Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$641•One-way
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$1191•One-way
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$951•One-way
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$981•One-way
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$491•One-way
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$431•One-way
2nd cheapest
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$821•One-way
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$891•One-way
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$381•One-way
Fastest
Derby, Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$331•One-way
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Derby to CardiffShowing times and prices for Jul 14
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$67
Fastest journey
8h 0m
Average duration
8h 51m
Buses per day
11
Distance
198 km
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Derby to Cardiff bus with National Express
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 $22. 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 $22, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$35 Average price Cheapest | $69 Average price | $69 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 $35 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Derby to Cardiff:
A bus is $34 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Derby to Cardiff costing on average $69 (€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 National Express | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 9h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10AM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 04:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $119 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 09:10PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 06:10PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 10:59PM | Duration 8h49 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 8h49 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 8h39 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 9h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:05PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:05PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 11h35 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05PM | Arrival Time 12:30PM | Duration 13h25 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $56 |
Live departures
Derby to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Derby to Cardiff buses for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:30 AM Derby, Bus Station | 8h40 | 4:10 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX201 | On time 7:35 AM Derby, Bus Station | 9h10 | 4:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX509 | 9:15 AM Derby, Bus Station | 9h15 | 6:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX201 | On time 9:40 AM Derby, Bus Station | 9h00 | 6:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:50 AM Derby, Bus Station | 8h50 | 7:40 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:15 AM Derby, Bus Station | 9h55 | 9:10 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX440 · NX509 | 11:45 AM Derby, Bus Station | 8h40 | 8:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX201 | On time 12:05 PM Derby, Bus Station | 8h55 | 9:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:05 PM Derby, Bus Station | 8h40 | 12:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:45 PM Derby, Bus Station | 8h00 | 1:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:05 PM Derby, Bus Station | 8h20 | 3:25 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 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.
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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 $22 (€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 $22 (€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 $22 (€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
$24 (€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
$46 (€38)
Kinchbus frequency
1 a day
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 $22 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Derby to Cardiff is $35 (€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, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Derby to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Derby to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
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
Most Derby to Cardiff buses use the Derby, Bus Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). Use this guide to compare Derby and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Derby
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Derby, Bus Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby, Bus Station from Derby city centre
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · $2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · $1 · every ~2 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 21, 136, 23 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
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
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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