- Must visit
The Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the premier art museums in the United States, known for its Impressionist masterpieces, modern works, and iconic collections in a landmark downtown building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$41
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
4 h 5 m
Average duration
4 h 39 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
323 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Iowa City, IA for Chicago, IL on Thu, May 28, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct buses cover the 323 km distance in an average of 4 h 39 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 5 m .
On Thu, May 28 the slowest buses will take 5 h 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.
11:40 AM4h45Iowa City, E Court St (Greyhound Bus Station), IA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$411One-way0 transfers- 7:50 AM5h45Iowa City, E Court St (Greyhound Bus Station), IA1:35 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$411One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 PM5h00Iowa City, S Riverside Dr (Kum & Go), IA7:45 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$481One-way0 transfers
010:20 AM4h55Iowa City, IA3:15 PMChicago, IL$661One-way0 transfers- 04:00 PM4h30Iowa City, IA8:30 PMChicago, IL$941One-way0 transfers
- 01:20 AM4h05Iowa City, IA5:25 AMChicago, IL$941One-way0 transfers
- 04:00 PM4h30Iowa City, IA8:30 PMChicago, IL$941One-way0 transfers
- 11:40 AM4h45Iowa City, E Court St (Greyhound Bus Station), IA4:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$411One-way0 transfers
- 010:20 AM4h55Iowa City, IA3:15 PMChicago, IL$661One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 PM5h00Iowa City, S Riverside Dr (Kum & Go), IA7:45 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$481One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 18m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a flight costs an average of $146.
Distance: 200 miles (323 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$57 Average price Cheapest | $253 Average price | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 30m Average total duration 5h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m Average total duration Fastest 1h 18m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 3h 20m 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $57 (€46).
This is compared to other travel options from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $196 (€158) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL costing on average $253 (€204).
The fastest way to travel from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 18m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Iowa City, IA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -2h -40m sooner (5h 0m by bus vs 3h 20m by car) and save roughly $-1.23 (€-0.99) compared to fuel and tolls ($57 (€46) vs $55 (€45)). 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 Greyhound.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 01:20AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 4h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator Infobus | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $66 |
Live departures
Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 0 | 1:20 AM Iowa City, IA | 4h05 | 5:25 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:50 AM Iowa City, E Court St (Greyhound Bus Station), IA | 5h45 | 1:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 10:20 AM Iowa City, IA | 4h55 | 3:15 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:40 AM Iowa City, E Court St (Greyhound Bus Station), IA | 4h45 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 0 | 4:00 PM Iowa City, IA | 4h30 | 8:30 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Iowa City, IA 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.
Thu
May 28
May 28
Fri
May 29
May 29
Sat
May 30
May 30
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Why should you book Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL.
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 to find the best option for your trip from Iowa City, IA 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 Greyhound with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Iowa City, IA 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 5h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:20, the last at 16:05. The fastest bus covers the 200 miles (323 km) distance in 4h 45m.
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 200 miles (323 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 4h 45m |
First bus 1:20 AM |
Last bus 4:05 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, FlixBus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus for as low as $36 (€29). 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
4h 30m
Cheapest Price
$109 (€88)
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
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
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 Chicago
Things to do in Chicago
Discover the best of Chicago — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
A world-class natural history museum famous for its dinosaur fossils, ancient cultures, and major scientific collections, including the celebrated T. rex specimen SUE.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large interactive science museum in Hyde Park with hands-on exhibits, transportation displays, and family-friendly experiences in a grand historic building.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park combines major public art, gardens, and event spaces, making it one of the city’s essential first stops for visitors.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known stretch of Michigan Avenue is lined with landmark buildings, shops, and hotels, and serves as a central walking route for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A highly popular waterfront promenade with excellent architecture views, bridges, and easy access to boat tours. It is one of the city’s most scenic urban walks.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick, buttery-crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thin-sliced seasoned roast beef served on a long roll, often dipped in jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera.
Girl & the Goat
A celebrated West Loop restaurant with bold small plates, creative flavors, and a vibrant, modern atmosphere.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally renowned fine-dining destination known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A classic Chicago pizzeria famous for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a relaxed, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate for a major U.S. city: casual food is reasonable, but hotels, parking, and fine dining add up fast.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- USD 10-18 for fast food or casual takeout.
- Mid-range
- USD 25-45 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- USD 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a coffee drink.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 20%+ for great service. Bars: USD 1-2 per drink. Taxis/rideshares: 10-15%. Hotels: USD 2-5 for housekeeping; USD 1-2 per bag.
FAQs: Bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $36 (€29) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL is $57 (€46) ; 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL is 4h 45m to travel the 200 miles (323 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL leaves at 4:05 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Iowa City, IA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Iowa City, IA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Iowa City, IA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Iowa City, IA 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 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA 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 Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL
Iowa City
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Iowa City is Iowa City, S Riverside Dr (Kum & Go). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Iowa City, S Riverside Dr (Kum & Go) for your trip from Iowa City to Chicago.
Iowa City, S Riverside Dr (Kum & Go)
information
Iowa City, E Court St (Greyhound Bus Station)
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Chicago from Iowa City.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Most popular bus connections from Iowa City, IA
More options for your journey from Iowa City, IA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Iowa City, IA
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