- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and archaeology collections. A top cultural stop in the city centre.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 16
Cheapest price
$28
Average price
$37
Fastest journey
5 h 40 m
Average duration
5 h 51 m
Buses per day
22
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 $37 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $28.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus11:40 AM6h55Manchester, Shudehill Interchange6:35 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$281One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus8:50 AM7h40Manchester, Shudehill Interchange4:30 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$281One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus3:00 PM7h15Manchester, Shudehill Interchange10:15 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$281One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:10 PM6h15Manchester, Shudehill Interchange12:25 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$281One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:35 PM5h50Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East12:25 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$291One-way1 transfer
NX120 · NX1117:00 AM5h40Manchester, Coach Station12:40 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$411One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus6:35 PM5h50Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East12:25 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$291One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:35 PM5h55Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East7:30 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$331One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus7:10 AM5h55Manchester, Shudehill Interchange1:05 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)$291One-way1 transfer
- NX121 · NX1112:15 PM5h55Manchester, Coach Station8:10 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$411One-way1 transfer
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 $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 26m. 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 $18, and a train costs an average of $32.
Distance: 143 miles (231 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$30 Average price Cheapest | $80 Average price | $64 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 56m Average total duration Fastest 3h 26m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 39m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.6kg 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 Manchester to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $30 (€24).
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Cardiff:
A bus is $50 (€41) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Cardiff costing on average $80 (€65).
The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 26m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 44m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester 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 $30 (€24) compared to roughly $64 (€52) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $34 (€28). The journey takes 5h 44m versus 4h 39m 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.
Manchester to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 7h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 01:05PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 12:35PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:25AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $23 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 06:00PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:05PM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:00PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:10PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:20PM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Mon, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 07:30PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:15PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 9h39 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 9h24 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 11:59PM | Duration 9h19 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:00PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:25PM | Arrival Time 09:20PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 01:55AM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 02:55AM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:35PM | Arrival Time 12:25AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 03:45AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:30PM | Arrival Time 05:45AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 11h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $40 |
Live departures
Manchester to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cardiff buses for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX181 · NX101 · NX202 | On time 4:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h50 | 12:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| NX120 · NX111 | On time 7:00 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 5h35 | 12:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:10 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 5h55 | 1:05 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:50 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 7h40 | 4:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:15 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 7h15 | 4:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX121 · NX111 | On time 11:10 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 6h50 | 6:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:40 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 6h55 | 6:35 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:05 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 6h30 | 6:35 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 6h20 | 7:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX541 · NX111 | On time 1:20 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 6h05 | 7:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:35 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 5h55 | 7:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX121 · NX111 | On time 2:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 5h55 | 8:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX540 · NX509 | On time 2:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h19 | 11:59 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 7h15 | 10:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:25 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 6h50 | 10:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX121 · NX100 · NX202 | On time 5:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h35 | 12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX509 | On time 6:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h55 | 2:55 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 6h15 | 12:25 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:35 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 5h50 | 12:25 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX540 · NX509 | On time 7:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h15 | 3:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX120 · NX100 · NX216 | On time 9:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h15 | 5:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| NX424 · NX100 · NX201 | On time 11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 11h05 | 11:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Cardiff by train or bus
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Why should you book Manchester to Cardiff buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as FlixBus or National Express offer buses services from Manchester to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Megabus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Megabus, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus or National Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester 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 or National Express to find the best option for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Manchester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Cardiff run on average 18 times per day, taking around 5h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest bus covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 5h 50m.
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 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Buses per day 18 |
Fastest bus 5h 50m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:57 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 28 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: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express from Manchester to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Cardiff with Megabus, FlixBus, National Express for as low as $18 (€15). 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 50m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
FlixBus frequency
8 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
7h 50m
Cheapest Price
$22 (€18)
National Express frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 50m
Cheapest Price
$27 (€22)
Megabus frequency
2 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.
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's most celebrated cultural attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Local history museum covering Cardiff's growth from small town to capital city, with interactive displays and social history exhibits.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Waterfront district with modern public spaces, harbourside walks, major landmarks, and a lively atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large riverside park beside the castle, ideal for walking, cycling, and relaxing near the city centre.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Network of elegant Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades, famous for architecture and independent businesses.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
Toasted bread topped with a rich savoury cheese sauce, often flavoured with mustard or ale. A classic Welsh dish strongly associated with Cardiff pubs and cafes.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausages
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is a distinctive meat-free regional speciality.
Pasture Cardiff
Popular steakhouse focused on wood-fired cooking, quality Welsh beef, and a lively upscale atmosphere close to the city centre.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Well-known restaurant at HMP Cardiff offering refined dining with a social mission, using seasonal ingredients in a calm, professional setting.
Pettigrew Tea Rooms
Charming tea room near Bute Park, loved for Welsh cakes, afternoon tea, and homemade bakes in a relaxed heritage atmosphere.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Dining and transport are manageable, while central hotels and nightlife cost more on busy weekends.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up taxis. Not expected in pubs or cafés, but small change is appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.60
To the city center
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) -> Cardiff Central Station
- Distance
- 1.7 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless on Cardiff Bus services; daily fare capping can make multiple trips cheaper than buying separate tickets.
- Use the Transport for Wales app for rail tickets and live journey planning, especially if combining local bus travel with regional train journeys.
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 $18 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Cardiff is $30 (€24) ; 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 Manchester to Cardiff is 5h 50m to travel the 143 miles (231 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 Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 11:57 PM.
There are 18 buses a day from Manchester to Cardiff which require at least one change with Megabus, FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Manchester to Cardiff, you can count on Megabus, FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Cardiff is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff for bus company Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
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 Manchester 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 FlixBus, National Express.
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 Manchester to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester 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 Manchester 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 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 company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Since neither Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff
Manchester
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Coach Station for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff.
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, 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, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
information
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, North Road (Friary Gardens)
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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