Cardiff to Canterbury bus with National Express

Wed, Jun 10
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Canterbury

Showing times and prices for Jun 10

Cheapest price

$22

Average price

$25

Fastest journey

6 h 40 m

Average duration

6 h 45 m

Buses per day

2

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 $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.

Fast buses

Of the 2 buses that leave Cardiff for Canterbury on Wed, Jun 10, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Wed, Jun 10 the direct buses cover the 296 km distance in an average of 6 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 40 m .

On Wed, Jun 10 the slowest buses will take 6 h 50 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
    6:00 PM6h40
    Cardiff
    12:40 AMCanterbury
    $221One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    5:00 PM6h50
    Cardiff
    11:50 PMCanterbury
    $281One-way
    0 transfers

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 $22. 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 $22, and a train costs an average of $54.

Distance: 183 miles (296 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$32

Average price

Cheapest

$79

Average price

$78

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)

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 Cardiff to Canterbury is a bus with an average price of $32 (€26).

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

A bus is $48 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Canterbury costing on average $79 (€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

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:15AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20AM
Arrival Time
10:55AM
Duration
7h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:50AM
Arrival Time
11:55AM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45AM
Arrival Time
02:05PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:45AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
05:05PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
07:20PM
Duration
7h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
07:00PM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:30PM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
7h35
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:45PM
Arrival Time
09:25PM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Mon, Sun
Cheapest price
$44
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:00PM
Arrival Time
11:50PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
12:40AM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:08PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
6h42
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45PM
Arrival Time
01:10AM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$27

Live departures

Cardiff to Canterbury bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Canterbury buses for today, Tuesday, June 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express1:30 PM Cardiff
7h35
9:05 PM Canterbury0 transfersDirect
National Express6:08 PM Cardiff
6h42
12:50 AM Canterbury0 transfersDirect

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.

Wed
Jun 10
Thu
Jun 11
Fri
Jun 12
Sat
Jun 13
Sun
Jun 14
Mon
Jun 15
Tue
Jun 16

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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cardiff to Canterbury run on average 8 times per day, taking around 5h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€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
$22 (€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 $22 (€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
$22 (€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.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Canterbury can start from as little as $22 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Canterbury is $32 (€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, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Canterbury for bus company National Express.
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

Cardiff
Canterbury
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 Canterbury.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, University
information

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