Cardiff to Reading bus with Megabus

Mon, Aug 03
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2,000+ travel companies
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Reading

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

€49

Average price

€65

Fastest journey

4 h 32 m

Average duration

4 h 42 m

Buses per day

14

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 €65 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €49.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Reading without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNX202 · RRRA1
    2:35 AM5h12
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    7:47 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    491One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX202 · RRRA1
    4:30 AM5h15
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    9:45 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    531One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX202 · RRRA1
    10:40 AM5h29
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    4:09 PMReading, Blagrave Street
    571One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX201 · RRRA1
    4:30 PM5h17
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    9:47 PMReading, Blagrave Street
    571One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX201 · RRRA1
    3:25 AM4h52
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    8:17 AMReading, Blagrave Street
    571One-way
    1 transfer

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Reading

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cardiff to Reading run on average 11 times per day, taking around 3h 17m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €8 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 45m.

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
3h 17m
Cheapest ticket price
€8
Buses per day
11
Fastest bus
2h 45m
First bus
12:10 AM
Last bus
11:40 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
42 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

Cardiff to Reading Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:40AM
Arrival Time
05:12AM
Duration
4h32
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
47
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:35AM
Arrival Time
06:47AM
Duration
5h12
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:40AM
Arrival Time
06:12AM
Duration
4h32
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:45AM
Arrival Time
06:40AM
Duration
4h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:25AM
Arrival Time
07:17AM
Duration
4h52
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:35AM
Arrival Time
07:47AM
Duration
5h12
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
49
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:40AM
Arrival Time
07:11AM
Duration
4h31
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:25AM
Arrival Time
08:17AM
Duration
4h52
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri
Cheapest price
47
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:40AM
Arrival Time
08:11AM
Duration
4h31
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30AM
Arrival Time
09:45AM
Duration
5h15
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
10:05AM
Duration
4h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:40AM
Arrival Time
10:05AM
Duration
4h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
4h45
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:25AM
Arrival Time
02:06PM
Duration
4h41
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:40AM
Arrival Time
04:09PM
Duration
5h29
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:40AM
Arrival Time
04:49PM
Duration
5h09
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
80
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:05PM
Arrival Time
02:50PM
Duration
2h45
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:35PM
Arrival Time
06:09PM
Duration
5h34
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
71
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
03:50PM
Duration
2h50
Departure days
Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
10
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:35PM
Arrival Time
06:25PM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
72
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:35PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
4h50
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
80
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:40PM
Arrival Time
07:13PM
Duration
4h33
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
93
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:55PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
5h52
Departure days
Mon, Wed
Cheapest price
53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
08:11PM
Duration
5h06
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
71
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:30PM
Arrival Time
08:47PM
Duration
5h17
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
09:47PM
Duration
5h17
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
45
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:40PM
Arrival Time
09:37PM
Duration
4h57
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:40PM
Arrival Time
04:11AM
Duration
5h31
Departure days
Tue, Fri
Cheapest price
60
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:35PM
Arrival Time
04:40AM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
13
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:40PM
Arrival Time
05:11AM
Duration
5h31
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
61

Live departures

Cardiff to Reading bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Reading buses for today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA111:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h31
5:11 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
Monday, August 3
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA11:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
4h32
6:12 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · RRRA12:35 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h12
7:47 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA13:25 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
4h52
8:17 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · RRRA14:30 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h15
9:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA15:25 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
4h40
10:05 AM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA17:20 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
4h45
12:05 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA19:25 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
4h41
2:06 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · RRRA110:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h29
4:09 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA111:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h09
4:49 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · RRRA112:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h34
6:09 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA12:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
4h50
7:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · RRRA12:55 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h52
8:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · RRRA14:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h17
9:47 PM Reading, Blagrave Street1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Reading buses with Omio?

Megabus as well as FlixBus or National Express 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 or National Express 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Reading.

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 National Express to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Reading.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Reading.

Bus providers: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express from Cardiff to ReadingYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Reading with Megabus, FlixBus, National Express for as low as €8. 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 45m
Cheapest Price
€8
FlixBus frequency
2 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 Duration
4h 20m
Cheapest Price
€45
National Express frequency
13 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
3h 0m
Cheapest Price
€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.

Complete guide to Reading

Things to do in Reading

Discover the best of Reading — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Reading trip today.

  • Must visit

Reading Museum

Reading's main museum, famed for the Bayeux Tapestry replica, local history, Huntley & Palmers displays, and Abbey galleries.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

Modern art gallery in the civic centre showing changing exhibitions by regional and national artists in a central, accessible space.

  • Must visit

The Museum of English Rural Life

University museum with strong agriculture, countryside, and design collections. Popular for families and one of Reading's standout visits.

Pound sterling (£)

Reading is pricier than many UK towns. Hotels and dining are above average, but rail and local buses are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10% for good service. Taxis are usually rounded up or tipped 10%. Cafes usually do not require tipping.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Reading can start from as little as €8 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Reading is €44 ; 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 45m 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 11 buses a day from Cardiff to Reading which require at least one change with Megabus, FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Reading, you can count on Megabus, FlixBus, National Express 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Reading including taking a bus and train.
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.
  • 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 Reading for bus company Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
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.
  • 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 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).
  • 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 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.
  • 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 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, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Reading with the following bus company: Megabus, 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 Reading, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing and petty theft, especially in crowded areas and on public transportation. Common scams include overcharging by taxis and unofficial tour guides. Staying vigilant in busy spots and using licensed services helps ensure safety.
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 Reading

Most Cardiff to Reading buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Reading, Blagrave Street station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Reading 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 Reading
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, North Road (Friary Gardens)
Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent)
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent) from Cardiff city centre

Bus24, 27, 86, 95, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23 · 14m · €2 · every ~42 min
24, 21, 136, 23 · 14m · €2 · every ~20 min
25, 21, 23 · 51m · €2 · every ~16 min

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