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Chicago, IL, USA to Madison, WI, USA from $26: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States
to
Madison, United States

How to Get from Chicago to Madison: 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.

$26 - OtherBest price
198.4 kmDistance
2h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Madison 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
Amtrak
Bus
Average Duration
3h  35m
Estimated price
$14-60
Recommended
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  29m
Estimated price
$26-40
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 198.4 km
Duration: 2h 29m

See more options

Company
Various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
4h  14m
Estimated price
$23-129
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$154-247
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Traveling From Chicago to Madison

Traveling from Chicago to Madison opens up a journey from the bustling cityscape and vibrant nightlife of Chicago to the serene surroundings and laid-back charm of Madison.

Best Neighbourhoods in Madison

Madison features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Downtown Madison
• Bustling area with shops and restaurants.
• Close to the State Capitol and Lake Monona.
University of Wisconsin Campus
• Vibrant atmosphere with students and cultural events.
• Scenic views along the lakeshore path.
Midvale Heights
• Residential charm with friendly community vibe.
• Access to parks and recreational areas.

Best Times To Visit Madison's Attractions

Maximize your Madison experience by visiting attractions at optimal times.

Wisconsin State Capitol
Early mornings or weekdays provide quieter exploration without long lines.
Olbrich Botanical Gardens
Visit during weekday afternoons for a peaceful stroll amid blooming flora.
Monona Terrace
Sunset hours offer stunning views and fewer visitors for relaxed enjoyment.

Madison Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Madison experiences four distinct seasons, with warm summers and cold winters, which significantly shape your travel plans. Spring and fall present the most pleasant weather for outdoor activities, while winter offers unique seasonal experiences.

Dining Recommendation in Madison

When in Madison, savor the cheese curds at the Old Fashioned, a restaurant that embraces the farm-to-table philosophy with a focus on local ingredients, contrasting sharply with the urban dining scene in Chicago. The relaxed atmosphere and authentic Wisconsin flavors provide a dining experience that’s both inviting and distinctly different from the bustling eateries of the Windy City.

Chicago - Madison operators

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

Bus
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$14-60

Bus from Milwaukee to Madison

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$0-0
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

Bus from Chicago Union Station to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$23-40
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Madison

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$14-60
Contact phone
+1 414-266-4409
Website
http://www.badgerbus.com

Bus from Milwaukee Intermodal to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$19-26
Contact phone
+1-858-800-8898
Website
https://www.jeffersonlines.com/

Bus from Milwaukee, WI - Amtrak to Madison, WI-Lake St.

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$24-55
Train
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
Plane
Website
https://www.aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) to Madison Airport (MSN)

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$230-430
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD) to Madison Airport (MSN)

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$150-360

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

Traveling between Chicago and Madison 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 Madison covering a distance of 238.2 km. Enjoy a leisurely drive that takes approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes, passing through charming Midwest landscapes. 💰 The cost of traveling from Chicago to Madison by car ranges from $26 to $40, offering budget-friendly options for those seeking a convenient and economical way to explore the region.
Average price
$26 - $40
🚅 Hop aboard the train for a scenic journey from Chicago to Madison! Covering a distance of 244.6 km, the trip takes approximately 3 hours and 33 minutes. 🚌 Upon arrival in Madison, catch a bus towards your final destination. The bus ride takes about 3 hours and 20 minutes, departing from Chicago Amtrak/Union Station and arriving at 4545 E Broadway - Dutch Mill Park and Ride, operated by Van Galder.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train trip from Chicago to Madison, consider traveling with Amtrak, which operates this route. Amtrak offers an onboard café service where you can purchase snacks, beverages, and light meals. The café is conveniently located within the train, but be sure to check the train schedule for hours of operation as they may vary.
• Amtrak provides several seating options on this route. You can choose from standard Coach class, which is comfortable and budget-friendly, or upgrade to Business class for more spacious seating and enhanced amenities. First Class seating is not typically available on this route, so consider Business class if you want a more premium experience. Check Amtrak’s website for seat availability and pricing at ">">amtrak.com
• Once you arrive at the Madison Intermodal Station, you’ll find that it’s quite convenient for navigating the area. The station has restrooms, but there are no shower facilities. If you want to explore the city, you can leave your luggage at the station’s luggage lockers (availability can vary). To get to the city center quickly, catch the Metro Transit bus #4 or #6, which both stop frequently at the station and will take you to downtown Madison in about 15-20 minutes.
🛫 Flying from Chicago O'Hare Airport to Madison Airport is a convenient and quick option, with direct flights taking only 55 minutes. Both American Airlines and United Airlines operate this route. 🌆 The total travel time from Chicago to Madison by plane is approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, making it a relatively short journey. 💸 Prices for flights between Madison and Chicago range from $154 to $247, offering travelers a variety of options to choose from based on their budget and preferences.
Departure Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
Arrival Point
Madison Airport
🚌 Traveling from Chicago to Madison by bus is a convenient option, with services departing hourly and taking approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes to reach your destination. 🛣️ You have multiple routes to choose from, each offering a slightly different travel time and distance, depending on your preferences and schedule. Prices for the bus tickets can range from $14 to $60.
Departure Point
Chicago Union Station
Arrival Point
Madison station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Be sure to check the schedule ahead of time, as the direct Amtrak Thruway bus departs hourly from Chicago Union Station; you can find information here: amtrak.com
• Consider downloading the Van Galder Coach USA app for real-time updates on bus schedules and notifications about your trip from Chicago to Madison: coachusa.com
• Upon arrival at Madison's bus terminal, be prepared to navigate a busy interchange; there are multiple local bus routes available right outside the terminal that can take you to popular destinations in the city, such as the University of Wisconsin-Madison campus.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Madison.

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The distance between Chicago and Madison is approximately 198 km. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes 4 hours and 14 minutes to reach Madison from Chicago by taking a train and then a bus, 3 hours and 33 minutes by plane, 2 hours and 29 minutes by car, and 3 hours and 35 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Chicago to Madison is by taking a bus, with ticket prices ranging from $8 to $60. The bus journey typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes, providing an affordable and convenient option for travelers on a budget. However, if time is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes. While driving may be slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from $26 to $40, it allows for greater flexibility and the ability to explore other attractions along the way.
The prices for a bus ticket between Madison and Chicago range from $8 to $60.
To travel from Chicago to Madison without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 238 km which takes around 2 hours and 29 minutes. The driving route between the two cities is convenient and relatively easy, making it a popular choice for many travelers. The cost of driving from Chicago to Madison ranges from $26 to $40, depending on factors such as gas prices and tolls.
The best way to travel from Chicago to Madison without a car would be by bus. The bus journey takes approximately 3 hours and 35 minutes and can cost anywhere between $8-$60 depending on the bus company and the time of booking.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Chicago and Madison. The bus service is operated by Amtrak and departs from Chicago Union Station and arrives at Madison station. The journey typically takes around 3 hours and 35 minutes, with buses departing hourly and operating every day.
The flight between Chicago and Madison typically takes around 55 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary between $80 to $287, depending on several factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are a variety of options for accommodations near Madison. With 97+ hotels available, visitors have a range of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices start at $55 per night, providing affordable options for travelers.

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