Chicago, IL, USA to Cleveland, OH, USA from $14: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from Chicago to Cleveland: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.
$14 by trainBest price
497 kmDistance
3h 12m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Cleveland with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.
Chicago - Cleveland operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Cleveland, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Cleveland (CLE)
Average Duration
1h 10mEstimated price
$341-345Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Cleveland (CLE)
Average Duration
1h 18mEstimated price
$343-344Website
delta.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Cleveland (CLE)
Average Duration
2h 57mEstimated price
$341-346Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Chicago Union Station to Cleveland
Average Duration
6h 5mEstimated price
$14-140Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Cleveland Bus Station
Average Duration
7h 40mEstimated price
$35-95Bus from Chicago Train Station to Detroit Bus Station
Average Duration
6h 10mEstimated price
$341-3782Bus from Detroit Bus Station to Cleveland Bus Station
Average Duration
3h 15mEstimated price
$3783-340Contact phone
+1 888-378-3823Website
baronsbus.com
Bus from Chicago to Cleveland
Average Duration
7h 30mEstimated price
$35-349Chicago to Cleveland: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and Cleveland offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.
🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from the bustling city of Chicago to the vibrant city of Cleveland, covering a distance of 345 miles. Enjoy the journey through picturesque landscapes and charming towns along the way.
💰 The cost of traveling from Chicago to Cleveland by car ranges from $60 to $95, offering budget-friendly options for every traveler. Fill up your tank, pack some snacks, and hit the road for an affordable and adventurous getaway.
🌆 Arrive in Cleveland after approximately 5 hours and 43 minutes of driving, ready to explore all that this dynamic city has to offer. From world-class museums to delicious food scenes, Cleveland welcomes you with open arms for a memorable experience.
Average price
$60 - $95
🚆 Traveling from Chicago to Cleveland by train is a convenient and scenic journey that takes approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes. The direct train operated by Amtrak offers three daily departures, making it easy to plan your trip.
🎫 The ticket prices for the train between Chicago and Cleveland can vary from $14 to $140, providing options for different budgets. With a distance of 339 miles, passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride while admiring the changing landscapes along the route.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Cleveland station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to Cleveland, consider Amtrak as your primary operator. They provide onboard catering services that typically include a café car where you can purchase coffee, snacks, and light meals. Full meal service is available in First Class with complimentary meals included in the fare, making it a worthwhile upgrade if you prefer a more dining experience during your journey.
• Amtrak offers several seating options on the Chicago to Cleveland route. Choose between Coach Class, which provides standard seating, and Business Class, boasting larger seats and additional legroom, sometimes with complimentary snacks or beverages. First Class is the most comfortable with wider seats and meal service, ideal for travelers seeking comfort and convenience.
• The primary operator for this route is Amtrak (amtrak.com), and you may also consider Greyhound (greyhound.com) if looking for bus alternatives. Upon arriving in Cleveland, at the Cleveland Amtrak Station, you can leave luggage at the station's baggage services if needed. The station also has restrooms available, but there are no shower facilities.
• The fastest way to travel from the Cleveland Amtrak Station to the city center is via Cleveland public transportation. Catch the RTA Rapid Transit train (Red Line) from the nearby station (Tower City) towards the airport. It’s just a short 12-minute ride to the city center, and services run frequently.
🛫 Traveling from Chicago to Cleveland by plane is a convenient and quick journey. The fastest direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Cleveland Airport takes just 1 hour and 5 minutes.
✈️ Airlines such as Delta and Southwest Airlines provide flights from Chicago to Cleveland, offering passengers various options for their travel. The total flight duration from Chicago to Cleveland is approximately 3 hours and 12 minutes, including layovers if applicable.
💸 When booking a flight between Chicago and Cleveland, prices can range from as low as $34 to as high as $378, depending on the airline, time of booking, and availability of seats.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Cleveland Airport
🛣️ The direct bus route covers a distance of approximately 365 miles and takes about 7 hours and 40 minutes to reach Cleveland from Chicago. The journey offers a comfortable ride with amenities onboard for passengers to enjoy.
💰 Ticket prices for the Chicago to Cleveland bus route range from $35 to $95, making it a budget-friendly choice for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant cities in the Midwest. Booking in advance is recommended to secure your spot on the bus.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Cleveland Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at the Chicago Bus Station with ample time before your departure; peak travel times may cause delays, and you want to ensure you have enough time to get through security and find your gate.
• Consider bringing snacks and a refillable water bottle for the journey; while some buses might have an onboard cafe, options can be limited during the approximately 7h 40m trip, especially with operators like Greyhound and Barons Bus, where snacks may not always be provided.
• Upon arrival at the Cleveland Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the station layout beforehand through this map: Cleveland Bus Station Map, and don’t hesitate to ask station staff for help on connecting local transit options, including the RTA for easier access to downtown Cleveland.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to Cleveland.
Or choose the category:
The distance between Chicago and Cleveland is approximately 497 km. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes about 6 hours and 5 minutes to reach Cleveland from Chicago by train, 3 hours and 11 minutes by plane, and 5 hours and 43 minutes by car. If traveling from Cleveland to Chicago, it takes approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Cleveland is by train, with prices ranging from $14 to $140. Although it takes 6 hours and 5 minutes, it provides a relatively affordable alternative. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 3 hours and 11 minutes, with prices ranging from $50 to $290.
The prices for traveling from Chicago to Cleveland vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking a train can cost anywhere from $14 to $140, while a bus ticket can range from $35 to $95.
To get from Chicago to Cleveland without using public transportation, the most convenient option is to drive. The distance is approximately 555 km, and it takes around 5 hours and 43 minutes to reach Cleveland by car. The prices to rent a car may vary between $60 to $95, depending on the rental company and other factors.
If you're looking to travel from Chicago to Cleveland without a car, the best options are by train or by plane. Taking the train is a comfortable and scenic option, with a travel time of 6 hours and 5 minutes, and ticket prices ranging from $14 to $140. Alternatively, flying is the quickest option, with a flight time of 3 hours and 11 minutes, and ticket prices ranging from $50 to $290. Buses are also available, but they have a longer travel time of 7 hours and 35 minutes and ticket prices ranging from $35 to $95.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Cleveland. You can travel between the two cities by train, with services departing three times a day from Chicago Union Station and arriving in Cleveland in approximately 6 hours and 5 minutes. Another option is to take a direct bus, with services departing four times a day from Chicago Bus Station and arriving in Cleveland in approximately 7 hours and 35 minutes.
The flight from Chicago to Cleveland typically takes around 1 hour and 5 minutes. The prices for flights between the two cities can vary, ranging from $54 to $288.
There are many options for accommodation near Cleveland. With over 292 hotels available, travelers can find a range of options to suit their needs and budget. Prices for hotels in Cleveland start at $50 per night, offering affordable options for those looking to stay in the area.