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The cheapest and fastest buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Dec 16
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$38
Fastest journey
3 h 5 m
Average duration
3 h 31 m
Buses per day
4
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 $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Madison, WI for Chicago, IL on Tue, Dec 16, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Dec 16 the direct buses cover the 198 km distance in an average of 3 h 31 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 5 m .
On Tue, Dec 16 the slowest buses will take 4 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.
03:55PM3h05
Madison, WI07:00PMChicago, IL
$341One-way
0 transfers
10:25PM3h40
Madison, WI02:05AMChicago, IL
$381One-way
0 transfers
11:45AM3h10
Madison, WI02:55PMChicago, IL
$381One-way
0 transfers
06:25PM4h10
Madison, WI10:35PMChicago, IL
$401One-way
0 transfers
03:55PM3h05
Madison, WI07:00PMChicago, IL
$341One-way
0 transfers
11:45AM3h10
Madison, WI02:55PMChicago, IL
$381One-way
0 transfers
10:25PM3h40
Madison, WI02:05AMChicago, IL
$381One-way
0 transfers
06:25PM4h10
Madison, WI10:35PMChicago, IL
$401One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus, flight, and train 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 €22. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 8m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €22, and a flight costs an average of €180.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€31 Average price Cheapest | €52 Average price | €260 Average price |
3h 58m Average total duration 3h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 28m Average total duration 2h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 8m Average total duration Fastest 1h 8m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | 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 Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 2h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 01:50PM | Duration 3h00 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 02:34PM | Duration 26h04 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 4h10 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 3h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 3h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator Amtrak | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 07:21PM | Duration 25h51 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 3h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
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, December 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 4:08 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus | 12:45 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 3h10 | 3:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 1:00 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 2h55 | 3:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:50 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 3h00 | 7:50 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 7:25 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 4h10 | 11:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 7:45 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 3h50 | 11:35 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| FlixBus | 11:25 PM Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 3h40 | 3:05 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8280 AMTRAK · 1340 Borealis | 11:30 PM Madison, WI | 25h51 | 1:21 AM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 11:40 PM Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 3h25 | 3:05 AM 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, flight, or train
Compare bus, flight, and train 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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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL run on average 20 times per day, taking around 3h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 (€22) if you book in advance.
There are 20 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 2h 40m.
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 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€22) |
Buses per day 20 |
Direct buses 20 |
Fastest bus 2h 40m |
First bus 01:30 |
Last bus 23:50 |
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 $28 (€22). 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
$27 (€21)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
$48 (€38)
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 5m
Cheapest Price
$31 (€25)
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
$40 (€32)
Vangalder Bus frequency
9 a day
Jefferson Lines
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 50m
Cheapest Price
$140 (€112)
Jefferson Lines frequency
1 a day
Badger Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 45m
Cheapest Price
$84 (€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 $36 (€29) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Madison, WI to Chicago, IL is $46 (€37); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Madison, WI to Chicago, IL bus time is 2 h 55 min covering the 122 mile (197 km) long trip, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 1: 30AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 11: 15PM.
Yes, there are 13 direct buses a day from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus or Vangalder Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
For the best Madison, WI to Chicago, IL bus to book, you can travel safely and comfortably with FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus, Badger Bus, Jefferson Lines or Vangalder Bus. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL to compare what amenities they may offer.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Madison, WI is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2 h 55 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Madison, WI and Chicago, IL including taking a bus or flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL for bus providers FlixBus, Greyhound and 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers FlixBus, Greyhound and Infobus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL depends on the bus providers:
- 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.
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
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:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- Guide dogs travel for free.
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- Larger pets may require a separate ticket.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound and Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus companies: FlixBus, Greyhound and Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound and 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, North Lake Street (UW- Madison)
information
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)
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, Union Station (Amtrak)
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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