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. Traveling by train from Chicago to Tampa usually takes 1 day, 18 hours, and 23 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
- MX$3,005.03
- Trains per day
- 1
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak Floridian
- Train lines
- 2
Millions of travelers trust Wanderu every year to get:
Lowest Prices
We find the cheapest bus & train tickets, so you can wander for less.
Best Travel Options
We partner with 500+ carriers to bring you the most bus & train options.
Quick & Easy Booking
Book trips quickly with a simple, hassle-free checkout – online & on our app.
Fast Customer Support
We don’t monkey around. We respond within minutes to help you out.
See what travelers are saying about Wanderu:
Chicago to Tampa Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to Tampa?
There are usually 8 daily bus trips available from Chicago to Tampa.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceMX$5,702.55 | Avg. PriceMX$3,191.23Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips2 | Daily Trips8 |
Duration | Duration42h 23m | Duration31h 49mFaster |

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, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to Tampa was MX$4,652. 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 29 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around MX$3,281.75 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 MX$4,111 and MX$6,711. 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 MX$4,978. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to Tampa during July, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of MX$7,522 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 29 days ahead of time, you can save about MX$3,281.75 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 58m | MX$6,681.75 |
| Amtrak Floridian | 1 | 40h 54m | MX$4,777.01 |
Amtrak is the largest passenger railroad 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 restroom, 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 MX$5,383.25.










Amtrak Floridian train tickets from Chicago to Tampa start from MX$3,005.03, and on average cost MX$4,777.01. 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 54 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 MX$3,005.03 for a one-way weekend reservation from Chicago.
Frequently asked questions about traveling 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 traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to Tampa for MX$1,825.
Trains per day
2
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and Tampa is approximately 1,005 miles. The average train journey between these two cities takes 1 day, 18 hours, and 23 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 PM while the last train of the day leaves at 6:40 PM. 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 traveling on Friday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Friday
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 neighborhoods like Andersonville and Wicker Park. And don't miss the chance to laugh until you cry at The Second City comedy theater, 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 colorful 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, travelers 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?
Search Train TicketsPlan your next adventure
More trains from Chicago
- Chicago to Niagara Falls TrainMX$1,788+
- Chicago to Miami TrainMX$5,217+
- Chicago to Springfield TrainMX$737+
- Chicago to New Orleans TrainMX$2,544+
- Chicago to Detroit TrainMX$1,364+
- Chicago to St Paul TrainMX$1,438+
- Chicago to Omaha TrainMX$2,009+
- Chicago to New York TrainMX$3,521+
- Chicago to Dallas TrainMX$3,208+
- Chicago to Ontario TrainMX$8,001+
- Chicago to Orlando TrainMX$4,849+
- Chicago to South Bend TrainMX$498+
- Chicago, IL to Springfield, MA TrainMX$2,894+
- Chicago to Flint TrainMX$959+
- Chicago to St Louis TrainMX$1,143+
- Chicago to Las Vegas TrainMX$4,885+
- Chicago to Memphis TrainMX$1,696+
- Chicago to Milwaukee TrainMX$498+
Continue by train from Tampa
- Tampa to Deerfield Beach TrainMX$498+
- Tampa to Fort Lauderdale TrainMX$498+
- Tampa to Miami TrainMX$535+
- Tampa to West Palm Beach TrainMX$553+
- Tampa to Atlanta TrainMX$4,111+
- Tampa to Boston TrainMX$4,296+
- Tampa to Las Vegas TrainMX$8,997+
- Tampa to Memphis TrainMX$6,471+
- Tampa to Houston Train
- Tampa to Delray Beach TrainMX$608+
- Tampa to Jacksonville TrainMX$516+
- Tampa to Orlando TrainMX$295+
- Tampa to Winter Haven TrainMX$295+
- Tampa to Chicago TrainMX$4,406+
- Tampa to Omaha TrainMX$6,416+
- Tampa to New York TrainMX$3,466+
- Tampa to Dallas TrainMX$8,185+
- Tampa to Seattle TrainMX$10,287+
Check out these popular routes
- Montreal to Québec City TrainMX$701+
- San Diego to Los Angeles TrainMX$682+
- Orlando to Miami TrainMX$996+
- Portland, ME to Seattle, WA TrainMX$8,370+
- New York to Washington DC TrainMX$2,415+
- New York to Philadelphia TrainMX$1,438+
- Philadelphia to New York TrainMX$1,346+
- Seattle to Vancouver TrainMX$1,106+
- Seattle to Portland TrainMX$774+
- Los Angeles to San Diego TrainMX$774+
- Washington DC to New York TrainMX$2,360+
- Boston to New York TrainMX$2,489+
- New York to New Haven TrainMX$1,069+
- New York to Boston TrainMX$2,212+
- New York to Providence TrainMX$2,378+
- Providence to New York TrainMX$2,526+
- Seattle to New York TrainMX$8,849+
- Seattle to Philadelphia TrainMX$7,411+

Wanderu is the simplest way to book bus and train travel.
With just a quick search on Wanderu, you can compare bus and train schedules and prices from hundreds of travel companies in one convenient place to find the trip that works best for you. Wanderu’s simple checkout process makes it easy to book cheap bus and train tickets hassle-free. Most importantly, as Wanderu is an official partner of all leading bus and train companies, we always have the best bus and train deals out there.




