- Must visit
Art Institute Of Chicago
One of the world’s leading art museums, famous for Impressionist masterpieces, American art, and major special exhibitions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 10
Cheapest price
$139
Average price
$225
Fastest journey
17 h 25 m
Average duration
19 h 29 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
1069 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL will cost around $225 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $139.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Philadelphia, PA for Chicago, IL on Fri, Jul 10, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 10 the direct buses cover the 1069 km distance in an average of 19 h 29 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 17 h 25 m .
On Fri, Jul 10 the slowest buses will take 20 h 59 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.
FlixBus11:45 PM20h10Philadelphia Bus Station6:55 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1391One-way0 transfers- FlixBus+
12:01 PM19h09Philadelphia Bus Station6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2201One-way1 transfer - · 5:35 PM17h25Philadelphia Bus Station10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2231One-way1 transfer
- · 5:35 PM21h10Philadelphia Bus Station1:45 PMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$2241One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:45 PM19h40Philadelphia Bus Station1:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2481One-way1 transfer
- · 5:35 PM17h25Philadelphia Bus Station10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2231One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus+12:01 PM19h09Philadelphia Bus Station6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2201One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:45 PM19h40Philadelphia Bus Station1:25 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$2481One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus11:45 PM20h10Philadelphia Bus Station6:55 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$1391One-way0 transfers
- · 12:01 PM20h59Philadelphia Bus Station8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL$2961One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $88. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.3 - 1.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $88, and a train costs an average of $102.
Distance: 664 miles (1069 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
$186 Average price Cheapest | $253 Average price | $233 Average price |
20h 18m Average total duration 19h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 21h 50m Average total duration 21h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 38m Average total duration Fastest 3h 38m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
1.1 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.3 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.2 - 6.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $186 (€153).
This is compared to other travel options from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $47 (€39) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL costing on average $233 (€191).
A bus is $67 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL costing on average $253 (€208).
The fastest way to travel from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 38m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 19h 48m.
Train takes on average 21h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Philadelphia, PA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:01PM | Arrival Time 06:10AM | Duration 19h09 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $134 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:01PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 20h59 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $152 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 17h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $133 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 19h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $142 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 18h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $242 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 20h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $89 |
Live departures
Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Thursday, July 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · | 5:35 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 21h10 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 1 transfer | |
| · | 5:35 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 17h25 | 10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 7:30 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 18h55 | 1:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus | 11:45 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 20h10 | 6:55 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 10 | |||||
| · | 12:01 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 20h59 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 1 transfer | |
| +FlixBus | 12:01 PM Philadelphia Bus Station | 19h09 | 6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL 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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Why should you book Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound or Martz Bus offer buses services from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Philadelphia, PA 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 Martz Bus to find the best option for your trip from Philadelphia, PA 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Philadelphia, PA 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 Martz Bus to find the best option for your trip from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL run on average 17 times per day, taking around 19h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $88 (€73) but you can travel from only $69 (€57) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 01:50, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 664 miles (1069 km) distance in 17h 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 $69 (€57)
Distance 664 miles (1069 km) |
Average bus duration 19h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 (€73) |
Buses per day 17 |
Fastest bus 17h 25m |
First bus 1:50 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 7 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 $69 (€57)
Bus providers: FlixBus, Greyhound, Martz Bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound, Martz Bus for as low as $69 (€57). 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
18h 55m
Cheapest Price
$93 (€77)
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
17h 25m
Cheapest Price
$88 (€73)
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.
Martz Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
36h 25m
Cheapest Price
$174 (€143)
Martz Bus frequency
1 a day
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 top natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, fossils, and broad science collections.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
A large hands-on science museum with a German submarine, space exhibits, and interactive engineering displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature downtown park, home to Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and major seasonal events.
- Must visit
The Magnificent Mile
The city’s best-known avenue for architecture, shopping, and bustling urban energy along North Michigan Avenue.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
A popular pedestrian waterfront with excellent skyline views, bridges, and easy access to boat architecture tours.
Chicago-Style Deep-Dish Pizza
A thick, buttery crust pizza baked in a deep pan with layers of cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of Chicago’s most iconic and debated local specialties.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with yellow mustard, relish, onions, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food served without ketchup.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced seasoned roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in its juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining working-class Chicago sandwich.
Alinea
Chicago’s world-famous fine-dining restaurant known for highly creative tasting menus and theatrical presentation. It offers one of the city’s most celebrated upscale dining experiences.
Ricobene's
A beloved casual institution best known for breaded steak sandwiches and hearty Italian-American comfort food. It has a loyal local following and an old-school atmosphere.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A legendary Chicago chain celebrated for buttery-crust deep-dish pizza and a classic casual atmosphere. One of the city’s best-known places to try this signature dish.
United States Dollar
Chicago is pricey for hotels and dining, but budget eats and public transit help keep daily costs manageable.
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 90+ per person before drinks and tax.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular coffee or latte.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at restaurants; 15-20% for taxis and rideshares; USD 1-2 per drink at bars; USD 1-2 per bag for bellhops; USD 2-5 per night for housekeeping.
FAQs: Bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $88 (€73) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is $186 (€153) ; 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 Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is 17h 25m to travel the 664 miles (1069 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 Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 17 buses a day from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with FlixBus, Greyhound, Martz Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound, Martz Bus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Philadelphia, PA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Philadelphia, PA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 17h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Philadelphia, PA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Philadelphia, PA 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Philadelphia, PA 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.
Most popular bus connections from Philadelphia, PA
More options for your journey from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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