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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for May 07
Cheapest price
$15
Average price
$38
Fastest journey
2 h 35 m
Average duration
4 h 46 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
153 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Reading to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Cardiff will cost around $38 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $15.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Reading for Cardiff on Thu, May 07, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 07 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 4 h 46 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Thu, May 07 the slowest buses will take 6 h 50 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.
8:25 PM2h35Reading11:00 PMCardiff$151One-way0 transfers- 2:05 PM6h50Reading8:55 PMCardiff$181One-way0 transfers
11:43 AM5h02Reading4:45 PMCardiff$591One-way0 transfers- 9:03 PM4h37Reading1:40 AMCardiff$611One-way0 transfers
- 8:25 PM2h35Reading11:00 PMCardiff$151One-way0 transfers
- 9:03 PM4h37Reading1:40 AMCardiff$611One-way0 transfers
- 11:43 AM5h02Reading4:45 PMCardiff$591One-way0 transfers
- 2:05 PM6h50Reading8:55 PMCardiff$181One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $12. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 29m. 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 $12, and a train costs an average of $37.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$54 Average price Cheapest | $69 Average price |
4h 8m Average total duration 3h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 59m Average total duration Fastest 1h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg 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.
Reading to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:41AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h44 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:21AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 5h44 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:44PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 5h16 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 4h57 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:31PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 5h19 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:03PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 4h37 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:03PM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 5h57 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $80 |
Live departures
Reading to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Cardiff buses for today, Wednesday, May 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 5:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h35 | 11:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 | 6:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h20 | 12:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 7:41 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 4h44 | 12:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 | 8:21 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h44 | 2:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 9:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 4h40 | 2:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 | 10:25 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 6h05 | 4:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 11:45 AM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h00 | 4:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 | 12:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h50 | 6:15 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 1:45 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 4h55 | 6:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 | 2:25 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h40 | 8:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 3:44 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h16 | 9:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 | 4:20 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h40 | 10:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 5:43 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 4h57 | 10:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX202 | 7:31 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h19 | 12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 9:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 4h37 | 1:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | 10:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 5h57 | 4:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading 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
May 07
May 07
Fri
May 08
May 08
Sat
May 09
May 09
Sun
May 10
May 10
Mon
May 11
May 11
Tue
May 12
May 12
Wed
May 13
May 13
Why should you book Reading to Cardiff buses with Omio?
Megabus as well as FlixBus or National Express offer buses services from Reading to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Reading to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Reading to Cardiff run on average 14 times per day, taking around 3h 38m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $12 (€9) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:10, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 95 miles (153 km) distance in 2h 30m.
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 95 miles (153 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price $12 (€9) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 2h 30m |
First bus 12:10 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 Reading to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Reading to Cardiff with Megabus, FlixBus, National Express for as low as $12 (€9). 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
2h 30m
Cheapest Price
$12 (€9)
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
4h 37m
Cheapest Price
$51 (€41)
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
8h 10m
Cheapest Price
$36 (€29)
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.
FAQs: Bus from Reading to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading 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 Reading to Cardiff can start from as little as $12 (€9) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Cardiff is $54 (€43) ; 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 Reading to Cardiff is 2h 30m to travel the 95 miles (153 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 Reading to Cardiff leaves at 12:10 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Reading to Cardiff leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 14 buses a day from Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Reading is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 2h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Reading to Cardiff is June.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Since neither Reading 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 Reading 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 Reading to Cardiff
Reading
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Reading is Reading, Blagrave Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Reading, Blagrave Street for your trip from Reading to Cardiff.
Reading, Blagrave Street
Amenities at bus station
Accessibilityinformation
Accessibility
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
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 Reading.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
information
Most popular bus connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Reading
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