San Antonio, TX, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $55: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car
Compare Travel Options and Prices
How to Get from San Antonio to Chicago: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$55 by trainBest price
1704 kmDistance
4h 27m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from San Antonio 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.
San Antonio - Chicago operators
Explore transport companies operating between San Antonio and Chicago, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Website
southwest.com
Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to Chicago Midway (MDW)
Average Duration
4h 27mEstimated price
$98-486Plane from San Antonio (SAT) to Chicago O'Hare (ORD)
Average Duration
4h 53mEstimated price
$83-396Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245Website
amtrak.com
Train from San Antonio Amtrak Station to Chicago Union Station
Average Duration
30h 44mEstimated price
$55-370Contact phone
+1 888 358 6762Website
tornadobus.com
Bus from Tornado Bus Co - San Antonio to Chicago
Average Duration
23h 25mEstimated price
$983-988Contact phone
+1 214-849-8100Website
greyhound.com
Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza
Average Duration
1h 25mEstimated price
$554-555Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585Website
flixbus.com
Bus from San Antonio Bus Station to Austin Eastside Bus Plaza
Average Duration
1h 30mEstimated price
$556-557San Antonio to Chicago: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between San Antonio 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.
Average price
$220 - $320
Traveling from San Antonio to Chicago by train is a convenient option, with daily services operated by Amtrak. The journey takes approximately 30 hours and 44 minutes, departing from the San Antonio Amtrak Station and arriving at Chicago Union Station. The prices for this route vary from $55 to $370, providing a range of options to suit different budgets. While the travel duration may be longer compared to other modes of transportation, the train trip offers a scenic and comfortable experience, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate leisurely travel. The direct train service provides an opportunity to relax and enjoy the landscapes during the journey.
Departure Point
San Antonio Amtrak Station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Traveling from San Antonio to Chicago by plane offers the convenience of a quick direct flight which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Southwest Airlines provides flights from San Antonio Airport to Chicago Midway Airport, making it easily accessible for travelers. The average flight duration is around 4 hours and 27 minutes, providing a relatively smooth and efficient journey. Ticket prices for this route may range from $88 to $426, giving travelers a variety of options to choose from based on their preferences and budget. Overall, this flight route offers a convenient and relatively affordable option for those traveling between San Antonio and Chicago.
Departure Point
San Antonio Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book your flight in advance with Southwest Airlines (southwest.com) to secure the best fares and ensure a direct flight that typically takes around 2h 30m, saving you valuable travel time.
• Upon arrival at Chicago Midway Airport, utilize the Airport Transit System to navigate easily; signs are clear and staff are available to assist, making transfers to public transport or taxis straightforward.
• Expect the taxi fare from Midway Airport to downtown Chicago to be around $30-$40, plus tolls and tip; for a more economical option, consider ridesharing services like Uber or Lyft which you can book via their apps.
Traveling by bus from San Antonio to Chicago involves a journey with a travel time of approximately 25 hours and 46 minutes, including transfers. While there is no direct bus connecting the two cities, passengers can opt for services departing from St Marys Bet. Market & Villita and arriving at Dearborn & Harrison via Tornado Bus Co. The bus services are operated by Tornado Bus Company, offering passengers the opportunity to enjoy the scenic views during their extended trip. The ticket prices for this route may vary, ranging from $224 to $604. Passengers can expect to depart from Tornado Bus Co - San Antonio and arrive at Chicago station after their long journey.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to pack snacks and drinks for the long journey, as some transfers may not have convenient access to food, especially during late hours; consider bringing a travel-friendly cooler or insulated bag for provisions.
• Keep an eye on your bus schedule through the Greyhound website or app, as departure times may vary; download the app for real-time updates and to keep all your confirmation details handy: greyhound.com
• Upon arriving at the Greyhound Bus Station in Chicago, expect high traffic; familiarize yourself with the layout of the station beforehand using this map here, and consider using ride-share services to get around efficiently if you're heading to the city center.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from San Antonio to Chicago.
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The cheapest way to travel from San Antonio to Chicago is by train. Amtrak offers a route that takes approximately 30 hours and 44 minutes and costs between $55 and $370, depending on the class of service and time of booking.
The fastest way to travel from San Antonio to Chicago is by flying. The flight duration is approximately 4 hours and 27 minutes. The cost of the flight may vary between $85 to $430 depending on the airline and time of booking.
The distance between San Antonio and Chicago is approximately 1704 km. This is the straight line distance, also known as the crow flies. If you were to drive, the road distance would be around 1967 km.
The most convenient way to travel from San Antonio to Chicago without a car is by taking a bus. There are several bus companies that offer direct routes between the two cities, with the journey taking approximately 25 hours and 46 minutes. Ticket prices typically range from $220 to $650, depending on the time of travel and the bus company chosen.
The travel time from San Antonio to Chicago varies depending on the mode of transportation. By air, the average non-stop flight takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. If you're traveling by train, the journey can take approximately 30 hours and 44 minutes, including transfers. Driving is also an option, but it typically takes around 16-18 hours, depending on the route and stops along the way.
The cheapest way to travel from San Antonio to Chicago is by bus, with fares ranging from $220 to $650. The journey takes approximately 25 hours and 46 minutes. Alternatively, you can opt for a train, which costs $55 to $370 and has a travel time of around 30 hours and 44 minutes. Flying is the fastest option, taking only 4 hours and 27 minutes, but ticket prices range from $85 to $430.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Chicago. You can choose from over 1116 hotels located across the city. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night, and there is a wide range of options available for different budgets and preferences. From luxury hotels to budget-friendly options, Chicago offers a variety of accommodations to suit every traveler's needs.
Yes, you can drive from San Antonio to Chicago. The distance between the two cities is approximately 1967 km. The drive will take approximately 19 hours and 51 minutes, depending on traffic and the route you take.
No, there is no direct bus between San Antonio and Chicago. However, there are bus services available with transfers along the way. The journey typically involves departing from St Marys Bet. Market & Villita and arriving at Dearborn & Harrison via Tornado Bus Co - San Antonio & 35th Street, and 35th/Archer Orange Line Station. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 25 hours and 46 minutes.
To catch the bus from San Antonio to Chicago head to the Tornado Bus Co - San Antonio station. This is the departure point for the bus services operated by Tornado Bus Company. Be sure to arrive early and have your ticket ready, as buses typically have scheduled departure times. You can check the Tornado Bus Company website or contact their customer service for more specific information on departure times and any other details you may need.
The bus from San Antonio to Chicago arrives at the Chicago station.
To get to Chicago from San Antonio Airport, you can choose from several transportation options. The most convenient way is to take a direct flight, which usually takes around 3-4 hours. Another option is to rent a car and drive, which is a 17-18 hour journey. Alternatively, you can take a combination of a bus and a train, which takes approximately 24-27 hours.
Southwest Airlines is the major carrier that offers flights between San Antonio and Chicago. They operate flights from San Antonio International Airport to Chicago Midway Airport. Other airlines may have indirect flights with layovers, but Southwest Airlines is a convenient option for direct flights.
The fastest way to travel from San Antonio to Chicago is by plane. The quickest flight from San Antonio Airport to Chicago Midway Airport is a direct flight, which takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes. Southwest Airlines offers flights between these two cities, with flight durations ranging around 4 hours and 27 minutes. Prices for flights between San Antonio and Chicago can range from $88 to $426, depending on the airline and time of booking.
The flight from San Antonio to Chicago takes approximately 2 hours and 30 minutes on a direct flight.
Trains from San Antonio to Chicago arrive at Chicago Union Station. Chicago Union Station is a major transportation hub and is conveniently located in the heart of downtown Chicago.
Yes, there is a direct train between San Antonio and Chicago. The train departs from San Antonio Amtrak Station and arrives at Chicago Union Station. There is one train service per day that operates every day. The journey duration is approximately 30 hours and 44 minutes.
To catch the train from San Antonio to Chicago you will need to go to the San Antonio Amtrak Station. This is the main departure point for Amtrak train services in San Antonio.
The cost of a flight from San Antonio to Chicago varies depending on several factors such as the airline, booking time, and class of travel. On average, prices range between $88 and $426.
The cost of a train ticket from San Antonio to Chicago can range from $55 to $370, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking.
The cost of a bus ticket from San Antonio to Chicago ranges from $224 to $604, depending on various factors such as the time of booking, seasonality, and availability.
The cost of driving from San Antonio to Chicago will depend on various factors such as the type of vehicle, gas prices, and tolls along the route. On average, the cost can range from $220 to $320 for a one-way trip. It's important to consider additional expenses like accommodation, meals, and parking fees during the journey. Additionally, keep in mind that driving from San Antonio to Chicago takes approximately 17-20 hours depending on traffic and rest stops.