- 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 London Luton Airport to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- $38
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- $66
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 4 h 30 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 4 h 36 m
- Buses on Nov 04
- 14
- Distance
- 198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from London Luton Airport to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from London Luton Airport to Cardiff will cost around $66 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $38.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from London Luton Airport to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
NXA31 · NX5099:45 AM 6h35 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 4:20 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $38 1 One-way 1 transfer- NXA1 · NX507
6:05 AM 5h45 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 11:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $42 1 One-way 1 transfer - NXA31 · NX507
1:45 PM 6h55 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 8:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $50 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX707 · NX112
10:15 AM 6h25 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 4:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $57 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX230 · NX202
5:20 PM 4h40 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 10:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $58 1 One-way 1 transfer
- NX231 · NX201
9:10 PM 4h30 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 1:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $70 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX230 · NX201
8:10 AM 4h30 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 12:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $90 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX240 · NX201
12:15 PM 4h35 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 4:50 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $80 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX230 · NX202
5:20 PM 4h40 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 10:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $58 1 One-way 1 transfer - NX230 · NX201
4:05 PM 4h45 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station 8:50 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens $62 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from London Luton Airport to Cardiff run on average 20 times per day, taking around 4h 41m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 05:05, the last at 21:05. The fastest bus covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 3h 40m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance123 miles (198 km)
- Average bus duration4h 41m
- Cheapest ticket price$19
- Buses per day20
- Fastest bus3h 40m
- First bus5:05 AM
- Last bus9:05 PM
- Cheapest MonthJan
- Cheapest DaySun
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DaySat
- Least Busy DayFri
- Best time to book14 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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
Frequently asked questions about your London Luton Airport to Cardiff trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
Cheap bus tickets from London Luton Airport to Cardiff can start from as little as $19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for London Luton Airport to Cardiff is $56 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff leaves at 5:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff leaves at 9:05 PM.
There are 20 buses a day from London Luton Airport to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
London Luton Airport to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 04:50PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 10:59PM | Duration 5h54 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 5h54 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00PM | Arrival Time 01:50AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 03:45AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 03:35AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Live departures
London Luton Airport to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for London Luton Airport to Cardiff buses for today, Tuesday, November 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX230 · NX201 | 8:10 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 4h30 | 12:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX201 | 9:40 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h00 | 2:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NXA31 · NX509 | 9:45 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 6h35 | 4:20 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX707 · NX112 | 10:15 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 6h25 | 4:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX240 · NX201 | 12:15 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 4h35 | 4:50 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX201 | 1:30 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h20 | 6:50 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NXA31 · NX507 | 1:45 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 6h55 | 8:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX201 | 4:05 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 4h45 | 8:50 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX202 | 5:20 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 4h40 | 10:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX230 · NX202 | 7:00 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h35 | 12:35 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX231 · NX201 | 9:10 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 4h30 | 1:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX231 · NX201 | 10:10 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h25 | 3:35 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| Wednesday, November 4 | |||||
| NX240 · NX201 | 5:35 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h25 | 11:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NXA1 · NX507 | 6:05 AM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h45 | 11:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book London Luton Airport to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
Bus companies
Bus companies from London Luton Airport to Cardiff
Buses from London Luton Airport to Cardiff with National Express. Overnight buses available on this route with National Express. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
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
3h 40m
Cheapest National Express Price
$19
National Express frequency
20 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between London Luton Airport and Cardiff
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
When taking a bus from London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from London Luton Airport 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, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport to Cardiff:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
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.
Plan your visit to Cardiff
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.
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.
FAQs: Bus from London Luton Airport to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Luton Airport 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London Luton Airport and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
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.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from London Luton Airport to Cardiff
Most London Luton Airport to Cardiff buses use the London, Victoria Coach Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, University. Use this guide to compare London Luton Airport and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in London
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
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 · $3 · 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, 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
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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, 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 · $2 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from London Luton Airport
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and London Luton Airport
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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