- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Belfast to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$74
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$74
Fastest journey on Sep 20
21 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
21 h 40 m
Buses on Sep 20
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 $74 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $74.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Belfast to Cardiff without transferring at least 2 times.
UL923 · NX594 · NX5072:20 PM21h40Belfast, Grand Central Station12:00 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$741One-way2 transfers- UL923 · NX595 · NX5072:20 PM21h40Belfast, Grand Central Station12:00 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$741One-way2 transfers
- UL923 · NX594 · NX5072:20 PM21h40Belfast, Grand Central Station12:00 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$741One-way2 transfers
- UL923 · NX595 · NX5072:20 PM21h40Belfast, Grand Central Station12:00 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$741One-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 flight, with an average ticket price of $67 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 20m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $67, while a bus costs an average of $74.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$74 Average price | $67 Average price Cheapest | $10 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
18h 44m Average total duration 18h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 2h 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 flight with an average price of $67.
This is compared to other travel options from Belfast to Cardiff:
A flight is $7 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Belfast to Cardiff costing on average $74.
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 14m.
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. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $74 compared to roughly $10 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-63.90. The journey takes 18h 14m versus 9h 7m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility 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, 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, Sunday, September 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| UL923 · NX594 · NX507 | 2:20 PM Belfast, Grand Central Station | 21h40 | 12:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| UL923 · NX595 · NX507 | 2:20 PM Belfast, Grand Central Station | 21h40 | 12:00 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.
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Sep 20
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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 2 times per day, taking around 18h 14m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $72 but you can travel from only $67 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 17h 55m.
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 $67
Distance 242 miles (391 km) |
Average bus duration 18h 14m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 17h 55m |
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 Tue |
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 $67
Bus providers: National Express from Belfast to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Belfast to Cardiff with National Express for as low as $67. 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 National Express Duration
17h 55m
Cheapest National Express Price
$72
National Express frequency
2 a day
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 history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens) -> Cardiff Central Station
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Cardiff Bus services. Buying in the official app can speed up boarding.
- Transport for Wales rail services also accept contactless and card payments at many stations, but fares and products vary by route.
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 $72 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Belfast to Cardiff is $74 ; 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 17h 55m 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 2 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 17h 55m 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, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). 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 StreetUpper Queen Street, Belfast BT1 6PU, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street from Belfast city centre
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street is 1 km from Belfast city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus3A, 3B, 3C, 3D, 3E, 3F, 3G, 3H, 3J, 4C, 4D, 4E, 5A, 5B, 5C, 6A, 6D, 6E, 12, 511 · 7m · every ~36 min
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street bus station facilities and services
Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street. ATMs are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street: Accessibility features not detailed.
Which Cardiff station do buses from Belfast arrive at?
Buses from Belfast to Cardiff most often arrive at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Some services arrive at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
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, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)Cardiff CF10 3RB, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 21, 136, 23 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). ATMs are available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB): Accessible via ramped access.
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
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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