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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Dover
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
$22
Average price
$44
Fastest journey
7 h 12 m
Average duration
7 h 44 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
314 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Dover is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Dover will cost around $44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $22.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Cardiff for Dover on Mon, Aug 03, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Aug 03 the direct buses cover the 314 km distance in an average of 7 h 44 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 12 m .
On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest buses will take 8 h 40 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.
2:45 PM8h40Cardiff11:25 PMDover$221One-way0 transfers- 5:53 PM7h12Cardiff1:05 AMDover$421One-way0 transfers
- 6:45 PM7h20Cardiff2:05 AMDover$671One-way0 transfers
- 5:53 PM7h12Cardiff1:05 AMDover$421One-way0 transfers
- 6:45 PM7h20Cardiff2:05 AMDover$671One-way0 transfers
- 2:45 PM8h40Cardiff11:25 PMDover$221One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Dover
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Dover among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a train costs an average of $48.
Distance: 195 miles (314 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$34 Average price Cheapest | $78 Average price |
7h 23m Average total duration 6h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration Fastest 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
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 Dover is a bus with an average price of $34 (€27).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Dover:
A bus is $44 (€36) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Dover costing on average $78 (€63).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Dover is by train with an average journey time of 3h 21m.
Other travel options to Dover take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Dover including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Dover among Omio's users.
Cardiff to Dover Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:50AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:53PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 7h12 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:08PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h37 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $29 |
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Dover 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.
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Why should you book Cardiff to Dover buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Dover.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Dover.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Dover.
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 Dover.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Dover
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Dover run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 (€17) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 19:48. The fastest bus covers the 195 miles (314 km) distance in 7h 12m.
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 195 miles (314 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€17) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 7h 12m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 7:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 70 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 DoverYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Dover with National Express for as low as $20 (€17). 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 12m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€17)
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 Dover
Things to do in Dover
Discover the best of Dover — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dover trip today.
- Recommended
Dover Museum
Dover's main museum, home to the Bronze Age Boat and exhibits on archaeology, maritime trade, and local history.
- Recommended
Secret Wartime Tunnels Museum Experience
Historic wartime command spaces presented as an immersive museum experience inside the tunnels beneath Dover Castle.
- Must visit
White Cliffs of Dover
World-famous chalk coastline with sweeping sea views and classic cliff-top walks. Dover's signature natural attraction.
- Recommended
Langdon Cliffs
Popular National Trust visitor area with cliff paths, lighthouse access, and some of the finest Channel views near Dover.
- Recommended
Samphire Hoe
Scenic viewpoint and picnic area above Dover with broad views over the port, castle, cliffs, and English Channel.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Dover sole is the town’s signature fish, prized for sweet delicate flesh. It is a classic south coast catch often simply grilled or pan-fried.
- Gluten-free
Whitstable Oysters
Whitstable oysters from the Kent coast are a traditional local shellfish, served raw or dressed and closely tied to the area’s maritime food culture.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkins
Kentish huffkins are soft round bread rolls from Kent, often eaten with ham, cheese, or jam and valued as a classic county bake.
The White Horse
Historic pub and restaurant near Dover Castle, known for traditional British meals, local ales, and a relaxed heritage atmosphere.
Cullins Yard
Established waterfront venue at the marina serving fish, chips, and casual British dishes with harbor views and an easygoing feel.
Mr White's English Chophouse
Well-known seafront restaurant and bar at Dover Marina Hotel, popular for seafood, grills, and sea views in a polished setting.
British pound (£)
Moderate for England: rooms and dining cost more than many UK towns, but local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
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
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes: no obligation, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre) -> Dover Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.3 km
- Travel time
- 4 min
- Stagecoach buses in Dover usually accept contactless card payment as well as cash; check the driver or app for the current fare before boarding.
- Dover town centre is compact, so many central trips from Pencester Road are walkable in under 10 minutes.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Dover
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Dover 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 Dover, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Dover can start from as little as $20 (€17) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Dover is $34 (€27) ; 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 Dover is 7h 12m to travel the 195 miles (314 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 Dover leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Dover leaves at 7:48 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Cardiff to Dover 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 Dover, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Dover. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Dover and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Dover from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 12m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Dover is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Dover including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Dover:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Dover for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Dover are:
- Dover Castle, a historic fortress with medieval tunnels and panoramic views of the English Channel
- White Cliffs of Dover, iconic chalk cliffs offering scenic walking trails and stunning coastal vistas
- Dover Museum, a local museum featuring exhibits on the town's history and the Bronze Age boat
- Samphire Hoe, a nature reserve created from Channel Tunnel excavations, ideal for walking and wildlife spotting
- Roman Painted House, an ancient Roman building with preserved wall paintings and archaeological displays.
The best things to do in Dover include:
- Explore the Dover Western Heights, a series of fortifications with impressive views and historical significance
- Take a boat tour to see the White Cliffs from the sea and enjoy the coastal scenery
- Visit the Dover Transport Museum, showcasing vintage vehicles and transport history
- Enjoy a day at Kearsney Abbey Gardens, a picturesque park with lakes and walking paths
- Discover the South Foreland Lighthouse, offering guided tours and stunning views of the coastline.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Dover 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 Dover.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Dover:
- 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 Dover:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Dover.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Dover with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Dover with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Dover with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially around busy areas like the ferry terminals and tourist attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed operators to avoid overcharging. Scams involving overpriced souvenirs or unauthorized tour guides can occur near popular sites. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official services 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 Dover
Most Cardiff to Dover buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre) station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Dover 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 Dover
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
Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre)
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Dover
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Dover and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Dover
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