- Must visit
The Box
Plymouth’s main museum, gallery, and archive. It covers local art, natural history, and maritime stories in an impressive contemporary cultural hub.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Plymouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 21
Cheapest price on Oct 21
$18
Average ticket price on Oct 21
$21
Fastest journey on Oct 21
5 h 30 m
Average journey duration on Oct 21
6 h 8 m
Buses on Oct 21
5
Distance
141 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth will cost around $21 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.
Fast buses
On Wed, Oct 21, we found 5 buses from Cardiff to Plymouth, including 5 direct services.
On Wed, Oct 21 the direct buses cover the 141 km distance in an average of 6 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 30 m .
On Wed, Oct 21 the slowest buses will take 6 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.
11:45 PM5h30Cardiff5:15 AMPlymouth$181One-way0 transfers- 10:25 PM6h50Cardiff5:15 AMPlymouth$181One-way0 transfers
- 3:40 PM5h50Cardiff9:30 PMPlymouth$201One-way0 transfers
- 11:35 PM6h40Cardiff6:15 AMPlymouth$221One-way0 transfers
- 4:40 PM5h50Cardiff10:30 PMPlymouth$261One-way0 transfers
- 11:45 PM5h30Cardiff5:15 AMPlymouth$181One-way0 transfers
- 4:40 PM5h50Cardiff10:30 PMPlymouth$261One-way0 transfers
- 3:40 PM5h50Cardiff9:30 PMPlymouth$201One-way0 transfers
- 11:35 PM6h40Cardiff6:15 AMPlymouth$221One-way0 transfers
- 10:25 PM6h50Cardiff5:15 AMPlymouth$181One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Plymouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Plymouth run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $11 (€9) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:20, the last at 23:35. The fastest bus covers the 87 miles (141 km) distance in 4h 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 87 miles (141 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 4h 15m |
First bus 12:20 AM |
Last bus 11:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Cardiff to Plymouth Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:45AM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $14 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40AM | Arrival Time 05:20AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:10AM | Arrival Time 08:50AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 09:50AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45AM | Arrival Time 09:50AM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:40PM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:35PM | Arrival Time 10:35PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 10:30PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 03:55AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator Great Western Railway | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 04:38AM | Duration 7h08 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $130 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35PM | Arrival Time 06:15AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 05:15AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $18 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Plymouth bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Plymouth buses for today, Monday, October 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:25 PM Cardiff | 6h50 | 5:15 AM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:35 PM Cardiff | 6h40 | 6:15 AM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Tuesday, October 20 | |||||
| 3:40 PM Cardiff | 5h50 | 9:30 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:40 PM Cardiff | 5h50 | 10:30 PM Plymouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Plymouth buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer buses services from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Plymouth.
- 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 FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Plymouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Plymouth.
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Cardiff to PlymouthYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Plymouth with FlixBus, National Express for as low as $11 (€9). 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 FlixBus Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$11 (€9)
FlixBus frequency
6 a day
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 National Express Duration
4h 15m
Cheapest National Express Price
$25 (€21)
National Express frequency
3 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.
Complete guide to Plymouth
Things to do in Plymouth
Discover the best of Plymouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Plymouth trip today.
- Must visit
National Marine Aquarium
Interactive aquarium on the waterfront with ocean habitats, conservation displays, and a huge tank. A popular family attraction with strong educational value.
- Recommended
Merchant's House
Tudor merchant’s residence in the Barbican, furnished to evoke historic domestic life. A compact museum ideal for understanding old Plymouth society.
- Must visit
Plymouth Hoe
Large waterfront parkland with sea views, monuments, and lawns. It is Plymouth’s classic promenade and a prime place to start exploring the city.
- Must visit
The Barbican
Historic harbourside quarter of cobbled lanes, old buildings, galleries, and maritime atmosphere. It is among Plymouth’s most characterful walking areas.
- Recommended
Armada Way
Broad city-centre avenue rebuilt after the Second World War. Shops, civic buildings, and public art make it useful for understanding modern Plymouth.
- Vegetarian
Devon Cream Tea
A classic Devon cream tea of scones, jam and clotted cream. In Devon, the cream goes on before the jam, making it a proud local ritual.
Pasty
A traditional South West pasty with beef, potato, swede and onion in pastry. Common across Devon and Cornwall and a familiar local grab-and-go meal.
- Gluten-free
Plymouth-Caught Seafood
Fresh fish landed from Plymouth's historic fishing port, often grilled or battered. The city's waterfront location makes local seafood a signature choice.
The Artillery Tower
Refined fine dining restaurant known for modern British tasting menus, polished service and a special occasion atmosphere near Plymouth Hoe.
Jacka Bakery
Long-established market café famous for generous breakfasts, sandwiches and casual local dining in Plymouth Market.
The Harbour Seafood Restaurant and Takeaway
Historic waterside pub in the Barbican serving seafood, local ales and hearty British dishes in a traditional, characterful setting.
British pound (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels are often cheaper than London, while dining and local buses are fairly priced for tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis, and small change is fine in cafes.
Plymouth Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Plymouth Coach Station -> Royal Parade, Plymouth
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Plymouth buses, and mobile tickets are available in the Plymouth Bus app.
- Royal Parade is the main city centre hub for most bus routes, making it the easiest point for transfers.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Plymouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Plymouth 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 Plymouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Plymouth can start from as little as $11 (€9) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Plymouth is $32 (€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 Plymouth is 4h 15m to travel the 87 miles (141 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 Plymouth leaves at 12:20 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Plymouth leaves at 11:35 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Cardiff to Plymouth which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Plymouth, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Plymouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Plymouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cardiff , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, University . When arriving in Plymouth , you can end your journey in bus stations like Plymouth, Coach Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Plymouth, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Plymouth including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Plymouth:
- 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 Plymouth for bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth 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.
- 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 FlixBus, 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 Plymouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Plymouth:
- 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 Plymouth:
- 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 Plymouth. 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 Plymouth with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Plymouth with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Plymouth with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
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 Plymouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing in crowded areas such as the Barbican and city center. Some may encounter overcharging or unofficial taxi services, so it's advised to use licensed taxis. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional scams involving street vendors or unsolicited offers for tours. Staying vigilant and using official transportation and booking channels 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 Plymouth
Most Cardiff to Plymouth buses use the Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) to Plymouth, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Plymouth 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 Plymouth
Which Cardiff station do buses to Plymouth leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Plymouth leave from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). The station is from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
TRUE
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · $3 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
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 · $2 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Which Plymouth station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Plymouth arrive at Plymouth, Coach Station. Plymouth, Coach Station is from Plymouth city centre.
Plymouth, Coach StationPlymouth Coach Station, Plymouth PL1 1LR, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Plymouth, Coach Station from Plymouth city centre
TRUE
Plymouth, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Plymouth, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Plymouth, Coach Station. ATMs are available at Plymouth, Coach Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Plymouth, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Plymouth, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Plymouth, Coach Station: Station is accessible with ramps and level access.
Most popular bus connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Plymouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Plymouth and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Plymouth
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