- 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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Journey information
Overview: San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL flight
USAUSA
Flights from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL depart on average 48 times per day, taking around 9h 5m. Cheap flight tickets for this journey start at €128 but you can travel from only €112 by bus.
There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 05:00, the last at 23:33. The fastest flight covers the 1837 miles (2957 km) distance in 4h 19m. February is the cheapest month to fly.
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
Bus from €112
Distance 1837 miles (2957 km) |
Average flight duration 9h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price €128 |
Flights per day 48 |
Direct flights 1 |
Fastest flight 4h 19m |
First flight 5:00 AM |
Last flight 11:33 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Best time to book 14 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €112
The cheapest and fastest flights from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Showing times and prices for Aug 06
Cheapest price
€349
Average price
€498
Fastest journey
4 h 19 m
Average duration
7 h 50 m
Flights per day
4
Distance
2957 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap flight 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 €498 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €349.
Fast flights
Of the 4 flights that leave San Jose, CA for Chicago, IL onThu, Aug 06, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Aug 06 the direct flights cover the 2957 km distance in an average of 7 h 50 m but if you time it right, some flights will get you there in just 4 h 19 m .
On Thu, Aug 06 the longest flights will take 12 h 51 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.
1:00 PM9h44San Jose, CA10:44 PMChicago, IL€3491One-way0 transfers
9:46 PM12h51San Jose, CA10:37 AMChicago, IL€5251One-way0 transfers- 5:55 AM4h19San Jose, CA10:14 AMChicago, IL€5421One-way0 transfers
- 1:30 PM4h26San Jose, CA5:56 PMChicago, IL€5741One-way0 transfers
- 5:55 AM4h19San Jose, CA10:14 AMChicago, IL€5421One-way0 transfers
- 1:30 PM4h26San Jose, CA5:56 PMChicago, IL€5741One-way0 transfers
- 1:00 PM9h44San Jose, CA10:44 PMChicago, IL€3491One-way0 transfers
- 9:46 PM12h51San Jose, CA10:37 AMChicago, IL€5251One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €112. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 9h 5m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.9 - 2.7kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €112, and a flight costs an average of €128.
Distance: 1837 miles (2957 km)
Compare flight with
| Flight | Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|
€341 Average price | €279 Average price | €266 Average price Cheapest |
12h 5m Average total duration Fastest 9h 5m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 59h 57m Average total duration 59h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 59h 21m Average total duration 58h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
8.9 - 17.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.9 - 2.7kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 3.0 - 7.4kg CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is a bus with an average price of €266.
This is compared to other travel options from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL:
A bus is €13 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average €279.
A bus is €76 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL costing on average €341.
The fastest way to travel from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is by flight with an average journey time of 9h 5m.
Other travel options to Chicago, IL take longer:
Bus takes on average 58h 51m.
Train takes on average 59h 27m.
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.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
Live departures
San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL flight times
The table below shows live departures for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL flights for today, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated flight journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:00 PM San Jose, CA | 15h48 | 4:48 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:00 PM San Jose, CA | 10h48 | 4:48 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Thursday, August 6 | |||||
| 5:55 AM San Jose, CA | 4h19 | 10:14 AM Chicago, IL | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last flight of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets San Jose, CA 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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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: San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL Flight
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL by flight. 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 flight, 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 plane tickets from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL can start from as little as €128 when you book in advance. The average flight ticket price for San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is €341 ; 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 plane from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is 4h 19m to travel the 1837 miles (2957 km) long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest flight from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 5:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest flight from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL leaves at 11:33 PM.
Flights from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL generally leave from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport and arrive in O'Hare International Airport.Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport is 1 miles (2 km) away from San Jose, CA city centre and O'Hare International Airport is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
The cheapest month for a flight from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL is February.
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.
Since neither San Jose, CA 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.
There is a time difference of 2 h between San Jose, CA and Chicago, IL all year round.
The best events to attend in Chicago, IL include:
- Chicago Air and Water Show, an exhilarating display of military and civilian aircraft performing daring maneuvers over Lake Michigan
- Lollapalooza, a massive music festival featuring top artists across multiple genres in Grant Park
- Chicago Gourmet, a premier culinary event celebrating the city's vibrant food scene with tastings, cooking demonstrations, and wine pairings.
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.
The best holidays to experience in Chicago, IL include:
- Memorial Day, the unofficial start of summer with vibrant outdoor activities and events
- Independence Day, spectacular fireworks and festive celebrations throughout the city
- Labor Day, a lively atmosphere with various festivals and pleasant weather.
The best season to visit Chicago, IL is Spring or Summer. The best weather to explore Chicago, IL is during May-September.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL among Omio's users.
For domestic flights we recommend to arrive 1.5 to 2 hours before departure. Please check the website of your departure airport if in doubt. Some airports may offer booking time slots for security checks or offer additional information on when to get there based on time of day.
Most airlines permit carry-on bags that fit within specific dimensions (e.g., 22 x 14 x 9 inches or 56 x 36 x 23 cm), including handles and wheels. Bags must fit in the overhead bin or under the seat in front of you.
Many airlines impose weight limits, commonly ranging between 7 kg (15 lbs) and 12 kg (26 lbs). Typically, passengers are allowed one carry-on bag and one personal item (for example a purse, laptop bag, or backpack). Personal items must fit under the seat in front of you. Budget Airlines (like Ryanair or Wizz Air) have stricter size and weight limits, often requiring fees for larger carry-ons. Full-Service Airlines have more lenient policies, sometimes including more spacious dimensions or higher weight limits depending on your ticket class.
The list of items prohibited on an airplane varies by country and airline, but in general, the following items are not allowed in carry-on or checked baggage: Weapons and self-defence items, sharp objects, flammable materials, explosives, toxic substances, or liquids over 100ml (except for medications and baby essentials). In checked baggage, firearms (without authorization), explosives, large lithium batteries, and hazardous chemicals are prohibited. Electronic cigarettes must be in carry-on bags, while alcohol and dry ice have restrictions. Always check with your airline for specific regulations.
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 airports
Popular airports from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Most San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL flights use the Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport to O'Hare International Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare San Jose, CA and Chicago, IL airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Departure airports in San Jose
Arrival airports in Chicago
Which San Jose, CA airport do flights to Chicago, IL leave from?
Flights from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL depart from Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport. The airport is 1 miles (3 km) from San Jose, CA city centre at 1701 Airport Blvd, San Jose, CA 95110, USA.
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport (SJC)1701 Airport Blvd, San Jose, CA 95110, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport from San Jose city centre
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport is 2 km from San Jose city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus60 · 6m · €3 · every ~7 min
TramBlue Line, Green Line · 31m · €6 · every ~14 min
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport airport facilities and services
Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are located in both terminals, including American and Mexican cuisine, with highlights like Gordon Biersch and Peet's Coffee.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout the airport, near gates and baggage claimas.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Norman Y. Mineta San Jose International Airport: Elevators, ramps.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels are located within walking distance, including the DoubleTree by Hilton..
Which Chicago, IL airport do flights from San Jose, CA arrive at?
Flights from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL arrive at O'Hare International Airport. O'Hare International Airport is 2 miles (4 km) from Chicago, IL city centre.
O'Hare International Airport (ORD)10000 W O'Hare Ave, Chicago, IL 60666, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to O'Hare International Airport from Chicago city centre
O'Hare International Airport is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
SubwayBlue Line · 1h 7m · €5 · every ~23 min
O'Hare International Airport airport facilities and services
O'Hare International Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Shower, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Restaurants are located in all terminals, offering a variety of cuisines including American and intertiol. Top options include Tortas Frontera and Publican Tavern.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located throughout all terminals.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at O'Hare International Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at O'Hare International Airport: Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at O'Hare International Airport: Elevators, ramps, toilets.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Hotels such as Hilton Chicago O'Hare are located on airport grounds, with others like the Hyatt Regency nearby..
More options for your journey from San Jose, CA to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular flights to and from Chicago, IL and San Jose, CA
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