Oxford to Cardiff bus with National Express

Sat, Apr 18
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Oxford to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Apr 18

Cheapest price

$42

Average price

$48

Fastest journey

5 h

Average duration

6 h 49 m

Buses per day

5

Distance

136 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Oxford to Cardiff will cost around $48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $42.

Fast buses

Of the 5 buses that leave Oxford for Cardiff on Sat, Apr 18, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sat, Apr 18 the direct buses cover the 136 km distance in an average of 6 h 49 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h .

On Sat, Apr 18 the slowest buses will take 11 h 5 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.

  • National Express
    2:10 PM5h00
    Oxford
    7:10 PMCardiff
    $421One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    7:35 PM6h10
    Oxford
    1:45 AMCardiff
    $441One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    1:25 AM11h05
    Oxford
    12:30 PMCardiff
    $451One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    9:55 PM5h50
    Oxford
    3:45 AMCardiff
    $501One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    8:55 PM6h00
    Oxford
    2:55 AMCardiff
    $591One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Oxford to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Oxford to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 7m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $47.

Distance: 84 miles (136 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

$50

Average price

Cheapest

$100

Average price

5h 38m

Average total duration

5h 8m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 37m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 7m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Oxford to Cardiff Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:27AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
6h38
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:10AM
Arrival Time
01:50PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:15AM
Arrival Time
04:10PM
Duration
6h55
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
05:10PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:20AM
Arrival Time
06:25PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:20PM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:25PM
Arrival Time
08:15PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:34PM
Arrival Time
09:05PM
Duration
6h31
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:58PM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
6h42
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:52PM
Arrival Time
10:35PM
Duration
6h43
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
11:25PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00PM
Arrival Time
03:10AM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55

Live departures

Oxford to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Oxford to Cardiff buses for today, Friday, April 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_express10:30 AM Oxford
7h20
5:50 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
national_express2:00 PM Oxford
5h25
7:25 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
national_express5:30 PM Oxford
6h29
11:59 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
national_express8:50 PM Oxford
6h05
2:55 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
Saturday, April 18
meinfernbus_flixbus1:25 AM Oxford
11h05
12:30 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Oxford 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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Apr 18
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Why should you book Oxford to Cardiff buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Oxford to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Oxford 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Oxford to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Oxford to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Oxford to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Oxford to Cardiff run on average 31 times per day, taking around 5h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 (€22) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:50, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 84 miles (136 km) distance in 4h 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
84 miles (136 km)
Average bus duration
5h 8m
Cheapest ticket price
$28 (€22)
Buses per day
31
Fastest bus
4h 50m
First bus
12:50 AM
Last bus
11:45 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
42 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 from Oxford to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Oxford to Cardiff with National Express for as low as $28 (€22). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

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
4h 50m
Cheapest Price
$28 (€22)
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.

FAQs: Bus from Oxford to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Oxford to Cardiff by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Oxford to Cardiff can start from as little as $28 (€22) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Oxford to Cardiff is $50 (€40) ; 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 Oxford to Cardiff is 4h 50m to travel the 84 miles (136 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 Oxford to Cardiff leaves at 12:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Oxford to Cardiff leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 31 buses a day from Oxford to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Oxford 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 Oxford and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Oxford is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Oxford to Cardiff is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Oxford and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Oxford to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Oxford to Cardiff for bus company 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 Oxford 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, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company 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 Oxford to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Oxford 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 Oxford to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Oxford to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Oxford to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Oxford to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Oxford to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Oxford 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 Oxford 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 Oxford to Cardiff

Oxford
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Oxford is Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station for your trip from Oxford to Cardiff.
Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
Amenities at bus station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 06:00-22:00
carConnection
Car connection
George Street
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi
Dining
Dining
  • Café Nero (in the station)
  • The Four Candles (0.2 km)
  • The White Rabbit (0.3 km).
Taxis
Taxis
  • Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps
WC
WC
  • Available near the waiting area.
Public transit options for Oxford, Gloucester Green Bus Station
  • Bus: 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 8, 9, 10, 13, 14, 17, 18, 19, 20, 26, 27, 28, 31, 35, 36, 40, 41, 44, 46, 63, 66, 70, 77, 100, 280, 500, S1, S2, S3, S5, S8, S9, X3, X13, X32, X39, X40, X90

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