- Must visit
Ipswich Museum
Ipswich’s main museum and gallery, covering local history, archaeology, art, and natural science in a major Victorian institution.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Ipswich
Showing times and prices for Aug 01
Cheapest price
€80
Average price
€80
Fastest journey
8 h 50 m
Average duration
8 h 50 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
305 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Ipswich is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Ipswich will cost around €80 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €80.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Cardiff for Ipswich on Sat, Aug 01, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Aug 01 the direct buses cover the 305 km distance in an average of 8 h 50 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 50 m .
On Sat, Aug 01 the slowest buses will take 8 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.
4:30 PM8h50Cardiff1:20 AMIpswich€801One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 PM8h50Cardiff1:20 AMIpswich€801One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Ipswich
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Ipswich among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. 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 €50, and a train costs an average of €109.
Distance: 189 miles (305 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
€58 Average price Cheapest | €180 Average price | €68 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 31m Average total duration 7h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 21m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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 Ipswich is a bus with an average price of €58.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Ipswich:
A bus is €121 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Ipswich costing on average €180.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Ipswich is by train with an average journey time of 3h 27m.
Other travel options to Ipswich take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Ipswich including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Ipswich 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 Ipswich Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 09:25PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price €50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €55 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Ipswich bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Ipswich buses for today, Friday, July 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:30 PM Cardiff | 8h50 | 1:20 AM Ipswich | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:45 PM Cardiff | 10h45 | 6:30 AM Ipswich | 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 Ipswich 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.
Sat
Aug 01
Aug 01
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Why should you book Cardiff to Ipswich buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Ipswich.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Ipswich.
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 Ipswich.
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 Ipswich.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Ipswich
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Ipswich run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €50 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 19:53. The fastest bus covers the 189 miles (305 km) distance in 8h 40m.
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 189 miles (305 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price €50 |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 8h 40m |
First bus 2:00 AM |
Last bus 7:53 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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 IpswichYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Ipswich with National Express for as low as €50. 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
8h 40m
Cheapest Price
€50
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 Ipswich
Things to do in Ipswich
Discover the best of Ipswich — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Ipswich trip today.
- Must visit
Christchurch Mansion
Elegant mansion museum in Christchurch Park with period rooms, Ipswich treasures, and changing displays in a beautiful historic setting.
- Recommended
Ipswich Art Gallery
Free contemporary gallery showing regional and national artists. A strong stop for visitors exploring Ipswich’s modern cultural scene.
- Must visit
Christchurch Park
Large historic park with lawns, wooded walks, tennis courts, and mansion views. It is Ipswich’s classic green escape near the centre.
- Must visit
Ipswich Waterfront
Regenerated marina district with quayside walks, public art, and lively views of boats and historic warehouses day or night.
- Recommended
Cornhill
Main civic square framed by Town Hall and historic buildings. A natural starting point for markets, events, and town-centre sightseeing.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Ham
A traditional Suffolk cured ham, usually served thinly sliced. It is prized for its dry cure and long local heritage in East Anglian food culture.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Baron Bigod Or Suffolk Blue Cheese
A regional blue cheese made in Suffolk from cow's milk. Its creamy texture and rich, tangy taste make it a classic local cheese board choice.
- Gluten-free
Suffolk Coastal Fish
Fresh fish landed from the Suffolk coast, often cod, plaice, or sole. It reflects Ipswich's long trading links with nearby North Sea fishing ports.
The Unruly Pig
Well-known Ipswich pub and dining room serving classic British dishes, local ales, and seasonal produce in a smart yet relaxed setting.
Milsoms Kesgrave Hall
Refined restaurant in nearby Great Bealings with modern British tasting menus, strong Suffolk sourcing, and an elegant country-house setting.
Applaud Coffee
Popular independent venue in the town centre serving brunch, coffee, and modern British plates in a stylish casual space.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local buses and casual meals remain fairly affordable 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
- £3-4.50 for cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Taxis are often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tips.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) -> Ipswich Town Centre, Ipswich
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless on First Bus services to pay the correct fare automatically.
- Check tickets and live bus times in the First Bus app before travel, as fares and routes can vary by operator.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Ipswich
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Ipswich can start from as little as €50 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Ipswich is €58 ; 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 Ipswich is 8h 40m to travel the 189 miles (305 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 Ipswich leaves at 2:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Ipswich leaves at 7:53 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Cardiff to Ipswich 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 Ipswich, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Ipswich. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Ipswich and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Ipswich from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Ipswich is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Ipswich including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Ipswich:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Ipswich for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Ipswich are:
- Ipswich Waterfront, a vibrant area with marinas, restaurants, and historic buildings along the River Orwell
- Christchurch Mansion, a Tudor mansion housing an art gallery and museum with works by Gainsborough and Constable
- Ipswich Museum, featuring exhibits on local history, natural history, and archaeology
- Holywells Park, a scenic park with ponds, woodlands, and a children's play area
- Suffolk Food Hall, a destination for local produce, dining, and views of the Orwell Bridge.
The best things to do in Ipswich include:
- New Wolsey Theatre, a contemporary venue hosting a variety of performances including plays, musicals, and comedy shows
- Orwell Country Park, offering beautiful walking trails and views of the River Orwell
- Ipswich Transport Museum, showcasing a collection of transport and engineering heritage
- DanceEast, a hub for dance performances and workshops
- Jimmy's Farm & Wildlife Park, a family-friendly attraction with animals, gardens, and a farm shop.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Ipswich 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 Ipswich.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Ipswich:
- 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 Ipswich:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Ipswich.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Ipswich with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the town center and markets. Scams involving overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-booked transportation. Travelers should also remain aware of their surroundings at night, as isolated areas may have increased petty crime.
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 Ipswich
Most Cardiff to Ipswich buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Ipswich 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 Ipswich
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
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Ipswich and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Ipswich
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