- Must visit
Virginia Museum of Fine Arts
One of the top art museums in the South, with global collections, sculpture gardens, and strong rotating exhibitions.
Cheapest price
$119
Average price
$125
Fastest journey
19 h 40 m
Average duration
22 h 49 m
Buses per day
19
Distance
993 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA will cost around $125 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $119.
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA without transferring at least once.
·
· · ·
· · ·
· · +
FlixBus
· +
FlixBus+
·
+
FlixBus
· · +
FlixBus
· · +
FlixBus
FlixBus+
+
FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $96. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 12m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $96, and a flight costs an average of $138.
Distance: 617 miles (993 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$137 Average price Cheapest | $240 Average price | $241 Average price | $261 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
20h 15m Average total duration 19h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 20h 9m Average total duration 19h 39m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 12m Average total duration Fastest 2h 12m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 12h 6m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA:
A bus is $103 (€83) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA costing on average $240 (€193).
A bus is $104 (€84) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA costing on average $241 (€194).
Other travel options to Richmond, VA take longer:
Train takes on average 19h 39m.
Bus takes on average 19h 45m.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 19h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 24h35 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 24h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 25h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $147 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 05:25PM | Duration 25h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 26h05 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $118 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 22h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $121 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 11:20PM | Duration 27h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50PM | Arrival Time 06:55AM | Duration 31h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $113 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 06:55AM | Duration 30h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $114 |
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA buses for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
· · · | 2:45 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 25h40 | 5:25 PM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 4 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 22h55 | 5:55 PM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:00 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 26h05 | 9:05 PM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ + FlixBus | 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 27h05 | 11:20 PM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ + FlixBus | 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 22h55 | 7:10 PM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ + FlixBus | 7:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 23h10 | 7:25 PM Richmond, Mechanicsville Tpke (Exxon), VA | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 31h05 | 6:55 AM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA | 1 transfer | |
· · · | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 27h20 | 3:10 AM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 3 transfers | |
· + FlixBus+![]() | 10:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 35h00 | 10:50 AM Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA | 4 transfers | |
+ FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 30h45 | 6:55 AM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA | 1 transfer | |
· · · | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 27h00 | 3:10 AM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 3 transfers | |
· + FlixBus | 11:10 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 34h40 | 10:50 AM Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA | 2 transfers | |
| Monday, August 24 | |||||
+ FlixBus | 6:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 24h50 | 8:20 AM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA | 1 transfer | |
· | 6:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 19h40 | 3:10 AM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 1 transfer | |
· · · | 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 24h35 | 11:30 AM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 3 transfers | |
· · + FlixBus | 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 24h25 | 11:20 AM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA | 3 transfers | |
· · + FlixBus | 9:55 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 23h55 | 10:50 AM Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA | 3 transfers | |
· · + FlixBus | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 24h05 | 11:20 AM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA | 3 transfers | |
· · + FlixBus | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 23h35 | 10:50 AM Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA | 3 transfers | |
· · · | 10:15 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 24h15 | 11:30 AM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA | 3 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 12:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 25h45 | 3:10 PM Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, 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.
Buses from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA run on average 18 times per day, taking around 19h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $96 (€77) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 617 miles (993 km) distance in 19h 15m.
Distance 617 miles (993 km) |
Average bus duration 19h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $96 (€77) |
Buses per day 18 |
Fastest bus 19h 15m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 42 days |
Discover the best of Richmond, VA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Richmond, VA trip today.
One of the top art museums in the South, with global collections, sculpture gardens, and strong rotating exhibitions.
Science museum in a grand former train station, offering live demos, labs, and a dome theater for all ages.
Campus museum noted for eclectic art, Egyptian antiquities, and thoughtful exhibitions in a landmark VCU setting.
Beloved riverside estate and park with gardens, trails, wildlife exhibits, and broad appeal for first-time visitors.
Nationally known urban park system for trails, rapids, forested escapes, and active adventure in the heart of the city.
Scenic park with river rapids access, suspension footbridge views, and one of Richmond's best outdoor walking loops.
Virginia country ham is salt-cured and aged for a deep, savory flavor. It is a classic Southern staple long associated with Virginia smokehouses and holiday tables.
Pimento cheese is a creamy spread of cheddar, pimentos, and mayonnaise. It is a beloved Southern snack in Richmond, often served with crackers or sandwiches.
Shrimp and grits pairs sautéed shrimp with creamy ground corn grits. It is a regional Southern favorite commonly found on Richmond brunch and dinner menus.
Popular Southern diner serving biscuits, pimento cheese, and hearty breakfasts. Lively, casual spot with a strong local following.
Historic casual restaurant known for Southern comfort food, Brunswick stew, and pies. Cozy, old-school atmosphere in the Church Hill area.
Refined New American restaurant featuring seasonal Virginia ingredients and polished service. Elegant yet approachable setting in Jackson Ward.
Moderate for U.S. city travel: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than NYC or DC, while transit is limited, so rideshares or parking can add costs.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip jars or card prompts; small tips are appreciated.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Chicago, IL to Richmond, VA buses use the Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station to Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station) station pair, with some services arriving at Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride). Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Richmond, VA bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station) is 3 km from Richmond city centre. Public transport options include:
Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride) is 11 km from Richmond city centre. Public transport options include:
Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride). ATMs are available at Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride).
Ticket office support is available at Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride).
Available at Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride): Accessible via designated routes.
Richmond, 17th St and Ambler is 3 km from Richmond city centre. Public transport options include:
Richmond, 17th St and Ambler has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Richmond, 17th St and Ambler. ATMs are available at Richmond, 17th St and Ambler.
Ticket office support is available at Richmond, 17th St and Ambler.
Available at Richmond, 17th St and Ambler: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Richmond, 17th St and Ambler: Basic accessibility features are available.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need