- Must visit
The Whitworth
University art gallery in nearby Manchester known for historic and contemporary collections, strong temporary exhibitions, and a park-side setting.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$20
Average price
$26
Fastest journey
8 h 10 m
Average duration
9 h 30 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
218 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Manchester Airport will cost around $26 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Cardiff for Manchester Airport on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 218 km distance in an average of 9 h 30 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 10 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 10 h 20 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.
8:45 AM10h00Cardiff6:45 PMManchester Airport$201One-way0 transfers- 4:40 PM10h20Cardiff3:00 AMManchester Airport$241One-way0 transfers
- 12:15 PM8h10Cardiff8:25 PMManchester Airport$351One-way0 transfers
- 12:15 PM8h10Cardiff8:25 PMManchester Airport$351One-way0 transfers
- 8:45 AM10h00Cardiff6:45 PMManchester Airport$201One-way0 transfers
- 4:40 PM10h20Cardiff3:00 AMManchester Airport$241One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Manchester Airport among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 135 miles (218 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$29 Average price Cheapest | $91 Average price | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 4m Average total duration 4h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 12m Average total duration Fastest 3h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m 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 Manchester Airport is a bus with an average price of $29 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Manchester Airport:
A bus is $62 (€51) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport costing on average $91 (€74).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is by train with an average journey time of 3h 42m.
Other travel options to Manchester Airport take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Manchester Airport including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Manchester Airport among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $29 (€23) compared to roughly $61 (€50) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $32 (€26). The journey takes 4h 34m versus 4h 16m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Megabus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Cardiff to Manchester Airport Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:10AM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:30AM | Arrival Time 11:25AM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45AM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 9h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 06:45PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 12h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 11h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 10:10AM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 11:10AM | Duration 11h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Manchester Airport bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Manchester Airport buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:25 PM Cardiff | 11h45 | 11:10 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, June 20 | |||||
| 8:45 AM Cardiff | 10h00 | 6:45 PM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:15 PM Cardiff | 8h10 | 8:25 PM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:40 PM Cardiff | 10h20 | 3:00 AM Manchester Airport | 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 Manchester Airport 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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Jun 20
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Jun 26
Why should you book Cardiff to Manchester Airport buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
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 Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
- 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 Manchester Airport.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Manchester Airport run on average 12 times per day, taking around 4h 34m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:10, the last at 23:25. The fastest bus covers the 135 miles (218 km) distance in 5h 15m.
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 135 miles (218 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 5h 15m |
First bus 2:10 AM |
Last bus 11:25 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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, Megabus from Cardiff to Manchester AirportYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Manchester Airport with National Express, Megabus for as low as $17 (€14). 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
5h 15m
Cheapest Price
$30 (€24)
National Express frequency
2 a day
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
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$26 (€21)
Megabus frequency
1 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.
Complete guide to Manchester Airport
Things to do in Manchester Airport
Discover the best of Manchester Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester Airport trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
Major university museum with natural history, archaeology, and cultural collections; one of the region's best all-round museums.
- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
One of Manchester's signature museums, covering industry, transport, computing, and the city's role in the Industrial Revolution.
- Must visit
The Runway Visitor Park Viewing Area
One of the best plane-spotting areas in the United Kingdom and a distinctive experience right next to the airport.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with warehouses, bridges, waterside walks, and a strong industrial character popular with visitors.
- Recommended
Quarry Bank Garden and Estate Walks
Scenic estate walks, woodland trails, and gardens around Quarry Bank, ideal for a half-day heritage and nature visit.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Tart
A classic local dessert with shortcrust pastry, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry, long associated with Greater Manchester school dinners.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A traditional Greater Manchester pastry from nearby Eccles, filled with currants, butter, and sugar inside flaky pastry.
- Gluten-free
Bury Black Pudding
A famous Lancashire and Greater Manchester speciality made from pork blood, oats, and seasoning, often served in a full breakfast.
The Grain Loft
A popular airside airport gastropub in Terminal 1 known for British comfort food, beers, and a relaxed pre-flight atmosphere.
San Carlo
An established Italian restaurant at Manchester Airport with polished service, classic dishes, and a more upscale terminal dining option.
Trattoria Milano
A long-running airport restaurant serving Italian staples in a casual sit-down setting, suitable for travellers wanting a full meal.
Pound Sterling
Airport prices are higher than city averages, but UK chain cafes and fast food keep basic meals manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for fast food or a simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-25 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 35-60+ per person at upscale airport dining.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical if not added. No tip needed for counter service; round up taxis if you wish.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Manchester Airport -> Manchester Piccadilly
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- You can usually pay by contactless card on Bee Network buses and trams, and fares are capped automatically.
- For the airport to the city centre, the train to Manchester Piccadilly is usually the fastest and most reliable option.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Manchester Airport can start from as little as $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Manchester Airport is $29 (€23) ; 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 Manchester Airport is 5h 15m to travel the 135 miles (218 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 Manchester Airport leaves at 2:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport leaves at 11:25 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Cardiff to Manchester Airport which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Manchester Airport. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Manchester Airport and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Manchester Airport from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Manchester Airport including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport:
- 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Manchester Airport 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.
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 Manchester Airport.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Manchester Airport:
- 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.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Manchester Airport:
- 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.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Manchester Airport with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Cardiff nor Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport 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.
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 Manchester Airport
Most Cardiff to Manchester Airport buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Manchester, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Manchester Airport 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 Manchester
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
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
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre
Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · $2 · every ~231 min
Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange from Manchester city centre
Bus163, 118, 119, 18, 112, 114, 117, 81 · 3m · $2 · every ~69 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 2m · $2 · every ~23 min
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange bus station facilities and services
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
City-centre transport
Getting to Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East from Manchester city centre
Bus101, 15, 103, 102 · 14m · $2 · every ~31 min
Uk023, Ukn23, Uk071 · 21m · $1 · every ~2 min
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Manchester Airport and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Manchester Airport
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