Cheap train tickets from Chicago to San Antonio
Find and compare the best ground travel options in one place.
Trip Summary
There are usually 4 daily train trips available from Chicago to San Antonio. Traveling by train from Chicago to San Antonio usually takes 36 hours and 19 minutes, but the fastest Amtrak Texas Eagle train can make the trip in 32 hours and 36 minutes.
- Distance
- 1053 mi (1694 km)
- Fastest train
- 32h 36m
- Lowest price
- TRY 7,076.11
- Trains per day
- 1
- Most frequent service
- Amtrak
- Train lines
- 2
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Chicago to San Antonio Train Schedule
Is it better to travel by bus or train from Chicago to San Antonio?
There are usually 13 daily bus trips available from Chicago to San Antonio.
Train | Bus | |
|---|---|---|
Avg. Price | Avg. PriceTRY 12,437.85 | Avg. PriceTRY 10,175.94Cheaper |
Daily Trips | Daily Trips4 | Daily Trips13 |
Duration | Duration36h 19m | Duration31h 41mFaster |

Train Trip Reviews from Wanderu Customers
Average score for trains from Chicago to San Antonio (Based on 1 ratings and reviews)
5.0
There are several train options that can take you from Chicago to San Antonio:
See more detailsWhat is the price of a train ticket from Chicago to San Antonio?
In the last month, the average price of a train ticket from Chicago to San Antonio was TRY 9,385.85. This is somewhat expensive compared to other train fares, but it makes sense given the route’s long distance. Good news! You can find the cheapest tickets if you book your trip at least 28 days prior to the travel date. You’ll likely pay around TRY 7,406.98 more if you wait to book until the last minute.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to San Antonio by travel date
Over the next 30 days, a one-way train trip from Chicago to San Antonio will cost between TRY 7,223 and TRY 17,519. Book in advance to secure the best price in the next few weeks.
Average train ticket prices from Chicago to San Antonio by month
Ticket prices for the train from Chicago to San Antonio 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 TRY 9,370. If you're thinking of traveling from Chicago to San Antonio during November, keep in mind that train ticket prices may be higher than usual, with an average price of TRY 13,567 during this time of year. The best way to score a cheap deal, even in November, is to book your trip well in advance.
Prices as travel date approaches
By booking your train trip from Chicago to San Antonio on Wanderu at least 28 days ahead of time, you can save about TRY 7,406.98 on your ticket. Waiting until the last minute means missing out on these savings!
Which train should you take from Chicago to San Antonio?
2 train services operate from Chicago to San Antonio. Amtrak usually has more trains scheduled, with 3 trips per day. That said, it's still worth comparing the prices and trip durations:
| Train | Daily Trips | Avg. Time | Avg. Price |
|---|---|---|---|
| Amtrak | 3 | 38h 15m | TRY 11,252.08 |
| Amtrak Texas Eagle | 1 | 32h 36m | TRY 14,714.30 |
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 are 3 Amtrak trains from Chicago to San Antonio every day, as well as 3 trips on the weekends, with prices starting from TRY 7,856.92.










Frequently asked questions about traveling by train from Chicago to San Antonio
There are 4 scheduled trains on most days. There is one direct train, which you can stay on for the entire journey from Chicago to San Antonio. In contrast, taking a non-direct train would require you to transfer trains during your trip. You can also take a train for your return trip from San Antonio to Chicago. If you're not set on traveling by train, you could always take the bus from Chicago to San Antonio for TRY 4,463.
Trains per day
4
Direct trains
1
The distance between Chicago and San Antonio is approximately 1053 miles, or 1694 kilometers. The average train journey between these two cities takes 36 hours and 19 minutes, although the absolute fastest you could get there is 32 hours and 36 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)
1053
Distance (km)
1694
The earliest train departs Chicago at 7:15am while the last train of the day leaves at 2:10pm. 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
7:15am
Last train
2:10pm
Trains from Chicago to San Antonio 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 Wednesday instead, as it tends to be the least crowded day of the week.
Busiest
Sunday
Least crowded
Wednesday
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.
San Antonio



San Antonio is a fast-growing city located in the southwest corner of the Texas Triangle. In addition to the alluring year-round warm weather, San Antonio offers a blend of rich history with contemporary attractions and cuisine.
If there's one thing to remember from your trip to San Antonio, it’s the Alamo! This 18th century fortress is one of five Spanish missions in the San Antonio Missions National Historical Park, all of which are connected by a scenic hiking and biking trail. If history isn't your thing, the River Walk along the San Antonio River is a much livelier spot. This shaded path is lined with shops and restaurants, and you could spend an entire day strolling, shopping, and eating along the river. Don't sleep on the riverside bars, either – San Antonio is one of the cheapest drinking cities in the U.S. so you can bar-hop to your heart’s (and your wallet’s) delight.
Traveling with little ones? San Antonio is home to the San Antonio Zoo, SeaWorld, and Six Flags Fiesta Texas, any one of which will provide a thrilling adventure with no screen time required. Visitors of all ages will find treasures at Historic Market Square, the largest Mexican market in the U.S., where handcrafted art from local artisans is available alongside authentic Mexican food.
San Antonio is one of the biggest cities in the Lone Star State, so it is very easy to travel to other Texas destinations like Austin, Houston, and Dallas by bus or by train, or to destinations farther afield through the San Antonio International Airport.
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 San Antonio?
Main arrival station: 350 Hoefgen St

The San Antonio Amtrak Station is adjacent to the city’s vibrant downtown, nestled between the Alamodome sports complex and the historic Sunset Station where train service began in 1902. Amtrak operations moved to its new home at 350 Hoefgen Ave in 1998, where passengers can board the Texas Eagle to travel to Chicago, or connect to the Sunset Limited heading to Los Angeles. The stuccoed, Spanish Mission Revival style station is fully accessible, and offers comfortable seating as well as restrooms available in the waiting room. Two of San Antonio’s most popular attractions, the bustling Riverwalk and the historic Alamo, cannot be missed and luckily are within just 1 mile of the station.
All train stations in San Antonio:
- 350 Hoefgen St
Need a return trip from San Antonio to Chicago?
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