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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Mar 17
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$46
Fastest journey
2 h 55 m
Average duration
3 h 28 m
Buses per day
7
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast buses
Of the 7 buses that leave Madison, WI for Chicago, IL on Tue, Mar 17, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Mar 17 the direct buses cover the 198 km distance in an average of 3 h 28 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .
On Tue, Mar 17 the slowest buses will take 3 h 50 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.
FlixBus07:00AM2h55
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)09:55AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$361One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus06:45AM3h10
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI09:55AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$361One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus01:45PM3h50
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)05:35PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$441One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus01:25PM4h10
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI05:35PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$441One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus10:55AM3h50
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI02:45PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$441One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus07:00AM2h55
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)09:55AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$361One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus06:45AM3h10
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI09:55AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$361One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus11:10AM3h35
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)02:45PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$441One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus01:45PM3h50
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)05:35PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$441One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus10:55AM3h50
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI02:45PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
$441One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $26. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $26, and a flight costs an average of $216.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight |
|---|---|
$39 Average price Cheapest | $330 Average price |
3h 56m Average total duration 3h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 11m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Madison, WI to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 07:21PM | Duration 25h51 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:55PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $39 |
Live departures
Madison, WI to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Madison, WI to Chicago, IL buses for today, Monday, March 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 3:06 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 10:55 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 3h40 | 2:35 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:10 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 3h25 | 2:35 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, March 17 | |||||
| FlixBus | 11:45 AM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 3h10 | 2:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 12:00 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 2h55 | 2:55 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 Madison, WI 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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Why should you book Madison, WI to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound, Infobus, Vangalder Bus, Jefferson Lines and more offer buses services from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madison, WI 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, Infobus, Vangalder Bus or Jefferson Lines to find the best option for your trip from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound, Infobus, Vangalder Bus or Jefferson Lines to find the best option for your trip from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL run on average 19 times per day, taking around 3h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $26 (€21) if you book in advance.
There are 19 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 01:30, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 3h 0m.
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 123 miles (198 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price $26 (€21) |
Buses per day 19 |
Direct buses 19 |
Fastest bus 3h 0m |
First bus 01:30 |
Last bus 23:50 |
Cheapest month Dec |
Cheapest day Wed |
High season Jul - Sep |
Low season Apr - Jun |
Busiest day Mon |
Least busy day Sun |
Best day to book ahead 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
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus, Vangalder Bus, Jefferson Lines, Badger Bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus, Vangalder Bus, Jefferson Lines, Badger Bus for as low as $26 (€21). 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
3h 10m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
FlixBus frequency
5 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.
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own "BusSystem" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Infobus frequency
13 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
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
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€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.
Vangalder Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
Vangalder Bus frequency
9 a day
Jefferson Lines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$135 (€111)
Jefferson Lines frequency
1 a day
Badger Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$82 (€67)
Badger Bus frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madison, WI 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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $26 (€21) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madison, WI to Chicago, IL is $39 (€32) ; 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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL is 3h 0m to travel the 123 miles (198 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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:50 PM.
Yes, there are 19 direct buses a day from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus, Vangalder Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus, Vangalder Bus, Jefferson Lines, Badger Bus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Madison, WI and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Madison, WI is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madison, WI and Chicago, IL including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL for bus company FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL depends on the bus companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- 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, Infobus.
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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- 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 Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Madison
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in Madison is Madison. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Madison for your trip from Madison to Chicago.
Madison
information
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)
information
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison)
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 Madison.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago
information
Chicago, Cumberland Blue Line Station
information
Most popular bus connections from Madison, WI
More options for your journey from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Madison, WI
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