- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Cheapest price
€140
Average price
€167
Fastest journey
1 d 3 h 40 m
Average duration
1 d 4 h 56 m
Buses per day
10
Distance
1616 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Tampa, FL 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 Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL will cost around €167 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €140.
It's difficult to get from Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL without transferring at least once.
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FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €82. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 3h 9m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €82, and a train costs an average of €115.
Distance: 1004 miles (1616 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€129 Average price Cheapest | €206 Average price | €131 Average price | €204 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
28h 3m Average total duration 27h 33m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 41h 23m Average total duration 40h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 9m Average total duration Fastest 3h 9m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 17h 7m 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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL:
A bus is €3 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL costing on average €131.
A bus is €77 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL costing on average €206.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 27h 33m.
Train takes on average 40h 53m.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 01:50AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 35h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €102 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 34h25 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €158 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 02:50AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 35h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €287 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 01:45PM | Duration 32h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €142 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 11:30AM | Duration 30h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €141 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 33h15 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €283 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 30h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €172 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 29h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €138 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 30h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €108 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 32h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €195 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 29h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €134 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 29h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €136 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 29h05 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price €195 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 28h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €136 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 28h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €116 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 27h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €116 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 27h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €161 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 27h40 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price €140 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 27h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €137 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 12:10AM | Duration 27h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €138 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 27h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €149 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:35PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 34h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price €149 |
Operator Greyhound | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 02:10AM | Duration 27h15 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €206 |
The table below shows live departures for Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL buses for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:30 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 27h40 | 12:10 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus+ · | 10:25 PM Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL | 34h35 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · | 10:25 PM Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL | 35h00 | 8:25 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · | 10:35 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 34h25 | 8:00 AM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus+ · | 10:35 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 34h50 | 8:25 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:20 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 30h10 | 11:30 AM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 6:20 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 32h25 | 1:45 PM Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak), IL | 2 transfers | |
+ FlixBus+![]() | 11:10 AM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 29h05 | 3:15 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 4:00 PM Tampa, Marion Transit Center | 29h10 | 8:10 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus+![]() | 4:35 PM Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant), FL | 28h35 | 8:10 PM Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL run on average 11 times per day, taking around 27h 33m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €82 but you can travel from only €47 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:15, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 1004 miles (1616 km) distance in 27h 45m.
Distance 1004 miles (1616 km) |
Average bus duration 27h 33m |
Cheapest ticket price €82 |
Buses per day 11 |
Fastest bus 27h 45m |
First bus 12:15 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 3 days |
Discover the best of Chicago, IL — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Chicago, IL trip today.
World-class art museum with masterpieces from Monet to Hopper and the famous Modern Wing.
Major natural history museum with Sue the T. rex, ancient cultures, and strong family appeal.
Hands-on science museum in a grand former fair building, popular for exhibits and a U-505 submarine.
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, Crown Fountain, gardens, and major public art in central Chicago.
Famous shopping boulevard lined with architecture, hotels, riverfront views, and major city energy.
Scenic pedestrian-friendly riverwalk with boat docks, public art, bridges, and standout skyline perspectives.
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.
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 is thin-sliced roast beef piled onto a roll, often dipped in savory juices and topped with sweet peppers or spicy giardiniera.
Classic spot for juicy Italian beef sandwiches, especially dipped and topped with spicy giardiniera, with a casual local feel.
Legendary stand for Chicago-style hot dogs and char-grilled sausages, served fast in a no-frills local landmark.
World-famous fine dining destination offering a highly creative tasting menu and refined service in an elegant setting.
Moderate for a major US city: hotels can be pricey, but transit is affordable and dining ranges from cheap eats to upscale options.
Tip 18-20% at restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, 10-15% for taxis, and optional small change at cafes.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Tampa, FL 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.

Most Tampa, FL to Chicago, IL buses use the Tampa, Marion Transit Center to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak). Use this guide to compare Tampa, FL and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Tampa, Marion Transit Center has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center. ATMs are available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center.
Ticket office support is available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center.
Available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Tampa, Marion Transit Center: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) is 13 km from Tampa city centre. Public transport options include:
Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant). ATMs are available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant).
Ticket office support is available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant).
Available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Tampa, USF Holly Drive (Central Plant): Wheelchair accessible facilities.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Multiple dining options are available inside the station.
Free Wi-Fi is available in waiting areas. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak).
Available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Union Station (Amtrak): Station is accessible with elevators and ramps.
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