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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Dec 12
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$38
Fastest journey
6 h 35 m
Average duration
7 h 2 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Cardiff will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
Fast buses
Of the 5 buses that leave Manchester for Cardiff on Fri, Dec 12, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Dec 12 the direct buses cover the 231 km distance in an average of 7 h 2 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 35 m .
On Fri, Dec 12 the slowest buses will take 7 h 45 m 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.
14:206h55
Manchester21:15Cardiff
$301One-way
0 transfers
11:108h15
Manchester19:25Cardiff
$361One-way
0 transfers
17:008h05
Manchester01:05Cardiff
$391One-way
0 transfers
09:006h40
Manchester15:40Cardiff
$421One-way
0 transfers
14:007h15
Manchester21:15Cardiff
$421One-way
0 transfers
13:306h35
Manchester20:05Cardiff
$441One-way
0 transfers
09:006h40
Manchester15:40Cardiff
$421One-way
0 transfers
14:206h55
Manchester21:15Cardiff
$301One-way
0 transfers
14:007h15
Manchester21:15Cardiff
$421One-way
0 transfers
17:207h45
Manchester01:05Cardiff
$461One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Manchester to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. 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 €15, and a train costs an average of €39.
Distance: 143 miles (231 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€29 Average price Cheapest | €74 Average price |
6h 7m Average total duration 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Manchester to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10 | Arrival Time 12:05 | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40 | Arrival Time 15:10 | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30 | Arrival Time 14:40 | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50 | Arrival Time 15:30 | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:10 | Arrival Time 15:30 | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00 | Arrival Time 16:05 | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30 | Arrival Time 18:00 | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40 | Arrival Time 18:35 | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:00 | Arrival Time 18:35 | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:45 | Arrival Time 20:05 | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 13:30 | Arrival Time 19:10 | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 14:00 | Arrival Time 20:10 | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $66 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 14:30 | Arrival Time 20:10 | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 15:00 | Arrival Time 22:15 | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 15:20 | Arrival Time 22:15 | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 15:45 | Arrival Time 00:50 | Duration 9h05 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 16:00 | Arrival Time 00:50 | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 16:45 | Arrival Time 01:55 | Duration 9h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 17:45 | Arrival Time 03:15 | Duration 9h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 18:00 | Arrival Time 00:20 | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 18:20 | Arrival Time 00:20 | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 19:15 | Arrival Time 03:45 | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 21:45 | Arrival Time 05:45 | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 23:55 | Arrival Time 11:00 | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Live departures
Manchester to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cardiff buses for today, Thursday, December 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 11:52 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX120 · NX100 · NX202 | 3:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h05 | 12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| NX120 · NX100 · NX202 | 3:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h05 | 12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 6h20 | 12:20 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:20 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 6h00 | 12:20 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX120 · NX100 · NX216 | 9:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h00 | 5:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| 9:00 AM Manchester | 6h40 | 3:40 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 11:10 AM Manchester | 8h15 | 7:25 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:30 PM Manchester | 6h35 | 8:05 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:00 PM Manchester | 7h15 | 9:15 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Cardiff run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 (€15) if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 6h 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 143 miles (231 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 (€15) |
Buses per day 16 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 6h 0m |
First bus 00:05 |
Last bus 23:55 |
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: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales from Manchester to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Cardiff with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales for as low as $19 (€15). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
$20 (€16)
FlixBus frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
5h 50m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€22)
Megabus frequency
6 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.
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
$30 (€24)
National Express frequency
10 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.
FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff can start from as little as $16 (€13) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Cardiff is $38 (€30); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Manchester to Cardiff bus time is 5 h 15 min covering the 143 mile (231 km) long journey, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 8: 30AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 11: 40PM.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Manchester to Cardiff without having to change trains with Megabus or Transport for Wales. There are 8 direct buses from Manchester to Cardiff each day. There may be fewer direct services available on weekends or holidays.
For the best Manchester to Cardiff bus to book, you can travel safely and comfortably with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus or Transport for Wales. However, it's always good to check all possible bus providers with services from Manchester to Cardiff to compare what amenities they may offer.
When departing from Manchester, you have various bus station options to start your trip from including Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Airport and Manchester, Shudehill / Bradshaw Street. When arriving in Cardiff, you can end your route in bus stations like Cardiff, University and Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Passengers board the bus most frequently from Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, which is located around 0.5 miles (833 m) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, University, located 1.1 miles (1.8 km) away from the city centre.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Cardiff is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel to Cardiff from Manchester including taking a train or bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff for bus providers National Express and 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers National Express and FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester 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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Manchester to Cardiff
Manchester
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff.
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:30
Car connection
ShudehillWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside the interchange.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
- Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
Manchester, Coach Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Chorlton StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Fast Food Express (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Coach Station
- Bus: 50, 192, 201, 203, 205, 219, 255, 256 Train: Manchester Piccadilly Metro: Piccadilly Gardens
Manchester, Airport
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 00:00-23:59
Distance to city center
2 kmCar connection
Terminal Road NorthWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Burger King (in the station)
- Giraffe (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Airport
- Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport
The major bus station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip to Cardiff from Manchester.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, Millennium Stadium
information
Cardiff, University
information
More options for your journey from Manchester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Manchester
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