- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in the city centre. Best known for its impressive Impressionist and Welsh art galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Derby to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$44
Average price
$46
Fastest journey
4 h 30 m
Average duration
6 h 18 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Derby to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Derby to Cardiff will cost around $46 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $44.
Fast buses
Of the 2 buses that leave Derby for Cardiff on Sun, May 31, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct buses cover the 198 km distance in an average of 6 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 30 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest buses will take 8 h 5 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.
1:40 PM4h30Derby6:10 PMCardiff$441One-way0 transfers- 5:40 PM8h05Derby1:45 AMCardiff$481One-way0 transfers
- 1:40 PM4h30Derby6:10 PMCardiff$441One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 PM8h05Derby1:45 AMCardiff$481One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Derby to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Derby to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 44m. 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 $23, and a train costs an average of $47.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$36 Average price Cheapest | $71 Average price | $70 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 58m Average total duration 5h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 14m Average total duration Fastest 2h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m 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 Derby to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $36 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Derby to Cardiff:
A bus is $35 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Derby to Cardiff costing on average $71 (€57).
The fastest way to travel from Derby to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 44m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Derby 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.
Derby to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:25AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 9h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $104 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 03:10PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 08:25AM | Duration 9h20 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $39 |
Live departures
Derby to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Derby to Cardiff buses for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX440 · NX507 | Delayed 2:10 PM 5:40 AMDerby, Bus Station | 8h30 | 2:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX201 | Delayed 6:00 AM Derby, Bus Station | 8h25 | 3:25 PM 3:25 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX509 | Delayed 2:10 PM 6:50 AMDerby, Bus Station | 8h20 | 3:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX134 · NX112 | 8:50 AM Derby, Bus Station | 7h15 | 4:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX509 | Delayed 2:10 PM 9:15 AMDerby, Bus Station | 8h25 | 5:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX133 · NX111 | On time 2:25 PM Derby, Bus Station | 4h45 | 7:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX509 | On time 3:10 PM Derby, Bus Station | 8h49 | 11:59 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX509 | On time 5:40 PM Derby, Bus Station | 8h15 | 1:55 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Derby 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.
Sun
May 31
May 31
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Why should you book Derby to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Kinchbus offer buses services from Derby to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Derby 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 Kinchbus to find the best option for your trip from Derby 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 Derby to Cardiff.
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 Derby to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Derby to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Derby to Cardiff run on average 19 times per day, taking around 5h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $23 (€18) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:10. The fastest bus covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 4h 30m.
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 123 miles (198 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 28m |
Cheapest ticket price $23 (€18) |
Buses per day 19 |
Fastest bus 4h 30m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:10 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 49 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, Kinchbus from Derby to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Derby to Cardiff with National Express, Kinchbus for as low as $23 (€18). 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
4h 30m
Cheapest Price
$25 (€20)
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.
Kinchbus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 48m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€38)
Kinchbus frequency
1 a day
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 showing Welsh life through historic buildings moved from across Wales. One of the country’s most loved cultural attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city museum covering Cardiff’s growth from market town to capital, with local stories, objects, and interactive displays.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Waterside district with modern landmarks, walking routes, public art, and some of the city’s most shared photo spots.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind Cardiff Castle, ideal for riverside walks, picnics, and easy access to historic sites.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Historic Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades that give central Cardiff much of its character. Excellent for walking and architecture lovers.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’ most iconic comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savoury cheese sauce, often flavoured with mustard or ale. It is a staple pub and cafe dish in Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
Traditional Welsh vegetarian sausages made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. They are especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steak restaurant with an open-fire cooking style, stylish interior, and strong reputation for high-quality meat and memorable service.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Established restaurant at HMP Cardiff, known for refined dining prepared and served by trainees in a unique, professional setting.
Porro
Highly regarded neighbourhood restaurant in Llandaff serving seasonal small plates, natural wine, and modern cooking in a relaxed contemporary space.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and chain cafes are reasonable, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for fast food, cafes, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff -> Cardiff Central railway station, Cardiff
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 8 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless is available on many Cardiff Bus services; the daily cap can be cheaper than buying separate tickets.
- Use the Transport for Wales app for live rail times and mobile tickets; Cardiff Bus journey planning is also available on the operator website.
FAQs: Bus from Derby to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby 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 Derby to Cardiff can start from as little as $23 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Derby to Cardiff is $36 (€29) ; 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 Derby to Cardiff is 4h 30m to travel the 123 miles (198 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 Derby to Cardiff leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Derby to Cardiff leaves at 11:10 PM.
There are 19 buses a day from Derby to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, Kinchbus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Derby to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, Kinchbus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Derby and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Derby is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Derby to Cardiff is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Derby to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Derby 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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Derby 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.
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 Derby to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Derby 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 Derby to Cardiff:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Derby to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Derby to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Derby to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Derby to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Derby 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 Derby 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 Derby to Cardiff
Derby
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Derby is Derby, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Derby, Bus Station for your trip from Derby to Cardiff.
Derby, Bus Station
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 Derby.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Most popular bus connections from Derby
More options for your journey from Derby to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Derby
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