- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cheltenham to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$9
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$11
Fastest journey on Sep 19
2 h 45 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
2 h 47 m
Buses on Sep 19
3
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 $9.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 buses from Cheltenham to Cardiff, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct buses cover the 89 km distance in an average of 2 h 47 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 45 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest buses will take 2 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.
2:20 PM2h45Cheltenham5:05 PMCardiff$91One-way0 transfers- 6:25 PM2h50Cheltenham9:15 PMCardiff$101One-way0 transfers
- 1:20 PM2h45Cheltenham4:05 PMCardiff$141One-way0 transfers
- 2:20 PM2h45Cheltenham5:05 PMCardiff$91One-way0 transfers
- 1:20 PM2h45Cheltenham4:05 PMCardiff$141One-way0 transfers
- 6:25 PM2h50Cheltenham9:15 PMCardiff$101One-way0 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 an average ticket price of $13 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 1h 41m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, while a train costs an average of $26.
Distance: 55 miles (89 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$13 Average price Cheapest | $26 Average price | $25 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 20m Average total duration 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 41m Average total duration Fastest 1h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 24m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $13.
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Cardiff:
A bus is $13 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Cardiff costing on average $26.
The fastest way to travel from Cheltenham to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 1h 11m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 2h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $13 compared to roughly $25 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $11. The journey takes 2h 50m versus 1h 24m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Cheltenham to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:15AM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 3h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 3h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $17 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 01:15PM | Duration 3h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $13 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $11 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 2h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $9 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 09:15PM | Duration 2h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $10 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:40PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:59PM | Arrival Time 05:35AM | Duration 5h36 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $44 |
Live departures
Cheltenham to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Cardiff buses for today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:25 PM Cheltenham | 3h50 | 10:15 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
 | 11:40 PM Cheltenham | 5h55 | 5:35 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Saturday, September 19 | |||||
| 1:20 PM Cheltenham | 2h45 | 4:05 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:20 PM Cheltenham | 2h45 | 5:05 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
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Sep 20
Sep 20
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Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
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Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Cheltenham to Cardiff buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as National Express or FlixBus offer buses services from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
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 National Express or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
- 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff.
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 or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cheltenham to Cardiff run on average 2 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $7 if you book in advance.
There are 1 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 02:15, the last at 23:47. The fastest bus covers the 55 miles (89 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 55 miles (89 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $7 |
Buses per day 2 |
Direct buses 1 |
Fastest bus 2h 45m |
First bus 2:15 AM |
Last bus 11:47 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 21 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: FlixBus from Cheltenham to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Cheltenham to Cardiff with FlixBus for as low as $7. 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
2h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$7
FlixBus frequency
3 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.
Complete guide to Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- 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%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens) -> Cardiff Central Station
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Cardiff Bus services. Buying in the official app can speed up boarding.
- Transport for Wales rail services also accept contactless and card payments at many stations, but fares and products vary by route.
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 $7 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cheltenham to Cardiff is $13 ; 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff is 2h 45m to travel the 55 miles (89 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff leaves at 2:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff leaves at 11:47 PM.
Yes, there are 1 direct buses a day from Cheltenham to Cardiff with FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff, you can count on FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cheltenham and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cheltenham , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub, Gloucester, Transport Hub, Cheltenham, Arle Court Park & Ride (Hatherley Lane), Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station, Cheltenham . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, University, Newport, Queensway, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Weston-super-Mare, Regent St (Interchange), Weston-super-Mare, Diamond Batch Car Park Stop (Worle Station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub, which is located around 1 miles (3 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cardiff from Cheltenham is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cheltenham and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff for bus company FlixBus.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff depends on the bus companies:
- 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cheltenham to Cardiff:
- 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff with the following bus company: FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cheltenham to Cardiff with the following bus company: FlixBus.
Since neither Cheltenham nor Cardiff 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Cheltenham to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings 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 Cheltenham to Cardiff
Most Cheltenham to Cardiff buses use the Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cheltenham
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Which Cheltenham station do buses to Cardiff leave from?
Buses from Cheltenham to Cardiff leave from Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Cheltenham city centre at Cheltenham Arle Court Transport Hub, Cheltenham GL51 6SH, UK.
Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport HubCheltenham Arle Court Transport Hub, Cheltenham GL51 6SH, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub from Cheltenham city centre
Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub is 3 km from Cheltenham city centre. Public transport options include:
TRUE
Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub bus station facilities and services
Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free WiFi is available throughout the station. ATMs are available at Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub: Facilities are accessible to passengers with reduced mobility.
Which Cardiff station do buses from Cheltenham arrive at?
Buses from Cheltenham to Cardiff most often arrive at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Some services arrive at Newport, Queensway, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.
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
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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.
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
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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