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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Reading
Showing times and prices for Feb 01
Cheapest price
$60
Average price
$72
Fastest journey
4 h 20 m
Average duration
4 h 43 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Reading is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Reading will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $60.
Fast buses
Of the 5 buses that leave Cardiff for Reading on Sun, Feb 01, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Feb 01 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 4 h 43 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 20 m .
On Sun, Feb 01 the slowest buses will take 5 h 1 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.
03:45AM4h57
Cardiff08:42AMReading
$601One-way
0 transfers
12:50AM4h20
Cardiff05:10AMReading
$681One-way
0 transfers
06:30AM4h47
Cardiff11:17AMReading
$711One-way
0 transfers
02:40AM4h31
Cardiff07:11AMReading
$781One-way
0 transfers
03:40PM5h01
Cardiff08:41PMReading
$821One-way
0 transfers
12:50AM4h20
Cardiff05:10AMReading
$681One-way
0 transfers
02:40AM4h31
Cardiff07:11AMReading
$781One-way
0 transfers
06:30AM4h47
Cardiff11:17AMReading
$711One-way
0 transfers
03:45AM4h57
Cardiff08:42AMReading
$601One-way
0 transfers
03:40PM5h01
Cardiff08:41PMReading
$821One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Reading
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Reading among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €33. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 29m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of €33, and a bus costs an average of €10.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€55 Average price | €52 Average price Cheapest |
3h 21m Average total duration 2h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 59m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Cardiff to Reading Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:40AM | Arrival Time 06:12AM | Duration 4h32 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 07:47AM | Duration 5h12 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:25AM | Arrival Time 08:17AM | Duration 4h52 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 10:05AM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 02:06PM | Duration 4h41 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 04:09PM | Duration 5h29 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 04:49PM | Duration 5h09 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 06:09PM | Duration 5h34 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $105 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 08:47PM | Duration 5h52 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 09:47PM | Duration 5h17 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 05:10AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $71 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Reading bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Reading buses for today, Saturday, January 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 3:28 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:40 PM Cardiff | 5h07 | 8:47 PM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, February 1 | |||||
| 12:50 AM Cardiff | 4h20 | 5:10 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:40 AM Cardiff | 4h31 | 7:11 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:45 AM Cardiff | 4h57 | 8:42 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:30 AM Cardiff | 4h47 | 11:17 AM Reading | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Reading 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.
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Feb 01
Feb 01
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Feb 07
Feb 07
Why should you book Cardiff to Reading buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cardiff to Reading.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Reading.
Why book with Omio vs Megabus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Megabus, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Reading.
- 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Reading.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Reading.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Reading.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Reading
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Reading run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 51m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $13 (€10) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 2h 50m.
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 95 miles (153 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€10) |
Buses per day 12 |
Fastest bus 2h 50m |
First bus 00:10 |
Last bus 23:40 |
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: Megabus, FlixBus from Cardiff to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Reading with Megabus, FlixBus for as low as $13 (€10). 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
2h 50m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€10)
FlixBus frequency
1 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.
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
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€25)
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.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Reading
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Reading 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 Reading, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Reading can start from as little as $13 (€10) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Reading is $70 (€55) ; 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 Reading is 2h 50m to travel the 95 miles (153 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 Reading leaves at 12:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Reading leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 12 buses a day from Cardiff to Reading which require at least one change with Megabus, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Reading, you can count on Megabus, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Reading. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Reading and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Reading from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Reading is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Reading including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Reading:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Reading for bus company Megabus, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Reading 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.
- 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.
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 Reading.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Reading:
- 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).
- 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 Reading:
- 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.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cardiff to Reading. 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 Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cardiff to Reading
Cardiff
Reading
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 Reading.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Reading is Reading, Blagrave Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading, Blagrave Street for your trip to Reading from Cardiff.
Reading, Blagrave Street
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Reading
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Reading and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Reading
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