- Must visit
National Library of Wales Exhibitions
National library galleries displaying manuscripts, art, photography, and treasures of Welsh culture in an important institution.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$37
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$37
Fastest journey on Sep 01
9 h 10 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
9 h 10 m
Buses on Sep 01
1
Distance
121 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Aberystwyth will cost around $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $37.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Aberystwyth without transferring at least once.
NX111 · NX4099:35 AM9h10Cardiff, Sophia Gardens6:45 PMAberystwyth, Alexandra Road$371One-way1 transfer
- NX111 · NX4099:35 AM9h10Cardiff, Sophia Gardens6:45 PMAberystwyth, Alexandra Road$371One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Aberystwyth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $51 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 30m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, while a train costs an average of $57.
Distance: 75 miles (121 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$51 Average price Cheapest | $57 Average price | $37 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 55m Average total duration 6h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration Fastest 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is a bus with an average price of $51 (€41).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Aberystwyth:
A bus is $5 (€4) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth costing on average $57 (€46).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is by train with an average journey time of 4h 0m.
Other travel options to Aberystwyth take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 25m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Aberystwyth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Aberystwyth among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about -4h -38m sooner (6h 25m by bus vs 2h 47m by car) and save roughly $-13.92 (€-11.25) compared to fuel and tolls ($51 (€41) vs $37 (€30)). 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 Mid Wales Travel.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Cardiff to Aberystwyth Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:20AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $41 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Aberystwyth bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Aberystwyth buses for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX111 · NX409 | 9:35 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 9h10 | 6:45 PM Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Aberystwyth 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.
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Why should you book Cardiff to Aberystwyth buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Mid Wales Travel offer buses services from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
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 Mid Wales Travel to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
- 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 Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Aberystwyth run on average 1 times per day, taking around 6h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€29) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 04:57, the last at 19:38. The fastest bus covers the 75 miles (121 km) distance in 7h 25m.
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
Train from $33 (€27)
Distance 75 miles (121 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€29) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 7h 25m |
First bus 4:57 AM |
Last bus 7:38 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $33 (€27)
Bus providers: National Express, Mid Wales Travel from Cardiff to AberystwythYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Aberystwyth with National Express, Mid Wales Travel for as low as $33 (€27). 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
7h 25m
Cheapest National Express Price
$36 (€29)
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.
Mid Wales Travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Mid Wales Travel Duration
4h 10m
Mid Wales Travel frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Aberystwyth
Things to do in Aberystwyth
Discover the best of Aberystwyth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Aberystwyth trip today.
- Recommended
Ceredigion Museum
Town museum in a former Edwardian theatre, covering local history, costume, archaeology, and seafront resort heritage.
- Recommended
School of Art Museum and Galleries
Major university arts centre gallery presenting changing exhibitions of Welsh and international art in a leading cultural venue.
- Must visit
Aberystwyth Promenade
Victorian promenade along Cardigan Bay, ideal for sea views, sunsets, and classic Aberystwyth resort atmosphere.
- Recommended
North Beach
Popular urban beach beside the promenade, great for walking, paddling, and enjoying wide coastal views near the town centre.
- Recommended
Aberystwyth Harbour
Pleasant harbour area where river and sea meet, known for boats, coastal walks, and a more local side of town.
Welsh Breakfast
A traditional Welsh breakfast with bacon, sausage, eggs, laverbread and cockles. It reflects coastal produce and classic Welsh morning fare.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
Seaweed cooked into a soft savory paste, often served at breakfast. It is a classic Welsh coastal specialty linked to local gathering traditions.
- Gluten-free
Cockles
Small local shellfish often served with laverbread or breakfast. They are a long-standing Welsh seaside delicacy on the Cardigan Bay coast.
Little Italy
Long-running town centre Italian restaurant with a good local reputation. Friendly, lively and suitable for a relaxed sit-down meal.
Baravin
Popular seafront venue known for fresh seafood and modern British cooking in a relaxed bistro setting with bay views.
The Ship and Castle
Established harbourside pub serving Welsh ales and classic pub dishes. Casual atmosphere and a reliable choice for local seafood and comfort food.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than major UK tourist cities, while local buses and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is appreciated if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is uncommon, but small change is welcome.
TrawsCymru
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.10
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Alexandra Road -> Aberystwyth Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.7 km
- Travel time
- 9 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on many local and TrawsCymru buses, but carry a backup payment method in case a vehicle is cash only.
- Use TrawsCymru or Traveline Cymru for live bus times and journey planning across Aberystwyth and wider Wales.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Aberystwyth can start from as little as $36 (€29) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Aberystwyth is $51 (€41) ; 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 Cardiff to Aberystwyth is 7h 25m to travel the 75 miles (121 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 Cardiff to Aberystwyth leaves at 4:57 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth leaves at 7:38 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Cardiff to Aberystwyth which require at least one change with National Express, Mid Wales Travel. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth, you can count on National Express, Mid Wales Travel for the best way to get you to Aberystwyth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Aberystwyth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cardiff , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, University . When arriving in Aberystwyth , you can end your journey in bus stations like Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Aberystwyth from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Aberystwyth including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Aberystwyth 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 Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Aberystwyth:
- 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 Cardiff to Aberystwyth:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Aberystwyth with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Aberystwyth 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth, travelers should be mindful of typical coastal town safety concerns such as petty theft, especially around busy areas like the seafront and train station. Common scams include overcharging in some local taxis and occasional street distraction tactics. Staying vigilant with personal belongings and using licensed transportation 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 Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Most Cardiff to Aberystwyth buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Aberystwyth bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cardiff
Arrival bus stations in Aberystwyth
Which Cardiff station do buses to Aberystwyth leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Aberystwyth leave from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK.
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, 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
Which Aberystwyth station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Aberystwyth arrive at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road. Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road is from Aberystwyth city centre.
Aberystwyth, Alexandra RoadAberystwyth bus station, Aberystwyth SY23 1LL, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road from Aberystwyth city centre
Bus304 · 4m · every ~1 min
Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road bus station facilities and services
Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road. ATMs are available at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aberystwyth, Alexandra Road: Wheelchair ramps available.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Aberystwyth and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Aberystwyth
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