San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL Bus

11/17/2024
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San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by bus

The journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by bus is 1,855.87 mi and takes 70 hr 44 min. There are 19 connections per day, with the first departure at 6:30 AM and the last at 11:30 PM. It is possible to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by bus for as little as $90.00 or as much as $659.61. The best price for this journey is $90.00.

Lowest Price $90.00
Journey Duration 70 hr 44 min
Connection per Day 19
Lowest Price $90.00
Highest Price $659.61
First Departure 6:30 AM
Last Departure 11:30 PM
Distance 1,855.87 mi
Departure San Francisco, CA
Arrival Chicago, IL
Carriers Greyhound Lines, Inc., FlixBus

San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL Bus Times

Departure date
Sunday, Nov 17, 2024

Use Virail to find the best way to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

What's the best way to get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL? If you're not sure, don't worry - Virail can help you. The only thing you have to do is enter your planned travel dates, and let Virail's powerful search tool deal with the rest. We'll look at the routes offered by our trusted travel partners to give you all your available options. Whether you want to travel by plane, train, bus, carpool, or something else, we'll find your ideal solution. You can filter your results according to price, departure or arrival time, journey duration, number of connections, one-way or round trip - anything you want. Virail will give you a full, clear picture of how to get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL, then transfer you to your chosen provider's website to complete your booking.

How much do bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL cost?

The prices for bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL vary depending on a range of factors including how far in advance you're booking, your travel dates, and the type of transport you want to use. On certain routes, there may be different classes available, which will also affect the price. Booked in advance, the cheapest bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL will cost $90.00. The average bus ticket price is approximately $327.18. For the lowest prices, it is usually best to book as far in advance as possible and look out for low-cost options, such as non-refundable tickets or traveling outside of peak hours. Be aware that some providers do not offer refunds or changes on their lower priced tickets, so it is advised to check before completing your transaction.
Unfortunately, no price was found for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find price results.
On average, a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL will cost you $327.18. If you are trying to stick to a budget, there are several ways you can seek out lower ticket prices. For example, if your travel dates are flexible, you might find that some days of the week are cheaper than others. Traveling during peak season will usually cost more, so avoid that if you want to save money. Even the time of day can affect the price of tickets sometimes. You can also look for an indirect route, which may be cheaper than a direct connection. Often, the cheapest bus tickets can be found by booking well in advance. However, be mindful that many companies do not offer refunds or exchanges on their cheapest tickets.

How long does the journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL take by bus?

With a distance of 1,855.87 mi between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL, it will usually take 70 hr 44 min to complete the journey. This average figure may vary from day to day. Delays could be caused by unexpected weather conditions, roadworks or construction, local events, or other unforeseen circumstances. Remember that your journey may take longer than 70 hr 44 min. Make your plans with this in mind to avoid disappointment, particularly if you are traveling on a tight schedule. The journey between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL runs for about 1,855.87 mi and usually takes approximately 70 hr 44 min. However, this figure is an average and will vary according to a number of factors. Depending on the method of transport that you choose, you might be able to arrive in less time. The shortest time in which you can complete this journey is 0 hr 20 min. If you are trying to get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL as quickly as possible, look for express routes or non-stopping services. Direct routes are not always the fastest way to travel. At times, you may even find a quicker route that involves a connection in another city.

When do the first and last departures from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leave?

In general, the first departure of the day will leave San Francisco, CA at 6:30 AM, and the last departure will leave at 11:30 PM. However, it is important to remember that this is general information, and these journey times are not necessarily available every day. Timetables for each provider on the route from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL can change from day to day or month to month. In particular, many providers offer different schedules on weekdays and weekends. Public holidays, local events, and seasonal timetables can also cause schedules to change. If you want to set off early, take the first departure of the day from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL, which usually leaves at 6:30 AM. The last scheduled departure of the night is normally at 11:30 PM. These timetables may vary depending on the day of the week, or at different times of year.

How many times a day do departures from San Francisco, CA leave for Chicago, IL?

You will be able to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL using companies such as . Combined, these providers offer an average of 19 journeys each day. This average figure may not necessarily reflect your chosen travel dates. On certain days of the week, there may be more or less journeys available. At the busiest times, there will be up to departures available in a single day. You can choose to travel from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL using both direct and indirect routes. These options will help you find a journey that suits your budget, your time frame, and the circumstances of your trip. There are, on average, 0 direct connections from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL each day. Indirect connections add more possibilities, giving you extra flexibility when traveling. In an average day, you will find 19 journeys with at least one change. These figures may vary at certain times of year, and some routes might not run every day of the week. Unfortunately, no connection was found for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL. Selecting a new departure or arrival city, without dramatically changing your itinerary could help you find connections.

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Compare prices and tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

Cheap bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Looking for the best deal on a train ticket for your trip? Here are 4 ways to get cheap train tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.

Book in advance and save

If you're looking for the best deal for your trip from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL, booking train tickets in advance is a great way to save money, but keep in mind that advance tickets are usually not available until 3 months before your travel date.

Stay flexible with your travel time and explore off-peak journeys

Planning your trips around off-peak travel times not only means that you'll be able to avoid the crowds, but can also end up saving you money. Being flexible with your schedule and considering alternative routes or times will significantly impact the amount of money you spend on getting from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL.

Always check special offers

Checking on the latest deals can help save a lot of money, making it worth taking the time to browse and compare prices. So make sure you get the best deal on your ticket and take advantage of special fares for children, youth and seniors as well as discounts for groups.

Unlock the potential of slower trains or connecting trains

If you're planning a trip with some flexible time, why not opt for the scenic route? Taking slower trains or connecting trains that make more stops may save you money on your ticket – definitely worth considering if it fits in your schedule.

Best time to book San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL travel

Virail Pro Tip ✌: Booking 10 days in advance save 10% on average

Best time to book cheap bus tickets from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL

The cheapest San Francisco, CA - Chicago, IL bus tickets can be found for as low as $90.00 if you’re lucky, or $247.46 on average. The most expensive ticket can cost as much as $404.90.

Find the best day to travel to Chicago, IL by bus

When travelling to Chicago, IL by bus, if you want to avoid crowds you can check how frequently our customers are travelling in the next 30-days using the graph below. On average, the peak hours to travel are between 6:30am and 9am in the morning, or between 4pm and 7pm in the evening. Please keep this in mind when travelling to your point of departure as you may need some extra time to arrive, particularly in big cities!

Carriers on this route

Find out more about the carriers on this route.

<p>FlixBus, a long-distance bus company, operates in both Europe and the United States. Founded in 2013, it has grown to become one of the largest bus operators in Europe, connecting over 2,500 destinations in 30 countries. Originating in Germany, FlixBus has expanded quickly to neighboring countries including France, Italy, Denmark, the Netherlands, and Croatia, while also offering regular services to Norway, Spain, and England. With affordable fares and comfortable amenities such as free Wi-Fi, power outlets, and onboard toilets, FlixBus provides a convenient and enjoyable travel experience.</p> <p>You have the option to choose your preferred seat on Flixbus, with various categories designed to suit your specific needs.</p> <ul> <li>Classic: Choose your seat with no additional perks.</li> <li>Panorama: Sit in the first row and enjoy the most scenic views.</li> <li>Front: Travel quietly in the front section of the bus, starting from the 2nd row.</li> <li>Table: Enjoy more space and comfort with a convenient table in front of you.</li> <li>Comfort: Get extra legroom for a more relaxing journey.</li> <li>Extra: Reserve your seat and the one next to you for more personal space.</li> <li>Single: Enjoy the comfort of having no one seated next to you.</li> <li>Semi-bed: Relax with a seat that reclines almost flat, perfect for resting.</li> <li>Bed: Experience maximum comfort with a fully flat reclining seat, ideal for longer trips.</li> </ul>

Facility Description

Find out more about the different facilities available onboard with each carrier on this route.

power_sockets Power sockets open icon close icon

Power outlets are available near seats on FlixBus buses to keep your devices charged throughout your journey.

luggage Luggage open icon close icon

Each passenger can bring one carry-on bag (up to 25lbs/11kg) and one stored bag (up to 50lbs/23kg) for free on FlixBus. Excess baggage up to 50lbs (23kg) is accepted for a fee, with limited space available, so booking in advance is recommended.

accessibility Accessibility open icon close icon

FlixBus offers boarding assistance with a hydraulic lift for travelers with reduced mobility. Contact the bus company in advance to confirm availability and assistance.

food_and_drink Food and drink open icon close icon

Snacks and drinks are available for purchase from the bus drivers during your trip.

bicycle Bicycle open icon close icon

Bikes are allowed with restrictions on FlixBus: 3 per bus with a cover, 5 with a carrier, but no electric bikes.

wifi WiFi open icon close icon

FlixBus offers free Wi-Fi on all its buses. Additionally, enjoy movies, e-books, audiobooks, music, and games through FlixBus's online entertainment portal.

Services on board FlixBus and Greyhound from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL
Compare services on board when travelling from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by bus.
Facilities FlixBus Greyhound
power_sockets Power sockets check check
luggage Luggage check check
food_and_drink Food and drink check cross
air_con Air conditioning check check
wifi WiFi check check
accessibility Accessibility check check
bicycle Bicycle check cross

San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL CO2 Emissions by Bus

Ecology
Train
209.07kg
Bus
224.01kg
Flight
597.35kg
Car
477.88kg

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Frequently Asked Questions

How much is a bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL?
A bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is $327.18. However the price varies depending on how early you buy, and if it's peak time to travel. Occasionally you can find them for as cheap as $90.00.
What's the cheapest bus ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL?
The cheapest ticket you can get from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is $90.00. We recommend booking as early as possible and off-peak hours to get the cheapest ticket possible. Off-peak times are usually from 09:30 to 16:00, and after 19:00.
What's the distance between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL by bus?
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is 1,855.87 mi.
How long does the bus between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL take?
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is on average 70 hr 44 min. However the fastest option will get you there in 0 hr 20 min.
Which companies operate from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL?
The bus journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL is covered by 2 operator(s). On Virail you can find these carriers that provide services on this route: Greyhound Lines, Inc., FlixBus and Greyhound.
How many bus connections per day go from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL?
San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL has 19 connection(s) per day on average.
What time does the first bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL leave?
The earliest bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL departs at 6:30 AM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
What time does the last bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL depart?
The latest bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL departs at 11:30 PM. However be sure to check with us the schedule on the day you want to leave as the time may differ.
Should I book my ticket from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL in advance?
If you can, we recommend booking your ticket as early as possible to ensure you get better savings. The cheapest bus ticket we have found is $90.00 but this may be subject to change depending on the day of travel, hour you wish to depart and how far in advance you book.
What's the fastest journey time between San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by bus?
The fastest journey time by bus between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL is 0 hr 20 min.
Is there a direct bus from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL?
Yes, there is a direct bus between San Francisco, CA and Chicago, IL.
What are the CO2 emissions for San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL by bus?
The bus journey from San Francisco, CA to Chicago, IL creates 224.01kg of CO2 emissions.

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