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Chicago, IL, USA to Nashville, TN, USA from $36: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States
to
Nashville, United States

How to Get from Chicago to Nashville: 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.

$36 - Train, BusBest price
641.6 kmDistance
4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Nashville 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.

Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$114-427
Recommended
Company
Amtrak, Greyhound
Train
Bus
Average Duration
11h  39m
Estimated price
$36-291
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 641.6 km
Duration: 4h

See more options

Company
Greyhound
Bus
Average Duration
10h  5m
Estimated price
$35-310
Company
Palmland, FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
11h 
Estimated price
$80-160
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$85-130
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  20m
Estimated price
$94-277
Company
Amtrak, Various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  49m
Estimated price
$127-372
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Nashville

The journey from Chicago, with its stunning skyline and bustling urban vibe, to Nashville, known for its rich musical culture and southern hospitality, offers a striking contrast that promises diverse experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Nashville

Nashville's neighborhoods each offer distinct vibes and attractions for visitors.

Music Row
• Heart of Nashville's music industry
• Famous for recording studios and live music
East Nashville
• Trendy area with eclectic restaurants
• Known for local art and vibrant community
The Gulch
• Upscale dining and shopping options
• Renowned for its thriving nightlife

Best Times To Visit Nashville's Attractions

Timing your visits to Nashville's attractions can significantly enhance your experience.

Country Music Hall of Fame
Visit early on weekdays to avoid large crowds and enjoy a quieter tour.
Ryman Auditorium
Catch a performance during off-peak times, like mid-week evenings for fewer crowds.
The Parthenon
Early mornings are ideal for a peaceful stroll and stunning photos.

Nashville Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Nashville experiences a humid subtropical climate, offering hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall delightful times to visit. Understanding the weather can help you plan activities and pack accordingly for a comfortable travel experience.

Dining in Nashville: A Flavorful Contrast

Make sure to try Nashville hot chicken at Hattie B's, a dish that packs a serious punch with its spicy, crispy coating, contrasting sharply with Chicago's deep-dish pizza. The lively atmosphere and focus on local ingredients create a distinct Southern dining experience that reflects Nashville's rich culinary heritage.

Chicago - Nashville operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chicago and Nashville, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
https://www.greyhound.com/

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Nashville Bus Station

Average Duration
10h 5m
Estimated price
$50-120

Bus from Indianapolis Bus Station to Nashville Bus Station

Average Duration
5h 45m
Estimated price
$30-80
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
http://www.amtrak.com

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Nashville

Average Duration
9h 55m
Estimated price
$40-310

Bus from Indianapolis Amtrak Station to Nashville

Average Duration
5h 25m
Estimated price
$28-190
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://flixbus.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Nashville Bus Station

Average Duration
10h 45m
Estimated price
$35-130

Bus from Indianapolis to Nashville Bus Station

Average Duration
6h 40m
Estimated price
$28-95
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$3-75

Train from Chicago Union Station to Indianapolis

Average Duration
4h 54m
Estimated price
$8-110
Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Nashville Airport

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
$120-290
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago Midway Airport to Nashville Airport

Average Duration
3h 44m
Estimated price
$140-470
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Nashville

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
$160-290
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Nashville

Average Duration
1h 43m
Estimated price
$160-350
Website
flyfrontier.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Nashville

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
$160-460

Chicago to Nashville: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Chicago and Nashville 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 Chicago to Nashville, spanning a distance of 758.0 km. Cover the journey in approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes, making stops along the way to admire the changing landscapes. 💸 Indulge in budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $85 to $130 for a car journey from the bustling city of Chicago to the vibrant music scene of Nashville. 🎶 Immerse yourself in the rich cultural heritage of these two iconic cities as you drive from Chicago to Nashville. Discover new sights, tastes, and sounds along the route, creating unforgettable memories of your adventure through the heartland of the United States.
Average price
$85 - $130
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Chicago to Nashville spanning over 10 hours and covering a distance of 750.0 km. Explore the beautiful Midwest landscapes as you make your way towards Nashville. 🚌 Take the Greyhound bus from Chicago to Nashville for a convenient and comfortable ride that lasts around 10 hours and 5 minutes. Departing from 95th & Dan Ryan in Chicago, you'll arrive in Nashville ready to explore the vibrant city known for its music scene. 🌆 For a unique adventure, opt for a multi-step bus journey from Chicago to Nashville lasting approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes with transfers. Enjoy the combination of bus rides via Louisville, KY, and Atlanta, GA, as you make your way towards the heart of Tennessee.
Useful tips for train travellers
• Check with Amtrak, the primary operator for this route, as they offer onboard catering services via a cafe car where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. Amtrak also provides a meal service for long-distance routes, including breakfast, lunch, and dinner options for passengers in First Class.
• When booking your trip, consider the seating options available on Amtrak. They provide different classes: Coach (Economy), Business Class, and First Class. Coach is the most economical, while Business Class offers more legroom and priority boarding. First Class passengers enjoy complimentary meals, spacious seating, and access to exclusive lounges.
• Upon arriving in Nashville, you'll arrive at the Music City Star Terminal. Note that you can leave luggage at the station through a storage service. Restrooms are available, but keep in mind showers are not provided. To get to downtown Nashville quickly, take the Music City Star Rail which connects to local buses or consider using rideshare apps for direct access.
🛫 Flying from Chicago to Nashville is a convenient and quick journey taking only 1 hour and 25 minutes on a direct flight from Chicago Midway Airport to Nashville Airport. ✈️ Airlines like Delta and Southwest offer flights on this route, providing travelers with options for their journey from the Windy City to the Music City. 💸 Depending on the airline and time of booking, the prices for flights between Nashville and Chicago can range from $114 to $427, making it accessible for various budgets.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Nashville Airport
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Nashville by bus is convenient with services departing every four hours and taking approximately 10 hours and 5 minutes. 🛣️ The direct bus route covers a distance of 767.7 km, departing from Chicago Bus Station and arriving at Nashville Bus Station, operated by Greyhound USA. 💰 Ticket prices for the Chicago to Nashville bus range from $35 to $310, providing an affordable transportation option for this journey across states.
Departure Point
Chicago Bus Station
Arrival Point
Nashville Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to check the Greyhound schedule in advance, as there are multiple departures every four hours; consider booking your ticket online for better pricing and to secure your seat: greyhound.com
• Prepare snacks and entertainment for your journey, as the bus ride from Chicago to Nashville takes approximately 10 hours; loading up on local snacks from Chicago, like Garrett's Popcorn or Lou Malnati's pizza, could make for a tasty journey.
• Upon arrival at the Nashville Bus Station, expect some local transportation options right outside; consider using rideshare services like Uber or Lyft or accessing Nashville’s public transit through WeGo Public Transit, which can be found at wegotransit.com

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Nashville.

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The distance between Chicago and Nashville is approximately 642 km by road. It takes around 11 hours and 19 minutes to travel from Chicago to Nashville by taking a train and then a bus. However, if you prefer to fly, the travel time is significantly shorter, taking approximately 3 hours and 59 minutes. If you choose to drive, it takes about 7 hours and 46 minutes to go from Nashville to Chicago, while the bus journey takes around 9 hours and 55 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Nashville is by bus, with prices ranging from $40 to $310. Although it takes the longest, about 9 hours and 55 minutes, it can be a more budget-friendly choice for travelers. However, if time is of the essence, flying is the most time-efficient option, taking only 3 hours and 59 minutes for the journey, with prices ranging from $80 to $330.
The prices for a bus ticket between Nashville and Chicago can range from $40 to $310, depending on various factors such as the time of travel, availability, and booking in advance.
To travel from Chicago to Nashville without using public transportation, the most convenient option is driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 758 km, and the drive takes around 7 hours and 46 minutes. The driving route offers flexibility and allows you to enjoy the scenic views along the way. The estimated cost for a one-way trip by car ranges from $85 to $130 depending on the vehicle's fuel efficiency and gas prices.
If you're looking to travel from Chicago to Nashville without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes and tickets range in price from $40 to $310.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Chicago and Nashville. The bus service is operated by Greyhound USA and departs from the Chicago Train Station multiple times a day. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 55 minutes.
The distance between Chicago and Nashville by air is approximately 642 km. The fastest flight option from Chicago Midway Airport to Nashville Airport takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can vary from $84 to $327.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Nashville. With over 1120 hotels to choose from, you will have a wide variety of choices to suit your budget and preferences. Prices start at $47, making it possible to find affordable options for your stay.