- Must visit
Art Institute of Chicago
Major art museum with global collections, notable Impressionist works, and a landmark setting beside Millennium Park.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 29 Oct
Cheapest price on 29 Oct
£22
Average ticket price on 29 Oct
£28
Fastest journey on 29 Oct
2 h 55 m
Average journey duration on 29 Oct
3 h 26 m
Buses on 29 Oct
6
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL will cost around £28 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £22.
Fast coaches
On Thu 29 Oct, we found 6 buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL, including 5 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 198 km distance in an average of 3 h 26 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 55 m .
The slowest buses will take 4 h 10 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.
FlixBus13:45 3h50 Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) 17:35 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes- FlixBus
6:45 3h10 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI 9:55 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
7:00 2h55 Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) 9:55 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
13:25 4h10 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI 17:35 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes 
19:00 3h05 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI 22:05 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £24 1 One-way 0 changes
- FlixBus
7:00 2h55 Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) 9:55 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes 19:00 3h05 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI 22:05 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £24 1 One-way 0 changes- FlixBus
6:45 3h10 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI 9:55 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
13:45 3h50 Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) 17:35 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes - FlixBus
13:25 4h10 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI 17:35 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station £22 1 One-way 0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
USAUSA
Buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £17 if you book in advance.
There are 6 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 01:30, the last at 23:15. The fastest coach covers the 198 km distance in 2h 55m.
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
Distance 198 km |
Average bus duration 3h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price £17 |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 6 |
Fastest bus 2h 55m |
First bus 1:30 |
Last bus 23:15 |
Cheapest Month Sept |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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
Frequently asked questions about your Madison, WI to Chicago, IL trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Cheap coach tickets from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL can start from as little as £17 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Madison, WI to Chicago, IL is £28; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 1:30. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL leaves at 23:15.
Yes, there are 6 direct coaches a day from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Live departures
Madison, WI to Chicago, IL bus times
The table below shows live departures for Madison, WI to Chicago, IL coaches for today, Wednesday 28 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 19:00 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 3h05 | 22:05 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| Thursday 29 October | |||||
| FlixBus | 6:45 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 3h10 | 9:55 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 7:00 Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 2h55 | 9:55 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 13:25 Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), WI | 4h10 | 17:35 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
| FlixBus | 13:45 Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) | 3h50 | 17:35 Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Madison, WI to Chicago, IL coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as Greyhound or Infobus offer coaches services from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound or Infobus to find the best option for your trip from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, flight and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Trainline or Busbud?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Greyhound or Infobus to find the best option for your trip from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, flight and train to find the ideal travel option from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Bus providers: FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound from Madison, WI to Chicago, ILYou can travel by bus between Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with FlixBus, Infobus, Greyhound for as low as £17. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£17
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
Infobus
About
Infobus is an international IT company that operates as an online service for finding and purchasing bus, train, and plane tickets, rather than being a bus company itself. Established in 2002, Infobus acts as an intermediary between passengers and various transport carriers, particularly helping smaller bus companies offer online booking services. They utilize their own \BusSystem\" to manage routes and ticket sales globally. Infobus covers over 30 countries and 300 cities, offering a wide range of routes and daily departures. While amenities can vary by carrier, Infobus aims to provide affordable and convenient travel with features like online booking, 24/7 support, and prompt notifications."
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Infobus Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Infobus Price
£35
Infobus frequency
14 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed; may require prior reservation and an additional fee.
Pets
Small pets allowed in carriers; larger pets may require a separate ticket.
Greyhound
About
Greyhound Lines, Inc. is a prominent American intercity bus transportation provider, established in 1914. It operates the largest intercity bus network in the United States, also extending services to Canada and Mexico. Greyhound is known for offering affordable and reliable long-distance travel, connecting major cities and rural communities across North America. The company's buses are equipped with amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and extra legroom to enhance passenger comfort. Greyhound is a subsidiary of Flix SE, which also owns FlixBus, and together they offer an extensive network of over 1,600 destinations.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Greyhound Duration
3h 0m
Cheapest Greyhound Price
£17
Greyhound frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
Additional luggage
$15 per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Madison, WI and Chicago, IL
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL, you can count on FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus for the best way to get you to Chicago, IL. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Madison, WI and Chicago, IL and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- Infobus
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Transport for wheelchairs and mobility aids.
- Greyhound
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL for coach company FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL depends on the coach companies:
- Infobus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a partial refund. Cancellations within 24 hours may incur a fee.
- Greyhound
- You can cancel your ticket for a refund or exchange up to 24 hours before departure, for a cancellation fee applied.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company {providersWithBike}.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- Infobus
- One carry-on bag up to 5kg (40x20x25) and one checked bag up to 20kg (50x30x80).
- Greyhound
- One carry-on bag up to 25 lbs (11 kg) and one checked bag up to 50 lbs (23 kg).
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL:
- Infobus
- 10€ per additional bag.
- Greyhound
- $15 per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL. The following conditions apply:
- Infobus
- Small pets allowed in carriers
- larger pets may require a separate ticket.
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following coach company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following coach company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL with the following coach company: FlixBus, Greyhound, Infobus.
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
Museum of Science and Industry
Science museum in Jackson Park with hands-on exhibits, a U-505 submarine, and broad appeal for families and curious adults.
- Must visit
Field Museum
Natural history museum on the Museum Campus, known for dinosaur fossils, gem displays, and wide-ranging science exhibits.
- Must visit
Millennium Park
Lively lakefront park with Cloud Gate, gardens, public art, and frequent events at the heart of central Chicago.
- Must visit
Magnificent Mile
Bustling avenue for architecture, shopping, river views, and easy walking between landmark buildings and major attractions.
- Must visit
Chicago Riverwalk
Scenic pedestrian route along the Chicago River with terraces, bridges, boat access, and excellent close-up architecture views.
Deep-Dish Pizza
Deep-dish pizza is a Chicago classic with a tall buttery crust, layers of cheese and toppings, and chunky tomato sauce baked in a deep pan.
Chicago-Style Hot Dog
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 thinly sliced roast beef on a roll, often dipped in savoury juices and topped with sweet peppers or giardiniera.
North Pond
Elegant fine-dining restaurant rooted in Midwestern ingredients, with polished service and a refined contemporary dining room.
Lou Malnati's Pizzeria
Historic pizzeria known for classic Chicago deep-dish in a lively, casual setting near the Magnificent Mile.
Al's Beef
Long-running counter-service spot famed for Italian beef sandwiches, dipped rolls and spicy giardiniera in a no-frills setting.
US dollar ($)
Expensive by US city standards: hotels, dining and attractions add up, though buses and the 'L' help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- $10-18 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- $25-45 per person for a meal.
- Fine dining
- $80+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- $4-6 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tip 18-20% in restaurants, 15-20% for taxis, and $1-2 per drink or coffee in cafés if table service is given.
FAQs: Madison, WI to Chicago, IL coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Chicago, IL, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Madison, WI and Chicago, IL including taking a coach, flight and train.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Madison, WI and Chicago, IL
Most Madison, WI to Chicago, IL buses use the Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison) to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Chicago. Use this guide to compare Madison, WI and Chicago, IL bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Madison
Arrival bus stations in Chicago
Which Madison, WI station do buses to Chicago, IL leave from?
Buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL leave from Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison). The station is from Madison, WI city centre at 500 Lincoln Dr, Madison, WI 53706, USA.
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison)500 Lincoln Dr, Madison, WI 53706, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison) from Madison city centre
Bus28, 38, 65 · 6m · £2 · every ~7 min
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison) bus station facilities and services
Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison). ATMs are available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison): Bus station is accessible for wheelchairs.
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride)Madison, WI, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) from Madison city centre
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) is 8 km from Madison city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) bus station facilities and services
Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride). ATMs are available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride): Accessible for individuals with disabilities.
MadisonMadison, WI, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Madison from Madison city centre
Bus38, C · 10m · £2 · every ~9 min
Madison bus station facilities and services
Madison has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are available at Madison.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Madison.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Madison: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Madison: Wheelchair access available.
Which Chicago, IL station do buses from Madison, WI arrive at?
Buses from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL most often arrive at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station. Some services arrive at Chicago, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Chicago, IL arrival station.
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station630 W Harrison St, Chicago, IL 60607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station from Chicago city centre
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station is 2 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus7 · 8m · £3 · every ~6 min
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Snack shop and vending machines available
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in waiting area. ATMs are located near entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and seating.
ChicagoChicago (Bus Station), Chicago, IL 60607, USA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chicago from Chicago city centre
Chicago is 3 km from Chicago city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus28, 151 · 7m · £3 · every ~13 min
Chicago bus station facilities and services
Chicago has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Fast food outlets are available.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi available in the waiting area. ATMs are aTM located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chicago.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Chicago: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chicago: Wheelchair accessible with ramps and elevators.
Bus stations for Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Check bus stations information for Madison, WI and Chicago, IL, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Madison, WI , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), Madison, Collins Ct (Dutch Mill Park and Ride), Madison . When arriving in Chicago, IL , you can end your route in coach stations like Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, Chicago.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Madison, North Lake Street (UW- Madison), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Chicago, Greyhound Bus Station, located 3 away from the city centre.
More options for your journey from Madison, WI to Chicago, IL
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Chicago, IL and Madison, WI
Most popular bus connections
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