Cheap train tickets from Chicago to Topeka
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Trip Summary
There are usually 2 daily train trips available from Chicago to Topeka. Travelling by train from Chicago to Topeka usually takes 12 hours and 46 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Southwest Chief train can make the trip in 9 hours and 51 minutes.
- Distance
- 466 mi (750 km)
- Fastest train
- 9h 51m
- Lowest price
- RON 396.65
- Trains per day
- 2
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to Topeka Train Timetable
Is it better to travel by coach or train from Chicago to Topeka?
There are usually 9 daily coach trips from Chicago to Topeka.
Train | Coach | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceRON 659.87 | Avg. PriceRON 572.56Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips9 |
Duration | Duration12h 46mFaster | Duration20h 20m |

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to Topeka (Based on 1 rating and review)
5.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to Topeka:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to Topeka?
In the last month, train tickets from Chicago to Topeka cost about RON 435 when booked at the cheapest time. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 9 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around RON 511.34 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Topeka by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to Topeka will cost between RON 406 and RON 951. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to Topeka by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to Topeka often fluctuate based on the time of year. For the best prices on this route, book in January when the average ticket price is only RON 511. If you're thinking of travelling from Chicago to Topeka during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of RON 760 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 Topeka on Wanderu at least 9 days ahead of time, you can save about RON 511.34 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to Topeka?
2 train services operate from Chicago to Topeka. However, each train line only offers one daily trip.
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 1 | 15h 41m | RON 611.70 |
| Amtrak Southwest Chief | 1 | 9h 51m | RON 708.07 |
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 toilet, free WiFi and power sockets 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 Topeka every day, as well as 1 trip at the weekends, with prices starting from RON 430.10.










The Southwest Chief is a passenger train operated by America’s largest train service, Amtrak. The full route travels over 2,200 miles from Chicago to Los Angeles, which takes over 43 hours. The train covers the stretch from Chicago to Topeka in about 9 hours and 51 minutes. In addition to standard Coach Class seats, the Southwest Chief offers several sleeper cabin options on longer journeys. Amtrak’s Southwest Chief is consistently ranked as one of the most scenic train routes in America, thanks to the stunning views of the Painted Desert, the Red Cliffs of Sedona, and the Grand Canyon you’ll see from your train window.
Frequently asked questions about travelling by train from Chicago to Topeka
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 Topeka 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 Topeka to Chicago. If you're not set on travelling by train, you could always take the coach from Chicago to Topeka for RON 354.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and Topeka is approximately 466 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 12 hours and 46 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 9 hours and 51 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 patchy signal, or is among the few without Wi-Fi, we also recommend downloading TV shows and films to your mobile device in advance of your trip. That way the ride will fly by whatever the Wi-Fi situation.
Distance (mi)
466
Distance (km)
750
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:40 while the last train of the day leaves at 13:30. To see all scheduled departure times, use the search function on this page to get the full timetable for your specific travel dates.
First train
7:40am
Last train
1:30pm
Trains from Chicago to Topeka 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 Tuesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Tuesday
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 holiday 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 transport 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 coach and train stations throughout the city, getting to the Windy City is a breeze.
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 coach 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 Topeka?
Main arrival station: 500 SE Holliday Pl
Topeka has one train station.
Train stations in Topeka:
- 500 SE Holliday Pl
Need a return trip from Topeka to Chicago?
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