Passengers consistently highlight the cleanliness and comfort of the buses, as well as their punctuality. The drivers are often described as professional, helpful, and kind. Many users appreciated smooth trips with clear instructions provided for travel. However, a few reviews mention minor issues such as unclear signage outside the bus or discrepancies in ticketing information regarding mobile tickets versus printed ones. Overall, travelers express satisfaction with their experiences using this service.
Coach USA Chicago Madison recent customer reviews
Horrible. We switched buses three times. After a hellish flight travel day and night, this was an even worse way to make the final leg of the trip from Chicago to Madison. Getting on four different buses is unacceptable.
1.0 out of 5 stars
Whitney M.
I was very impressed with the entire experience. I was comfortable the whole ride, we made great time, the bus was very clean. Nothing could have been better.
5.0 out of 5 stars
Stephen B.
Large bus with plenty of space. Conductor and other workers were very kind and helpful
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 MAD 250. The average price for this route is around MAD 385. 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 3h 20m, covering a distance of 114 miles (184 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 11:15pm.
What are the CO₂ emissions for the bus trip from Chicago to Madison?
A bus trip from Chicago to Madison generates an estimated 4.578275 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 6383 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 4.2 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
08/04
MAD 364
08/05
MAD 364
Today
MAD 282
08/07
MAD 282
08/08
MAD 248
08/09
MAD 272
08/10
MAD 215
08/11
MAD 196
The cheapest trip from Chicago to Madison, WI was searched and found on Aug 11, 2026 with a price of MAD 196
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 MAD 196 to MAD 1,708 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 MAD 196 which is on 2026-08-11.
Usually Jefferson Lines 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 Aug 11, 2026 with a price of MAD 196
