Canterbury to Cardiff bus with National Express

Wed, Aug 05
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Canterbury to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

€24

Average price

€38

Fastest journey

7 h 50 m

Average duration

7 h 58 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

296 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Canterbury to Cardiff will cost around €38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €24.

Fast buses

Of the 3 buses that leave Canterbury for Cardiff on Wed, Aug 05, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Aug 05 the direct buses cover the 296 km distance in an average of 7 h 58 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 50 m .

On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest buses will take 8 h 15 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
    6:50 PM8h15
    Canterbury
    3:05 AMCardiff
    241One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    4:20 AM7h50
    Canterbury
    12:10 PMCardiff
    381One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    3:20 AM7h50
    Canterbury
    11:10 AMCardiff
    501One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Canterbury to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Canterbury to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 11m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €19, and a train costs an average of €38.

Distance: 183 miles (296 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

€30

Average price

Cheapest

€66

Average price

€63

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 20m

Average total duration

5h 50m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 41m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 11m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Canterbury to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of €30.

This is compared to other travel options from Canterbury to Cardiff:

A bus is €37 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Canterbury to Cardiff costing on average €66.

The fastest way to travel from Canterbury to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 11m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 50m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Canterbury and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury 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.

Canterbury to Cardiff Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20AM
Arrival Time
11:10AM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:20AM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30AM
Arrival Time
02:00PM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
04:20PM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
04:50PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
05:20PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50PM
Arrival Time
08:25PM
Duration
7h35
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
09:45PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
11:35PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:50PM
Arrival Time
12:00AM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
42
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:50PM
Arrival Time
01:00AM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:50PM
Arrival Time
03:15AM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
21
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:55PM
Arrival Time
12:55AM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:55PM
Arrival Time
01:55AM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Mon, Fri
Cheapest price
26

Live departures

Canterbury to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Canterbury to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express3:20 AM Canterbury
7h50
11:10 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
National Express4:20 AM Canterbury
7h50
12:10 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
National Express6:50 PM Canterbury
8h15
3:05 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Canterbury to Cardiff by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

Why should you book Canterbury to Cardiff buses with Omio?

National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Canterbury to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Canterbury 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 Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Canterbury 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Canterbury to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Canterbury to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Canterbury to Cardiff run on average 17 times per day, taking around 5h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €19 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 20:18. The fastest bus covers the 183 miles (296 km) distance in 6h 0m.

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
183 miles (296 km)
Average bus duration
5h 50m
Cheapest ticket price
€19
Buses per day
17
Fastest bus
6h 0m
First bus
3:15 AM
Last bus
8:18 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
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

Bus providers: National Express, Megabus from Canterbury to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Canterbury to Cardiff with National Express, Megabus for as low as €19. 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
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
€19
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.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

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 Canterbury to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Canterbury 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 Canterbury to Cardiff can start from as little as €19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Canterbury to Cardiff is €30 ; 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 Canterbury to Cardiff is 6h 0m to travel the 183 miles (296 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 Canterbury to Cardiff leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Canterbury to Cardiff leaves at 8:18 PM.
There are 17 buses a day from Canterbury to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Canterbury to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Canterbury and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Canterbury , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Canterbury, Bus Station, Canterbury, University Of Kent . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Cardiff, University .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Canterbury, Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cardiff from Canterbury is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Canterbury to Cardiff is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Canterbury and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Canterbury to Cardiff for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Canterbury to Cardiff:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
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 Canterbury to Cardiff depends on the bus companies:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
  • 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 Canterbury to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Canterbury to Cardiff:
  • Megabus
    • One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
  • 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 Canterbury to Cardiff:
  • Megabus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Canterbury to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Canterbury to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Canterbury to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Canterbury to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Canterbury 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Canterbury 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 Canterbury to Cardiff

Most Canterbury to Cardiff buses use the Canterbury, Bus Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). Use this guide to compare Canterbury and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Canterbury
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff

Which Canterbury station do buses to Cardiff leave from?

Buses from Canterbury to Cardiff leave from Canterbury, Bus Station. The station is from Canterbury city centre at Canterbury bus station, Canterbury CT1 2SY, UK.
Canterbury, Bus StationCanterbury bus station, Canterbury CT1 2SY, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Canterbury, Bus Station from Canterbury city centre

Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · €3 · every ~22 min

Canterbury, Bus Station bus station facilities and services

Canterbury, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafes and eateries within a short walk.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Canterbury, Bus Station. ATMs are aTM located outside the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Canterbury, Bus Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Canterbury, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury, Bus Station: Wheelchair accessible with assistance.

Canterbury, University Of KentUniversity of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, United KingdomWifiParkingATMAccessibilityWC
City-centre transport

Getting to Canterbury, University Of Kent from Canterbury city centre

Canterbury, University Of Kent is 1 km from Canterbury city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus4, 4X, 5, 6, 6A

Canterbury, University Of Kent bus station facilities and services

Canterbury, University Of Kent has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, and WC.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located on campus, near the student union.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Canterbury, University Of Kent: Parking, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Canterbury, University Of Kent: Elevators, ramps.

More options for your journey from Canterbury to Cardiff

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

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