- 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Jun 17
Cheapest price
$23
Average price
$24
Fastest journey
2 h 10 m
Average duration
2 h 10 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
118 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL will cost around $24 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $23.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave South Bend, IN for Chicago, IL on Wed, Jun 17, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 17 the direct buses cover the 118 km distance in an average of 2 h 10 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 10 m .
On Wed, Jun 17 the slowest buses will take 2 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.
6:55 PM2h10South Bend, South Street Station8:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$231One-way0 transfers- 8:50 AM2h10South Bend, South Street Station10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$241One-way0 transfers
- 6:55 PM2h10South Bend, South Street Station8:05 PMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$231One-way0 transfers
- 8:50 AM2h10South Bend, South Street Station10:00 AMChicago, Greyhound Bus Station$241One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 1h 56m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $21.
Distance: 73 miles (118 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$26 Average price Cheapest | $41 Average price | $36 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 26m Average total duration Fastest 1h 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 35m Average total duration 2h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 30m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of $26 (€21).
This is compared to other travel options from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL:
A bus is $14 (€12) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL costing on average $41 (€33).
The fastest way to travel from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL is by bus with an average journey time of 1h 56m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between South Bend, IN and Chicago, IL including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $26 (€21) compared to roughly $36 (€29) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $10 (€8). The journey takes 1h 56m versus 1h 30m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Greyhound, FlixBus, Barons Bus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:55PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Live departures
South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL buses for today, Tuesday, June 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:50 AM South Bend, South Street Station | 2h10 | 10:00 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
 FlixBus | 12:30 PM South Bend, South Street Station | 1h55 | 1:25 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:55 PM South Bend, South Street Station | 2h10 | 8:05 PM 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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
Jun 17
Jun 17
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Jun 18
Jun 18
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Jun 19
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Jun 23
Jun 23
Why should you book South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL buses with Omio?
Greyhound as well as FlixBus or Barons Bus offer buses services from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from South Bend, IN 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 FlixBus or Barons Bus to find the best option for your trip from South Bend, IN 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 and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from South Bend, IN 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 FlixBus or Barons Bus to find the best option for your trip from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL run on average 2 times per day, taking around 1h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 05:45, the last at 23:15. The fastest bus covers the 73 miles (118 km) distance in 1h 55m.
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 73 miles (118 km) |
Average bus duration 1h 56m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€10) |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 1h 55m |
First bus 5:45 AM |
Last bus 11:15 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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, FlixBus, Barons Bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus, Barons Bus for as low as $13 (€10). 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
1h 55m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
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
2h 10m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€10)
Greyhound frequency
2 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.
Barons Bus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
45m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
Barons Bus frequency
2 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
Major natural history museum known for Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and large family-friendly science exhibits.
- Must visit
Museum Of Science And Industry
Large hands-on science museum in Hyde Park with a U-505 submarine, aviation exhibits, and immersive interactive displays.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Chicago’s signature public space, home to Cloud Gate and major events, with strong appeal for first-time visitors and photographers.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Chicago River, popular for architecture views, strolling, and social-media-friendly city scenes.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Famous stretch of North Michigan Avenue known for landmark architecture, flagship stores, and busy big-city energy.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Chicago’s iconic thick-crust pizza baked in a deep pan, layered with cheese, toppings, and chunky tomato sauce. It is one of the city’s most famous comfort foods.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
An all-beef hot dog on a poppy seed bun topped with mustard, onions, neon relish, tomato, pickle spear, sport peppers, and celery salt. It is a classic local street food.
Italian Beef Sandwich
Thinly sliced roast beef piled onto an Italian roll, often dipped in seasoned jus and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera. It is a defining Chicago sandwich.
Gene & Georgetti
A historic old-school steakhouse serving steaks, chops, and classic Italian-American dishes in a traditional setting.
Alinea
Chicago’s internationally acclaimed fine-dining restaurant known for highly inventive tasting menus and exceptional service.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
A long-established Chicago favorite known for buttery deep-dish pizza and a casual, family-friendly atmosphere.
United States Dollar
Moderate by U.S. big-city standards. Hotels can be pricey downtown, but food and transit offer good value.
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 80+ per person before drinks and tip.
- Coffee
- USD 4-7 for a regular café coffee.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants; 20%+ for great service. USD 1-2 per drink at bars, round up or 10-15% for taxis, and USD 1-2 per bag for hotel staff.
FAQs: Bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL can start from as little as $13 (€10) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL is $26 (€21) ; 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL is 1h 55m to travel the 73 miles (118 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL leaves at 5:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:15 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct buses a day from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL with Greyhound, FlixBus, Barons Bus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL, you can count on Greyhound, FlixBus, Barons Bus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between South Bend, IN and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Chicago, IL from South Bend, IN is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between South Bend, IN and Chicago, IL including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL for bus company Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 South Bend, IN 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 Greyhound, FlixBus.
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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL with the following bus company: Greyhound, FlixBus.
Since neither South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN 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 South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL
South Bend
Chicago
The major bus station for departures in South Bend is South Bend, South Street Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at South Bend, South Street Station for your trip from South Bend to Chicago.
South Bend, South Street Station
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 South Bend.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station
information
Chicago, 95th Red Line Station
information
Most popular bus connections from South Bend, IN
More options for your journey from South Bend, IN to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and South Bend, IN
Most popular bus connections to Chicago, IL
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