Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Tampa
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Tampa. Travelling by train from Chicago to Tampa usually takes 1 day, 18 hours and 20 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Floridian train can make the trip in 1 day, 16 hours and 47 minutes.
- Distance
- 1005 mi (1618 km)
- Fastest train
- 40h 47m
- Lowest price
- CHF 136.13
- Trains per day
- 2
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak Floridian
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Tampa Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Tampa?
There are usually 6 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Tampa.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceCHF 288.52 | Avg. PriceCHF 148.29Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips6 |
Duration | Duration42h 20m | Duration32h 41mFaster |

There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Tampa:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Tampa?
In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Tampa cost about CHF 256 when booked at the cheapest time. Considering the distance between Chicago and Tampa, tickets on this route are relatively expensive. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 16 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around CHF 103.08 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Tampa by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Tampa will cost between CHF 171 and CHF 451. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Tampa by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Tampa often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in February when the average ticket price is only CHF 225. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Tampa during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of CHF 337 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in July, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to Tampa on Wanderu at least 16 days ahead of time, you can save about CHF 103.08 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Tampa?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Tampa. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 43h 52m | CHF 327.61 |
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 40h 49m | CHF 250.30 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railway service in America, offering daily intercity trains to hundreds of destinations across the contiguous United States, as well as several cities in Canada. Every Amtrak train comes equipped with comfortable seats with extra legroom, as well as several four-seat areas with tables in the middle. In addition, each car has a freshly cleaned washroom, free WiFi and power outlets at every seat. There are also snack bars where you can purchase drinks or food during your journey. On average, there is 1 Amtrak train from Chicago to Tampa every day, as well as 1 trip on the weekends, with prices starting from CHF 202.94.










Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Chicago to Tampa start from CHF 115.25, and on average cost CHF 250.30. Daily, Amtrak Floridian runs one schedule to Tampa. Amtrak Floridian in Chicago leaves from Union Station. And in Tampa trains arrive at Union Station - 601 N Nebraska Ave.
From Chicago to Tampa train travel on Amtrak Floridian takes 1 day, 16 hours and 49 minutes. If you are looking to get to Tampa faster, Amtrak Floridian offers more express schedule options with a travel time of 1 day, 16 hours and 47 minutes.
If you are looking to travel to Tampa on a weekend there is typically one Amtrak Floridian scheduled trip per day, which will cost CHF 115.25 for a one-way weekend reservation from Chicago.
Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Tampa
Yes, there are trains that can take you the entire way from Chicago to Tampa. However, there are also some trips on this route that require you to board another vehicle, such as a bus or a shuttle, during your journey. This is worth paying attention to as you book your trip, since a direct train may be preferable for its speed and convenience.
Trains leave the station in Chicago twice a day, so there are a couple of options depending on your preferred travel time. One of these is a direct train, which will typically get you to Tampa faster. While it might still have stops along the way, you will not need to switch trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from Tampa to Chicago. If you're not set on travelling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Tampa for CHF 90.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and Tampa is approximately 1,618 kilometres. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 day, 18 hours and 20 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 1 day, 16 hours and 47 minutes. Looking for ways to pass the time? Most trains are equipped with Wi-Fi, which means you can stream music, browse social media or get some work done during your ride. That said, in case your train has a spotty signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and movies to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Distance (mi)
1005
Distance (km)
1618
The earliest train departs Chicago at 5:35 p.m. while the last train of the day leaves at 6:40 p.m. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full schedule for your specific travel dates.
First train
5:35pm
Last train
6:40pm
Trains from Chicago to Tampa are the most crowded on Sunday. Tickets also tend to be more expensive then. If you are looking for a great deal on your train tickets or just want extra room to stretch out, consider travelling on Saturday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Saturday
City Information
Chicago



Known for its innovative architecture, cultural contributions to jazz and house music, and of course that irresistible deep-dish pizza, the many sights and experiences in Chicago make it one of the best urban vacation destinations for millennials and a top destination in Illinois.
You can't beat the views of the city and Lake Michigan from the SkyDeck in the Willis Tower; at over 1,300 feet, this is the highest observation deck in the U.S. Snap that classic selfie with the Bean in Millennium Park, then wander the many museums in nearby Grant Park. Navy Pier is a popular tourist hotspot for its parks, restaurants, and attractions right on Lake Michigan, and baseball fans will find paradise in Wrigleyville, home to the Chicago Cubs' Wrigley Field and sports bars galore.
Chicago's enormous parks offer plentiful opportunities for outdoor activities in gorgeous urban settings. Many companies offer kayak rentals or boat tours on the Chicago River, with special tours running on Saint Patrick's Day, when the entire river is dyed green. When you’re ready to buy some souvenirs from your epic trip, hit the big brand stores on the Magnificent Mile, or shop local in neighbourhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theatre, famous for launching the careers of comedians like Tina Fey and Stephen Colbert.
Chicago is one of the biggest transportation hubs in the Midwest, and provides easy access to nearby destinations ideal for day trips, as well as international travel from two airports. Thanks to plenty of bus and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
Tampa



Sitting at the heart of the Gulf Coast, Tampa offers a perfect blend of cultural attractions and relaxing indulgences. Infused with a colourful mix of Cuban and Spanish cultural elements, the city of Tampa houses some of the most impressive historic buildings in the state, including the Henry B. Plant Museum, which boasts a permanent exhibition of Victorian-era artifacts. Animal lovers can also rejoice, as the city’s many aquariums and zoos will certainly melt your heart. Head down to the Tampa Electric’s Manatee Viewing Center for some heart-melting cuteness. And for animal lovers with a penchant for streaming docu-series, the Big Cat Rescue (yes, THAT one!) will be a great choice.
Most of the finest restaurants in town are concentrated around the Riverwalk area, which offers unrivaled views of the waterfront. Oystercatchers is reputed as one of the best establishments in town, so you should not miss out on it. Tampa’s cuisine features a very clear Cuban influence, and the best spot to try out these unique fusion dishes is at Ybor City.
The principal train station in the city is the Tampa Union Station, which is also a historic building. It is currently served by Amtrak. At the station, travellers can also take an Amtrak Thruway motorcoach to get to Orlando, Lakeland, Bradenton, etc. The main airport is Tampa International Airport, which is located just six miles west of downtown Tampa.
Station Information
Where is the train station in Chicago?
Main departure station: Union Station


The historic Chicago Union Station is the United States' third busiest train station and a hub for 15 Amtrak train lines with destinations throughout the country. The station also serves bus carriers like Greyhound, Indian Trails and Jefferson Lines, and offers connections to Metra commuter lines. Union Station is also just a quick walk to the nearest Chicago L lines. The current station was built in 1925, to replace the original one dating back to 1881, and today wows visitors with its impressive facade, massive columns, and opulent Great Hall. Located right in downtown and adjacent to the Chicago Loop, Union Station is equipped with many services and amenities, including phone charging stations, shops, and various food and drink options.
All train stations in Chicago:
- Union Station
Where is the train station in Tampa?
Main arrival station: Union Station - 601 N Nebraska Ave


Opened in 1912, the Tampa Union Station is a historic train station that currently serves the Amtrak Silver Star train line, which runs from Miami to New York. The beautiful red brick station house features large windows and soaring ceilings. Located in the Channel District of Tampa, Union Station is close to several rental car agencies and has on-site and nearby parking available. Amtrak Thruway bus service stops at Union Station, and Greyhound bus service runs through a bus terminal only 0.5 miles away on Polk St.
All train stations in Tampa:
- Union Station - 601 N Nebraska Ave
Need a return trip from Tampa to Chicago?
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