- Must visit
The Charleston Museum
America’s first museum with natural history, decorative arts, and Charleston stories across several historic sites.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Showing times and prices for Aug 26
Cheapest price
€264
Average price
€264
Fastest journey
1 d 9 h 8 m
Average duration
1 d 9 h 8 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1217 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC will cost around €264 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €264.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC without transferring at least once.
41 Floridian · 97 Silver Meteor6:40 PM33h08Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC€2641One-way1 transfer
- 41 Floridian · 97 Silver Meteor6:40 PM33h08Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL4:48 AMCharleston Station, North Charleston, SC€2641One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 4h 30m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €71, and a flight costs an average of €112.
Distance: 756 miles (1217 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€349 Average price | €434 Average price | €147 Average price Cheapest | €162 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
27h 24m Average total duration 26h 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 30m Average total duration Fastest 4h 30m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 27h 21m Average total duration 26h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 49m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is a bus with an average price of €147.
This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC:
A bus is €202 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC costing on average €349.
A bus is €288 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC costing on average €434.
The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 30m.
Other travel options to Charleston, SC take longer:
Bus takes on average 26h 51m.
Train takes on average 26h 54m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Charleston, SC including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around €349 compared to roughly €162 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-186.64. The journey takes 26h 54m versus 13h 49m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC train times
The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC trains for today, Tuesday, August 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 50 Cardinal · 4050 AMTRAK · 97 Silver Meteor | 5:55 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 33h53 | 4:48 AM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 2 transfers | |
| 41 Floridian · 97 Silver Meteor | 6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL | 33h08 | 4:48 AM Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
USAUSA
Trains from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC run on average 1 times per day, taking around 26h 54m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €205 but you can travel from only €71 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 17:55, the last at 21:34. The fastest train covers the 756 miles (1217 km) distance in 26h 54m.
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 €71
Distance 756 miles (1217 km) |
Average train duration 26h 54m |
Cheapest ticket price €205 |
Trains per day 1 |
Fastest train 26h 54m |
First train 5:55 PM |
Last train 9:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €71
Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Charleston, SC from €71. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Amtrak
About
Amtrak is the main passenger train operator in the United States, providing medium- and long-distance intercity services across 46 states and three Canadian provinces. Operating over 300 trains daily and serving more than 500 destinations, Amtrak connects cities and regions nationwide through routes such as the high-speed Acela in the Northeast Corridor, the scenic Coast Starlight along the West Coast, and the Empire Builder linking Chicago to the Midwest and the Pacific Northwest. Other notable services include the Northeast Regional, Keystone Service, and the unique Auto Train, which allows passengers to bring their cars onboard. Amtrak offers a variety of classes to suit different budgets and travel needs, including Coach, Business, First Class, and Sleeper Class with options like Roomettes, Bedrooms, and Bedroom Suites for overnight journeys. Ticket types include Saver, Value, Flexible, Business, and Premium. Onboard amenities vary by service but may include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power outlets, dining options, and lounge access on select trains. Popular routes include Washington, D.C.–Boston, San Diego–San Luis Obispo, San Jose–Sacramento, and Chicago–Seattle.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
26h 54m
Cheapest Price
€205
Amtrak frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 personal items and 2 carry-on bags included free
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas at end of cars
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type and timing
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled by Amtrak
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Café car with snacks, beverages, and light meals. Long-distance trains have full-service dining cars
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for Business and First Class. Optional fee for Coach Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible restrooms, Red Cap assistance service, accessible platforms and stations
Pets
Small pets under 20 pounds allowed for $26 fee. Must be in carrier. Service animals travel free
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Charleston, SC
Things to do in Charleston, SC
Discover the best of Charleston, SC — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charleston, SC trip today.
- Must visit
Gibbes Museum of Art
Leading Southern museum for contemporary art, known for bold exhibitions and strong local creative connections.
- Must visit
International African American Museum
Powerful museum on Gadsden’s Wharf interpreting the African American journey and Charleston’s global significance.
- Must visit
The Battery
Legendary waterfront promenade lined with antebellum homes, harbor breezes, and some of Charleston’s best views.
- Must visit
East Battery
Historic defensive seawall and walk beside White Point Garden, ideal for sunset, mansions, and harbor panoramas.
- Must visit
Charleston City Market
Lively pedestrian-friendly market district known for crafts, architecture, and easy access to major downtown sights.
- Gluten-free
Perloo
A Lowcountry rice dish with shrimp, sausage, or chicken simmered in rich broth. It reflects Charleston's Gullah Geechee and coastal cooking traditions.
- Gluten-free
Shrimp And Grits
Stone-ground grits cooked creamy and topped with local shrimp, often with bacon or gravy. It is one of Charleston's signature brunch and supper dishes.
She-Crab Soup
A rich soup of blue crab, crab roe, cream, and sherry. This classic Charleston dish is closely tied to the city's historic seafood culture.
Circa 1886 Restaurant
Historic fine-dining restaurant focused on seasonal Lowcountry cuisine. Known for polished Southern hospitality and dishes using regional ingredients.
The Ordinary
Upscale seafood restaurant celebrated for local oysters and inventive Lowcountry dishes. Stylish, lively, and one of Charleston's best-known dining rooms.
Magnolias
Refined Southern restaurant in the Historic District, known for shrimp and grits, seafood, and polished service in an elegant setting.
US Dollar ($)
Moderate for a US coastal city; hotels and dining in the historic district run higher, while transit is limited and many visitors rely on walking, rideshare, or car hire.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- $60+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip screens; small tips are appreciated but optional.
FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Charleston, SC, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €205, while the average price is around €349.
The train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC runs once a day and takes approximately 26h 54m.
The first train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC leaves at 5:55 PM.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is 756 miles (1217 km).
The last train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC leaves at 9:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Charleston, SC is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to Charleston Station, North Charleston, SC.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is by bus, with a cost of around €71.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC offers scenic views, particularly as it travels through the Appalachian foothills and the picturesque landscapes of the southeastern United States, providing glimpses of charming small towns and lush greenery along the way.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC is not feasible as the journey duration is 26h 54m. The distance is 756 miles (1217 km) and there is only 1 trip per day for trains.
To fully explore Charleston, SC, and its attractions, 3 to 4 days is generally recommended. This allows time to visit historic sites, enjoy the local cuisine, and experience the city's unique culture and natural beauty.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Charleston, SC 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.
Popular day trips by train from Charleston, SC include Savannah, GA, Florence, SC, Yemassee, SC, Pooler, GA.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
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 Charleston, SC, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like the historic district and popular tourist spots. Beware of overly aggressive street vendors and unofficial taxi services that may overcharge. Additionally, travelers should avoid leaving valuables unattended and be cautious when using ride-sharing apps to ensure the driver matches the booking details. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized services helps minimize safety 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 train stations
Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Most Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC trains use the Union Station to Charleston Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Charleston, SC train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chicago
Arrival train stations in Charleston
Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Charleston, SC leave from?
Trains from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC leave from Union Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Chicago, IL city centre at 225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA.
Union Station225 South Canal Street, Chicago, IL 60606, USA+1 800-872-7245
City-centre transport
Getting to Union Station from Chicago city centre
Union Station is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · €3 · every ~13 min
Union Station train station facilities and services
Union Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Chicago Firehouse Restaurant, Lou Mitchell's
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Union Station. Information desks are located in the main hall.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Union Station. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Union Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Union Station: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Union Station: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include The Kimpton Gray Hotel, JW Marriott Chicago, W Chicago - City Center.
Most popular train connections from Chicago, IL
More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Charleston, SC
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Charleston, SC and Chicago, IL
Most popular train connections to Charleston, SC
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