- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Belfast to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$73
Average price
$73
Fastest journey
21 h 50 m
Average duration
21 h 50 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
391 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Belfast to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Belfast to Cardiff will cost around $73 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $73.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Belfast to Cardiff without transferring at least 2 times.
UL923 · NX595 · NX5072:20 PM21h50Belfast, Grand Central Station12:10 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way2 transfers- UL923 · NX594 · NX5072:20 PM21h50Belfast, Grand Central Station12:10 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way2 transfers
- UL923 · NX595 · NX5072:20 PM21h50Belfast, Grand Central Station12:10 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way2 transfers
- UL923 · NX594 · NX5072:20 PM21h50Belfast, Grand Central Station12:10 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Belfast to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Belfast to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $71. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $71, and a flight costs an average of $71.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$73 Average price Cheapest | $147 Average price | $10 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 36m Average total duration 18h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 9h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Belfast to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $73 (€60).
This is compared to other travel options from Belfast to Cardiff:
A bus is $74 (€60) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Belfast to Cardiff costing on average $147 (€120).
The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Cardiff is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 20m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 18h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Cardiff including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Belfast to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 21h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 21h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $73 |
Live departures
Belfast to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Belfast to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Monday, June 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UL923 · NX595 · NX507 | Delayed 1:30 PM 2:20 PMBelfast, Grand Central Station | 21h50 | 12:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| UL923 · NX594 · NX507 | Delayed 1:30 PM 2:20 PMBelfast, Grand Central Station | 21h50 | 12:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Cardiff by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Mon
Jun 22
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Jun 28
Why should you book Belfast to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Belfast to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Belfast to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Belfast to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Belfast to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Belfast to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Belfast to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 18h 6m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $71 (€58) but you can travel from only $71 (€58) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 14:20, the last at 18:53. The fastest bus covers the 242 miles (391 km) distance in 21h 20m.
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $71 (€58)
Distance 242 miles (391 km) |
Average bus duration 18h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $71 (€58) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 21h 20m |
First bus 2:20 PM |
Last bus 6:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $71 (€58)
Bus providers: National Express from Belfast to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Belfast to Cardiff with National Express for as low as $71 (€58). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
21h 20m
Cheapest Price
$71 (€58)
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with promenades, public buildings, and popular photo-friendly views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park ideal for riverside walks, greenery, and easy access from the castle.
- Must visit
Cardiff Market Arcade Quarter
Network of historic Victorian and Edwardian arcades prized for architecture and local independent shops.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savory cheese sauce, often seasoned with mustard or ale. It is a staple in pubs and cafes across Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steakhouse in central Cardiff, praised for quality Welsh beef, polished service, and a lively modern atmosphere.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Highly regarded fine-dining venue serving well-presented British dishes in a unique and memorable setting.
Madeira Restaurante
Long-running Portuguese restaurant popular for grilled meat, seafood, and generous portions in a warm, traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.70
To the city center
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff -> Cardiff Central Station, Cardiff
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is widely accepted on Cardiff buses, making it easy to buy tickets onboard.
- Use the Transport for Wales app for live journey planning and rail tickets across Cardiff and South Wales.
FAQs: Bus from Belfast to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Cardiff by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Belfast to Cardiff can start from as little as $71 (€58) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Belfast to Cardiff is $73 (€60) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Belfast to Cardiff is 21h 20m to travel the 242 miles (391 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Belfast to Cardiff leaves at 2:20 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Belfast to Cardiff leaves at 6:53 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Belfast to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Belfast to Cardiff, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Belfast and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Belfast is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 21h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Belfast to Cardiff is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Cardiff including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Belfast to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Belfast to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cardiff are:
- Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress with Roman and Norman roots offering guided tours and events
- St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life and culture through reconstructed buildings and exhibits
- Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions
- National Museum Cardiff, featuring art, archaeology, and natural history collections
- Bute Park, a large green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The best things to do in Cardiff include:
- Millennium Centre, a renowned arts venue hosting opera, ballet, and theater performances
- Explore the vibrant nightlife in Cardiff's city center with its array of pubs and clubs
- Take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for scenic views and historical insights
- Visit the Cardiff International White Water for an adventurous day of rafting and kayaking
- Enjoy shopping and dining at the bustling Cardiff Market, offering local produce and unique finds.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Belfast to Cardiff depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Belfast to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Belfast to Cardiff:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Belfast to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Belfast to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Belfast to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Belfast to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Belfast nor Cardiff are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Cardiff among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Belfast to Cardiff
Most Belfast to Cardiff buses use the Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street to Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Use this guide to compare Belfast and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Belfast
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street
City-centre transport
Getting to Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street from Belfast city centre
Bus3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, 3H, 3J, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6D, 6E, 12, 511 · 7m · every ~36 min
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 21, 136, 23 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from Belfast
More options for your journey from Belfast to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Belfast
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