- Must visit
Titanic Belfast
Award-winning museum on the Titanic story, Belfast shipbuilding and ocean travel. Its immersive galleries are the city's signature experience.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Belfast
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 12
Cheapest price on Sep 12
$74
Average ticket price on Sep 12
$74
Fastest journey on Sep 12
21 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Sep 12
21 h 45 m
Buses on Sep 12
1
Distance
391 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Belfast is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Belfast 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 Cardiff to Belfast without transferring at least 2 times.
NX509 · NX594 · UL9234:45 PM21h45Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2:30 PMBelfast, Grand Central Station$741One-way2 transfers
- NX509 · NX594 · UL9234:45 PM21h45Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2:30 PMBelfast, Grand Central Station$741One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Cardiff to Belfast
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Belfast among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $74 For those with little time, consider booking a bus, which has an average total journey time of 18h 5m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $74, while a bus costs an average of $74.
Distance: 242 miles (391 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$74 Average price Cheapest | $149 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
18h 5m Average total duration Fastest 17h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 9h 12m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Belfast is a bus with an average price of $74 (€60).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Belfast is by bus with an average journey time of 17h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Belfast including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Belfast 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 (€60) compared to roughly $149 (€120) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $75 (€61). The journey takes 17h 35m versus 9h 12m 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.
Cardiff to Belfast Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 22h45 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 21h20 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:25PM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 21h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 20h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 21h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 21h20 | Departure days Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 21h10 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 02:30PM | Duration 21h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $75 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Belfast bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Belfast buses for today, Friday, September 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:10 PM Cardiff | 21h20 | 1:30 PM Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:10 PM Cardiff | 21h20 | 2:30 PM Belfast | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Belfast 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 12
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Why should you book Cardiff to Belfast buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Belfast.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Belfast.
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 Cardiff to Belfast.
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 Cardiff to Belfast.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Belfast
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Belfast run on average 1 times per day, taking around 17h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $72 (€59) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 14:20, the last at 18:53. The fastest bus covers the 242 miles (391 km) distance in 16h 30m.
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 242 miles (391 km) |
Average bus duration 17h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $72 (€59) |
Buses per day 1 |
Fastest bus 16h 30m |
First bus 2:20 PM |
Last bus 6:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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 from Cardiff to BelfastYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Belfast with National Express. 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
16h 30m
Cheapest National Express Price
$72 (€59)
National Express frequency
1 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 Belfast
Things to do in Belfast
Discover the best of Belfast — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Belfast trip today.
- Must visit
Ulster Museum
Northern Ireland's national museum with art, history, archaeology and natural sciences. A varied and essential stop near Queen's University.
- Recommended
The MAC
Major contemporary arts venue showing local and international exhibitions in a striking riverside building in the Cathedral Quarter.
- Must visit
Botanic Gardens
Leafy Victorian park with formal gardens, tropical ravine and riverside walks. Ideal for relaxing near the university quarter.
- Must visit
Cathedral Quarter
Historic quarter of cobbled lanes, street art, music venues and heritage buildings. Great for walking and soaking up city atmosphere.
- Must visit
Titanic Quarter
Restored dockside district around Titanic Belfast with slipways, public art and maritime heritage walks by the River Lagan.
Ulster Fry
A hearty Ulster breakfast with bacon, sausages, eggs, soda bread and potato bread. It is a classic Northern Irish start to the day.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Soda Bread
Dense griddled bread made with baking soda instead of yeast. It is a staple of Belfast breakfasts and often served fried or toasted.
- Vegetarian
Potato Bread
Flat potato bread cooked on a griddle, often part of an Ulster Fry. It is beloved in Belfast for its soft texture and buttery taste.
OX
Refined Michelin-starred dining known for modern Irish cooking with top local ingredients in an elegant setting.
Mourne Seafood Bar
Popular seafood venue near the city center, known for fresh oysters, fish dishes and a lively contemporary atmosphere.
The Crown Liquor Saloon
Historic Victorian pub and restaurant famed for classic Irish dishes and ornate interiors. Great for traditional Belfast atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are mid-priced, pubs are reasonable, and local buses are affordable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service is often not included. Tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxi fares, and tipping in cafes is optional.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Belfast
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Belfast 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 Belfast, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Belfast can start from as little as $72 (€59) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Belfast is $74 (€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 Cardiff to Belfast is 16h 30m 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 Cardiff to Belfast leaves at 2:20 PM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Belfast leaves at 6:53 PM.
There are 1 buses a day from Cardiff to Belfast which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Belfast, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Belfast. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Belfast and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Belfast from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 16h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Belfast is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Belfast including taking a bus and flight.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Belfast for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Belfast:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Belfast are:
- Titanic Belfast, an interactive museum dedicated to the history of the Titanic and shipbuilding in Belfast
- Belfast Castle, a historic landmark offering panoramic views of the city and surrounding areas
- St. George's Market, a vibrant market featuring local produce, crafts, and live music
- Ulster Museum, a comprehensive museum showcasing art, history, and natural sciences
- Botanic Gardens, a Victorian-era public garden with a tropical ravine and glasshouse.
The best things to do in Belfast include:
- Crumlin Road Gaol, a former prison offering guided tours and insights into its storied past
- Take a Black Taxi Tour to explore Belfast's political history and murals
- Enjoy a scenic walk along the Lagan Towpath
- Visit the Cathedral Quarter for its vibrant arts scene and nightlife
- Explore Cave Hill Country Park for hiking and stunning views of the city.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Belfast 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 Belfast.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Belfast:
- 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 Belfast:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Belfast.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Belfast with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Belfast with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Belfast with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Belfast 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 Cardiff to Belfast 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 Belfast, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and tourist attractions. Be aware of unofficial taxi services and only use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Avoid carrying large amounts of cash and keep valuables secure. While violent crime is low, some neighborhoods may be less safe after dark, so it’s best to stay in well-lit, populated areas. Travelers should also be cautious of street scams involving overcharging or misleading offers.
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 Belfast
Most Cardiff to Belfast buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Belfast, Upper Queen Street / Wellington Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Belfast 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 Belfast
Which Cardiff station do buses to Belfast leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Belfast 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
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.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Belfast
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Belfast and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Belfast
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