- Must visit
Carmarthenshire Museum
Former bishop’s palace with outstanding art collections, period rooms, and beautiful grounds; one of Carmarthenshire’s top cultural attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Carmarthen
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$15
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$16
Fastest journey on Sep 05
2 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
2 h 5 m
Buses on Sep 05
2
Distance
88 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Carmarthen is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Carmarthen will cost around $16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 05, we found 2 buses from Cardiff to Carmarthen, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 05 the direct buses cover the 88 km distance in an average of 2 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 5 m .
On Sat, Sep 05 the slowest buses will take 2 h 5 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.
3:15 PM2h05Cardiff5:20 PMCarmarthen$151One-way0 transfers- 4:15 PM2h05Cardiff6:20 PMCarmarthen$161One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 PM2h05Cardiff6:20 PMCarmarthen$161One-way0 transfers
- 3:15 PM2h05Cardiff5:20 PMCarmarthen$151One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Carmarthen
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Carmarthen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $15 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 2h 22m. 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 $15, while a train costs an average of $15.
Distance: 54 miles (88 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$15 Average price Cheapest | $15 Average price | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
2h 30m Average total duration 2h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 22m Average total duration Fastest 1h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 20m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Carmarthen is a bus with an average price of $15.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Carmarthen:
A bus is $0.25 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Carmarthen costing on average $15.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Carmarthen is by train with an average journey time of 1h 52m.
Other travel options to Carmarthen take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 0m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Carmarthen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Carmarthen 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 $15 compared to roughly $25 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $10. The journey takes 2h 0m versus 1h 20m 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.
Direct services are operated by National Express, Mid Wales Travel.
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 Carmarthen Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 3h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 05:00PM | Duration 2h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 3h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 06:05PM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $15 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 2h05 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $16 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 2h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $13 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Carmarthen bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Carmarthen buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:15 PM Cardiff | 2h05 | 5:20 PM Carmarthen | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:15 PM Cardiff | 2h05 | 6:20 PM Carmarthen | 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 Carmarthen 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.
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
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Why should you book Cardiff to Carmarthen buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Mid Wales Travel offer buses services from Cardiff to Carmarthen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Carmarthen.
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 Carmarthen.
- 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 Carmarthen.
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 Carmarthen.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Carmarthen run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $13 but you can travel from only $12 by train.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 03:27, the last at 23:51. The fastest bus covers the 54 miles (88 km) distance in 2h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $12
Distance 54 miles (88 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 0m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 2h 5m |
First bus 3:27 AM |
Last bus 11:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
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 $12
Bus providers: National Express, Mid Wales Travel from Cardiff to CarmarthenYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Carmarthen with National Express, Mid Wales Travel for as low as $12. 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
2h 5m
Cheapest National Express Price
$13
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.
Mid Wales Travel
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Mid Wales Travel Duration
2h 10m
Mid Wales Travel frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Carmarthen
Things to do in Carmarthen
Discover the best of Carmarthen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Carmarthen trip today.
- Recommended
Carmarthenshire County Museum
Main county museum in a former bishop’s palace, displaying archaeology, social history, and fine art linked to the region.
- Recommended
Oriel Myrddin Gallery
Contemporary arts venue in a converted chapel with exhibitions, craft, design, and a strong programme of Welsh creative work.
- Recommended
Carmarthen Castle Gardens
Restored public garden beside the castle, popular for river views, events, and an easy walk close to the historic centre.
- Recommended
Guildhall Square
Historic town square and civic focus, framed by important buildings and often used as a convenient orientation point for visitors.
- Recommended
River Towy Walk
Linear riverside park and walking route along the Towy, offering open views, wildlife interest, and a pleasant break from the centre.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Cakes
Traditional Welsh cakes griddled with flour, butter, sugar and dried fruit. A classic teatime treat sold across Carmarthenshire and eaten warm or cold.
- Vegetarian
Bara Brith
A rich fruit loaf made with tea, dried fruit and spices. Long linked with Welsh home baking and often served sliced with butter.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Creamy Welsh cheese sauce poured over toasted bread. It is a beloved comfort food and a traditional way to enjoy local Caerphilly-style cheese.
Y Polyn
Refined modern dining in a smart country-house setting near Carmarthen, known for seasonal Welsh ingredients and polished tasting-style menus.
Wright's Food Emporium
Established local cafe and bakery stop for Welsh cakes, bara brith, breakfasts and coffee, with a casual atmosphere for quick local bites.
The Warren
Popular gastropub in Carmarthen with Welsh produce, steaks, seafood and a lively but relaxed atmosphere in a historic coaching inn.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and meals are usually cheaper than major cities, while local buses and everyday costs stay manageable for most 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
- £45+ per person for fine dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. In restaurants, tip 10-12.5% for good service if not included. Taxis are usually rounded up. Cafe tipping is optional.
Traveline Cymru
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- /null
To the city center
Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel) -> Carmarthen Bus Station
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 6 min
- Most local buses in Wales accept contactless card payment, but carry a backup payment method in case a vehicle is cash only.
- Use Traveline Cymru for official bus times and journey planning across Carmarthenshire.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Carmarthen can start from as little as $13 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Carmarthen is $15 ; 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 Carmarthen is 2h 5m to travel the 54 miles (88 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 Carmarthen leaves at 3:27 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen leaves at 11:51 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Cardiff to Carmarthen with National Express, Mid Wales Travel. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen, you can count on National Express, Mid Wales Travel for the best way to get you to Carmarthen. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Carmarthen and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
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 Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Carmarthen from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Carmarthen including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Carmarthen:
- 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 Carmarthen:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Carmarthen with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas and watch out for unofficial taxi services that may overcharge. It's advisable to use licensed transportation and keep personal belongings secure, especially in busy markets and near transportation hubs. General awareness and adherence to local guidance help 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 Carmarthen
Most Cardiff to Carmarthen buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel) station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Carmarthen 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 Carmarthen
Which Cardiff station do buses to Carmarthen leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Carmarthen 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.
Which Carmarthen station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Carmarthen arrive at Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel). Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel) is from Carmarthen city centre.
Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel)2-5 Guildhall Square, Carmarthen SA31 1NP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel) from Carmarthen city centre
BusT1x, 322, T1, T1a · 5m · $1 · every ~4 min
Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel) bus station facilities and services
Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel) has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Carmarthen, Lammas Street (Rose and Crown Hotel): The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Carmarthen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Carmarthen and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Carmarthen
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