Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL bus with FlixBus

Wed, Jul 22
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

Showing times and prices for Jul 22

Cheapest price

$122

Average price

$139

Fastest journey

20 h 50 m

Average duration

22 h 19 m

Buses per day

9

Distance

993 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL will cost around $139 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $122.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound ·
    8:45 AM22h25
    Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
    6:10 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $1221One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · ·
    9:50 PM35h10
    Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
    8:00 AMChicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL
    $1251One-way
    3 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    2:10 PM20h50
    Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA
    10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $1251One-way
    1 transfer
  • Greyhound ·
    2:10 PM20h50
    Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
    10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $1251One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound
    9:50 PM23h15
    Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
    8:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station
    $1281One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $109. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 58m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $109, and a flight costs an average of $185.

Distance: 617 miles (993 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$197

Average price

Cheapest

$241

Average price

$329

Average price

$236

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

21h 50m

Average total duration

21h 20m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

21h 25m

Average total duration

20h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 58m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 58m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

12h 4m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Amtrak

Most popular train company

American Airlines

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $197 (€162).

This is compared to other travel options from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL:

A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL costing on average $241 (€198).

A bus is $132 (€109) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL costing on average $329 (€271).

The fastest way to travel from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 3h 58m.

Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:

Train takes on average 20h 55m.

Bus takes on average 21h 20m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Richmond, VA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Richmond, VA 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 {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). 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 {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
26h00
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$137
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:00AM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
24h10
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$121
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
08:45AM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
24h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$142
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:45AM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
22h25
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$122
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
10:10AM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
22h50
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$133
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:10AM
Arrival Time
06:10AM
Duration
21h00
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$121
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:25AM
Arrival Time
03:15PM
Duration
28h50
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$119
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
02:10PM
Arrival Time
01:45PM
Duration
24h35
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$119
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
03:30PM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
29h35
Departure days
Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$129
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
08:15PM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
24h50
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$118
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
09:50PM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
35h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$119
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:25PM
Arrival Time
12:10AM
Duration
25h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$119
Operator
Greyhound
Departure Time
11:25PM
Arrival Time
08:00AM
Duration
33h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$135

Live departures

Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL bus times

The table below shows live departures for Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Tuesday, July 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Greyhound · 2:10 PM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
20h50
10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound2:10 PM Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA
20h50
10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
Greyhound · · · 2:10 PM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
24h35
1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL3 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · · 2:10 PM Richmond, 17th St and Ambler, VA
24h35
1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL3 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound9:50 PM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
23h15
8:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · · 9:50 PM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
35h10
8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL3 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus11:25 PM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA
25h45
12:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus+Greyhound · 11:25 PM Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride), VA
33h35
8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL2 transfers
Wednesday, July 22
Greyhound · +FlixBusFlixBus8:45 AM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
22h25
6:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station2 transfers
Greyhound · · · 8:45 AM Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station), VA
24h15
8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL3 transfers

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL by bus, train, or flight

Compare bus, train, 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.

Wed
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27
Tue
Jul 28

Why should you book Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as Greyhound offer buses services from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Richmond, VA 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 to find the best option for your trip from Richmond, VA 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Richmond, VA 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 to find the best option for your trip from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of bus

Buses from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL run on average 16 times per day, taking around 21h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $109 (€90) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 617 miles (993 km) distance in 20h 50m.

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
617 miles (993 km)
Average bus duration
21h 20m
Cheapest ticket price
$109 (€90)
Buses per day
16
Fastest bus
20h 50m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
77 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 from Richmond, VA to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound for as low as $109 (€90). 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
20h 50m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€96)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
21h 10m
Cheapest Price
$109 (€90)
Greyhound frequency
1 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, 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

Art Institute of Chicago

World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.

  • 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.

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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Richmond, VA 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $109 (€90) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is $197 (€162) ; 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is 20h 50m to travel the 617 miles (993 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 16 buses a day from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with FlixBus, Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Richmond, VA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from Richmond, VA is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 20h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Richmond, VA and Chicago, IL including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: FlixBus, Greyhound.
Since neither Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA 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 Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL

Most Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL buses use the Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Richmond, VA 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 Richmond
Arrival bus stations in Chicago

Which Richmond, VA station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?

Buses from Richmond, VA to Chicago, IL leave from Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station). The station is 2 miles (4 km) from Richmond, VA city centre at Richmond, VA 23219, USA.
Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station)Richmond, VA 23219, USA
City-centre transport

Getting to Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station) from Richmond city centre

Richmond, E Main St / N 17th St (Richmond Main Station) is 3 km from Richmond city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus14, Brt · 17m · every ~14 min
Brt · 19m · every ~10 min
14 · 20m · every ~4 min
Richmond, North Parham Road / Fordson Road (Park & Ride)

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