Previously seen trips

Next departures for Chicago to Effingham on August 14
Vehicle type	Departure time	Departure location	Trip duration	Arrival time	Arrival location
Train	8:15am	Chicago (Union Station), IL	15h 21m	11:36pm	Effingham, IL
Train	8:15am	Chicago (Union Station), IL	3h 41m	11:56am	Effingham, IL
Train	4:05pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	3h 42m	7:47pm	Effingham, IL
Train	4:05pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	7h 31m	11:36pm	Effingham, IL
Train	8:05pm	Chicago (Union Station), IL	3h 31m	11:36pm	Effingham, IL

Compare 2 ways to go from Chicago to Effingham

We recommend taking the train

Among the sustainable travel choices, the Train stands out as a good way to reach Effingham. The journey takes about 3 hours 55 minutes and with fares starting at just CZK 451, it presents an excellent value for a comfortable ride.

5train per day

3h 55mAverage Duration

197 milesDistance

29kgCO₂ emissions

	Average Price	Average Duration	CO₂ emissions	Actions
Bus	Average PriceCZK 862 - CZK 3,162	Average Duration6h 25m	CO₂ emissions 8kg CO₂e
Train	Average PriceCZK 451 - CZK 1,648	Average Duration3h 55m	CO₂ emissions 29kg CO₂e

Train Companies

Amtrak

4.1/56,423 reviews

Staff4.7

Timeliness3.8

Cleanliness4.5

Wifi3.6

Based on 6423 reviews, the company was rated 4.1 stars on Busbud. Travelers were especially satisfied with the seats and the ticket access but often complained with the wifi. Amtrak ticket prices on this trip start at CZK 451

US train companies:Amtrak, Amtrak Acela, Brightline

Frequently asked questions about traveling from Chicago to Effingham by train

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 train ticket from Chicago to Effingham?
The cheapest train tickets from Chicago to Effingham start from CZK 451. The average price for this train route is around CZK 782. Busbud recommends that you book your tickets in advance for a better chance to get the lowest possible price.
How long is the train journey from Chicago to Effingham?
The average train ride duration from Chicago to Effingham is 3h 55m, covering a distance of 197 miles (317 km). The quickest train can get you there in 3h 41m and is operated by Amtrak.
Which train operators service the Chicago to Effingham route?
Several major train operators operate on this route with 5 trains available per day.
What is the earliest and latest departure time for the train from Chicago to Effingham?
The earliest train departs from Chicago to Effingham at 8:15am. And the latest train departs at 10:05pm.

Find cheapest prices for trains

Price is for a one-way ticket for one passenger and based on past searches.

Best price found

08/12

CZK 1,052

08/13

CZK 602

Today

CZK 816

08/15

No data

08/16

No data

08/17

No data

08/18

No data

08/19

No data

The cheapest trip from Chicago to Effingham was searched and found on Aug 13, 2026 with a price of CZK 602

To save money and be sure you have the best seat, it's a good idea to buy your train tickets from Chicago to Effingham, as early as possible.

What's the cheapest way to go from Chicago to Effingham?

The Train is the cheapest travel choice for this destination

Vehicle Type	Travel Time	Avg Price	Daily Departures
Vehicle TypeBus	Travel Time6h 25m	Avg PriceCZK 2,824	Daily Departures7
Vehicle TypeTrain	Travel Time3h 55m	Avg PriceCZK 782	Daily Departures5

The best way to travel between Chicago and Effingham is by train. By choosing the train, you'll get to save some money as you travel to your destination, as ticket prices cost CZK 782 on average. If you're on a budget, you'll find cheap tickets from CZK 451. If you're looking for the fastest way to get to Effingham, choose the train, as it will take you from Chicago to Effingham in about 3h 55m - that's the fastest way to get there!