Cardiff to Cambridge bus with National Express

Sun, Dec 07
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National Express
FlixBus
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Cambridge

Showing times and prices for Dec 08

Cheapest price

€30

Average price

€44

Fastest journey

7 h 45 m

Average duration

8 h 45 m

Buses per day

3

Distance

240 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Cambridge will cost around €44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €30.

Fast buses

Of the 3 buses that leave Cardiff for Cambridge on Mon, Dec 08, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Dec 08 the direct buses cover the 240 km distance in an average of 8 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 45 m .

On Mon, Dec 08 the slowest buses will take 9 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.

FlixBus
03:45PM9h15
Cardiff
01:00AMCambridge
301One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus
05:45AM9h15
Cardiff
03:00PMCambridge
361One-way
0 transfers
National Express
10:25AM7h45
Cardiff
06:10PMCambridge
661One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Cambridge

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 4m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €12, and a train costs an average of €38.

Distance: 149 miles (240 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

€30

Average price

Cheapest

€74

Average price

6h 52m

Average total duration

6h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 34m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Rail

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Cardiff to Cambridge bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Cambridge buses for today, Sunday, December 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 1:51 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
meinfernbus_flixbus5:45 AM Cardiff
9h15
3:00 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect
national_express10:25 AM Cardiff
7h25
5:50 PM Cambridge0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Cambridge 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.

Mon
Dec 08
Tue
Dec 09
Wed
Dec 10
Thu
Dec 11
Fri
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Sun
Dec 14

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Cambridge

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cardiff to Cambridge run on average 9 times per day, taking around 6h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $15 (€12) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 01:50, the last at 21:20. The fastest bus covers the 149 miles (240 km) distance in 7h 5m.

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
149 miles (240 km)
Average bus duration
6h 22m
Cheapest ticket price
$15 (€12)
Buses per day
9
Fastest bus
7h 5m
First bus
01:50
Last bus
21:20
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, FlixBus, Megabus from Cardiff to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Cambridge with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for as low as $15 (€12). 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 Duration
9h 15m
Cheapest Price
$19 (€15)
FlixBus frequency
2 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 Duration
7h 5m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
National Express frequency
8 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.

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
Average Duration
5h 40m
Cheapest Price
$63 (€51)
Megabus frequency
4 a day
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.

FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Cambridge

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Cambridge can start from as little as $15 (€12) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Cambridge is $37 (€29); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Cardiff to Cambridge bus time is 6 h 30 min   covering the 149 mile (240 km) long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Cardiff to Cambridge leaves at 3: 25AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Cardiff to Cambridge leaves at 4: 30PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Cardiff to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus or Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
For the best Cardiff to Cambridge bus to book, you can travel safely and comfortably with National Express, FlixBus or Megabus. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services between Cardiff and Cambridge to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month to travel from Cardiff to Cambridge by bus is March.
You have options as you can travel from Cardiff to Cambridge 2 different ways: bus or train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Cambridge:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Cambridge for bus companies National Express and FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cambridge are:
  • King's College Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture known for its impressive fan vault and beautiful stained glass windows
  • The Fitzwilliam Museum, a renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world
  • The Backs, a picturesque area along the River Cam offering scenic views of the colleges and lush gardens
  • Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge, famous for its historic Great Court and library
  • Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
The best things to do in Cambridge include:
  • Punting on the River Cam, a traditional Cambridge activity offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges
  • Visit the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and science enthusiasts
  • Explore the historic Market Square, where you can find local produce, crafts, and street food
  • Attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, featuring a variety of shows from drama to comedy
  • Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and hidden gems of Cambridge.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies National Express and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Cambridge 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.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Cardiff to Cambridge, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cardiff to Cambridge.
    Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Cambridge:
    • 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 Cardiff to Cambridge:
    • 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 Cardiff to Cambridge. The following conditions apply:
    • FlixBus
      • Small pets in carriers allowed
      • Guide dogs travel for free.
    You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Cambridge with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus
    Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Cambridge with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.
    Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Cambridge with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Cardiff to Cambridge

    Cardiff
    Cambridge
    The major bus station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip from Cardiff to Cambridge.
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    information
    Cardiff, University
    information
    Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    information

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