- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$65
Average price
$162
Fastest journey
7 h 30 m
Average duration
8 h 34 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
444 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL will cost around $162 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast buses
Of the 9 buses that leave Columbus, OH for Chicago, IL on Fri, Jul 31, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 444 km distance in an average of 8 h 34 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 30 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 9 h 35 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.
FlixBus9:45 AM7h30Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH4:15 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$651One-way0 transfers- FlixBus11:30 PM7h40Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1111One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus+
5:20 AM11h55Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH4:15 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1111One-way1 transfer - FlixBus11:00 AM8h55Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:55 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1171One-way0 transfers
- · 7:50 AM13h15Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH8:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1661One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus9:45 AM7h30Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH4:15 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$651One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus11:30 PM7h40Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1111One-way0 transfers
- FlixBus11:00 AM8h55Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH6:55 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1171One-way0 transfers
- · 11:50 PM9h10Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$2741One-way1 transfer
- · 11:50 PM9h35Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH8:25 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2741One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $47. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 35m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $47, and a flight costs an average of $51.
Distance: 275 miles (444 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$71 Average price Cheapest | $325 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 30m Average total duration 8h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration Fastest 1h 35m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $71 (€58).
This is compared to other travel options from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $254 (€208) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL costing on average $325 (€266).
The fastest way to travel from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 35m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $71 (€58) compared to roughly $77 (€63) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $6 (€5). The journey takes 8h 0m versus 5h 26m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by FlixBus, Barons Bus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 13h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:50PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $72 |
Live departures
Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 11:30 PM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 7h40 | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| · | 11:50 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 9h10 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 1 transfer | |
| · | 11:50 PM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 9h35 | 8:25 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, July 31 | |||||
| · | 4:55 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 9h50 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 1 transfer | |
| · | 4:55 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 10h15 | 2:10 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 5:20 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 11h55 | 4:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| · | 7:50 AM Columbus, E Mound St (Akili Christian High School), OH | 13h15 | 8:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 9:45 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 7h30 | 4:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:00 AM Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station), OH | 8h55 | 6:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL by bus or flight
Compare 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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Jul 31
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Tue
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Why should you book Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound or Barons Bus offer buses services from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL.
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 or Barons Bus to find the best option for your trip from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL.
- 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 bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound or Barons Bus to find the best option for your trip from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL run on average 9 times per day, taking around 8h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $47 (€38) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:50, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 275 miles (444 km) distance in 7h 30m.
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 275 miles (444 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€38) |
Buses per day 9 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 7h 30m |
First bus 3:50 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 3 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, Barons Bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound, Barons Bus for as low as $47 (€38). 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
7h 30m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
FlixBus frequency
3 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
9h 35m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€42)
Greyhound frequency
6 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.
Barons Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 40m
Cheapest Price
$67 (€55)
Barons Bus frequency
2 a day
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Johnnie's Beef
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Superdawg Drive-In
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
Alinea
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
US dollar ($)
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- $20-40 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $75+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
FAQs: Bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $47 (€38) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL is $71 (€58) ; 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 Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL is 7h 30m to travel the 275 miles (444 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 Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL leaves at 3:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Barons Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound, Barons Bus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Columbus, OH and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Columbus, OH is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Columbus, OH and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Chicago, IL are:
- Millennium Park, a public park known for its modern art installations and the iconic Cloud Gate sculpture
- Art Institute of Chicago, a renowned museum housing an extensive collection of art from around the world
- Navy Pier, a popular entertainment destination featuring rides, restaurants, and lakefront views
- Willis Tower Skydeck, an observation deck offering panoramic views of the city from one of the tallest buildings in the Western Hemisphere
- Field Museum, a natural history museum with vast exhibits including the famous T. rex skeleton, Sue.
The best things to do in Chicago, IL include:
- Museum of Science and Industry, an interactive museum featuring exhibits on science, technology, and industry
- Explore the vibrant neighborhoods of Chicago, such as Wicker Park and Lincoln Park, known for their unique shops and eateries
- Take a river cruise to see the city's iconic architecture from a different perspective
- Attend a live performance at the historic Chicago Theatre
- Enjoy a day at Lincoln Park Zoo, one of the oldest zoos in the U.S., offering free admission.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL 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 Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL:
- 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 Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Columbus, OH nor Chicago, IL 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL 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 Chicago, IL, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and purse snatching, especially in crowded areas like public transit and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity solicitations and distraction thefts. It is advisable to stay alert in neighborhoods outside downtown after dark and use authorized transportation services to avoid unlicensed taxi scams. Keeping valuables secure and being aware of surroundings helps mitigate these risks.
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 Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL
Most Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL buses use the Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Columbus, OH and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Columbus
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Columbus, E Town St (Bus Station)
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, 95th Red Line Station from Chicago city centre
BusGreyhound US0100 · 20m · $2
29 · 47m · $4 · every ~11 min
29 · 48m · $4 · every ~11 min
SubwayRed Line · 24m · $6 · every ~23 min
Red Line · 25m · $6 · every ~23 min
Most popular bus connections from Columbus, OH
More options for your journey from Columbus, OH to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Columbus, OH
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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