- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with fine art, natural history, and geology collections in the city center. A top cultural stop in Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Luton to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jul 09
Cheapest price
$20
Average price
$25
Fastest journey
5 h
Average duration
6 h 5 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
196 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Luton to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Luton to Cardiff will cost around $25 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Luton for Cardiff on Thu, Jul 09, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 09 the direct buses cover the 196 km distance in an average of 6 h 5 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h .
On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest buses will take 7 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.
5:05 PM7h40Luton12:45 AMCardiff$201One-way0 transfers- 5:50 PM7h00Luton12:50 AMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers
- 1:15 PM6h10Luton7:25 PMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers
- 9:25 PM5h00Luton2:25 AMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers
- 2:00 PM6h25Luton8:25 PMCardiff$251One-way0 transfers
- 9:25 PM5h00Luton2:25 AMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers
- 2:30 PM5h50Luton8:20 PMCardiff$331One-way0 transfers
- 1:15 PM6h10Luton7:25 PMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers
- 2:00 PM6h25Luton8:25 PMCardiff$251One-way0 transfers
- 5:50 PM7h00Luton12:50 AMCardiff$241One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Luton to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Luton to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $13. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 50m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $13, and a train costs an average of $36.
Distance: 121 miles (196 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$25 Average price Cheapest | $79 Average price | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 29m Average total duration 4h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 20m Average total duration Fastest 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 57m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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 Luton to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $25 (€20).
This is compared to other travel options from Luton to Cardiff:
A bus is $54 (€45) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Luton to Cardiff costing on average $79 (€65).
The fastest way to travel from Luton to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 50m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Luton to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
Luton to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 11:50AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:20AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $27 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 01:40PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:40AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:25AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:35AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 05:40PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 08:25PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 5h54 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 11:15PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 01:25AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 4h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:10PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 02:25AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 03:15AM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 03:45AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:25PM | Arrival Time 03:25AM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $19 |
Live departures
Luton to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Luton to Cardiff buses for today, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX240 · NX201 | Delayed 12:42 PM 5:35 AMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h25 | 11:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NXA31 · NX507 | Delayed 1:20 PM 8:00 AMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 6h00 | 2:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NXA31 · NX509 | Delayed 1:20 PM 9:45 AMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 6h35 | 5:30 PM 5:30 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:35 AM Luton | 7h00 | 6:35 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX240 · NX202 | Delayed 12:42 PM 12:15 PMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 6h00 | 11:50 PM 11:50 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NXA31 · NX509 | Delayed 1:20 PM 1:45 PMLuton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 6h40 | 8:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:15 PM Luton | 5h15 | 7:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:25 PM Luton | 6h00 | 8:25 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:20 PM Luton | 5h55 | 10:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NXA31 · NX507 | On time 5:40 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h55 | 11:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:30 PM Luton | 5h55 | 12:25 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:15 PM Luton | 5h10 | 1:25 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX231 · NX201 | On time 9:10 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 4h30 | 1:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:10 PM Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney) | 6h15 | 3:25 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NXA2 · NX509 | On time 9:30 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h45 | 3:15 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX231 · NX201 | On time 10:10 PM Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station | 5h50 | 4:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:25 PM Luton | 5h00 | 3:25 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 Luton 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.
Thu
Jul 09
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Mon
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Why should you book Luton to Cardiff buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus, Stagecoach East, Arriva UK and more offer buses services from Luton to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton 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, Stagecoach East or Arriva UK to find the best option for your trip from Luton 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 Luton 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, Stagecoach East or Arriva UK to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Luton to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Luton to Cardiff run on average 19 times per day, taking around 4h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $13 (€11) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:45, the last at 23:50. The fastest bus covers the 121 miles (196 km) distance in 5h 0m.
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 121 miles (196 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price $13 (€11) |
Buses per day 19 |
Fastest bus 5h 0m |
First bus 12:45 AM |
Last bus 11:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus, Stagecoach East, Arriva UK from Luton to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Luton to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus, Stagecoach East, Arriva UK for as low as $13 (€11). 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
5h 0m
Cheapest Price
$13 (€11)
FlixBus frequency
2 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
5h 35m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
National Express frequency
17 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.
Stagecoach East
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 50m
Cheapest Price
$74 (€61)
Stagecoach East frequency
2 a day
Arriva UK
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 53m
Cheapest Price
$75 (€62)
Arriva UK frequency
1 a day
Complete guide to Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showing Welsh historic buildings, crafts, and daily life. One of Wales’ most important heritage attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industries, and urban development through accessible local stories and objects.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with striking public buildings, boardwalk-style walks, and some of the city’s most photographed views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle with riverside paths, mature trees, and easy walking routes from the city center.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Historic Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades that define central Cardiff’s character and are popular for strolling and photography.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort foods and strongly associated with Cardiff and South Wales.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Toast topped with a savoury sauce of melted cheese, mustard, and ale or milk. It is a classic Welsh dish often served as a snack or light meal in pubs and cafes.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free dish from South Wales and commonly found on local menus.
Pasture Cardiff
Established steak restaurant known for quality meat, wood-fired cooking, and an energetic dining room. A strong choice for Welsh beef and special-occasion meals.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
A respected fine-dining venue serving polished British dishes in a unique setting, known for professional service and a memorable experience.
The Potted Pig
Well-known restaurant in a former bank vault, popular for modern Welsh and British cooking, especially pork dishes, with a stylish but relaxed atmosphere.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Meals and transport are reasonable, while central hotels cost more on weekends and during major events.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 55+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up for taxis. Tipping is not expected in pubs or for takeaway.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.50
To the city center
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff -> Cardiff Central Station, Cardiff
- Distance
- 1.7 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap on and tap off with a contactless card is available on Transport for Wales rail services in the Cardiff area. On many local buses, contactless card payment is also accepted.
- The Transport for Wales app is the main official tool for train times, tickets, and live journey updates in Cardiff. Check operator details because bus tickets are usually separate from rail tickets.
FAQs: Bus from Luton to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton 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 Luton to Cardiff can start from as little as $13 (€11) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Luton to Cardiff is $25 (€20) ; 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 Luton to Cardiff is 5h 0m to travel the 121 miles (196 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 Luton to Cardiff leaves at 12:45 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Luton to Cardiff leaves at 11:50 PM.
There are 19 buses a day from Luton to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus, Stagecoach East, Arriva UK. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Luton to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, FlixBus, Stagecoach East, Arriva UK for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Luton and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Luton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Luton to Cardiff is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Luton 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 Luton to Cardiff for bus company National Express, 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 Luton 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 Luton to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Luton 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 Luton 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 Luton 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 Luton to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Luton to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Luton to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Luton 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 Luton 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 Luton to Cardiff
Most Luton to Cardiff buses use the Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). Use this guide to compare Luton and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Luton
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Which Luton station do buses to Cardiff leave from?
Buses from Luton to Cardiff leave from Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station. The station is 1 miles (3 km) from Luton city centre at Luton Airport, Airport Way, Luton LU2 9LU, UK.
Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney)
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney) from Luton city centre
BusZ · 11m · $2 · every ~15 min
A · 1h 5m · $2 · every ~13 min
Luton, Station Interchange
City-centre transport
Getting to Luton, Station Interchange from Luton city centre
Bus17 · 7m · $2 · every ~2 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 21, 136, 23 · 3m · $2 · every ~20 min
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
Most popular bus connections from Luton
More options for your journey from Luton to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Luton
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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