- Recommended
The Beaney House of Art & Knowledge
Interactive museum inside a medieval church telling the story of Canterbury’s Roman, medieval, and modern past. Ideal first stop for context.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Canterbury
Showing times and prices for Jul 27
Cheapest price
$20
Average price
$28
Fastest journey
6 h 25 m
Average duration
6 h 50 m
Buses per day
9
Distance
296 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Canterbury is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Canterbury will cost around $28 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Canterbury without transferring at least once.
NX509 · NX0074:20 AM7h35Cardiff, Sophia Gardens11:55 AMCanterbury, Bus Station$201One-way1 transfer- NX509 · NX0224:45 PM7h05Cardiff, Sophia Gardens11:50 PMCanterbury, Bus Station$211One-way1 transfer
- NX509 · NX0072:45 PM7h40Cardiff, Sophia Gardens10:25 PMCanterbury, Bus Station$221One-way1 transfer
- NX507 · NX0076:45 PM6h25Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1:10 AMCanterbury, Bus Station$231One-way1 transfer
- NX507 · NX0226:00 AM7h35Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1:35 PMCanterbury, Bus Station$241One-way1 transfer
- NX507 · NX0076:45 PM6h25Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1:10 AMCanterbury, Bus Station$231One-way1 transfer
- NX509 · NX0223:15 AM6h30Cardiff, Sophia Gardens9:45 AMCanterbury, Bus Station$261One-way1 transfer
- NX509 · NX0224:45 PM7h05Cardiff, Sophia Gardens11:50 PMCanterbury, Bus Station$211One-way1 transfer
- NX507 · NX00712:15 PM7h05Cardiff, Sophia Gardens7:20 PMCanterbury, Bus Station$311One-way1 transfer
- NX509 · NX02210:00 AM7h05Cardiff, Sophia Gardens5:05 PMCanterbury, Bus Station$311One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Canterbury
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Canterbury among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 7m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $44.
Distance: 183 miles (296 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$26 Average price Cheapest | $65 Average price | $63 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 28m Average total duration 5h 58m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 37m Average total duration Fastest 3h 7m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $26 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Canterbury:
A bus is $39 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Canterbury costing on average $65 (€65).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Canterbury is by train with an average journey time of 3h 7m.
Other travel options to Canterbury take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 58m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Canterbury including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Canterbury 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.
Cardiff to Canterbury Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 10:55AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 01:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 09:05PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 12:40AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:08PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 6h42 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 01:10AM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Canterbury bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Canterbury buses for today, Sunday, July 26. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX509 · NX007 | 2:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h40 | 10:25 PM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NX022 | 4:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h05 | 11:50 PM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX507 · NX007 | 6:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h25 | 1:10 AM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Monday, July 27 | |||||
| NX509 · NX022 | 3:15 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h30 | 9:45 AM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NX007 | 4:20 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h35 | 11:55 AM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX507 · NX022 | 6:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h35 | 1:35 PM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX507 · NX007 | 7:30 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h30 | 3:00 PM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NX022 | 10:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h05 | 5:05 PM Canterbury, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX507 · NX007 | 12:15 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 7h05 | 7:20 PM Canterbury, Bus Station | 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 Canterbury by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Canterbury buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Canterbury.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Canterbury.
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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Canterbury.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Canterbury.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Canterbury
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Canterbury run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€18) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 20:20. The fastest bus covers the 183 miles (296 km) distance in 6h 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
Distance 183 miles (296 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€18) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 6h 25m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 8:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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 CanterburyYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Canterbury with National Express for as low as $18 (€18). 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 25m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€18)
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.
Complete guide to Canterbury
Things to do in Canterbury
Discover the best of Canterbury — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Canterbury trip today.
- Recommended
Canterbury Roman Museum
Underground remains of a Roman townhouse with mosaics and hypocaust. A compact but memorable look at Roman Canterbury beneath the streets.
- Recommended
The Canterbury Tales
Story-led museum on medieval pilgrimage inspired by Chaucer. It brings Canterbury’s most famous journeying tradition to life.
- Recommended
High Street
Pedestrian high street lined with historic buildings and shops. It is one of the best places to feel the rhythm of central Canterbury.
- Recommended
The King's Mile
Picturesque lane famed for overhanging medieval timber-framed buildings. One of Canterbury’s most photographed and atmospheric historic streets.
- Recommended
Mercery Lane
Elegant pedestrian street connecting major sights. Its historic façades, independent shops, and easy walking route make it especially pleasant.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
Kentish Huffkin
Kentish Huffkin is a traditional Kent bread roll, often served with cheese or fruit. It is a classic county bake linked to local farmhouse cooking.
- Vegetarian
Canterbury Tart
Canterbury Tart is a historic pastry tart, usually filled with apple and almond. It is associated with old Kent baking traditions and local tea tables.
- Gluten-free
Whitstable Oysters
Whitstable Oysters are served across Canterbury and East Kent. These native oysters are prized for their briny flavor and long link to the nearby coast.
The Corner House
Well-regarded modern British restaurant with seasonal menus and a smart yet relaxed setting in the city center.
The Goods Shed
Elegant fine dining restaurant known for polished British tasting menus and refined service in central Canterbury.
The Goods Shed
Popular farmers' market restaurant serving seasonal Kent produce, meats, cheeses, and simple dishes in a lively casual setting.
British Pound (£)
Moderate for UK travel. Hotels and dining cost less than London, but tourist-season stays and central restaurants raise prices. Local buses are reasonable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included at restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis: round up or add 5-10%. Cafes: optional small change.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Canterbury Bus Station -> Canterbury Cathedral
- Distance
- 500 m
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Canterbury; you can also use Apple Pay or Google Pay.
- The £2 single bus fare cap applies on many local bus journeys in England, but check the operator before travel.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Canterbury
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Canterbury can start from as little as $18 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Canterbury is $26 (€26) ; 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 Canterbury is 6h 25m 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 Cardiff to Canterbury leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Canterbury leaves at 8:20 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Cardiff to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Canterbury. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Canterbury and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Canterbury from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Canterbury is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Canterbury including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Canterbury are:
- Canterbury Cathedral, a UNESCO World Heritage Site and iconic Gothic structure known for its stunning architecture and historical significance
- St. Augustine's Abbey, the ruins of a Benedictine monastery founded in the 6th century, offering insights into early Christian history in England
- Westgate Towers Museum & Viewpoint, a medieval gatehouse with exhibits on local history and panoramic views of the city
- Canterbury Roman Museum, an underground museum showcasing Roman artifacts and the remains of a Roman townhouse
- Westgate Gardens, a picturesque park perfect for leisurely walks along the River Stour.
The best things to do in Canterbury include:
- Explore the historic streets of Canterbury on a guided walking tour, learning about its rich history and hidden gems
- Enjoy a punting tour on the River Stour for a unique perspective of the city's architecture and natural beauty
- Visit the Canterbury Tales attraction for an interactive experience of Chaucer's famous stories
- Attend a performance at The Marlowe Theatre, featuring plays, musicals, and concerts
- Discover the local food scene with a culinary tour of Canterbury's best eateries and markets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Canterbury 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 Canterbury.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Canterbury:
- 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 Canterbury:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Canterbury 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 Cardiff to Canterbury 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 Canterbury, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and around popular tourist sites. Scams involving overcharging or unofficial taxi services can also occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed transportation. Staying aware of surroundings 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 Cardiff to Canterbury
Most Cardiff to Canterbury buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Canterbury, St. Georges Lane station pair, with some services arriving at Canterbury, University Of Kent. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Canterbury 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 Canterbury
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
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, 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
Canterbury, St. Georges Lane
City-centre transport
Getting to Canterbury, St. Georges Lane from Canterbury city centre
Bus21, 400, 401, Uni1, Uni2 · 14m · $3 · every ~22 min
Canterbury, University Of KentUniversity of Kent, Canterbury CT2 7NZ, United Kingdom
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 Cardiff to Canterbury
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Canterbury and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Canterbury
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