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Nashville, TN, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $36: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Nashville, United States
to
Chicago, United States

How to Get from Nashville to Chicago: 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 - Bus, TrainBest price
642.8 kmDistance
3h 44m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Nashville to Chicago 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
3h  44m
Estimated price
$183-297
Recommended
Company
Greyhound, Cardinal
Bus
Train
Average Duration
11h  30m
Estimated price
$36-296
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 642.8 km
Duration: 3h 44m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
9h  45m
Estimated price
$35-310
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  5m
Estimated price
$53-277
Company
FlixBus, Palmland
Bus
Average Duration
11h  6m
Estimated price
$79-159
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$85-130
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Nashville to Chicago

Traveling from Nashville to Chicago offers a journey between the vibrant, musical energy of the South and the bustling, architectural marvels of the Midwest.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinctive charm.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the famous Lincoln Park Zoo
• Charming shops and cafes line arched streets
Wicker Park
• Known for its vibrant art scene
• An array of trendy boutiques and eateries
The Loop
• Center of Chicago's commerce and culture
• Stunning skyline views and iconic architecture

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can enhance your Chicago experience significantly.

Millennium Park
Visit early on weekdays to enjoy the art installations without crowds.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Mid-mornings are ideal, especially on weekdays, for a quieter atmosphere.
Navy Pier
Late afternoons during weekdays provide a more relaxed experience.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a diverse climate with cold winters and warm summers, making the best times to visit spring and fall for mild temperatures. Be prepared for sudden changes in weather, as it can impact your travel plans and outdoor activities significantly.

Chicago Dining: A Contrasting Experience

Chicago's deep-dish pizza, featuring its thick crust and layers of gooey cheese, contrasts sharply with Nashville's famous hot chicken; for an unforgettable experience, head to Lou Malnati's for a taste of this iconic dish. The bustling atmosphere and emphasis on fresh, local ingredients offer a distinct culinary adventure that highlights Chicago's rich food culture.

Nashville - Chicago operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Nashville Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway Airport (MDW)

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$170-360

Plane from Nashville Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) via Detroit

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$190-440

Plane from Nashville Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) via Pittsburgh

Average Duration
3h 50m
Estimated price
$210-500

Plane from Nashville Airport (BNA) to Chicago Midway Airport (MDW) via St. Louis

Average Duration
4h 5m
Estimated price
$180-400

Plane from Nashville Airport (BNA) to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$150-320
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Indianapolis to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
5h
Estimated price
$8-110
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100
Website
greyhound.com

Bus from Nashville Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 45m
Estimated price
$50-120

Bus from Nashville Bus Station to Indianapolis Bus Station

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

Bus from Nashville to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
10h 25m
Estimated price
$40-310

Bus from Nashville to Indianapolis Amtrak Station

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
$28-190
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
flixbus.com

Bus from Nashville Bus Station to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
11h 16m
Estimated price
$35-130

Bus from Nashville Bus Station to Indianapolis Bus Station

Average Duration
7h 16m
Estimated price
$28-95
Website
palmlandlines.com

Bus from Indianapolis IN to Chicago IL

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$50-65

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

Traveling between Nashville and Chicago 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 Nashville to Chicago covering a distance of 758.0 km. 💰 Experience budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from $85 to $130 for the road trip to Chicago from Nashville. 🏙️ Arrive in the vibrant city of Chicago after approximately 7 hours and 46 minutes of driving. Explore iconic attractions like Millennium Park, the Magnificent Mile, and indulge in deep-dish pizza to complete your memorable trip.
Average price
$85 - $130
Useful tips for car travellers
• While traveling on I-65 N, be aware that gas prices tend to average around $0.90 per liter along the route, with stations typically available every 30-50 miles, particularly around major cities like Bowling Green and Indianapolis.
• Upon arriving in Chicago, expect to pay between $20 to $50 per day for parking, depending on the location, with areas around downtown generally having more limited availability and higher rates; don't forget to check for restricted parking zones to avoid fines.
• As you approach Chicago, make sure to use navigation tools like Google Maps or Waze to monitor traffic conditions, as significant congestion can occur on I-90 and I-290, especially during rush hours; take note of the tolls on these highways for easy budgeting.
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Nashville to Chicago, covering a distance of 775.7 km in about 9 hours and 55 minutes. Enjoy the picturesque views along the way as you make your way towards the Windy City. 🚆 Upon arrival in Chicago, disembark at the Greyhound Bus Station, where you can easily connect to your onward transportation with Greyhound. 🚆 Contact Greyhound at 1 231-2222 or visit their website at https://www.
Useful tips for train travellers
• When traveling by Amtrak from Nashville to Chicago, you'll find a variety of onboard catering options available. Amtrak provides a dining car offering meals that can be ordered at your seat or enjoyed in the dining car, with vegetarian options typically available. If you're traveling in the Coast Starlight route specifically, you can also place orders for lighter fare or snacks through the Cafe Car, where you can grab a bite or drink between meals.
• Amtrak offers two main seating options on the route from Nashville to Chicago: Coach Class and Business Class. Coach Class provides comfortable seating with ample legroom and access to restrooms. If you're looking for a more spacious experience, Business Class seats offer larger seating and priority boarding, as well as complimentary non-alcoholic beverages. Be sure to book your tickets early, as Business Class often sells out quickly on this popular route.
• When arriving at Chicago Union Station, be aware that the station can get quite busy. Look out for the Amtrak station map that is available at various information desks. Union Station does offer luggage storage services for a fee, which allows you to explore the city without your bags. Moreover, the restrooms are conveniently located throughout the station, but showers are not available. For a quick navigation option, check out the CTA (Chicago Transit Authority) website for local transport schedules. You can find it at transitchicago.com
🛫 Flying from Nashville to Chicago is convenient and efficient with the quickest direct flight taking just 1 hour and 35 minutes. 🌆 Enjoy a relatively short flight time of 3 hours and 44 minutes, with flight prices ranging from $183 to $297 for a round trip between Chicago and Nashville.
Departure Point
Nashville Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
🚌 Traveling by bus from Nashville to Chicago is a convenient option with direct services departing every four hours. The journey typically takes around 9 hours and 45 minutes with Greyhound USA. 🛣️ The distance of approximately 774.1 km between Nashville and Chicago can be covered by various routes, each offering different travel durations. 💰 Ticket prices for the Nashville to Chicago bus route can range from $35 to $310, offering travelers flexibility in choosing the fare that suits their budget and preferred travel experience.
Departure Point
Nashville Bus Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Grab snacks or a light meal before boarding; once you're on the Greyhound bus from Nashville to Chicago, dining options are limited, and you may want to avoid the hassle of bus station food.
• Make sure to check the schedules on the Greyhound website for any potential delays, especially since the journey is nearly 10 hours long and can be subject to changes; visit greyhound.com for more information.
• Upon arriving at the Chicago Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the layout by checking the station map available online at greyhound.com and plan your exit route in advance to navigate the busy city effectively.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Nashville to Chicago.

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The distance between Nashville and Chicago is approximately 642.1 km by air and 757.8 km by road. The typical travel time by plane is 3 hours and 44 minutes, while the travel time by car is around 7 hours and 46 minutes. If you prefer to take public transportation, you can expect to spend around 11 hours and 15 minutes by taking a bus and then a train.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Nashville to Chicago is by bus. It takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes and costs between $35 and $310. However, if time is a priority, the quickest option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 44 minutes and costs between $80 and $330.
The prices for a bus ticket from Nashville to Chicago range from $35 to $310.
To get from Nashville to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 758.0 km, and it takes around 7 hours and 46 minutes to drive. The prices to rent a car for this journey can vary from $85 to $130, depending on the rental company and the type of vehicle.
To travel from Nashville to Chicago without a car, the best option is to take a bus. The journey takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes and the ticket prices range from $35 to $310.
Yes, there is a direct link between Nashville and Chicago by bus. Greyhound USA operates bus services that depart from Nashville Bus Station and arrive at Chicago Bus Station. The journey typically takes approximately 9 hours and 25 minutes.
The flight between Nashville and Chicago typically takes 1 hour and 35 minutes. The cost of a flight between the two cities can range from $83 to $327, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability of deals or discounts.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Chicago. With over 1116 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at $58 for a basic room, but there are also luxurious options available.