Compare 1,000+ train, bus and airline operators on Omio
DC Monuments by Night: 10+ Landmarks | Open-Top Upgrade Available
4.77,286 reviews3h
from €53
Check availabilityWays to travel from Chicago to Washington D.C.
Typical journey times and the lowest fares we found for each way to travel.
Journey times and fares come from Omio's route data, last checked on October 12, 2026. Prices change often and depend on your travel date. We may earn a commission if you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Good to know
- Over land, the quickest option is the bus, at about 16h 35m.
- By train the journey takes about 17h 30m, with fares from €64; by bus it takes about 16h 35m, with fares from €56.
- Some connections include a change of train or bus. Omio shows the exact timetable and any changes before you book.
- The flight time covers the flight itself. Allow extra time to reach the airports and pass security, which can make ground transport just as fast on shorter routes.
Top tours and experiences in Washington D.C.
The tours and tickets travellers book most, with ratings and reviews from Viator.
DC Monuments Night Tour with 10+ Stops, National Mall, Tickets
4.66,052 reviews3h
from €57
Check availability
Washington DC Monuments by Moonlight Tour by Trolley
4.64,236 reviews2h 30m
from €54
Check availability
Washington DC in One Day: Guided Sightseeing Tour + Boat Cruise
4.73,753 reviews6h
from €81
Check availabilityWashington Monument ticketsNational Mall ticketsArlington National Cemetery ticketsLibrary of Congress tickets
All things to do in Washington D.C. →Tours and prices from Viator, a Tripadvisor company. Prices change with your dates. We may earn a commission if you book, at no extra cost to you.
Where to stay in Washington D.C.
Hotels close to the centre of Washington D.C., from budget to luxury. Prices are typical nightly rates at our last check.
Budget
Mid-range
Upscale
LuxuryHotel prices come from Traveloka, last checked on February 4, 2026, and change with your dates. We may earn a commission if you book through our links, at no extra cost to you.
Ready to explore Washington D.C.?
About Washington D.C.
Washington D.C. is the political heart of America, where iconic monuments and world-class museums line the National Mall. From the Smithsonian to Capitol Hill, the city offers free access to American history and culture.
Keep exploring
Return journey
More routes from Chicago
Chicago to New York City
Flight · 2h 10m · Flight from €61
Chicago to Minneapolis
Flight · 1h 35m · Bus from €39
Chicago to Boston
Flight · 2h 23m · Flight from €58
Chicago to Toronto
Flight · 1h 39m · Bus from €36
Chicago to Nashville
Flight · 1h 34m · Bus from €42
Chicago to Miami
Flight · 3h 12m · Flight from €48
More routes to Washington D.C.
Frequently asked questions
Quick answers based on current route data.
How long does it take to get from Chicago to Washington D.C.?+
The quickest option is usually by plane, which takes about 1h 55m.
What is the cheapest way to get from Chicago to Washington D.C.?+
The cheapest fares are usually by bus, from around €56. Prices depend on the date and how early you book.
Is there a train from Chicago to Washington D.C.?+
Yes. Omio lists train connections from Chicago to Washington D.C., with a typical journey time of about 17h 30m. Some connections may include a change.
Is there a bus from Chicago to Washington D.C.?+
Yes. Buses run from Chicago to Washington D.C., with a typical journey time of about 16h 35m and fares from around €56.
