Cardiff to Liverpool bus with National Express

Sat, Apr 18
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Liverpool

Showing times and prices for Apr 21

Cheapest price

$26

Average price

$33

Fastest journey

5 h 50 m

Average duration

8 h

Buses per day

5

Distance

215 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool will cost around $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $26.

Fast buses

Of the 5 buses that leave Cardiff for Liverpool on Tue, Apr 21, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Apr 21 the direct buses cover the 215 km distance in an average of 8 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 50 m .

On Tue, Apr 21 the slowest buses will take 11 h 25 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.

  • FlixBus
    1:00 PM11h25
    Cardiff
    12:25 AMLiverpool
    $261One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    5:15 PM12h50
    Cardiff
    6:05 AMLiverpool
    $321One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    5:10 PM5h50
    Cardiff
    11:00 PMLiverpool
    $331One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    4:00 PM8h30
    Cardiff
    12:30 AMLiverpool
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    12:15 PM8h20
    Cardiff
    8:35 PMLiverpool
    $371One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Liverpool

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Liverpool among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 55m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $49.

Distance: 133 miles (215 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

$37

Average price

Cheapest

$84

Average price

6h 30m

Average total duration

6h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 25m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 55m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Cardiff to Liverpool Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:35AM
Arrival Time
12:30PM
Duration
9h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:50AM
Arrival Time
05:30PM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
05:20PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
08:35PM
Duration
8h20
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:50PM
Arrival Time
08:25PM
Duration
7h35
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:45PM
Arrival Time
10:05PM
Duration
8h20
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$63
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
12:30AM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
01:35AM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:20PM
Arrival Time
11:55PM
Duration
6h35
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35PM
Arrival Time
11:40PM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:10PM
Arrival Time
06:05AM
Duration
11h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:10PM
Arrival Time
08:35AM
Duration
10h25
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:15PM
Arrival Time
08:35AM
Duration
10h20
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$44

Live departures

Cardiff to Liverpool bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Liverpool buses for today, Monday, April 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX111 · NX541
On time
9:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h40
5:30 PM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place
1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus12:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
8h20
8:35 PM Liverpool, Liverpool One1 transfer
national_expressNX111 · NX541
On time
1:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
8h20
10:05 PM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place
1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus4:00 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
8h30
12:30 AM Liverpool, Liverpool One1 transfer
national_expressNX111 · NX541
On time
5:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
8h25
1:35 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place
1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus6:10 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
11h55
6:05 AM Liverpool, Liverpool One1 transfer
national_expressNX216 · NX100 · NX421
On time
10:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
10h25
8:35 AM Liverpool, One Bus Station, Canning Place
2 transfers
Tuesday, April 21
meinfernbus_flixbus7:10 AM Cardiff
12h05
7:15 PM Liverpool0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Liverpool 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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Apr 21
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Why should you book Cardiff to Liverpool buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus or Megabus offer buses services from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Liverpool.

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 FlixBus or Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
  • 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 Liverpool.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Liverpool.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Liverpool

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cardiff to Liverpool run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€14) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 5h 20m.

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
133 miles (215 km)
Average bus duration
6h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
$18 (€14)
Buses per day
8
Fastest bus
5h 20m
First bus
12:30 AM
Last bus
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
77 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, FlixBus, Megabus from Cardiff to LiverpoolYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Liverpool with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for as low as $18 (€14). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 40m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€14)
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

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
5h 20m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
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.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 10m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Liverpool

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Liverpool 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 Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Liverpool can start from as little as $18 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Liverpool is $37 (€30) ; 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 Liverpool is 5h 20m to travel the 133 miles (215 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 Liverpool leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Liverpool leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Cardiff to Liverpool which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Liverpool, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for the best way to get you to Liverpool. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Liverpool and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Liverpool from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Liverpool is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Liverpool including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Liverpool:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Liverpool for bus company National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Liverpool are:
  • The Beatles Story, an immersive museum dedicated to the history and impact of The Beatles
  • Royal Albert Dock, a historic waterfront complex featuring museums, shops, and restaurants
  • Liverpool Cathedral, the largest cathedral in Britain known for its stunning architecture and panoramic views
  • Anfield Stadium, the iconic home of Liverpool FC offering stadium tours and a museum
  • St George's Hall, a neoclassical building known for its grand architecture and cultural events.
The best things to do in Liverpool include:
  • Explore the vibrant Baltic Triangle, a creative and digital district with street art, bars, and music venues
  • Take a ferry across the Mersey River for scenic views of Liverpool's skyline
  • Visit the Walker Art Gallery, home to one of the largest art collections in England outside London
  • Enjoy a performance at the Liverpool Empire Theatre, hosting a variety of shows and musicals
  • Discover the history of the city at the Museum of Liverpool, offering insights into the city's rich heritage.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool depends on the bus companies:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
  • 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.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
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 Liverpool.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool:
  • Megabus
    • One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool:
  • Megabus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cardiff to Liverpool. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Liverpool with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Liverpool with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Liverpool with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus.
Since neither Cardiff nor Liverpool 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 Liverpool 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 Liverpool, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and around popular attractions such as the Albert Dock and Liverpool ONE shopping center. Scams involving overcharging in taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be aware of nightlife-related safety, avoiding unlicensed venues and staying in well-lit, populated areas at night.
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 Liverpool

Cardiff
Liverpool
The major bus station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, University
information

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