- 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 Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 29
Cheapest price on Oct 29
CHF 158
Average ticket price on Oct 29
CHF 190
Fastest journey on Oct 29
2 d 6 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Oct 29
2 d 11 h 28 m
Buses on Oct 29
4
Distance
2957 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from San Jose, CA 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 Jose, CA to Chicago, IL will cost around CHF 190 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF 158.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL without transferring at least 2 times.
FlixBus+
· · 8:15 AM 54h10 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station CHF 158 1 One-way 3 transfers- · · ·
3:05 PM 62h55 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 7:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL CHF 191 1 One-way 3 transfers - · · ·
3:05 PM 59h15 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 3:20 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station CHF 192 1 One-way 3 transfers - · +FlixBus
12:35 AM 61h30 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station CHF 221 1 One-way 2 transfers
- FlixBus+ · ·
8:15 AM 54h10 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station CHF 158 1 One-way 3 transfers - · · ·
3:05 PM 59h15 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 3:20 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station CHF 192 1 One-way 3 transfers - · +FlixBus
12:35 AM 61h30 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station CHF 221 1 One-way 2 transfers - · · ·
3:05 PM 62h55 San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) 7:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL CHF 191 1 One-way 3 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL run on average 3 times per day, taking around 56h 36m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at CHF 127 but you can travel from only CHF 120 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 1837 miles (2957 km) distance in 49h 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 CHF 120
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance1837 miles (2957 km)
- Average bus duration56h 36m
- Cheapest ticket priceCHF 127
- Buses per day3
- Fastest bus49h 25m
- First bus12:15 AM
- Last bus11:45 PM
- Cheapest MonthJun
- Cheapest DayWed
- High SeasonOct - Dec
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Best time to book14 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 CHF 120
Frequently asked questions about your San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
Cheap bus tickets from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as CHF 127 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is CHF 235 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 12:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL which require at least one change with Greyhound. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 12:35AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 61h30 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price CHF 181 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 73h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price CHF 203 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:15AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 54h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price CHF 146 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 03:20AM | Duration 59h15 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price CHF 156 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 08:00AM | Duration 85h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sun | Cheapest price CHF 176 |
Live departures
San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL buses for today, Wednesday, October 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus+ · · | 8:15 AM San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) | 69h45 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 4 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 8:15 AM San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) | 54h10 | 4:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 3 transfers | |
| FlixBus+ · · | 4:55 PM San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) | 85h05 | 7:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 5 transfers | |
| Thursday, October 29 | |||||
| · +FlixBus | 12:35 AM San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) | 61h30 | 4:05 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound operates all buses services from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs Greyhound?
- 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 Jose, CA 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 Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
Bus companies
Bus companies from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Buses from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL with Greyhound. Overnight buses available on this route with Greyhound. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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 Greyhound Duration
49h 25m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
CHF 127
Greyhound frequency
3 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between San Jose, CA and Chicago, IL
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between San Jose, CA and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from San Jose, CA 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from San Jose, CA 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 Jose, CA to Chicago, IL:
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound.
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.
Plan your visit to Chicago, IL
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Chicago, IL.
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.
FAQs: Bus from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between San Jose, CA and Chicago, IL including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Most San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL buses use the San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare San Jose, CA 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 Jose
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Which San Jose, CA station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?
Buses from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL leave from San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station). The station is 0 miles (1 km) from San Jose, CA city centre at San Jose Diridon Station, 65 Cahill St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA.
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station)San Jose Diridon Station, 65 Cahill St, San Jose, CA 95110, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) from San Jose city centre
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) is 1 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
BusRapid 500, Rapid 568, 64A, 64B, 68, 202 · 7m · CHF 5 · every ~26 min
TramGreen Line · 17m · CHF 3 · every ~7 min
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) bus station facilities and services
San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Various food options available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station). ATMs are aTMs located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station): Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Which Chicago, IL station do buses from San Jose, CA arrive at?
Buses from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL most often arrive at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Some services arrive at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chicago, IL arrival station.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus7 · 8m · CHF 3 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak)Chicago Union Station, 225 S Canal St, Chicago, IL 60606, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · CHF 3 · every ~13 min
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
Bus stations for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Check bus stations information for San Jose, CA and Chicago, IL, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from San Jose, CA , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station) . When arriving in Chicago, IL , you can end your journey in bus stations like Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from San José, Cahill Street (Diridon Station), which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, located 3 away from the city centre.
Most popular bus connections from San Jose, CA
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and San Jose, CA
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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