Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA train with Amtrak

Fri, Oct 30
+ Add return
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Amtrak
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 31

Cheapest price on Oct 31

$263

Average ticket price on Oct 31

$303

Fastest journey on Oct 31

23 h 52 m

Average journey duration on Oct 31

23 h 52 m

Trains on Oct 31

2

Distance

889 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA will cost around $303 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $263.

Fast trains

On Sat, Oct 31, we found 2 trains from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA, including 2 direct services.

On Sat, Oct 31 the direct trains cover the 889 km distance in an average of 23 h 52 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 23 h 52 m .

On Sat, Oct 31 the slowest trains will take 23 h 52 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.

  • Amtrak
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA

USAUSA
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Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA run on average 2 times per day, taking around 20h 2m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $127 (€107) but you can travel from only $81 (€68) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 08:55, the last at 18:40. The fastest train covers the 552 miles (889 km) distance in 19h 47m.

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 $81 (€68)
Distance
552 miles (889 km)
Average train duration
20h 2m
Cheapest ticket price
$127 (€107)
Trains per day
2
Fastest train
19h 47m
First train
8:55 AM
Last train
6:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
42 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 $81 (€68)

Frequently asked questions about your Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA.

Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $127 (€107), while the average price is around $304 (€256).
The train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA takes 19h 47m and runs 2 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA is 552 miles (889 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA leaves at 8:55 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA leaves at 6:40 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA.

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA trains for today, Thursday, October 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak10:55 PM Chicago, IL
20h40
7:35 PM Charlottesville, VA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak11:40 PM Chicago, IL
23h54
11:34 PM Charlottesville, VA0 transfersDirect
Amtrak11:55 PM Chicago, IL
20h40
8:35 PM Charlottesville, VA0 transfersDirect
Friday, October 30
Amtrak12:40 AM Chicago, IL
23h52
12:32 AM Charlottesville, VA0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Charlottesville, VA from $81 (€68). 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 Amtrak Duration
19h 47m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
$127 (€107)
Amtrak frequency
2 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Chicago, IL and Charlottesville, VA

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

Yes, there is a high-speed train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA.
Yes, there is a night train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA.
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.

Complete guide to Charlottesville, VA

Things to do in Charlottesville, VA

Discover the best of Charlottesville, VA — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Charlottesville, VA trip today.

  • Must visit

Monticello Visitor Center and Exhibition Galleries

Museum at Monticello presenting Jefferson, slavery, and plantation history through artifacts and exhibitions on the mountain estate.

  • Recommended

The Fralin Museum of Art at UVA

Leading university art museum with global collections from antiquity to today. Strong African art and rotating scholarly exhibitions.

  • Recommended

Kluge-Ruhe Aboriginal Art Collection of the University of Virginia

Museum devoted to Kluge-Ruhe's major collection of Australian Aboriginal art. A distinctive cultural stop rare in the United States.

United States Dollar ($)

Moderate for U.S. college towns: hotels can rise on event weekends, dining is mid-priced, and most visitors need a car or rideshares.

Average meal costs

Budget
$10-15 for fast food or casual takeout.
Mid-range
$18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
$60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
$3-6 for drip coffee or a latte.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% at sit-down restaurants, $1-2 per drink at bars, and 10-15% for taxis. Cafes often have tip screens; small tips are optional for counter service.

Plan your visit to Charlottesville, VA

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 Charlottesville, VA.

Yes, the train journey from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA is considered scenic as it passes through diverse landscapes, including the rolling hills of the Midwest, the picturesque Appalachian Mountains, and the lush greenery of Virginia, offering passengers beautiful and varied views throughout the trip.
Popular day trips by train from Charlottesville, VA include Manassas, VA, Fairfax, VA, Lynchburg, VA, Culpeper, VA, Burke, VA.
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 Charlottesville, VA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and popular attractions. It is advisable to avoid poorly lit or isolated areas at night. Common scams include overcharging by taxis or ride services and unofficial ticket sellers near events. Staying aware of surroundings and using authorized transportation options helps ensure a safe visit.
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: Trains from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville, VA, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA

Most Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA trains use the Union Station to Charlottesville Amtrak station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Charlottesville, VA 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 Charlottesville

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Charlottesville, VA leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA 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+1 800-872-7245WifiLockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation DeskLuggage Carts
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 · $4 · 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.

Train stations for Chicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA

Check train stations information for Chicago, IL and Charlottesville, VA, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.

The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Charlottesville, VA is Union Station, which connects to Charlottesville Amtrak.

Most popular trains to and from Charlottesville, VA and Chicago, IL

HomeTrainsTrains in USATrain Times to Charlottesville, VAChicago, IL to Charlottesville, VA train

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