- 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 Chester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Aug 03
Cheapest price
kr366
Average price
kr500
Fastest journey
8 h 45 m
Average duration
9 h 48 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
191 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Cardiff will cost around kr500 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr366.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chester to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus11:40 AM8h45Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)8:25 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)kr3661One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus4:15 PM9h30Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)1:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)kr4011One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus12:30 AM11h10Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)11:40 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)kr7321One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:40 AM8h45Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)8:25 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)kr3661One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:15 PM9h30Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)1:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)kr4011One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus12:30 AM11h10Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)11:40 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)kr7321One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Chester to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from kr164. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 4m. 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 kr164, and a train costs an average of kr398.
Distance: 118 miles (191 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
kr307 Average price Cheapest | kr659 Average price | kr516 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Chester to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of kr307.
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Cardiff:
A bus is kr352 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Cardiff costing on average kr659.
The fastest way to travel from Chester to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 4m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Cardiff 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.
Chester to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price kr732 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price kr225 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price kr232 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price kr189 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price kr189 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price kr283 |
Live departures
Chester to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Cardiff buses for today, Sunday, August 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 11:30 PM Chester | 11h10 | 10:40 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, August 3 | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:30 AM Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) | 11h10 | 11:40 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:40 AM Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) | 8h45 | 8:25 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:15 PM Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) | 9h30 | 1:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chester 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.
Mon
Aug 03
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Aug 04
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Aug 05
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Aug 09
Aug 09
Why should you book Chester to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Chester to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chester 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chester 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 FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chester to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Chester to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 5h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr164 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 8h 40m.
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 118 miles (191 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price kr164 |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 8h 40m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Wed |
Best time to book 2 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, FlixBus from Chester to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Chester to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as kr164. 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
8h 45m
Cheapest Price
kr164
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
8h 40m
Cheapest Price
kr560
National Express frequency
2 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 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 Chester to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester 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 Chester to Cardiff can start from as little as kr164 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chester to Cardiff is kr307 ; 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 Chester to Cardiff is 8h 40m to travel the 118 miles (191 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 Chester to Cardiff leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chester to Cardiff leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Chester to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Chester to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Chester and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Chester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chester to Cardiff is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Chester to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Chester to Cardiff for bus company National Express, 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 Chester to Cardiff 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.
- 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 National Express, 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 Chester to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Chester to Cardiff:
- 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 Chester to Cardiff:
- 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 Chester 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 Chester to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Chester to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Chester to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Chester 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 Chester 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 Chester to Cardiff
Most Chester to Cardiff buses use the Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Use this guide to compare Chester and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chester
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)Chester Interchange station, George Street 26, CH1 3EA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) from Chester city centre
Bus11, 11A · 4m · kr23 · every ~8 min
61, 16, 62 · 8m · kr47 · every ~9 min
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · kr23 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · kr12 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Chester
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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