- 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 13
Cheapest price on Oct 13
$76
Average ticket price on Oct 13
$89
Fastest journey on Oct 13
14 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Oct 13
14 h 44 m
Buses on Oct 13
8
Distance
497 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Cardiff will cost around $89 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus11:15 PM15h00Edinburgh, Bus Station2:15 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$761One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus11:05 AM14h40Edinburgh, Bus Station1:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$761One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:45 PM14h55Edinburgh, Bus Station11:40 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$781One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 PM15h00Edinburgh, Bus Station1:40 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$801One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus9:05 AM15h40Edinburgh, Bus Station12:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$851One-way1 transfer
NX598 · NX5079:45 PM14h05Edinburgh, Bus Station11:50 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$1081One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus11:05 AM14h40Edinburgh, Bus Station1:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$761One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus8:45 PM14h55Edinburgh, Bus Station11:40 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$781One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 PM15h00Edinburgh, Bus Station1:40 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$801One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus11:15 PM15h00Edinburgh, Bus Station2:15 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$761One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Cardiff run on average 9 times per day, taking around 13h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 (€28) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 308 miles (497 km) distance in 11h 10m.
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 308 miles (497 km) |
Average bus duration 13h 12m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€28) |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 11h 10m |
First bus 1:40 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 63 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
Edinburgh to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 15h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $111 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 15h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 14h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 13h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:45PM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45PM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 15h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 15h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 03:15PM | Duration 15h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $68 |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cardiff buses for today, Monday, October 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:45 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 14h55 | 11:40 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX598 · NX507 | 9:45 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 14h05 | 11:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX598 · NX507 | 10:05 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 14h05 | 12:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 15h00 | 1:40 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:15 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 15h00 | 2:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:30 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 15h45 | 3:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, October 13 | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:05 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 15h40 | 12:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX591 · NX509 | 10:35 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 16h10 | 2:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:05 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 14h40 | 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
Why should you book Edinburgh to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Edinburgh to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $33 (€28). 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 FlixBus Duration
12h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$33 (€28)
FlixBus frequency
5 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 National Express Duration
11h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
$44 (€37)
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 Edinburgh to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff can start from as little as $33 (€28) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Cardiff is $76 (€63) ; 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff is 11h 10m to travel the 308 miles (497 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff leaves at 1:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Cardiff leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Edinburgh , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Edinburgh, Bus Station . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Newport, Queensway, Cardiff, University .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Edinburgh, Bus Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
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 Edinburgh to Cardiff
Most Edinburgh to Cardiff buses use the Edinburgh, Bus Station to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Use this guide to compare Edinburgh and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Edinburgh
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Which Edinburgh station do buses to Cardiff leave from?
Buses from Edinburgh to Cardiff leave from Edinburgh, Bus Station. The station is from Edinburgh city centre at Elder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · $2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · $1 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · $5 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Which Cardiff station do buses from Edinburgh arrive at?
Buses from Edinburgh to Cardiff most often arrive at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Some services arrive at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
TRUE
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
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, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)Cardiff CF10 3RB, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 21, 136, 23 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). ATMs are available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB): Accessible via ramped access.
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Edinburgh
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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