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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Nov 06
Cheapest price
$11
Average price
$54
Fastest journey
2 h 35 m
Average duration
4 h 32 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 $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $11.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Reading for Cardiff on Thu, Nov 06, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Nov 06 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 4 h 32 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Thu, Nov 06 the slowest buses will take 5 h 57 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.
07:25PM2h35
Reading10:00PMCardiff
$111One-way
0 transfers
08:03PM4h37
Reading12:40AMCardiff
$651One-way
0 transfers
09:03PM5h57
Reading03:00AMCardiff
$651One-way
0 transfers
04:43PM4h57
Reading09:40PMCardiff
$751One-way
0 transfers
07:25PM2h35
Reading10:00PMCardiff
$111One-way
0 transfers
08:03PM4h37
Reading12:40AMCardiff
$651One-way
0 transfers
04:43PM4h57
Reading09:40PMCardiff
$751One-way
0 transfers
09:03PM5h57
Reading03:00AMCardiff
$651One-way
0 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 €9. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 30m. 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 €9, and a train costs an average of €33.
Distance: 95 miles (153 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€49 Average price Cheapest | €57 Average price |
4h 10m Average total duration 3h 40m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 0m Average total duration Fastest 1h 30m 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 Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 5h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:41AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 4h44 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:21AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 5h44 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:25AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 04:45PM | Duration 5h00 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 06:15PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:25PM | Arrival Time 08:05PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:44PM | Arrival Time 09:00PM | Duration 5h16 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:20PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:43PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 4h57 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:31PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 5h19 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:25PM | Arrival Time 11:00PM | Duration 2h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:03PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 4h37 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:03PM | Arrival Time 04:00AM | Duration 5h57 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $63 |
Live departures
Reading to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Cardiff buses for today, Wednesday, November 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 9:41 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| RRRA1 · NX201 | On time 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 | On time 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 | On time 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 | On time 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 | On time 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 | On time 9:03 PM Reading, Blagrave Street | 4h37 | 1:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| RRRA1 · NX201 | On time 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
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 40m |
Cheapest ticket price $11 (€9) |
Buses per day 13 |
Fastest bus 2h 35m |
First bus 00:10 |
Last bus 23:40 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Reading to Cardiff start from as low as $11 (€9) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $60 (€49) depending on the train type and class.
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 $11 (€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 35m
Cheapest Price
$11 (€9)
FlixBus frequency
1 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
4h 37m
Cheapest Price
$55 (€45)
National Express frequency
14 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
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 $62 (€51) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Cardiff is $84 (€69); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Reading to Cardiff bus time is 2 h 32 min covering the 95 mile (153 km) long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Reading to Cardiff leaves at 7: 13AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Reading to Cardiff leaves at 10: 09PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Reading to Cardiff which require at least one change with Megabus, FlixBus or 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 or National Express for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus providers 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 2 h 32 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Reading to Cardiff by bus is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel to Cardiff from Reading including taking a train or bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading to Cardiff:
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff for bus providers FlixBus and 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus companies FlixBus and National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Reading to Cardiff depends on the bus companies:
- 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.
- 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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Reading 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 Reading to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Cardiff:
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
- 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 Reading to Cardiff:
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
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 companies: FlixBus and National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff with the following bus providers: FlixBus and National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff with the following bus providers: FlixBus and National Express.
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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