Many users appreciated the clean and comfortable buses, noting that they were often on time. The drivers and staff received praise for their professionalism and helpfulness, contributing to a smooth travel experience. However, some travelers mentioned issues with signage outside the bus not clearly indicating destinations or stops at certain locations like Chicago airport.
Coach USA Chicago Madison recent customer reviews
The email receipt was a bit confusing because the pdf of the ticket was at the bottom of the email. Should have been a link at the top. Boarding process was well organized from Ohare MMF. On the bus was just ok. VERY uncomfortable hard seats that barely recline.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Lori E.
It was good. The bus was on time, the driver assisted with the bags and we arrived at our destination on time
5.0 out of 5 stars
Maverick S.
The bus was packed so I luckily got to sit next to a beautiful redhead woman. I asked her if I could have a seat and she consented. I eased into conversation with her and read her social cues if it was OK to continue speaking with her. She told me she has a boyfriend. That was towards the end of the conversation after I complemented the looks of her. She told me that she likes reading (she had both a library book and a nook/kindle.) She told me that she graduated college a couple years back studying Geography (not the most popular choice) and grew up in Madison, WI and is living in Chicago where she is working as an environmental consultant, where she attended college. So, me being a single man and her being a good candidate except for her one dis-qualifier- having a boyfriend, it was good experience to talk to a potential girlfriend and possibly one day I could extend the conversation with the attractive woman into a date and a loving relationship.
Users generally found the booking process straightforward and appreciated the friendly and helpful drivers. However, some noted that buses were crowded, with instances of passengers having to stand due to overbooking. Additionally, clearer directions for boarding at Union Station in Chicago would enhance the experience further.
Amtrak Chicago Madison recent customer reviews
Wonderful drivers.
Crowded. Guy across from me getting high and playing loud music
5.0 out of 5 stars
Linda C.
I guess they had sold too many tickets: the bus was full and some people had to stand.
4.0 out of 5 stars
Annastiina L.
Overall a good experience, however the directions on where to board the bus at Union Station in Chicago could have been more clear. Would have been helpful if it simply said somewhere to board on Canal Street.
Flixbus is a European bus operator that offers intercity and bus travel in over 38 countries. Known for their easy-to-spot lime green buses and for offering affordable transportation between cities in Europe and the Americas, Flixbus is a good option for those looking for an affordable, reliable bus company. In their buses, you'll find free WiFi, bathrooms, and power outlets. You can also pay extra to choose your seat and get extra legroom, or even buy a snack or drink onboard directly from the driver. You can reschedule your ticket for a small fee, which varies from $1 to $5, depending on how close you are to the departure date.
FlixBus Chicago Madison recent customer reviews
Terrible first experience with FlixBus. The bus barely paused at the station and didn't stop long enough for me to board. Customer service just blames me and wants to argue semantics instead of trying to help a customer. I will never use this service again and advise others to book elsewhere.
Greyhound Lines offers the most comprehensive intercity bus services in the United States. They operate a modern, environmentally friendly fleet that serves more than 2400 destinations and carries nearly 16 million passengers annually. When traveling with them, you can expect free WiFi, onboard entertainment, bathrooms, power outlets and decent legroom. One of the great perks of Greyhound is that they connect big cities and smaller towns in the US, where you usually can't get to by train or plane. If you're looking for safe and affordable transportation, Greyhound is a great choice.
Greyhound Chicago Madison recent customer reviews
Overal good except for there staff member Carl that sexually harassed me and another person I was sitting by
2.0 out of 5 stars
Alyssia P.
Passengers played loud music on the bus. Bathroom was dirty.
2.0 out of 5 stars
Noam L.
The bus were dirty, the driver were rude and no polite at all.
Founded in 1919, Jefferson Lines provides bus services across the Midwest in the US. Their buses have WiFi, USB plugs, bathrooms, reclining seats, reading lights and GPS tracking. Tickets are non-refundable, but you can change the date by paying a fee. Known for their affordable prices and convenient schedules, if you're looking to travel in the Midwest, Jefferson Lines is the way to go.
Frequently asked questions about traveling from Chicago to Madison, WI by bus
Please note that schedules, routes, or operator details shown here may be updated or vary at the time of your trip.
How much is the bus ticket from Chicago to Madison?
The cheapest bus tickets from Chicago to Madison start from PEN 90. The average price for this route is around PEN 140. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.
How long is the bus ride from Chicago to Madison?
The average bus trip duration from Chicago to Madison is 2h 55m, covering a distance of 112 miles (181 km). The quickest bus can get you there in 2h 35m and is operated by Coach USA.
Which bus companies service the Chicago to Madison route?
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the bus from Chicago to Madison?
The earliest bus departs from Chicago to Madison at 12:00am. And the latest bus departs at 11:30pm.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Chicago to Madison?
A bus trip from Chicago to Madison generates an estimated 4.51165 kg of CO₂, making it a highly eco-friendly travel option and recommended mode of travel by Busbud.
What is the best bus company from Chicago to Madison?
According to Busbud customers, the highest-rated bus company on this route is Amtrak, with an average rating of 4.1 out of 5 stars based on 6497 reviews.
Which bus company has the best Wi-Fi from Chicago to Madison?
Based on reviews on Busbud, the bus company Amtrak has the best Wi-Fi rating with a score of 3.6.
Which bus company has the most timely service from Chicago to Madison?
According to Busbud traveler reviews, the most timely bus company on this route is Coach USA, with a punctuality rating of 4.3 out of 5 stars.
Which bus company has the cleanest buses from Chicago to Madison?
According to Busbud traveler reviews, the bus company with the cleanest buses on this route is Coach USA, with a cleanliness rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars.
Find cheapest prices for buses
Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.
Best price found
09/21
PEN 132
09/22
PEN 132
Today
PEN 85
09/24
PEN 78
09/25
PEN 82
09/26
PEN 75
09/27
PEN 90
09/28
PEN 71
The cheapest trip from Chicago to Madison, WI was searched and found on Sep 28, 2026 with a price of PEN 71
To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your bus tickets from Chicago to Madison, WI, as early as possible.
You can expect to pay from PEN 71 to PEN 620 for a bus ticket from Chicago to Madison, WI based on the last 2 days. You can expect to find the cheapest price for the trip at PEN 71 which is on 2026-09-28.
Usually Jefferson Lines, Amtrak will charge you higher prices for tickets closer to the departure date. To find the best prices, you should be flexible on your date of travel.
The cheapest trip from Chicago to Madison, WI was searched and found on Sep 28, 2026 with a price of PEN 71
