- Must visit
Imperial War Museum Duxford
Interactive aviation museum by Stansted Airport with historic aircraft and exhibits. A top local visit for transport, engineering, and family interest.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet
Showing times and prices for Jul 19
Cheapest price
$36
Average price
$43
Fastest journey
6 h 15 m
Average duration
6 h 32 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
238 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet will cost around $43 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Cardiff for Stansted Mountfitchet on Sun, Jul 19, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jul 19 the direct buses cover the 238 km distance in an average of 6 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 15 m .
On Sun, Jul 19 the slowest buses will take 6 h 40 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.
3:45 PM6h40Cardiff10:25 PMStansted Mountfitchet$361One-way0 transfers- 4:45 PM6h40Cardiff11:25 PMStansted Mountfitchet$401One-way0 transfers
- 5:55 AM6h15Cardiff12:10 PMStansted Mountfitchet$521One-way0 transfers
- 5:55 AM6h15Cardiff12:10 PMStansted Mountfitchet$521One-way0 transfers
- 4:45 PM6h40Cardiff11:25 PMStansted Mountfitchet$401One-way0 transfers
- 3:45 PM6h40Cardiff10:25 PMStansted Mountfitchet$361One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $27. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 5m. 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 $27, and a train costs an average of $57.
Distance: 147 miles (238 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$45 Average price Cheapest | $78 Average price | $67 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 15m Average total duration 4h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 35m Average total duration Fastest 3h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 31m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet is a bus with an average price of $45 (€37).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet:
A bus is $33 (€27) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet costing on average $78 (€64).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet is by train with an average journey time of 3h 5m.
Other travel options to Stansted Mountfitchet take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 45m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Stansted Mountfitchet including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:40AM | Arrival Time 08:55AM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 10:35AM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:55AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:25AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:30AM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 06:20PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 06:32PM | Duration 6h17 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 07:05PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $94 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:45PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 09:55PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 08:40PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 01:00AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet buses for today, Saturday, July 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX509 · NXA8 | 11:30 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h32 | 6:02 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX507 · NXA8 | 12:15 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h17 | 6:32 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX202 · NX727 | 12:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h05 | 6:40 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NXA8 | 1:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h44 | 8:29 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX202 · NX727 | 3:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 5h35 | 8:40 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX201 · NX727 | 4:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h00 | 10:40 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NXA8 | 4:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h40 | 11:25 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NXA8 | 5:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h20 | 11:50 PM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX507 · NXA8 | 6:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h15 | 1:00 AM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NXA6 | 7:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 6h40 | 2:25 AM Stansted, London Stansted Airport Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
| 5:55 AM Cardiff | 6h15 | 12:10 PM Stansted Mountfitchet | 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 Stansted Mountfitchet 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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Jul 19
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Why should you book Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet run on average 15 times per day, taking around 4h 45m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:30, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 147 miles (238 km) distance in 6h 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 147 miles (238 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 45m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Buses per day 15 |
Fastest bus 6h 15m |
First bus 2:30 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 14 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 from Cardiff to Stansted MountfitchetYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet with National Express for as low as $27 (€22). 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
6h 15m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
National Express frequency
15 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 Stansted Mountfitchet
Things to do in Stansted Mountfitchet
Discover the best of Stansted Mountfitchet — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Stansted Mountfitchet trip today.
- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Acclaimed university museum with archaeology, anthropology, and world cultures collections. It is a strong day-trip choice from Stansted by rail.
- Recommended
House on the Hill Toy Museum
Hands-on museum at the castle complex featuring vintage toys, models, and nostalgic displays. Fun, compact, and especially good for families.
- Must visit
Hatfield Forest
Open heath and woodland managed by the National Trust near the airport. Good for walking, wildlife, and broad views over the countryside.
- Recommended
Norman Village and Deer Park
Wooded reserve beside the castle with tame deer and walking paths. Popular with families for a gentle outdoor break in the village centre.
- Recommended
Lower Street
Main village street with period buildings, independent shops, and a traditional high street feel. Best for strolling and seeing local daily life.
- Gluten-free
Essex Oysters
Essex oysters are a county specialty from nearby coastal waters, prized for their briny flavor and long local shellfish tradition.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Tiptree Jam
Tiptree jam is a famous Essex preserve made from local fruit, traditionally served at breakfast or afternoon tea across the county.
- Vegetarian
Saffron Bun
Saffron bun is linked to nearby Saffron Walden, a lightly sweet enriched bun scented with saffron, reflecting the area's historic saffron trade.
Novello
Established Indian restaurant in the village centre, valued for classic curries and friendly service in a casual dining setting.
The Cock Inn
Historic coaching inn and restaurant with a traditional pub atmosphere, known for British classics, roasts, and a strong local reputation.
The Dog and Duck
Well-known village pub offering British comfort food, drinks, and a relaxed setting popular with locals and visitors.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for England. Hotels near the airport can be pricey, but dining and local transit are similar to other commuter towns near London.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; otherwise tip 10-12.5% for good service. Taxis often round up or add about 10%. Cafes usually do not require tips.
Buses Cardiff to Stansted
If you fly with Ryanair or other budget airlines to and from England, you already know that they often land at Stansted Airport. This is a good way outside of London, which is not ideal for traveling to the city. For journeys to other cities, the airport can be perfect, as the distance is not so far and the travellers do not have to drive through the traffic of London. If, for example, you have to come from Cardiff to Stansted Airport, there are many good connections for you. An example is the bus Cardiff - Stansted, of which several are driving daily.
Which bus companies travel from Cardiff to Stansted?
The trips for the Cardiff - Stansted bus are all operated entirely by National Express. The buses company is the largest on the island and one of the largest in the world. Every day National Express serves all important connections in England and many buses in Europe.
How long does the bus journey from Cardiff to Stansted take?
The National Express buses take between 5 and 7 hours to travel from Cardiff to Stansted. Unfortunately, there are no direct buses between the two stations, so travellers must change buses at least once for each connection. For example, National Express stops at London Heathrow Airport or at Victoria Coach Station in London.
How often can you take the bus from Cardiff to Stansted?
National Express operates about 20 connections daily for the bus from Cardiff to Stansted. The first buses usually leave Cardiff at 2 to 3 am. These connections are ideal for travellers who need to catch a flight from Stansted in the morning.
Bus stations on the Cardiff - Stansted line?
At which bus station does the bus depart from in Cardiff? All National Express buses depart from two stops in Cardiff. The Castle St stop is right next to Cardiff Castle and is easily accessible from downtown. Travelers can easily get there on foot from most hotels. The Sophia Gardens stop is near the cricket stadium of the same name. The bus station is located a bit north of the city centre, but can usually be reached by taxi in a few minutes.
At which bus station does the bus arrive in Stansted? The buses stop at London Stansted airport, which is about 60 kilometres from the city centre. The National Express bus station is located directly at the airport, from where travellers can walk directly to the entrance hall. There is free Wi-Fi and some restaurants and cafés at the airport for those waiting.
FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Mountfitchet, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet can start from as little as $27 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet is $45 (€37) ; 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 Stansted Mountfitchet is 6h 15m to travel the 147 miles (238 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 Stansted Mountfitchet leaves at 2:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 15 buses a day from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Stansted Mountfitchet. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Stansted Mountfitchet and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Stansted Mountfitchet from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 15m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Stansted Mountfitchet including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet for bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet 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.
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 Stansted Mountfitchet.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet:
- 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 Stansted Mountfitchet:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff nor Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Mountfitchet 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 Stansted Mountfitchet, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially around crowded areas and transport hubs. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed operators to avoid overcharging or scams. It's advisable to stay vigilant in public spaces and keep personal belongings secure to minimize safety risks.
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.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Stansted Mountfitchet and Cardiff
Most popular bus connections to Stansted Mountfitchet
HomeBusesBuses in United KingdomBus tickets to Stansted MountfitchetCardiff to Stansted Mountfitchet bus
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