Glasgow to Cardiff bus with National Express

Sat, Aug 29
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Glasgow to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Aug 29

Cheapest price on Aug 29

$107

Average ticket price on Aug 29

$144

Fastest journey on Aug 29

14 h 35 m

Average journey duration on Aug 29

15 h 29 m

Buses on Aug 29

7

Distance

493 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Glasgow to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Glasgow to Cardiff will cost around $144 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $107.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Glasgow to Cardiff without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    10:40 PM14h35
    Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
    1:15 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $1071One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    10:20 AM15h25
    Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
    1:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $1201One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    8:50 AM15h55
    Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
    12:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $1321One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX590 · NX509
    8:40 AM16h10
    Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
    12:50 AMCardiff, University
    $1481One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX591 · NX509
    9:15 AM16h30
    Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
    1:45 AMCardiff, University
    $1551One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Glasgow to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Glasgow to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $84 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 6h 23m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $84, while a train costs an average of $182.

Distance: 306 miles (493 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$84

Average price

Cheapest

$182

Average price

$182

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

13h 38m

Average total duration

13h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 53m

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

National Express

Most popular bus company

Avanti West Coast

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 $86.

This is compared to other travel options from Glasgow to Cardiff:

A bus is $117 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Glasgow to Cardiff costing on average $203.

The fastest way to travel from Glasgow to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 5h 55m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 13h 12m.

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 train 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 $86 compared to roughly $182 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $96. The journey takes 13h 12m 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

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:35AM
Arrival Time
12:45AM
Duration
17h10
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$78
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:40AM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
16h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$91
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
12:45AM
Duration
15h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$79
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:15AM
Arrival Time
01:45AM
Duration
16h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
01:45AM
Duration
15h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$76
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:15PM
Arrival Time
11:40AM
Duration
16h25
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$69
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:40PM
Arrival Time
01:15PM
Duration
14h35
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45PM
Arrival Time
12:10PM
Duration
13h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:00PM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
17h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$88
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
03:15PM
Duration
15h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$66

Live departures

Glasgow to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Glasgow to Cardiff buses for today, Friday, August 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:15 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
16h25
11:40 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:40 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
14h35
1:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
National ExpressNX594 · NX50710:45 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
12h55
11:40 AM Cardiff, University1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus11:55 PM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
15h20
3:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
Saturday, August 29
National ExpressNX590 · NX5098:40 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
16h10
12:50 AM Cardiff, University1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:50 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
15h55
12:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
National ExpressNX591 · NX5099:15 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
16h30
1:45 AM Cardiff, University1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:20 AM Glasgow, Buchanan Bus Station
15h25
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

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.

Sat
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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
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Glasgow to Cardiff run on average 10 times per day, taking around 13h 12m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $35 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 8h 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
306 miles (493 km)
Average bus duration
13h 12m
Cheapest ticket price
$35
Buses per day
10
Fastest bus
8h 55m
First bus
1:40 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
35 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, FlixBus from Glasgow to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Glasgow to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $35. 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
8h 55m
Cheapest Price
$40
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
9h 50m
Cheapest Price
$35
National Express frequency
6 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

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • 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.

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.

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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Glasgow to Cardiff can start from as little as $35 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Glasgow to Cardiff is $86 ; 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 8h 55m 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.
When departing from Glasgow , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Glasgow, Buchanan 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), Cardiff, University, Newport, Queensway, Weston-super-Mare, Regent St (Interchange), Weston-super-Mare, Diamond Batch Car Park Stop (Worle Station) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Glasgow, Buchanan 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.
A trip to Cardiff from Glasgow is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 8h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Glasgow to Cardiff is July.
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, 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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Glasgow to Cardiff for bus company National Express, Megabus, FlixBus.
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 train 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 KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
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.

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