- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Dover to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$24
Average price
$39
Fastest journey
7 h 55 m
Average duration
8 h 2 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
314 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Dover to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Dover to Cardiff will cost around $39 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $24.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Dover for Cardiff on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Jun 21 the direct buses cover the 314 km distance in an average of 8 h 2 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 55 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest buses will take 8 h 10 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.
4:50 PM8h10Dover1:00 AMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers- 5:15 AM7h55Dover1:10 PMCardiff$441One-way0 transfers
- 3:50 PM8h00Dover11:50 PMCardiff$501One-way0 transfers
- 5:15 AM7h55Dover1:10 PMCardiff$441One-way0 transfers
- 3:50 PM8h00Dover11:50 PMCardiff$501One-way0 transfers
- 4:50 PM8h10Dover1:00 AMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Dover to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Dover to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 18m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $54.
Distance: 195 miles (314 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$45 Average price Cheapest | $82 Average price |
6h 48m Average total duration 6h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 48m Average total duration Fastest 3h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.3 - 0.8kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Dover to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $45 (€37).
This is compared to other travel options from Dover to Cardiff:
A bus is $37 (€30) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Dover to Cardiff costing on average $82 (€67).
The fastest way to travel from Dover to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 18m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 18m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dover and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Dover to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Dover to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50PM | Arrival Time 01:00AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $27 |
Live departures
Dover to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Dover to Cardiff buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:15 AM Dover | 7h55 | 12:10 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:30 PM Dover | 8h05 | 8:35 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:30 PM Dover | 8h05 | 9:35 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:50 PM Dover | 8h10 | 1:00 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Dover to Cardiff by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
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Jun 27
Jun 27
Why should you book Dover to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Dover to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Dover to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Dover to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Dover to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Dover to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Dover to Cardiff run on average 8 times per day, taking around 6h 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $21 (€18) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:15, the last at 21:20. The fastest bus covers the 195 miles (314 km) distance in 7h 55m.
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 195 miles (314 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€18) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 7h 55m |
First bus 3:15 AM |
Last bus 9:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 3 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 from Dover to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Dover to Cardiff with National Express for as low as $21 (€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
7h 55m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€18)
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 Dover to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Dover 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 Dover to Cardiff can start from as little as $21 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Dover to Cardiff is $45 (€37) ; 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 Dover to Cardiff is 7h 55m to travel the 195 miles (314 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 Dover to Cardiff leaves at 3:15 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Dover to Cardiff leaves at 9:20 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Dover to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Dover to Cardiff, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Dover and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Dover is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Dover to Cardiff is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Dover and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Dover to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Dover 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 Dover to Cardiff:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Dover to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Dover to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Dover to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Dover to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Dover 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 Dover 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 Dover to Cardiff
Most Dover to Cardiff buses use the Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre) to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). Use this guide to compare Dover and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Dover
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre)
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, 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
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 · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from Dover
More options for your journey from Dover to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Dover
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