Chicago, IL, USA to Pittsburgh, PA, USA from $20: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Chicago to Pittsburgh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$20 by trainBest price
661 kmDistance
3h 44m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Pittsburgh 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 - Pittsburgh operators
Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Pittsburgh, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Pittsburgh (PIT)
Average Duration
3h 44mEstimated price
$100-438Website
delta.com
Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Pittsburgh (PIT)
Average Duration
4h 10mEstimated price
$90-268Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from Chicago Union Station to Pittsburgh Amtrak Station
Average Duration
9h 25mEstimated price
$20-170Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Pittsburgh Intermodal Station
Average Duration
12hEstimated price
$55-1000Other from Johnstown to Pittsburgh
Average Duration
1h 41mEstimated price
$200-170Other from Chicago to Pittsburgh
Average Duration
7h 37mEstimated price
$1001-1002Chicago to Pittsburgh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Chicago and Pittsburgh 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.
🚗 As you embark on your road trip from Chicago to Pittsburgh, get ready for a scenic journey covering 463 miles of diverse landscapes and charming towns along the way.
💸 Budget-conscious travelers will appreciate the cost-effective range of $80 to $130 for the road trip, offering flexibility for different spending preferences and allowing for potential savings to be enjoyed at your destination.
🌆 Arriving in Pittsburgh after approximately 7 hours and 37 minutes of driving, you'll be greeted with a dynamic city known for its rich history, vibrant culture, and picturesque views that are sure to make your journey worthwhile.
Average price
$80 - $130
🚂 Traveling from Chicago to Pittsburgh by train is a convenient and relaxing way to explore the Midwest. The direct train operated by Amtrak departs once daily and takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes to reach its destination.
🌆 As you depart from Chicago Union Station, you'll enjoy a picturesque journey through the heart of the region before arriving at Pittsburgh Amtrak Station. The route covers a distance of 472 miles, offering scenic views along the way.
💰 Ticket prices for the Chicago to Pittsburgh train vary between $20 and $170, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to experience the charm of both cities. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the comfortable ride on this historic rail route.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Pittsburgh Amtrak Station
Useful tips for train travellers
• For your train trip from Chicago to Pittsburgh, Amtrak is the primary operator. Onboard services include a café car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. If you are in a First Class seat, you may receive complimentary meals and drinks. Check Amtrak's website for the latest menu options and any seasonal specialties: amtrak.com
• The Amtrak Cardinal service offers several seating options: Business Class, which provides more spacious seating and enhanced amenities; and Economy Class, which is comfortable for budget travelers. If you prefer extra comfort for the journey, opt for Business Class, as it also includes power outlets at your seat.
• Once you arrive at Pittsburgh's Union Station, it's located in the heart of downtown, making it easy to navigate. There are luggage storage options available at the station for a small fee, allowing you to explore the area without dragging your bags. The station also has restrooms but no showers available. For the fastest way to the city center, take the Port Authority bus 28X from the station to the downtown area; it operates frequently and is a direct route.
🛫 Flying from Chicago Midway Airport to Pittsburgh Airport is a convenient option, with direct flights taking just 1 hour and 15 minutes. Both Delta and Southwest Airlines operate flights on this route, providing travelers with various options.
🏙 The journey by plane from Chicago to Pittsburgh typically takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes, offering a swift way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the Midwest. Whether for business or leisure, flying is a popular choice for making this trip.
💰 Flight prices between Pittsburgh and Chicago can range from $100 to $438, giving passengers flexibility in choosing a fare that fits their budget. With multiple flights available each day, travelers can easily find a convenient and affordable option for their trip.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Pittsburgh Airport
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Pittsburgh by bus is a convenient option with services departing twice daily and taking approximately 12 hours.
💰 Ticket prices for the bus from Chicago to Pittsburgh can range from $55 to $120, offering an affordable and comfortable means of transportation between these two vibrant cities in the United States.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Pittsburgh Intermodal Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When booking your bus, consider using Barons Bus and OurBus in addition to Greyhound for potential savings and different travel times; you can check route options at baronsbus.com and ourbus.com
• Be prepared for a long journey of approximately 12 hours; bring snacks, entertainment like books or a tablet, and consider packing a neck pillow for added comfort along the route.
• Upon arrival at Pittsburgh Intermodal Station, it's helpful to know that the station integrates bus and rail services, and if you need to use local transportation, the Port Authority of Allegheny County operates a transit center right outside the station providing easy access to buses and T-line light rail; for more information, visit portauthority.org
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Chicago to Pittsburgh.
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The distance between Chicago and Pittsburgh is approximately 661.4 km by road. By train, it takes around 9 hours and 25 minutes to reach Pittsburgh from Chicago. If you opt to fly, the travel time is shorter, around 3 hours and 43 minutes. Driving by car from Chicago to Pittsburgh takes about 7 hours and 37 minutes. Lastly, taking a bus for the journey can be expected to take approximately 11 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Pittsburgh would be by train, with prices ranging from $20 to $170. Although it takes 9 hours and 25 minutes, it offers a more affordable alternative. However, if time efficiency is a priority, flying is the best option, taking only 3 hours and 43 minutes with prices ranging from $90 to $430.
The prices for a train ticket between Chicago and Pittsburgh can range from $20 to $170, depending on factors such as the time of purchase and class of service. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Pittsburgh and Chicago can range from $55 to $120.
To travel from Chicago to Pittsburgh without using public transportation, you can opt for a private car or a car rental. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 745.1 km, and it takes around 7 hours and 37 minutes to drive from Chicago to Pittsburgh. The cost of this option may vary depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls, with the estimated price ranging from $80 to $130.
The most convenient way to travel from Chicago to Pittsburgh without a car is by taking a train. The train journey takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes and can cost between $20 and $170. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 43 minutes and costs between $90 and $430. Trains and buses are also available, with train travel taking the same amount of time as flying and costing a similar amount, while bus travel takes approximately 11 hours and 55 minutes and costs between $55 and $120.
Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Pittsburgh. You can take a train from Chicago Union Station to Pittsburgh Amtrak Station, which takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes. Another option is to take a bus from Chicago Bus Station to Pittsburgh Intermodal Station, with a travel time of around 11 hours and 55 minutes.
The flight between Chicago and Pittsburgh typically takes 1 hour and 15 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $90 and $428.
There are plenty of options for accommodations near Pittsburgh. With over 424 hotels available, travelers have a wide range of choices depending on their budget and preferences. Prices start at $60, making it accessible for different types of travelers.