Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff bus with National Express

Fri, Oct 09
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 09

Cheapest price on Oct 09

$24

Average ticket price on Oct 09

$31

Fastest journey on Oct 09

3 h 50 m

Average journey duration on Oct 09

5 h 49 m

Buses on Oct 09

4

Distance

146 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff will cost around $31 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.

Fast buses

On Fri, Oct 09, we found 4 buses from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff, including 4 direct services.

On Fri, Oct 09 the direct buses cover the 146 km distance in an average of 5 h 49 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 50 m .

On Fri, Oct 09 the slowest buses will take 6 h 35 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • National Express
    3:20 PM3h50
    Birmingham International Airport
    7:10 PMCardiff
    $241One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    3:30 AM6h15
    Birmingham International Airport
    9:45 AMCardiff
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    11:05 PM6h35
    Birmingham International Airport
    5:40 AMCardiff
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    10:05 PM6h35
    Birmingham International Airport
    4:40 AMCardiff
    $361One-way
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 17m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€16) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 03:40, the last at 22:40. The fastest bus covers the 90 miles (146 km) distance in 3h 10m.

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
Distance
90 miles (146 km)
Average bus duration
4h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
$19 (€16)
Buses per day
6
Fastest bus
3h 10m
First bus
3:40 AM
Last bus
10:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
1 day
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

Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:30AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:40AM
Arrival Time
11:05AM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:30AM
Arrival Time
10:45AM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:40AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
05:40AM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
04:10PM
Duration
8h10
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
01:15PM
Duration
4h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$12
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55AM
Arrival Time
04:35PM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:55PM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
10:00PM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20PM
Arrival Time
07:10PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20PM
Arrival Time
08:10PM
Duration
3h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:15PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
5h35
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:05PM
Arrival Time
04:40AM
Duration
6h35
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:40PM
Arrival Time
04:40AM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:05PM
Arrival Time
05:40AM
Duration
6h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$23

Live departures

Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff buses for today, Thursday, October 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express11:05 PM Birmingham International Airport
6h35
5:40 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
Friday, October 9
FlixBus3:30 AM Birmingham International Airport
6h15
9:45 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
National Express3:20 PM Birmingham International Airport
3h50
7:10 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff.
  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Birmingham International Airport to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $19 (€16). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$22 (€18)
FlixBus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

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
3h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
$19 (€16)
National Express frequency
5 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

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Birmingham International Airport 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff can start from as little as $19 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff is $34 (€29) ; 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 Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff is 3h 10m to travel the 90 miles (146 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 Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff leaves at 3:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff leaves at 10:40 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Birmingham International Airport and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Birmingham International Airport and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Birmingham International Airport 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.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
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 Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff

Most Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff buses use the Birmingham, Coach Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Use this guide to compare Birmingham International Airport and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Birmingham
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre

TRUE

Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services

Cardiff, North Road (Friary 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, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.

Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)Cardiff CF10 3RB, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
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.

More options for your journey from Birmingham International Airport to Cardiff

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

HomeBusesBuses in United KingdomBus tickets to CardiffBirmingham International Airport to Cardiff bus

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