM
Duration
27h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$107
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
20h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$139
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
09:55PM
Duration
30h40
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$226
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
11:45AM
Duration
20h00
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$237
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
09:55PM
Duration
27h55
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$140
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:00PM
Arrival Time
10:55PM
Duration
27h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$240
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:30PM
Arrival Time
05:50PM
Duration
19h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$108
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:50PM
Arrival Time
05:30AM
Duration
30h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$121
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:10PM
Arrival Time
05:30AM
Duration
30h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$121

Live departures

Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA bus times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA buses for today, Saturday, May 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · 10:30 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
19h20
5:50 PM New Orleans, LA1 transfer
Greyhound · 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
30h40
5:30 AM New Orleans, LA1 transfer
Greyhound · 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
30h20
5:30 AM New Orleans, LA1 transfer
Sunday, May 24
Greyhound · 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
26h25
8:35 AM New Orleans, LA1 transfer
Greyhound · 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
30h40
4:55 PM New Orleans, LA1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound1:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
27h55
4:55 PM New Orleans, LA1 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 New Orleans, LA by train, bus, or flight

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.

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Why should you book Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA buses with Omio?

Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.

Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Greyhound, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.
  • 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 23h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $99 (€80) but you can travel from only $50 (€40) by flight.

The earliest bus runs at 05:10, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 832 miles (1340 km) distance in 19h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $50 (€40)
Distance
832 miles (1340 km)
Average bus duration
23h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
$99 (€80)
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
19h 20m
First bus
5:10 AM
Last bus
11:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Mon
Best time to book
5 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $50 (€40)

Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $50 (€40). 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
20h 0m
Cheapest Price
$112 (€91)
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.

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
19h 20m
Cheapest Price
$99 (€80)
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 New Orleans

Things to do in New Orleans

Discover the best of New Orleans — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect New Orleans trip today.

  • Must visit

The National WWII Museum

A world-class museum with immersive exhibits, restored aircraft, and personal histories covering the American experience in World War II.

  • Must visit

New Orleans Museum of Art

The city’s major fine arts museum in City Park, known for its broad collection and adjacent sculpture garden.

  • Recommended

Ogden Museum of Southern Art

Leading museum dedicated to Southern art, featuring painting, photography, and contemporary regional works.

United States Dollar

Moderate for U.S. travel. Food and drinks range widely, while hotels get pricey during festivals and weekends.

Average meal costs

Budget
USD 10-18 for casual spots or takeout.
Mid-range
USD 20-40 per person at a standard restaurant.
Fine dining
USD 75+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
USD 4-6 for a regular coffee or latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff.

FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA

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

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA can start from as little as $99 (€80) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is $197 (€159) ; 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 New Orleans, LA is 19h 20m to travel the 832 miles (1340 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 New Orleans, LA leaves at 5:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to New Orleans, LA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to New Orleans, LA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 19h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and New Orleans, LA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA:
  • 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 New Orleans, LA for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in New Orleans, LA are:
  • French Quarter, a historic district known for its vibrant nightlife, colorful buildings, and rich cultural heritage
  • Jackson Square, a historic park in the heart of the French Quarter surrounded by iconic landmarks and street performers
  • St. Louis Cathedral, a stunning example of French Gothic architecture and the oldest continuously active Roman Catholic cathedral in the United States
  • Garden District, a picturesque neighborhood famous for its well-preserved antebellum mansions and lush gardens
  • National WWII Museum, an extensive museum offering immersive exhibits and artifacts detailing the American experience in World War II.
The best things to do in New Orleans, LA include:
  • Preservation Hall, enjoy traditional New Orleans jazz performances in an intimate and historic setting
  • Audubon Park, relax in this beautiful urban park featuring walking paths, a zoo, and a golf course
  • Frenchmen Street, experience the vibrant music scene with live performances in numerous bars and clubs
  • Steamboat Natchez, take a scenic cruise along the Mississippi River on an authentic paddlewheel steamboat
  • City Park, explore this expansive park with botanical gardens, an art museum, and outdoor activities.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 New Orleans, LA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA:
  • 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 New Orleans, LA:
  • 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 New Orleans, LA. 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 New Orleans, LA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor New Orleans, LA 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to New Orleans, LA 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 New Orleans, LA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the French Quarter. Common scams include overpriced taxi rides and street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It's advisable to avoid walking alone late at night in less populated neighborhoods and to use authorized transportation services to ensure 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 New Orleans, LA

Chicago
New Orleans
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 New Orleans.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information

Most popular buses to and from New Orleans, LA and Chicago, IL

HomeBusesBuses in USABus tickets to New Orleans, LAChicago, IL to New Orleans, LA bus

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