- Must visit
The Alamo Exhibit at the Ralston Family Collections Center
Modern museum displaying artifacts and interpretation related to the Battle of the Alamo and Texas history, complementing the historic mission site.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$157
Average price
$183
Fastest journey
1 d 1 h 25 m
Average duration
1 d 2 h
Buses per day
3
Distance
1691 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX will cost around $183 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $157.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Chicago, IL for San Antonio, TX on Sun, May 31, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct buses cover the 1691 km distance in an average of 1 d 2 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 1 h 25 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest buses will take 1 d 3 h 10 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.
2:45 PM27h10Chicago, IL5:55 PMSan Antonio, TX$1571One-way0 transfers
4:30 AM25h25Chicago, IL5:55 AMSan Antonio, TX$1861One-way0 transfers- 3:30 AM25h25Chicago, IL4:55 AMSan Antonio, TX$2071One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 AM25h25Chicago, IL5:55 AMSan Antonio, TX$1861One-way0 transfers
- 3:30 AM25h25Chicago, IL4:55 AMSan Antonio, TX$2071One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 PM27h10Chicago, IL5:55 PMSan Antonio, TX$1571One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $131. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 43m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $131, and a flight costs an average of $95.
Distance: 1050 miles (1691 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$258 Average price | $252 Average price Cheapest | $378 Average price | $256 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 11m Average total duration 26h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 32h 25m Average total duration 31h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 43m Average total duration Fastest 4h 43m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 3m 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 |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX is a train with an average price of $252 (€203).
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX:
A train is $7 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX costing on average $258 (€208).
A train is $127 (€102) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX costing on average $378 (€305).
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 43m.
Other travel options to San Antonio, TX take longer:
Bus takes on average 26h 41m.
Train takes on average 31h 55m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 46h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $207 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:50AM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 46h20 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $238 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 11:05PM | Duration 42h55 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $206 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 05:55AM | Duration 25h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $175 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 03:10AM | Duration 46h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $220 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 27h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:55AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 31h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 31h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $117 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:10PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 30h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $318 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 27h10 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $152 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 35h25 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $239 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 31h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $219 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 27h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $274 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 34h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $223 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 31h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $307 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:30PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 25h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $118 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10PM | Arrival Time 12:55PM | Duration 37h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $119 |
Live departures
Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX buses for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:15 PM Chicago, IL | 31h20 | 10:35 PM San Antonio, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:45 PM Chicago, IL | 34h25 | 2:10 AM San Antonio, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, May 31 | |||||
| 3:30 AM Chicago, IL | 25h25 | 4:55 AM San Antonio, TX | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:30 AM Chicago, IL | 25h25 | 5:55 AM San Antonio, TX | 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 San Antonio, TX 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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May 31
May 31
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Why should you book Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus or Chicago Transit (CTA) offer buses services from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX.
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 or Chicago Transit (CTA) to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX.
- 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 San Antonio, TX.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Chicago Transit (CTA) to find the best option for your trip from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX.
- 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 San Antonio, TX.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX
USAUSA
Buses from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX run on average 6 times per day, taking around 26h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $148 (€119) but you can travel from only $95 (€77) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1050 miles (1691 km) distance in 25h 25m.
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 $95 (€77)
Distance 1050 miles (1691 km) |
Average bus duration 26h 41m |
Cheapest ticket price $148 (€119) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 25h 25m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 21 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 $95 (€77)
Bus providers: Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA) from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TXYou can travel by bus between Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX with Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA) for as low as $95 (€77). 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
27h 10m
Cheapest Price
$152 (€122)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
25h 25m
Cheapest Price
$148 (€119)
Greyhound frequency
5 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.
Chicago Transit (CTA)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
24h 38m
Cheapest Price
$330 (€266)
Chicago Transit (CTA) frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to San Antonio
Things to do in San Antonio
Discover the best of San Antonio — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect San Antonio trip today.
- Must visit
San Antonio Museum of Art
Major art museum with strong collections of ancient Mediterranean, Asian, Latin American, and contemporary art in a restored brewery complex.
- Recommended
McNay Art Museum
Renowned museum in a Spanish Colonial Revival mansion, known for modern and contemporary art, sculpture, and beautiful grounds.
- Must visit
San Antonio River Walk
The city’s signature pedestrian area lined with bridges, landscaping, public art, and river-level walkways through downtown.
- Recommended
Historic Market Square
Large Mexican market district with plazas, shops, and cultural atmosphere, one of the most recognizable public areas in the city.
- Recommended
La Villita Historic Arts Village
Historic riverside district of galleries, courtyards, and preserved buildings, popular for strolling and photos near downtown.
- Gluten-free
Puffy Tacos
San Antonio’s signature taco: a fried masa shell that puffs up, then is filled with meats, lettuce, cheese, and salsa. It is a local Tex-Mex classic strongly associated with the city.
- Gluten-free
Barbacoa
Slow-cooked beef, traditionally eaten on weekends and often served in tacos with salsa. It is deeply rooted in South Texas and San Antonio breakfast culture.
Breakfast Tacos
A daily staple in San Antonio, usually built on flour or corn tortillas with fillings like egg, potato, bean, bacon, or chorizo. They reflect the city’s strong Tex-Mex identity.
Bliss
Acclaimed contemporary American restaurant with fine-dining service and seasonal menus. A strong option for a higher-end meal in San Antonio with a consistently strong reputation.
2M Smokehouse
Widely praised barbecue destination known for brisket, house-made sausages, and Texan smokehouse flavors with Mexican influences. Casual, popular, and highly regarded.
La Fonda On Main
Long-running upscale Tex-Mex restaurant with a refined setting and strong local reputation. Known for polished regional dishes, margaritas, and patio dining.
United States Dollar
Generally moderate for U.S. city travel. Tex-Mex, parking, and attractions are fairly priced; hotels rise during major events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-15 for tacos, fast food, or food trucks.
- Mid-range
- USD 20-35 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- USD 3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Tip USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up taxis, and tip hotel staff USD 2-5 where helpful.
FAQs: Bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX can start from as little as $148 (€119) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX is $258 (€208) ; 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 San Antonio, TX is 25h 25m to travel the 1050 miles (1691 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 San Antonio, TX leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX which require at least one change with Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA). Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus, Chicago Transit (CTA) for the best way to get you to San Antonio, TX. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chicago, IL and San Antonio, TX and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to San Antonio, TX from Chicago, IL is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 25h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and San Antonio, TX including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX:
- 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 San Antonio, TX for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in San Antonio, TX are:
- The Alamo, a historic Spanish mission and site of the famous 1836 battle for Texan independence
- River Walk, a scenic network of walkways along the San Antonio River lined with shops and restaurants
- San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site preserving four Spanish frontier missions
- San Antonio Museum of Art, housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Tower of the Americas, offering panoramic views of the city from its observation deck and revolving restaurant.
The best things to do in San Antonio, TX include:
- Explore the vibrant Pearl District, known for its trendy shops, restaurants, and farmers market
- take a boat tour along the San Antonio River for a unique perspective of the city
- visit the historic Market Square, a lively Mexican market with shops, food, and entertainment
- enjoy a day at Six Flags Fiesta Texas, an amusement park with thrilling rides and shows
- experience the San Antonio Zoo, home to a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX:
- 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 San Antonio, TX:
- 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 San Antonio, TX. 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 San Antonio, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the River Walk and Alamo Plaza. Common scams include overcharging by unofficial taxi services and street vendors. It's advisable to use authorized transportation options and stay alert when approached by strangers offering unsolicited help or tours. Staying in well-lit, busy areas and securing personal belongings can help 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 San Antonio, TX
Chicago
San Antonio
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 San Antonio.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in San Antonio is San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound) for your trip to San Antonio from Chicago.
San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound)
information
San Antonio, Avenue A / Pearl Pkwy
information
Most popular bus connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to San Antonio, TX
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from San Antonio, TX and Chicago, IL
Most popular bus connections to San Antonio, TX
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