- Must visit
Oakland Museum of California
Major art museum focused on California history, art, and social impact, with strong collections and a lively modern campus.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 30
Cheapest price on Aug 30
€362
Average ticket price on Aug 30
€382
Fastest journey on Aug 30
2 d 1 h 20 m
Average journey duration on Aug 30
2 d 1 h 32 m
Buses on Aug 30
2
Distance
2970 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA 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 Oakland, CA will cost around €382 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €362.
Fast buses
On Sun, Aug 30, we found 2 buses from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Aug 30 the direct buses cover the 2970 km distance in an average of 2 d 1 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 d 1 h 20 m .
On Sun, Aug 30 the slowest buses will take 2 d 1 h 44 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.
5:25 PM49h20Chicago, IL6:45 PMOakland, CA€3621One-way0 transfers- 6:01 PM49h44Chicago, IL7:45 PMOakland, CA€4011One-way0 transfers
- 5:25 PM49h20Chicago, IL6:45 PMOakland, CA€3621One-way0 transfers
- 6:01 PM49h44Chicago, IL7:45 PMOakland, CA€4011One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €143 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 9h 14m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €143, while a train costs an average of €216.
Distance: 1845 miles (2970 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€143 Average price Cheapest | €216 Average price | €202 Average price | €356 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
51h 28m Average total duration 50h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 57h 33m Average total duration 57h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 14m Average total duration Fastest 7h 14m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 31h 5m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA is a bus with an average price of €143.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA:
A bus is €58 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA costing on average €202.
A bus is €73 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA costing on average €216.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA is by flight with an average journey time of 7h 14m.
Other travel options to Oakland, CA take longer:
Bus takes on average 50h 58m.
Train takes on average 57h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Oakland, CA 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 Oakland, CA 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 Oakland, CA Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 59h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €250 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 57h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €459 |
Operator Greyhound USA | Departure Time 12:01PM | Arrival Time 11:45AM | Duration 47h44 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €480 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 49h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €227 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:01PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 49h44 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €150 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 06:40AM | Duration 63h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €240 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 49h20 | Departure days Wed, Sun | Cheapest price €171 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:01PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 49h44 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €236 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 61h05 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €199 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 60h45 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €199 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA buses for today, Saturday, August 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:01 PM Chicago, IL | 49h44 | 6:45 PM Oakland, CA | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:01 PM Chicago, IL | 49h44 | 7:45 PM Oakland, CA | 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 Oakland, CA 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 Oakland, CA buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 Oakland, CA.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- 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 Oakland, CA.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA run on average 4 times per day, taking around 50h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €135 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 1845 miles (2970 km) distance in 49h 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 1845 miles (2970 km) |
Average bus duration 50h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price €135 |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 49h 20m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 42 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: Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CAYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA with Greyhound for as low as €135. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 Greyhound Duration
49h 20m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
€135
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.
Complete guide to Oakland, CA
Things to do in Oakland, CA
Discover the best of Oakland, CA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Oakland, CA trip today.
- Recommended
The Black Panther Party Museum
Independent museum preserving Black Panther Party history through photographs, artifacts, and community-centered interpretation in West Oakland.
- Recommended
Museum of Children's Art (MOCHA)
Children's museum and cultural center with hands-on exhibits celebrating Black creativity, history, and family learning experiences.
- Must visit
Lake Merritt
Beloved urban lake ringed by paths, gardens, and skyline views, ideal for walking, birdwatching, and experiencing everyday Oakland life.
- Must visit
Jack London Square
Waterfront promenade and marina district with bay views, sailing activity, and sunset walks near Oakland's western edge.
- Recommended
Joaquin Miller Park
Large hillside park with redwoods, trails, and picnic areas, offering a peaceful escape and classic East Bay outdoor scenery.
- Gluten-free
Smoked Brisket
Smoked beef brisket with a peppery bark, reflecting Oakland’s strong barbecue culture shaped by Southern Black migration and longtime neighborhood smokehouses.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Coleslaw
A tangy, mayo-based cabbage side commonly served with Oakland barbecue. It is a staple pairing at local smokehouses and cookouts.
Fried Chicken
Crisp fried chicken often served with waffles or sides, tied to Oakland’s soul food tradition and beloved at classic neighborhood restaurants.
Commis
Refined tasting-menu restaurant highlighting seasonal California ingredients with polished service and an elegant, modern dining room.
Cafe Colucci
Longtime Ethiopian restaurant praised for injera platters, stews, and traditional coffee in a welcoming, community-focused space.
Shan Dong Restaurant
Celebrated Oakland Chinatown destination for handmade noodles and dumplings in a busy, casual setting with strong local following.
United States Dollar ($)
Oakland is moderate for US cities: lodging is often high, but dining and BART or buses are usually cheaper than in San Francisco.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $12-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, 15-20% for taxis or rideshares, and $1-2 per drink or coffee is appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA 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 Oakland, CA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA can start from as little as €135 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA is €143 ; 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 Oakland, CA is 49h 20m to travel the 1845 miles (2970 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 Oakland, CA leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Oakland, CA. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Oakland, CA and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Chicago, IL , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL . When arriving in Oakland, CA , you can end your journey in bus stations like Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, Hayward BART Station, San Francisco, Townsend Street / 5th Street, CA, San Francisco, Transit Center Bay 29 .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, which is located around 1 miles (2 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station, CA, located 2 away from the city centre.
A trip to Oakland, CA from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 49h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Oakland, CA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Oakland, CA are:
- Lake Merritt, a large tidal lagoon offering scenic walking paths and boating activities
- Oakland Museum of California, a museum dedicated to the art, history, and natural sciences of California
- Jack London Square, a waterfront area with dining, shopping, and entertainment options
- Redwood Regional Park, a vast park with hiking trails through towering redwood trees
- Chabot Space and Science Center, an interactive museum with planetarium shows and telescopes for stargazing.
The best things to do in Oakland, CA include:
- Visit the vibrant Temescal Alley, known for its unique shops and eateries
- Explore the historic USS Potomac, Franklin D. Roosevelt's "Floating White House"
- Enjoy a performance at the Fox Theater, a beautifully restored 1920s movie palace
- Discover the diverse flavors at the Oakland First Fridays street festival
- Take a scenic bike ride along the Bay Trail, offering stunning views of the San Francisco Bay.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 Oakland, CA.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Oakland, CA 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 Oakland, CA 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 Oakland, CA, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, including pickpocketing and car break-ins, especially in crowded areas and public transportation hubs. Avoid displaying valuables openly and park in well-lit, secure areas. Scams such as fake ticket sellers or overcharging by unlicensed taxi or rideshare drivers have been reported. Staying alert, using official transportation services, and verifying ticket purchases online can help ensure a safer experience.
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 Oakland, CA
Most Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Oakland, CA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chicago
Arrival bus stations in Oakland
Which Chicago, IL station do buses to Oakland, CA leave from?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA leave from Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus7 · 8m · €3 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · €3 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Which Oakland, CA station do buses from Chicago, IL arrive at?
Buses from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA most often arrive at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. Some services arrive at Hayward BART Station, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Oakland, CA arrival station.
Oakland, West Oakland BART StationW Oakland BART, Oakland, CA 94607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Oakland, West Oakland BART Station from Oakland city centre
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station is 2 km from Oakland city centre. Public transport options include:
SubwayYellow-S, Red-S · 4m · €2 · every ~15 min
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station bus station facilities and services
Oakland, West Oakland BART Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station. ATMs are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Oakland, West Oakland BART Station: Station is fully accessible with elevators.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Oakland, CA
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Oakland, CA and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Oakland, CA
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