Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$861•One-way
Cheapest, Fastest
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$561•One-way
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$1121•One-way
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$861•One-way
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$891•One-way
2nd cheapest
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$691•One-way
2nd Fastest
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$1321•One-way
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
$1011•One-way
The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Glasgow to CardiffShowing times and prices for Jul 14
Cheapest price
$56
Average price
$91
Fastest journey
13h 20m
Average duration
15h 43m
Buses per day
8
Distance
209 km
Travellers trust Omio
Join the more than 15 million travellers who’ve planned and booked their journeys with Omio.
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to discover more features and savings in our app
Special in-app offers
Tickets available offline
Live trip updates
Prices include taxes and may change depending on availability. Any additional fees can be reviewed before payment. The total price will be finalized once the purchase is completed.
Glasgow to Cardiff bus with National Express
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Glasgow to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Glasgow to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 6h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, and a train costs an average of $90.
Distance: 306 miles (493 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$60 Average price Cheapest | $183 Average price | $176 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 5m Average total duration 11h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 57m Average total duration Fastest 6h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 59m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg 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 Glasgow to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $60 (€49).
This is compared to other travel options from Glasgow to Cardiff:
A bus is $123 (€101) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Glasgow to Cardiff costing on average $183 (€151).
The fastest way to travel from Glasgow to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 6h 27m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 11h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Glasgow and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Glasgow to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $60 (€49) compared to roughly $176 (€145) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $116 (€96). The journey takes 11h 35m versus 6h 59m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Direct services are operated by Megabus.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Glasgow to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 17h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 17h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:40AM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 18h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 15h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 11:40AM | Duration 16h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 14h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45PM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 13h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:00PM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 13h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 15h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $82 |
Live departures
Glasgow to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Glasgow 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 | 7:35 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 17h10 | 12:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX590 · NX100 · NX202 | 8:40 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 13h20 | 10:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| NX591 · NX509 | 9:15 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 18h00 | 3:15 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:20 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 15h25 | 1:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 16h25 | 11:40 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:40 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 14h25 | 1:05 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX594 · NX507 | 10:45 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 13h25 | 12:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX181 · NX104 · NX202 | 11:00 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station | 17h30 | 4:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Glasgow 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.
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Sun
Jul 19
Jul 19
Mon
Jul 20
Jul 20
Tue
Jul 21
Jul 21
Wed
Jul 22
Jul 22
Thu
Jul 23
Jul 23
Fri
Jul 24
Jul 24
Sat
Jul 25
Jul 25
Sun
Jul 26
Jul 26
Mon
Jul 27
Jul 27
Tue
Jul 28
Jul 28
Wed
Jul 29
Jul 29
Thu
Jul 30
Jul 30
Fri
Jul 31
Jul 31
Sat
Aug 01
Aug 01
Sun
Aug 02
Aug 02
Mon
Aug 03
Aug 03
Why should you book Glasgow to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus, FlixBus, First Greater Glasgow and more offer buses services from Glasgow to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Glasgow 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 Megabus, FlixBus or First Greater Glasgow to find the best option for your trip from Glasgow 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 Glasgow 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 Megabus, FlixBus or First Greater Glasgow to find the best option for your trip from Glasgow to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Glasgow to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Glasgow to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Glasgow to Cardiff run on average 10 times per day, taking around 11h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 306 miles (493 km) distance in 11h 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 306 miles (493 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 11h 30m |
First bus 1:40 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 84 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, Megabus, FlixBus, First Greater Glasgow from Glasgow to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Glasgow to Cardiff with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus, First Greater Glasgow for as low as $34 (€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 Duration
14h 25m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€32)
FlixBus frequency
4 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
11h 30m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
National Express frequency
7 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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 5m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
Megabus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
First Greater Glasgow
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 49m
First Greater Glasgow frequency
1 a day
FAQs: Bus from Glasgow to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Glasgow 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 Glasgow to Cardiff can start from as little as $34 (€28) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Glasgow to Cardiff is $60 (€49) ; 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 Glasgow to Cardiff is 11h 30m to travel the 306 miles (493 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 Glasgow to Cardiff leaves at 1:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Glasgow to Cardiff leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Glasgow to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus, FlixBus, First Greater Glasgow. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Glasgow to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, Megabus, FlixBus, First Greater Glasgow for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Glasgow and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Glasgow is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Glasgow to Cardiff is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Glasgow and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Glasgow to Cardiff for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Glasgow to Cardiff:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 Glasgow to Cardiff depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- 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 Glasgow to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Glasgow to Cardiff:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- 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 Glasgow to Cardiff:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- 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 Glasgow 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 Glasgow to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Glasgow to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Glasgow to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Glasgow 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Glasgow 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 Glasgow to Cardiff
Most Glasgow to Cardiff buses use the Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Use this guide to compare Glasgow and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Glasgow
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Which Glasgow station do buses to Cardiff leave from?
Buses from Glasgow to Cardiff leave from Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station. The station is from Glasgow city centre at Killermont Street, Glasgow G2 3NW, United Kingdom.
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus StationKillermont Street, Glasgow G2 3NW, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station from Glasgow city centre
Bus15 · 2m · $1 · every ~8 min
4 · 4m · $2 · every ~6 min
9, 9A, X8 · 6m · $2 · every ~26 min
Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Glasgow, Buchanan 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: Cafeteria Buchanan (in the station), Coffee Express (in the station), Fast Bites (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 Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
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
More options for your journey from Glasgow to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Glasgow
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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.
