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Madison, WI, USA to Chicago, IL, USA from $26: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

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

How to Get from Madison 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.

$26 by carBest price
239 kmDistance
2h 29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Madison 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
Bus
Average Duration
4h 
Estimated price
$14-60
Recommended
route map
Distance: 239 km
Duration: 2h 29m

See more options

Company
various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
4h  4m
Estimated price
$22-128
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  29m
Estimated price
$26-40
Company
various
Bus
Plane
Average Duration
5h  3m
Estimated price
$133-140
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  16m
Estimated price
$154-247
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Traveling From Madison to Chicago

The journey from Madison to Chicago offers a fascinating contrast between Madison's tranquil charm and Chicago's vibrant urban energy.

Best Neighbourhoods in Chicago

Chicago boasts diverse neighborhoods, each brimming with its own character and charm.

Lincoln Park
• Home to the expansive Lincoln Park Zoo.
• Offers trendy restaurants and boutique shopping.
Wicker Park
• A hub for music, art, and nightlife.
• Features unique shops and local eateries.
The Loop
• Chicago's central business district and cultural hub.
• Highlights include Millennium Park and museums.

Best Times To Visit Chicago's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Chicago experience.

Millennium Park
Visit early in the morning or on weekdays to enjoy a quieter atmosphere.
The Art Institute of Chicago
Plan visits during late afternoons on weekdays for fewer visitors.
Navy Pier
Weekday afternoons are ideal to avoid the weekend crowds.

Chicago Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Chicago experiences a mix of humid continental and maritime climates, resulting in hot summers and cold winters; the best times to visit are typically spring and fall when temperatures are milder. Weather can significantly impact your travel plans, so being prepared for sudden changes can enhance your overall experience.

Dining Recommendation

Consider trying the iconic deep-dish pizza at Lou Malnati's, where the rich layers of cheese and savory toppings create a hearty meal that stands in stark contrast to Madison's farm-to-table offerings. The bustling atmosphere and distinct flavor profile of Chicago’s pizza scene provide a vibrant dining experience that showcases the city’s local ingredients and culinary creativity.

Madison - Chicago operators

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

Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Bus from Madison to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$14-60

Bus from Madison to Milwaukee

Average Duration
1h 35m
Estimated price
$609-26
Contact phone
+1 608-752-5407
Website
https://www.coachusa.com/van-galder-bus-company

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

Average Duration
4h
Estimated price
$608-40
Contact phone
+1 (855) 626-8585
Website
https://www.flixbus.com

Bus from Madison to Chicago Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$14-60
Train
Contact phone
+1 800-872-7245
Website
https://www.amtrak.com/home.html

Train from Milwaukee to Chicago Union Station

Average Duration
1h 29m
Estimated price
$148-149
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.aa.com

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 3m
Estimated price
$145-146
Website
https://www.united.com

Plane from Madison Airport (MSN) to Chicago O'Hare Airport (ORD)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$141-143

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

Traveling between Madison 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 picturesque journey from Madison to Chicago, covering a distance of 148 miles. Enjoy the scenic views and open road as you make your way to the vibrant city. 💵 Explore budget-friendly options with prices ranging from $26 to $40 for the journey by car. Plan your trip wisely to find the best deals and make the most of your travel budget. 🏙️ Arrive in Chicago after approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes of driving. Immerse yourself in the bustling city atmosphere, ready to explore iconic landmarks, delicious cuisine, and captivating culture.
Average price
$26 - $40
🛫 Flying from Madison to Chicago is a quick and convenient option, with direct flights taking just 58 minutes. 🌇 Overall, the flight from Madison to Chicago lasts approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes, with ticket prices typically ranging from $154 to $247 depending on the airline and time of booking.
Departure Point
Madison Airport
Arrival Point
Chicago O'Hare Airport
🚌 Traveling from Madison to Chicago by bus is a convenient and affordable option with a direct route departing from Madison station and arriving at Chicago Union Station. The journey lasts about 4 hours, making it a manageable trip for a day visit or a longer stay in the Windy City. 🚌 With ticket prices ranging from $14 to $60, taking the bus from Madison to Chicago is a budget-friendly way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the Midwest. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic ride as you make your way from Wisconsin to Illinois on a comfortable bus with convenient amenities.
Departure Point
Madison station
Arrival Point
Chicago Union Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Plan to arrive at Madison Station at least 30 minutes early to ensure you have enough time to board, especially during busy hours when other buses may be departing.
• After your bus arrives at Chicago Union Station, navigate through the station by following the signs to the Great Hall, which is a central hub where you can grab food from local vendors or find transportation options like taxis and ride shares.
• Consider checking pricing and booking options on both the Van Galder (coachusa.com) and Amtrak sites (amtrak.com) to find the best deal for your bus trip, as prices can vary significantly.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Madison to Chicago.

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The distance between Madison and Chicago is 123 miles. By car, it takes approximately 2 hours and 29 minutes to travel from Chicago to Madison, and by bus, it takes approximately 4 hours. If you're traveling from Madison to Chicago, it takes around 3 hours and 49 minutes by taking a bus and then a train. The quickest option is to fly, which takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Madison to Chicago is by bus, with prices ranging from $8 to $60 and a travel time of 4 hours. This is a budget-friendly choice for those looking to save money. However, if time is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking 2 hours and 29 minutes and costing between $26 and $40. It allows for more flexibility and convenience, especially for those with limited time.
When traveling from Madison to Chicago the prices of bus tickets can vary from $8 to $60. The price range depends on factors such as the type of bus service, time of travel, and advance booking. It is advisable to compare different bus operators and their prices to find the most suitable and affordable option for your journey.
To get from Madison to Chicago without using public transportation, you can drive yourself. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 148 miles, and it takes around 2 hours and 29 minutes to complete the journey by car. Depending on various factors such as fuel prices and tolls, the cost of driving from Madison to Chicago can range from $26 to $40.
To travel from Madison to Chicago without a car, the best option is to take a bus and then a train. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and 49 minutes and the cost ranges from $11 to $110 depending on the chosen service and ticket type. There are several bus and train services available for this route, providing a convenient and affordable way to travel between the two cities.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Madison and Chicago. The bus service is operated by Amtrak and departs from Madison station, arriving at Chicago Union Station. The buses run hourly and operate every day, with the journey taking approximately 4 hours. This provides a convenient and direct transportation option for travelers between the two cities.
The flight between Madison and Chicago typically takes around 59 minutes on a direct flight. However, travel times may vary depending on factors such as the airline and any layovers. The cost of a flight between Chicago and Madison can range from $79 to $287, depending on the time of booking and availability. It is recommended to check with different airlines and compare prices to find the best deal for your travel needs.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Chicago. There are over 1116 hotels in the area to choose from, catering to different budgets and preferences. Prices for hotels in Chicago start at $58 per night, making it accessible for a range of travelers. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or something in between, you'll find a wide variety of places to stay in and around Chicago.

Trips from Madison

Trips to Chicago