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 $62. 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 $62, and a train costs an average of $135.
Distance: 189 miles (305 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$72 Average price Cheapest | $222 Average price | $84 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Ipswich:
A bus is $150 (€121) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Ipswich costing on average $222 (€180).
Other travel options to Ipswich take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 1m.
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 $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 01:20AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 06:30AM | Duration 10h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $67 |
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.
Jun 16
Jun 17
Jun 18
Jun 19
Jun 20
Jun 21
Jun 22
Why should you book Cardiff to Ipswich buses with Omio?
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
Buses from Cardiff to Ipswich run on average 8 times per day, taking around 7h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $62 (€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.
Distance 189 miles (305 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $62 (€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 |
Bus providers: National Express from Cardiff to IpswichYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Ipswich with National Express for as low as $62 (€50). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
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.

- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- 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.
- 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.
- 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.
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cardiff to Ipswich
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Ipswich
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need


