Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA train with Amtrak

Sat, Sep 05
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Amtrak
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Deutsche Bahn
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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 Philadelphia, PA

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05

Cheapest price on Sep 05

€177

Average ticket price on Sep 05

€287

Fastest journey on Sep 05

19 h 19 m

Average journey duration on Sep 05

21 h 45 m

Trains on Sep 05

6

Distance

1069 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA will cost around €287 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €177.

Fast trains

On Sat, Sep 05, we found 6 trains from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA, including 1 direct services.

On Sat, Sep 05 the direct trains cover the 1069 km distance in an average of 21 h 45 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 19 h 19 m .

On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest trains will take 1 d 21 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.

  • Amtrak50 Cardinal
    5:55 PM26h00
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    8:55 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA
    €1771One-way
    0 transfers
  • Amtrak41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian
    6:40 PM19h19
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    2:59 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA
    €2591One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak41 Floridian · 146 Northeast Regional
    6:40 PM22h36
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    6:16 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA
    €2811One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak41 Floridian · 156 Northeast Regional
    6:40 PM20h52
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    4:32 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA
    €3081One-way
    1 transfer
  • Amtrak41 Floridian · 168 Northeast Regional
    6:40 PM21h35
    Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
    5:15 PM30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA
    €3081One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €125 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 6h 21m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.3 - 1.0kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €125, while a flight costs an average of €511.

Distance: 664 miles (1069 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Flight
Bus
Driving

€287

Average price

€511

Average price

€125

Average price

Cheapest

€256

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

20h 40m

Average total duration

20h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 21m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 21m

Onboard

+

2h 0m

Additional time*

20h 25m

Average total duration

19h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

11h 27m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.3 - 1.0kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

3.2 - 6.4kg

CO2 emissions

1.1 - 2.7kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Amtrak

Most popular train company

United

Most popular airline

Greyhound

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

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 Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is a bus with an average price of €125.

This is compared to other travel options from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA:

A bus is €163 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA costing on average €287.

A bus is €386 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA costing on average €511.

The fastest way to travel from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is by flight with an average journey time of 4h 21m.

Other travel options to Philadelphia, PA take longer:

Bus takes on average 19h 55m.

Train takes on average 20h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 €287 compared to roughly €256 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €-31.56. The journey takes 20h 10m versus 11h 27m 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.

Itineraries from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA by train

Boston

USA Cross-Country Train Adventure: From Historic Boston to the City of Brotherly Love

Embark on a captivating train journey across the USA, starting in Boston's historic charm, traversing to Chicago's architectural marvels, and concluding in Philadelphia, the birthplace of American independence.

  1. 1Boston
  2. 2Chicago
  3. 3Philadelphia
Plan this train itinerary

Live departures

Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA train times

The table below shows live departures for Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA trains for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Amtrak41 Floridian · 42 Pennsylvanian6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
19h19
2:59 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA1 transfer
Amtrak41 Floridian · 156 Northeast Regional6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
20h52
4:32 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA1 transfer
Amtrak41 Floridian · 146 Northeast Regional6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
22h36
6:16 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA1 transfer
Amtrak41 Floridian · 168 Northeast Regional6:40 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
21h35
5:15 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA1 transfer
Amtrak48 Lake Shore Limited · 167 Northeast Regional9:30 PM Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL
24h21
10:51 PM 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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.

Sat
Sep 05
Sun
Sep 06
Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA

USAUSA
USAUSA
Icon of train

Trains from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA run on average 6 times per day, taking around 20h 10m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €96 but you can travel from only €50 by flight.

The earliest train runs at 07:37, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 664 miles (1069 km) distance in 16h 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
Flight from €50
Distance
664 miles (1069 km)
Average train duration
20h 10m
Cheapest ticket price
€96
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
16h 54m
First train
7:37 AM
Last train
9:30 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
21 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
Flight from €50

Train companies: Amtrak from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA trainsAmtrak trains will get you between Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA from €63. 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
16h 54m
Cheapest Amtrak Price
€96
Amtrak frequency
6 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
Learn more about Amtrak

Complete guide to Philadelphia, PA

Things to do in Philadelphia, PA

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

  • Must visit

Philadelphia Museum of Art

World-class art museum famous for major collections and the Rocky Steps. A top cultural stop with strong city views.

View on mapVisit website
  • Must visit

The Franklin Institute

Hands-on science museum for all ages, known for interactive exhibits and the giant walk-through heart near the Parkway.

View on mapVisit website
  • Must visit

Barnes Foundation

Celebrated collection of Impressionist, Post-Impressionist, and modern works in an intimate gallery setting on the Parkway.

View on mapVisit website

US Dollar ($)

Moderate for a major US city. Hotels can be pricey in Center City, but dining and transit are often cheaper than New York or Washington.

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 dining.
Coffee
$3-6 for coffee or cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or cafe order if service is provided.

FAQs: Trains from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €96, while the average price is around €287.
The train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA takes 16h 54m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is 664 miles (1069 km).
The first train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 7:37 AM.
The last train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA leaves at 9:30 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by Amtrak.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA.
The train station in Chicago, IL that goes to Philadelphia, PA is Chicago Union Station, Chicago, IL, which connects to 30th Street Station, Philadelphia, PA.
The cheapest way to get from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is by bus, with a cost of around €63.
The train journey from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA offers varied scenery, including glimpses of the Midwest's agricultural landscapes, small towns, and stretches of rivers, though it may not be considered as scenic as routes passing through mountainous or coastal areas.
A day trip from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA is not feasible as the journey takes 16h 54m and the distance is 664 miles (1069 km). Trains run 7 times per day.
In Philadelphia, PA, you can visit the Liberty Bell, an iconic symbol of American independence, and Independence Hall, where the Declaration of Independence and the U.S. Constitution were debated and adopted. Art enthusiasts can explore the Philadelphia Museum of Art, known for its vast collection and the famous Rocky Steps. For a taste of local culture, head to Reading Terminal Market, a bustling indoor space with diverse food options. Additionally, the Philadelphia Zoo offers a chance to see a wide variety of animals and interactive exhibits.
To experience Philadelphia's key attractions, such as the Liberty Bell, Independence Hall, the Philadelphia Museum of Art, and the Reading Terminal Market, a stay of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA.
Since neither Chicago, IL nor Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA include New York, NY, Newark, NJ, Baltimore, MD, Lancaster, PA, Harrisburg, PA.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia, PA, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas like Center City and tourist hotspots. Scams involving overpriced taxi rides or unlicensed transportation are common, so using reputable services or ride-sharing apps is advised. Travelers should also be wary of street vendors selling counterfeit goods and avoid displaying valuables openly to reduce risk. Staying aware of surroundings and using well-lit, populated routes enhances safety.
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 Philadelphia, PA

Most Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA trains use the Union Station to 30th Street Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chicago, IL and Philadelphia, PA 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 Philadelphia

Which Chicago, IL station do trains to Philadelphia, PA leave from?

Trains from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA 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 · €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.

More about Union Station

More options for your journey from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Return journeys for trains from Philadelphia, PA to Chicago, IL
Buses from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA
Flights from Chicago, IL to Philadelphia, PA
Tickets and more information for trains to Chicago, IL
Tickets and more information for trains to Philadelphia, PA

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