- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jul 31
Cheapest price
$139
Average price
$223
Fastest journey
1 d 6 h 30 m
Average duration
1 d 7 h 37 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
1691 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL will cost around $223 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 San Antonio, TX for Chicago, IL on Fri, Jul 31, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 1691 km distance in an average of 1 d 7 h 37 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 d 6 h 30 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 1 d 8 h 45 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.
6:30 AM30h30San Antonio, TX1:00 PMChicago, IL$1391One-way0 transfers- 1:45 PM32h45San Antonio, TX10:30 PMChicago, IL$1821One-way0 transfers
- 6:35 PM31h35San Antonio, TX2:10 AMChicago, IL$1891One-way0 transfers
- 12:45 PM32h20San Antonio, TX9:05 PMChicago, IL$2211One-way0 transfers
- 2:15 AM30h55San Antonio, TX9:10 AMChicago, IL$2361One-way0 transfers
- 6:30 AM30h30San Antonio, TX1:00 PMChicago, IL$1391One-way0 transfers
- 2:15 AM30h55San Antonio, TX9:10 AMChicago, IL$2361One-way0 transfers
- 6:35 PM31h35San Antonio, TX2:10 AMChicago, IL$1891One-way0 transfers
- 12:45 PM32h20San Antonio, TX9:05 PMChicago, IL$2211One-way0 transfers
- 1:45 PM32h45San Antonio, TX10:30 PMChicago, IL$1821One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $114. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 45m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $114, and a flight costs an average of $119.
Distance: 1050 miles (1691 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$238 Average price Cheapest | $271 Average price | $334 Average price | $246 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
26h 21m Average total duration 25h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 31h 11m Average total duration 30h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 45m Average total duration Fastest 4h 45m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 18h 3m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $238 (€196).
This is compared to other travel options from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $32 (€26) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL costing on average $271 (€222).
A bus is $96 (€78) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL costing on average $334 (€274).
The fastest way to travel from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 45m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 25h 51m.
Train takes on average 30h 41m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX 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.
San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:15AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 32h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $221 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:15AM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 32h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $317 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:30AM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 26h50 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $179 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:00AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 31h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $231 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 09:10AM | Duration 30h55 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $236 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 34h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $316 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:50AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 33h25 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $180 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:30AM | Arrival Time 09:20AM | Duration 26h50 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $139 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 26h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $180 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 32h20 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $181 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 33h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $300 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 32h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $321 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 31h35 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $178 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 32h20 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $132 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 32h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $146 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:35PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 31h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $255 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 31h35 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $134 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:00PM | Arrival Time 04:20AM | Duration 31h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $311 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:55PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 34h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $163 |
Live departures
San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| · · | 1:30 AM San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound), TX | 26h50 | 4:20 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 1:30 AM San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound), TX | 30h30 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
| · · | 5:50 AM San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound), TX | 33h25 | 3:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
 FlixBus · FlixBus++FlixBus | 7:30 AM San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound), TX | 32h35 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus+ · | 7:45 AM San Antonio, Avenue A / Pearl Pkwy, TX | 48h15 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus++FlixBus | 7:45 AM San Antonio, Avenue A / Pearl Pkwy, TX | 32h20 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3 transfers | |
| · · | 12:35 PM San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound), TX | 31h35 | 8:10 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
· + | 9:00 PM San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound), TX | 31h20 | 4:20 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
| · + | 9:00 PM San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound), TX | 35h00 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
| Friday, July 31 | |||||
| 2:15 AM San Antonio, TX | 30h55 | 9:10 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:15 AM San Antonio, TX | 34h45 | 2:00 PM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as VIA Metropolitan Transit offer buses services from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Antonio, TX 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 VIA Metropolitan Transit to find the best option for your trip from San Antonio, TX 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 train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL run on average 8 times per day, taking around 25h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $114 (€94) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1050 miles (1691 km) distance in 26h 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 1050 miles (1691 km) |
Average bus duration 25h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $114 (€94) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 26h 40m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 49 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: Greyhound, VIA Metropolitan Transit from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, VIA Metropolitan Transit for as low as $114 (€94). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
26h 40m
Cheapest Price
$114 (€94)
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.
VIA Metropolitan Transit
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
24h 46m
Cheapest Price
$323 (€265)
VIA Metropolitan Transit frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Chicago, IL
Things to do in Chicago, IL
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
- Must visit
Museum of Science and Industry
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is Chicago’s iconic pie with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked on top.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
The Chicago-style hot dog is an all-beef frank on a poppy seed bun with mustard, relish, onion, tomato, pickle, peppers, and celery salt.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Italian beef is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Johnnie's Beef
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Superdawg Drive-In
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
Alinea
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
US dollar ($)
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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $114 (€94) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL is $238 (€196) ; 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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL is 26h 40m to travel the 1050 miles (1691 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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound, VIA Metropolitan Transit. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, VIA Metropolitan Transit for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Antonio, TX and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Chicago, IL from San Antonio, TX is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 26h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Antonio, TX and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- 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 San Antonio, TX 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Since neither San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL
Most San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL buses use the San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare San Antonio, TX 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 San Antonio
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
San Antonio, N St Mary's St (Greyhound)
San Antonio, Avenue A / Pearl Pkwy
City-centre transport
Getting to San Antonio, Avenue A / Pearl Pkwy from San Antonio city centre
BusFlixBus 2230 · 11m · $1
10, 14, 214, 9 · 12m · $2 · every ~17 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Bus7 · 8m · $4 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Bus28, 151 · 7m · $4 · every ~13 min
Most popular bus connections from San Antonio, TX
More options for your journey from San Antonio, TX to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and San Antonio, TX
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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