- Must visit
Canadian Museum of History
Canada’s national museum of human history across the river from downtown, known for the Grand Hall, Indigenous history, and landmark exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$81
Average price
$143
Fastest journey
19 h 35 m
Average duration
1 d 1 h 40 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
1039 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON 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 Ottawa, ON will cost around $143 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Chicago, IL for Ottawa, ON on Mon, Jul 13, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jul 13 the direct buses cover the 1039 km distance in an average of 1 d 1 h 40 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 19 h 35 m .
On Mon, Jul 13 the slowest buses will take 1 d 12 h 20 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.
8:55 PM19h35Chicago, IL4:30 PMOttawa, ON$811One-way0 transfers- 5:10 AM36h20Chicago, IL5:30 PMOttawa, ON$1701One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM21h05Chicago, IL11:35 AMOttawa, ON$1781One-way0 transfers
- 8:55 PM19h35Chicago, IL4:30 PMOttawa, ON$811One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM21h05Chicago, IL11:35 AMOttawa, ON$1781One-way0 transfers
- 5:10 AM36h20Chicago, IL5:30 PMOttawa, ON$1701One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $81. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 8h 36m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $81, and a flight costs an average of $92.
Distance: 645 miles (1039 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$154 Average price Cheapest | $438 Average price | $433 Average price | $19 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
19h 46m Average total duration 19h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 36m Average total duration Fastest 8h 36m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 38h 21m Average total duration 37h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 11h 29m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON is a bus with an average price of $154 (€127).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON:
A bus is $279 (€229) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON costing on average $433 (€356).
A bus is $284 (€234) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON costing on average $438 (€360).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON is by flight with an average journey time of 8h 36m.
Other travel options to Ottawa, ON take longer:
Bus takes on average 19h 16m.
Train takes on average 37h 51m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Ottawa, ON including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON 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 Ottawa, ON Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 04:40AM | Duration 24h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:35AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 29h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 36h20 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $160 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 10:20AM | Duration 28h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $191 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 22h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $106 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 22h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $244 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 26h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 35h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $201 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 25h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $205 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 19h35 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:55PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 27h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:55PM | Arrival Time 10:05PM | Duration 24h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $209 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON buses for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:55 PM Chicago, IL | 27h25 | 12:20 AM Ottawa, ON | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, July 13 | |||||
| 5:10 AM Chicago, IL | 36h20 | 5:30 PM Ottawa, ON | 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 Ottawa, ON 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 Ottawa, ON buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON.
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 Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON.
- 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON.
- 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 Ottawa, ON.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON
USA
Canada
Buses from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON run on average 9 times per day, taking around 19h 16m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $81 (€67) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 645 miles (1039 km) distance in 19h 35m.
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 645 miles (1039 km) |
Average bus duration 19h 16m |
Cheapest ticket price $81 (€67) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 19h 35m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 7 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, Greyhound from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ONYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $81 (€67). 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
19h 35m
Cheapest Price
$81 (€67)
FlixBus frequency
9 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
27h 25m
Cheapest Price
$95 (€78)
Greyhound frequency
1 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 Ottawa
Things to do in Ottawa
Discover the best of Ottawa — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ottawa trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Canada
The country’s premier art museum, noted for Canadian and Indigenous art, major international works, and the iconic spider sculpture outside.
- Recommended
Canadian War Museum
A highly regarded museum covering Canada’s military history through immersive galleries, artifacts, and memorial spaces.
- Must visit
ByWard Market
Ottawa’s best-known lively district for walking, browsing, and people-watching, with heritage streets and a strong visitor atmosphere.
- Recommended
Rideau Canal Western Pathway
A scenic walking and cycling route beside the canal, especially popular for skyline views and seasonal photography.
- Recommended
Major's Hill Park
A central park with classic views toward Parliament, the Ottawa River, and the National Gallery, ideal for relaxed sightseeing.
- Vegetarian
Beavertails
Hand-stretched fried pastry topped with cinnamon sugar or other sweet toppings. It is an iconic Ottawa treat strongly associated with the Rideau Canal area.
- Gluten-free
Poutine
French fries topped with cheese curds and gravy, a classic comfort food from nearby Quebec that is widely loved in Ottawa.
Shawarma
Ottawa is famous for its many Lebanese shawarma shops. Typically made with spit-roasted meat, garlic sauce, pickles, and vegetables in a wrap or on a platter.
Beckta Dining & Wine
Long-running upscale restaurant focused on refined Canadian cuisine, polished service, and an extensive wine program.
Atelier
Acclaimed contemporary Canadian fine dining restaurant known for its multi-course tasting menus and creative presentation in an intimate setting.
Chez Lucien
Well-loved casual gastropub in the Market area, known for hearty burgers, poutine, and a relaxed neighborhood atmosphere.
Canadian Dollar
Moderate by Canadian standards. Hotels can be pricey in peak season, but casual dining and transit are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- CAD 12-20 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- CAD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- CAD 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- CAD 3-6 for a regular coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 15-20% before tax in restaurants. Tip bartenders CAD 1-2 per drink, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff or delivery drivers for good service.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON 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 Ottawa, ON, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON can start from as little as $81 (€67) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON is $154 (€127) ; 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 Ottawa, ON is 19h 35m to travel the 645 miles (1039 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 Ottawa, ON leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON which require at least one change with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Ottawa, ON. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and Ottawa, ON and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Ottawa, ON from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 19h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Ottawa, ON including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON:
- 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 Ottawa, ON for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Ottawa, ON are:
- Parliament Hill, the political and cultural heart of Canada featuring Gothic Revival architecture and the iconic Peace Tower
- National Gallery of Canada, home to an extensive collection of Canadian and Indigenous art housed in a striking glass and granite building
- Rideau Canal, a UNESCO World Heritage Site offering scenic views and recreational activities like boating in summer and ice skating in winter
- Canadian Museum of History, showcasing the rich history and diverse cultures of Canada with interactive exhibits and a stunning riverside location
- ByWard Market, a historic and vibrant district known for its local produce, artisan shops, and lively dining scene.
The best things to do in Ottawa, ON include:
- Diefenbunker: Canada's Cold War Museum, explore a fascinating underground bunker and learn about Canada's Cold War history
- Gatineau Park, enjoy outdoor activities like hiking, cycling, and picnicking in a beautiful natural setting
- Ottawa River, take a scenic cruise or try white-water rafting for an adventurous experience
- Canadian Tulip Festival, visit in spring to see vibrant tulip displays and enjoy cultural events
- Ottawa Little Theatre, catch a live performance at one of Canada's oldest community theatres.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON 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 FlixBus, 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 Ottawa, ON.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON:
- 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 Ottawa, ON:
- 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 Ottawa, ON. 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 Ottawa, ON with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Ottawa, ON are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United States and Canada. 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 Ottawa, ON among Omio's users.
Canada uses the Canadian Dollar (CAD) as its currency. For travelers, using cards is generally more convenient and widely accepted across the country, including for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small vendors or remote areas.
In Ottawa, ON, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like markets and public transit. Common scams include fake charity requests and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It's advised to use licensed transportation, keep belongings secure, and remain vigilant in busy tourist spots. Emergency services are reliable, but travelers should always have a plan for communication and local assistance.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Ottawa, ON
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ottawa, ON and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to Ottawa, ON
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