- Must visit
Colchester Castle Museum
Major museum inside the Norman castle, presenting Roman finds and town history. Essential for understanding Colchester from Iron Age to modern times.
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Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 4m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, and a train costs an average of $51.
Distance: 177 miles (285 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price Cheapest | $78 Average price | $77 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 59m Average total duration 6h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 18m 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 Colchester is a bus with an average price of $66 (€53).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Colchester:
A bus is $12 (€10) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Colchester costing on average $78 (€63).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 4m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Colchester 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 Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $93 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $116 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $108 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $96 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 10h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $74 |
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Colchester 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 Colchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Colchester.
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 Colchester.
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 Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Colchester run on average 7 times per day, taking around 6h 29m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:35, the last at 20:18. The fastest bus covers the 177 miles (285 km) distance in 7h 45m.
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 177 miles (285 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Buses per day 7 |
Fastest bus 7h 45m |
First bus 2:35 AM |
Last bus 8:18 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 28 days |
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 ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Colchester with National Express for as low as $39 (€32). 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
7h 45m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
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 Colchester
Things to do in Colchester
Discover the best of Colchester — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Colchester trip today.
- Recommended
The Military Museum
Award-winning museum on former barracks, covering military life and the Essex Regiment. Strong collections make it a standout for social and army history.
- Recommended
Colchester Natural History Museum
Natural history museum in a former church, with local wildlife, geology, and family displays. A useful stop for learning about Essex's environment.
- Must visit
Castle Park
Historic park around the castle with formal planting, Roman walls, and central lawns. A classic place to relax while exploring the old town.
- Recommended
Dutch Quarter
Charming conservation area of timber-framed buildings and narrow streets, reflecting the town's links with Dutch and Flemish settlers.
- Recommended
High Street
Main shopping and historic street lined with heritage buildings, independent businesses, and civic landmarks. A practical and atmospheric town-centre walk.
- Gluten-free
Colchester Native Oysters
Colchester Native Oysters are famed shellfish from local estuaries, eaten raw or dressed. They are one of Britain’s oldest recorded regional delicacies.
Essex Eel Pie
Essex Eel Pie is a traditional regional pie of chopped eel in rich gravy. It reflects the historic importance of estuary fishing in Essex.
- Vegetarian
Tiptree Jam Tart
Tiptree Jam Tart uses the county’s famous Wilkin & Sons preserves in a simple buttery tart. It is a classic Essex tea-room style dessert.
Kintsu
Well-regarded modern British restaurant serving seasonal tasting-style plates in an intimate, refined atmosphere.
Church Street Tavern
Established seafood restaurant known for oysters, fish and polished service in a smart but relaxed setting near the town centre.
The Cafe at The Minories
Popular casual venue for brunch, coffee and comfort food with a stylish interior and a strong local following.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining cost less than London, while local buses and casual meals stay fairly manageable for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants may add service; if not, tip 10-12% for good service. Taxi fares are often rounded up. Tipping in cafes is optional.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Colchester East Hill / High Street, Colchester -> Colchester Town Centre, Colchester
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on First Bus services in Colchester. You can also use the First Bus app for tickets and live times.
- Colchester town centre is walkable, so buses are most useful for longer trips such as Colchester Station or outlying areas.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Colchester can start from as little as $39 (€32) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Colchester is $66 (€53) ; 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 Colchester is 7h 45m to travel the 177 miles (285 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 Colchester leaves at 2:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Colchester leaves at 8:18 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Cardiff to Colchester 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 Colchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cardiff , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, University, Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent) . When arriving in Colchester , you can end your journey in bus stations like Colchester, East Hill / High Street .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 Colchester, East Hill / High Street, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Colchester from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Colchester is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Colchester including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Colchester 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 Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Colchester:
- 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 Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Colchester 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 Colchester 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 Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
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 Colchester
Most Cardiff to Colchester buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Colchester, East Hill / High Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Colchester 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 Colchester
Which Cardiff station do buses to Colchester leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Colchester 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
Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent)St Josephs Convent, Cardiff CF14 3XP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent) from Cardiff city centre
Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent) is 2 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus24, 27, 86, 95, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23 · 14m · $2 · every ~42 min
24, 21, 136, 23 · 14m · $2 · every ~20 min
25, 21, 23 · 51m · $2 · every ~16 min
Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent) 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, North Road (St Josephs Convent). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent): Basic accessibility features available for limited mobility.
Which Colchester station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Colchester arrive at Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Colchester, East Hill / High Street is from Colchester city centre.
Colchester, East Hill / High StreetColchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · $4 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · $1 · every ~3 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street bus station facilities and services
Colchester, East Hill / High 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 Colchester, East Hill / High Street. ATMs are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Limited accessibility features.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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