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Chicago, IL, USA to Charleston, SC, USA from $60: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Chicago, United States of America
to
Charleston, United States of America

How to Get from Chicago to Charleston: 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.

$60 by trainBest price
1225 kmDistance
5h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chicago to Charleston 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
Southwest Airlines
Plane
Average Duration
5h  2m
Estimated price
$114-408
Recommended
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
27h  56m
Estimated price
$60-427
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 1225 km
Duration: 5h 2m

See more options

Company
Amtrak
Train
Average Duration
35h  24m
Estimated price
$62-1140
Company
Various
Plane
Average Duration
5h  30m
Estimated price
$104-318
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
5h  31m
Estimated price
$150-830
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
15h  19m
Estimated price
$1141-1142
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Chicago to Charleston

Embarking on a journey from Chicago to Charleston opens the door to a vibrant contrast, where the bustling city life of the Windy City meets the charming coastal atmosphere of the South.

Best Neighbourhoods in Charleston

Charleston's neighborhoods each offer distinct experiences and charm for visitors.

Historic Downtown
• Home to iconic Rainbow Row buildings.
• Features charming cobblestone streets and historic sites.
Mount Pleasant
• Offers stunning views of the Ravenel Bridge.
• Known for excellent dining and family-friendly parks.
West Ashley
• Features beautiful parks and gardens to explore.
• Close to plantations and rich historical attractions.

Best Times To Visit Charleston's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Charleston by visiting its attractions at the right times.

The Battery
Early morning or late afternoon offers cooler temperatures and fewer crowds.
Magnolia Plantation and Gardens
Weekdays in spring provide vibrant blooms and a peaceful atmosphere.
Fort Sumter National Monument
Catch the early boat for a quieter experience and stunning sunrise views.

Charleston Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Charleston enjoys a humid subtropical climate, with hot summers and mild winters, making spring and fall the most enjoyable times to explore the city. Understanding the weather can enhance your travel plans, as it affects not only outdoor activities but also local festivals and seasonal events.

Dining Recommendation in Charleston

When in Charleston, don’t miss the chance to savor shrimp and grits at Hominy Grill, where Southern comfort meets fresh, local ingredients. This dish, with its creamy texture and rich flavors, captures the essence of Lowcountry cuisine, offering a delightful departure from the urban dining scene you might find in Chicago.

Chicago - Charleston operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
southwest.com

Plane from Chicago Midway (MDW) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
5h 2m
Estimated price
$114-408
Website
aa.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
2h 16m
Estimated price
$150-600
Website
united.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
2h 18m
Estimated price
$4081-4082
Website
delta.com

Plane from Chicago O'Hare (ORD) to Charleston (CHS)

Average Duration
4h 33m
Estimated price
$4083-4084
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
amtrak.com

Train from Chicago Union Station to Rockville Amtrak

Average Duration
16h 36m
Estimated price
$4085-1142

Train from Washington Union Station to Charleston Amtrak Station

Average Duration
9h 24m
Estimated price
$605-4081

Train from Chicago Union Station to Alexandria

Average Duration
23h 32m
Estimated price
$606-4270

Train from Alexandria to Charleston Amtrak Station

Average Duration
9h 3m
Estimated price
$4273-4081
Drive

Drive from Chicago to Charleston

Average Duration
15h 19m
Estimated price
$1141-1142

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

Traveling between Chicago and Charleston 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 Charleston, covering a distance of 915 miles. Experience the changing landscapes as you journey through multiple states. 💰 Prices for this road trip range from $160 to $240, offering budget-friendly options for various travelers. Enjoy the flexibility of a car trip and explore charming towns along the way. ⏱️ Plan for a driving time of approximately 15 hours and 19 minutes, making stops to stretch your legs and savor the local cuisine. Arrive in Charleston refreshed and ready to explore its historic charm.
Average price
$160 - $240
🚆 Embark on a scenic train journey from Chicago to Charleston spanning over 27 hours and 56 minutes. Sit back and enjoy the changing landscapes as you make your way to the charming southern city. 🎫 Tickets for the train ride between Chicago and Charleston can range from $60 to $427, offering travelers a variety of options to suit their budget and preferences. Whether you opt for a standard coach seat or indulge in a luxurious sleeper car, there's a choice for every type of traveler.
🛫 Experience a quick and convenient journey from Chicago to Charleston with a direct flight lasting just 2 hours. Choose Southwest Airlines for a seamless travel experience between Chicago Midway Airport and Charleston Airport. 🏝️ Explore the charming city of Charleston after a flight duration of 5 hours and 2 minutes from Chicago. Enjoy the southern hospitality and rich history that Charleston has to offer. 💸 Flight prices between Charleston and Chicago range from $114 to $408, providing options to suit various budgets for your trip to this picturesque destination on the East Coast.
Departure Point
Chicago Midway Airport
Arrival Point
Charleston Airport
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Chicago to Charleston spanning 1,060 miles and 4 transfers, taking approximately 1 day and 8 hours to reach the charming destination in South Carolina.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chicago to Charleston.

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The distance between Chicago and Charleston is approximately 761 miles. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. It takes approximately 29 hours and 21 minutes to reach Charleston from Chicago by train, while taking a combination of bus and train takes 30 hours and 36 minutes. The quickest option is to fly, which takes about 4 hours and 14 minutes. Driving from Chicago to Charleston typically takes around 15 hours and 19 minutes, while taking the bus can take around 31 hours and 10 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Chicago to Charleston is by train, with prices ranging from $55 to $430. Although it takes longer, approximately 29 hours and 21 minutes, it is a more affordable choice. On the other hand, the fastest way to reach Charleston from Chicago is by flying, which takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes, but costs between $90 and $300. This option is ideal for travelers looking to save time and prioritize convenience.
The prices for a train journey between Chicago and Charleston can range from $57 to $425 depending on the class and type of ticket chosen. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip from Charleston to Chicago can vary from $244 to $297. It's important to compare prices and options to find the best deal for your travel needs.
To travel from Chicago to Charleston without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of 915 miles. This typically takes around 15 hours and 19 minutes, depending on traffic and breaks. The cost of driving can range from $160 to $240, taking into account fuel and potential tolls.
To travel from Chicago to Charleston without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 29 hours and 21 minutes, with fares ranging from $55 to $430. Another option is to fly, which takes around 4 hours and 14 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from $90 to $300. Alternatively, you could also take a bus, which takes approximately 31 hours and 10 minutes and costs between $240 and $300.
There is no direct link between Chicago and Charleston by bus. However, there are bus services available that include transfers in cities such as Indianapolis, IN and New York, with a total journey time of approximately 31 hours and 10 minutes. The bus services are operated by Palmland Bus Lines and Atlanta Tours Inc. Alternatively, there are other modes of transportation available such as trains and planes which offer faster travel times between the two cities.
The flight between Chicago and Charleston typically takes around 2 hours. The prices for this flight can range from $92 to $300, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability. It is advisable to check with different airlines and compare prices to get the best deal.
There are many options for accommodation near Charleston. There are over 890 hotels available in the area to choose from. Prices for hotels start at $50 per night, giving travelers a range of options to suit their budget and preferences. Whether you prefer a luxury hotel or a more budget-friendly option, there is something for everyone in Charleston.

Trips from Chicago

Trips to Charleston