- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Chester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 17
Cheapest price
$32
Average price
$33
Fastest journey
8 h 45 m
Average duration
8 h 45 m
Buses per day
2
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 $33 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $32.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Chester for Cardiff on Wed, Jun 17, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Jun 17 the direct buses cover the 191 km distance in an average of 8 h 45 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 45 m .
On Wed, Jun 17 the slowest buses will take 8 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.
10:40 AM8h45Chester7:25 PMCardiff$321One-way0 transfers- 11:40 AM8h45Chester8:25 PMCardiff$351One-way0 transfers
- 11:40 AM8h45Chester8:25 PMCardiff$351One-way0 transfers
- 10:40 AM8h45Chester7:25 PMCardiff$321One-way0 transfers
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 $17. 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 $17, and a train costs an average of $42.
Distance: 118 miles (191 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$33 Average price Cheapest | $70 Average price | $55 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 $33 (€26).
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Cardiff:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Cardiff costing on average $70 (€57).
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 Fri | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 10:40AM | Duration 11h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Live departures
Chester to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:40 AM Chester | 8h45 | 7:25 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:40 AM Chester | 8h45 | 8:25 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 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.
Wed
Jun 17
Jun 17
Thu
Jun 18
Jun 18
Fri
Jun 19
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
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 $17 (€14) 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 $17 (€14) |
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 $17 (€14). 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
$17 (€14)
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
$60 (€48)
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 museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with promenades, public buildings, and popular photo-friendly views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park ideal for riverside walks, greenery, and easy access from the castle.
- Must visit
Cardiff Market Arcade Quarter
Network of historic Victorian and Edwardian arcades prized for architecture and local independent shops.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savory cheese sauce, often seasoned with mustard or ale. It is a staple in pubs and cafes across Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steakhouse in central Cardiff, praised for quality Welsh beef, polished service, and a lively modern atmosphere.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Highly regarded fine-dining venue serving well-presented British dishes in a unique and memorable setting.
Madeira Restaurante
Long-running Portuguese restaurant popular for grilled meat, seafood, and generous portions in a warm, traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.70
To the city center
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff -> Cardiff Central Station, Cardiff
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is widely accepted on Cardiff buses, making it easy to buy tickets onboard.
- Use the Transport for Wales app for live journey planning and rail tickets across Cardiff and South Wales.
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 $17 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chester to Cardiff is $33 (€26) ; 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
Chester
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Chester is Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) for your trip from Chester to Cardiff.
Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) for your trip to Cardiff from Chester.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, University
information
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
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
