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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cheltenham to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Nov 06
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$11
Fastest journey
2 h 45 m
Average duration
2 h 45 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
89 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff will cost around $11 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Cheltenham for Cardiff on Thu, Nov 06, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 06 the direct buses cover the 89 km distance in an average of 2 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 45 m .
On Thu, Nov 06 the slowest buses will take 2 h 45 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.
01:25PM2h45
Cheltenham04:10PMCardiff
$111One-way
0 transfers
01:25PM2h45
Cheltenham04:10PMCardiff
$111One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cheltenham to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 13m. 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 bus costs an average of €6, and a train costs an average of €9.
Distance: 55 miles (89 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€10 Average price Cheapest | €23 Average price |
3h 1m Average total duration 2h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 43m Average total duration Fastest 1h 13m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg 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.
Cheltenham to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 05:10PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $8 |
Live departures
Cheltenham to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Cardiff buses for today, Wednesday, November 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 11:55 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1:25 PM Cheltenham | 2h45 | 4:10 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cheltenham to Cardiff 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.
Thu
Nov 06
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
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Nov 09
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Wed
Nov 12
Nov 12
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
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 55 miles (89 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 (€6) |
Buses per day 4 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 1h 58m |
First bus 02:15 |
Last bus 23:47 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Cheltenham to Cardiff start from as low as $7 (€6) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $13 (€10) depending on the train type and class.
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, National Express, FlixBus from Cheltenham to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Cheltenham to Cardiff with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus for as low as $7 (€6). 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
$7 (€6)
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.
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
3h 30m
Cheapest Price
$23 (€19)
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.
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
2h 15m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
Megabus frequency
5 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cheltenham to Cardiff can start from as little as $16 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cheltenham to Cardiff is $31 (€26); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The bus time from Cheltenham to Cardiff is on average 1 h 53 min for the 55 mile (88 km) long journey, but the time it takes to go from Cheltenham to Cardiff by bus can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff leaves at 2: 15AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff leaves at 11: 42PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Cheltenham to Cardiff which require at least one change with Megabus or National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
For the best Cheltenham to Cardiff bus to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Megabus or National Express. However, it's always good to check all possible bus companies with services between Cheltenham and Cardiff to compare what amenities they may offer.
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cheltenham, Gloucester Road (Arle Court), which is located around 2.9 miles (4.7 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), located 0.6 miles (988 m) away from the city centre.
A day trip to Cardiff from Cheltenham is worth doing with a journey time of 1 h 53 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff is September.
You have options as you can travel from Cheltenham to Cardiff 2 different ways: train or bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cardiff are:
- Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress with Roman and Norman roots offering guided tours and events
- St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life and culture through reconstructed buildings and exhibits
- Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions
- National Museum Cardiff, featuring art, archaeology, and natural history collections
- Bute Park, a large green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The best things to do in Cardiff include:
- Millennium Centre, a renowned arts venue hosting opera, ballet, and theater performances
- Explore the vibrant nightlife in Cardiff's city center with its array of pubs and clubs
- Take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for scenic views and historical insights
- Visit the Cardiff International White Water for an adventurous day of rafting and kayaking
- Enjoy shopping and dining at the bustling Cardiff Market, offering local produce and unique finds.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff depends on the bus company:
- 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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Cheltenham to Cardiff, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff:
- 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cheltenham to Cardiff
Cheltenham
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Cheltenham is Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station for your trip from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Car connection
Royal Well RoadWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Cafeteria Royal Well (in the station)
- The Coffee House (0.2 km)
- The Brewery Quarter (0.5 km).
Taxis
- Available outside the station.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station
- Bus: 94, 94U, 97, 98
Cheltenham, Gloucester Road (Arle Court)
information
Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane)
information
The major bus station for arrivals 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 to Cardiff from Cheltenham.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, University
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
information
Most popular bus connections from Cheltenham
More options for your journey from Cheltenham to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Cheltenham
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