Chicago, IL, USA to Charlotte, NC, USA from $45: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

How to Get from Chicago to Charlotte: 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.

$45 by trainBest price

1210 kmDistance

4h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

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

See more options

Sort by

Browse car rentals Explore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Charlotte

The journey from Chicago to Charlotte offers a fascinating contrast between Chicago's vibrant city life and Charlotte's Southern charm and hospitality.

Best Neighbourhoods in Charlotte

Charlotte boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.

Uptown

• Home to major sporting venues and theaters.

• Bustling with restaurants and nightlife options.

NoDa

• Known for its artsy vibe and galleries.

• Offers a variety of craft breweries and eateries.

South End

• Features scenic views along the Rail Trail.

• A hub for trendy shops and dining experiences.

Best Times To Visit Charlotte's Attractions

Timing your visits to Charlotte's top attractions can enhance your experience.

Carowinds Amusement Park

Visit on weekdays in early summer for shorter lines and pleasant weather.

U.S. National Whitewater Center

Midweek visits in spring and fall offer fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.

Charlotte Museum of History

Early mornings on Saturdays are less busy, allowing for a more enjoyable tour.

Charlotte Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charlotte enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the best times to explore the city. Understanding the weather can help you pack appropriately and plan outdoor activities, ensuring a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Charlotte

For a true taste of Charlotte, try the fried chicken at Stock The Bar, where local ingredients and Southern cooking techniques shine through. Unlike the deep-dish pizza of Chicago, this dish highlights a casual, inviting atmosphere that celebrates Southern hospitality and rich flavors.

Chicago - Charlotte operators

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

Plane

Website

aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Charlotte

Average Duration

1h 59m

Estimated price

$2586-2587

Plane from South Bend to Charlotte

Average Duration

1h 52m

Estimated price

$2588-2589

Plane from Milwaukee to Charlotte

Average Duration

2h 6m

Estimated price

$2583-10050

Website

united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Charlotte

Average Duration

2h 5m

Estimated price

$450-452

Plane from South Bend to Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 16m

Estimated price

$453-2589

Plane from Milwaukee to Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 17m

Estimated price

$454-25840

Website

delta.com

Plane from South Bend to Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 22m

Estimated price

$456-451

Plane from Milwaukee to Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 17m

Estimated price

$450-457

Plane from Milwaukee to Charlotte

Average Duration

4h 45m

Estimated price

$2586-457

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Greenville/Spartanburg

Average Duration

3h 49m

Estimated price

$458-2582

Website

southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway to Charlotte

Average Duration

1h 53m

Estimated price

$459-3670

Website

flyfrontier.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Charlotte

Average Duration

1h 57m

Estimated price

$3672-3673

Website

spirit.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare to Charlotte

Average Duration

Estimated price

$3674-3675

Train

Contact phone

+1 800-872-7245

Website

amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Charlottesville

Average Duration

20h 40m

Estimated price

$10600-454

Train from Charlottesville to Charlotte Amtrak Station

Average Duration

5h 38m

Estimated price

$1066-1068

Contact phone

+1 219-926-5744

Website

mysouthshoreline.com

Train from Van Buren St. to South Bend Airport

Average Duration

2h 35m

Estimated price

$3676-3677

Bus Show bus routes

Contact phone

+1 214-849-8100

Website

greyhound.com

Bus from Chicago Bus Station to Toledo Bus Stop

Average Duration

5h 5m

Estimated price

$4384-36785

Bus from Toledo Bus Stop to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration

14h 15m

Estimated price

$36780-450

Bus from Ashland Bus Station to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration

8h 55m

Estimated price

$10605-1065

Contact phone

+1 888-378-3823

Website

baronsbus.com

Bus from Chicago to Toledo

Average Duration

5h 10m

Estimated price

$1062-36765

Bus from Toledo to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration

15h 25m

Estimated price

$3672-1009

Bus from Ashland to Charlotte Bus Station

Average Duration

7h 10m

Estimated price

$10600-2584

Website

palmlandlines.com

Bus from Chicago IL to Atlanta GA

Average Duration

14h 40m

Estimated price

$3672-2584

Contact phone

+1 (855) 626-8585

Website

flixbus.com

Bus from Atlanta Bus Station to Charlotte

Average Duration

5h 5m

Estimated price

$4385-2584

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

Traveling between Chicago and Charlotte 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.

Useful tips for train travellers

• On this route, Amtrak is the primary operator, offering various onboard services. For catering, you'll have access to a café car serving snacks, beverages, and light meals. Depending on your train service, you might also enjoy complimentary meals in the dining car for First Class passengers.

• Amtrak provides several seating options: First Class (more spacious seats, meal service included), Business Class (larger seats with some additional amenities), and Economy (standard seating). It's advisable to book early, especially for First Class, which offers the best comfort on long journeys. Check Amtrak's website for real-time seating availability.

• For your trip, the main operator is Amtrak, and you can visit their website at ">">amtrak.com Another operator to consider is Greyhound for bus alternatives; their site is ">">greyhound.com For local transport schedules in Charlotte, the Charlotte Area Transit System (CATS) website at ">">catstransit.org is useful.

Traveling from Chicago to Charlotte by bus is an affordable and convenient option for those seeking an alternative to air travel. While there is no direct route, there are several options available with varying travel times and transfers. One route option involves two transfers, with the journey taking approximately 20 hours and 40 minutes. Another route, slightly longer at 22 hours, includes a transfer in Columbus. Additionally, there are routes with transfers in cities such as Cleveland, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, each offering different travel times and distances. Prices for bus tickets between Chicago and Charlotte vary from $86 to $163, providing flexibility for budget-conscious travelers. With multiple route options and operators like Greyhound and Barons Bus, individuals can select the schedule and amenities that best suit their preferences for a comfortable and scenic journey.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Charlotte.

Or choose the category:

The distance between Chicago and Charlotte is 591 miles. The typical travel times to reach Charlotte from Chicago vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 27 hours and 18 minutes. By taking a combination of train and flying, the travel time is around 6 hours and 6 minutes. By plane, it takes about 3 hours and 54 minutes. By car, the travel time from Charlotte to Chicago is approximately 12 hours and 52 minutes, while by bus, it takes around 19 hours and 54 minutes.

The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Charlotte is by bus, which costs between $85 and $170 and takes approximately 19 hours and 54 minutes. However, if time is a priority, the fastest option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 54 minutes and costs between $100 and $440. Considering both cost and time efficiency, flying would be the recommended choice for most travelers.

The prices of train tickets from Chicago to Charlotte can range from $45 to $367, depending on factors such as the class of service and the time of booking. On the other hand, bus fares from Charlotte to Chicago can vary between $86 and $163. It is advisable to book your tickets in advance and compare different options to find the best prices for your trip.

To travel from Chicago to Charlotte without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The road distance between the two cities is approximately 752 miles, and it takes around 12 hours and 52 minutes to drive. The cost of this journey by car can vary, with prices ranging from $130 to $200. Driving allows for flexibility in terms of route and stops along the way, making it a convenient option for those who prefer to travel at their own pace.

To travel from Chicago to Charlotte without a car, the best option is to take a combination of train and bus, which takes approximately 19 hours and 34 minutes and costs between $80 to $260. Another option is to fly directly, which takes about 3 hours and 54 minutes and costs between $100 to $440. If you prefer a longer journey, you can also take a bus via Atlanta, which takes around 19 hours and 54 minutes and costs between $85 to $170, or take a train, which takes 27 hours and 18 minutes and costs between $45 to $370.

Yes, there is a way to travel directly between Chicago and Charlotte. You can take a train from Chicago Union Station to Charlottesville, and then transfer to another train to reach Charlotte Amtrak Station. This journey takes approximately 27 hours and 18 minutes, including transfers. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Chicago Bus Station to Toledo Bus Stop, and then transfer to another bus to reach Charlotte Bus Station. This bus journey takes approximately 20 hours and 40 minutes, including transfers.

The flight between Chicago and Charlotte typically takes 1 hour and 45 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from $106 to $438 depending on the airline and the time of booking. It is recommended to compare prices from different airlines and consider booking in advance to get the best deals.

There are plenty of accommodation options available near Charlotte with over 583 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at $52 per night, offering a range of budget-friendly and upscale choices. Whether you're looking for a cozy bed and breakfast or a luxurious resort, you will find a variety of options to suit your preferences and budget in Charlotte.

Chicago, IL, USA to Charlotte, NC, USA from $45: 10 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

See more options

Traveling From Chicago to Charlotte

Best Neighbourhoods in Charlotte

Best Times To Visit Charlotte's Attractions

Charlotte Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Dining Recommendation in Charlotte

Chicago - Charlotte operators

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

Useful tips for train travellers

Frequently asked questions

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Charlotte

Popular routes