Chicago, IL, USA to Saint Paul, MN, USA from $17: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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How to Get from Chicago to Saint Paul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

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$17 by trainBest price

646 kmDistance

3h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

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Traveling From Chicago to Saint Paul

Traveling from Chicago to Saint Paul offers a stunning contrast, where the vibrant, bustling city life of Chicago meets the charming, laid-back atmosphere of Saint Paul.

Best Neighbourhoods in Saint Paul

Saint Paul boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct charm.

Lowertown

• Lively arts scene with galleries and studios

• Popular farmers market fills the streets

Summit Hill

• Stunning historic homes and tree-lined streets

• Boutique shops and cozy cafes abound

Cathedral Hill

• Iconic Saint Paul Cathedral as a landmark

• A rich collection of Victorian architecture

Best Times To Visit Saint Paul's Attractions

Timing your visits to popular spots in Saint Paul can greatly enhance your experience.

Como Park Zoo & Conservatory

Visit on weekdays during the spring or fall for smaller crowds and nice weather.

Science Museum of Minnesota

Aim for early mornings on weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.

Minnesota State Capitol

Explore on Mondays or Fridays for fewer visitors and more opportunities to engage.

Saint Paul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Saint Paul experiences a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers, making spring and fall the ideal times to visit for comfortable temperatures. Weather plays a significant role in your travel experience, as winter activities offer a different charm compared to the vibrant summer festivals.

Dining Recommendation in Saint Paul

Try the wild rice soup at The Buttered Tin, a cozy café that showcases Minnesota's local ingredients and Native American culinary heritage. Unlike the deep-dish pizza of Chicago, this dish offers a comforting flavor profile with a distinctly regional twist, making your dining experience feel wonderfully genuine.

Chicago - Saint Paul operators

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

Plane

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 25m

Estimated price

$2246-2248

Website

delta.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 36m

Estimated price

$2241-2248

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 33m

Estimated price

$2249-22410

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 33m

Estimated price

$4081-4082

Plane from South Bend (SBN) to Minneapolis (MSP)

Average Duration

1h 47m

Estimated price

$2249-2247

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to St. Paul-Minneapolis

Average Duration

7h 51m

Estimated price

$17-160

Train from Chicago Union Station to Milwaukee

Average Duration

1h 29m

Estimated price

$4086-4087

Bus

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Saint Paul Union Depot

Average Duration

7h 45m

Estimated price

$2241-2242

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

Average Duration

3h 35m

Estimated price

$1600-2249

Contact phone

+1-858-800-8898

Website

jeffersonlines.com

Bus from Madison, WI-Lake St. to St. Paul

Average Duration

Estimated price

$0-0

all-pages.other Show other routes

Contact phone

+1 608-752-5407

Website

coachusa.com

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

Average Duration

3h 40m

Estimated price

$1600-2249

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Saint Paul.

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The distance between Chicago and Saint Paul is 349 miles by road. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: it takes 7h 51m to reach Saint Paul from Chicago by train, 4h 51m by taking a train to Milwaukee and then flying, and 3h 21m by plane. If you prefer to drive, it takes about 6h 31m to reach Chicago from Saint Paul by car. Lastly, taking a bus from Chicago to Saint Paul typically takes 7h 45m.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chicago to Saint Paul is by train, with tickets ranging from $17 to $160. This method takes approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes. If time efficiency is a priority, flying is the quickest option, taking only 3 hours and 21 minutes and costing between $75 and $600.

The prices of a train ticket between Chicago and Saint Paul range from $17 to $160, depending on the class and type of train chosen. On the other hand, bus tickets between Saint Paul and Chicago can cost anywhere from $8 to $110, with prices varying based on the bus company and the type of seat selected. It is recommended to check for deals and compare prices before making a final booking decision.

To travel from Chicago to Saint Paul without using public transportation, you can opt for a road trip. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 401 miles, which takes around 6 hours and 31 minutes. Depending on factors such as fuel prices and vehicle efficiency, the cost of the trip can range from $70 to $110.

If you don't have a car, there are several options to travel from Chicago to Saint Paul. The fastest option is to fly, which takes about 3 hours and 21 minutes and costs between $75 and $600. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 7 hours and 45 minutes and costs between $8 and $110. Lastly, you could also take a train, which takes about 7 hours and 51 minutes and costs between $17 and $160.

Yes, there is a direct link between Chicago and Saint Paul. You can take a train from Chicago Union Station to St. Paul-Minneapolis, which operates five times a day and takes approximately 7 hours and 51 minutes. Alternatively, there is a direct bus service from Chicago Bus Station to Saint Paul Union Depot, also operating five times a day, with a travel time of around 7 hours and 45 minutes.

The flight from Chicago to St. Paul typically takes around 1 hour and 20 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. The prices for a flight between Saint Paul and Chicago can range from $78 to $558. It is recommended to check with different airlines and booking websites to find the best deals for a flight between these two cities.

There are plenty of options for accommodation near Saint Paul. With over 401 hotels available, you will have no trouble finding a place to stay. Prices start at $45, so you can find something to fit your budget. Whether you prefer luxury hotels or budget-friendly options, there is something for everyone in Saint Paul.

Chicago, IL, USA to Saint Paul, MN, USA from $17: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car

How to Get from Chicago to Saint Paul: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Saint Paul

Best Neighbourhoods in Saint Paul

Best Times To Visit Saint Paul's Attractions

Saint Paul Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Saint Paul

Chicago - Saint Paul operators

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Saint Paul

Popular routes