Are there accessibility options when taking a bus from Reading to Cardiff?

Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading to Cardiff: National Express Assistance Priority seating Accessible toilets. FlixBus Assistance Priority boarding Wheelchair-accessible buses.

Is luggage included in the bus ticket price from Reading to Cardiff?

Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Cardiff: National Express Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage. FlixBus One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).

Can I book additional luggage for the bus from Reading to Cardiff?

Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Reading to Cardiff: National Express 10€ per additional bag. FlixBus Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.

Can I bring my pet on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff?

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.

READING to CARDIFF bus from €9 with National Express

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The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 03

Cheapest price on Nov 03: €46
Average ticket price on Nov 03: €48
Fastest journey on Nov 03: 4 h 37 m
Average journey duration on Nov 03: 5 h 4 m
Buses on Nov 03: 3
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 €48 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €46.

Fast buses

On Tue, Nov 03, we found 3 buses from Reading to Cardiff, including 3 direct services.

On Tue, Nov 03 the direct buses cover the 153 km distance in an average of 5 h 4 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 37 m .

On Tue, Nov 03 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.

8:03 PM 4h37
Reading
12:40 AM
Cardiff
€46
1 One-way
0 transfers
10:03 PM 5h57
Reading
4:00 AM
Cardiff
€49
1 One-way
0 transfers
9:03 PM 4h37
Reading
1:40 AM
Cardiff
€50
1 One-way
0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Reading to Cardiff

United Kingdom

Buses from Reading to Cardiff run on average 13 times per day, taking around 4h 28m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €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

4h 28m

Cheapest ticket price

€9

Buses per day

Fastest bus

2h 30m

First bus

12:10 AM

Last bus

11:40 PM

Cheapest Month

Nov

Cheapest Day

Sat

High Season

Oct - Dec

Low Season

Jan - Mar

Busiest Day

Sat

Least Busy Day

Sun

Best time to book

14 days

Price information

Frequently asked questions about your Reading to Cardiff trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Reading to Cardiff.

Cheap bus tickets from Reading to Cardiff can start from as little as €9 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Reading to Cardiff is €63 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.

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 13 buses a day from Reading to Cardiff which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.

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, Thu, Fri, Sat	Cheapest price €47
Operator National Express	Departure Time 05:27AM	Arrival Time 10:50AM	Duration 5h23	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 06:25AM	Arrival Time 11:55AM	Duration 5h30	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €73
Operator National Express	Departure Time 06:27AM	Arrival Time 11:55AM	Duration 5h28	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 06:45AM	Arrival Time 12:05PM	Duration 5h20	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 07:41AM	Arrival Time 12:25PM	Duration 4h44	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €49
Operator National Express	Departure Time 07:45AM	Arrival Time 12:40PM	Duration 4h55	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €82
Operator National Express	Departure Time 07:57AM	Arrival Time 12:40PM	Duration 4h43	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €82
Operator National Express	Departure Time 08:21AM	Arrival Time 02:05PM	Duration 5h44	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 08:25AM	Arrival Time 01:55PM	Duration 5h30	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €69
Operator National Express	Departure Time 08:27AM	Arrival Time 01:55PM	Duration 5h28	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €89
Operator National Express	Departure Time 09:44AM	Arrival Time 02:40PM	Duration 4h56	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €89
Operator National Express	Departure Time 09:45AM	Arrival Time 02:25PM	Duration 4h40	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €47
Operator National Express	Departure Time 09:57AM	Arrival Time 02:40PM	Duration 4h43	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €69
Operator National Express	Departure Time 10:23AM	Arrival Time 03:55PM	Duration 5h32	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 10:25AM	Arrival Time 04:30PM	Duration 6h05	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 10:26AM	Arrival Time 03:55PM	Duration 5h29	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 11:43AM	Arrival Time 04:40PM	Duration 4h57	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 11:45AM	Arrival Time 04:45PM	Duration 5h00	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €49
Operator National Express	Departure Time 11:56AM	Arrival Time 04:40PM	Duration 4h44	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €69
Operator National Express	Departure Time 12:23PM	Arrival Time 05:55PM	Duration 5h32	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 12:25PM	Arrival Time 06:15PM	Duration 5h50	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 12:26PM	Arrival Time 05:55PM	Duration 5h29	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 01:43PM	Arrival Time 06:35PM	Duration 4h52	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 01:45PM	Arrival Time 06:40PM	Duration 4h55	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €49
Operator National Express	Departure Time 01:56PM	Arrival Time 06:35PM	Duration 4h39	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 02:23PM	Arrival Time 07:50PM	Duration 5h27	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 02:25PM	Arrival Time 08:05PM	Duration 5h40	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 02:26PM	Arrival Time 07:50PM	Duration 5h24	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €82
Operator National Express	Departure Time 03:43PM	Arrival Time 08:35PM	Duration 4h52	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 03:44PM	Arrival Time 09:00PM	Duration 5h16	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 03:56PM	Arrival Time 08:35PM	Duration 4h39	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €69
Operator National Express	Departure Time 04:20PM	Arrival Time 10:00PM	Duration 5h40	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 04:23PM	Arrival Time 10:00PM	Duration 5h37	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 04:26PM	Arrival Time 10:00PM	Duration 5h34	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 05:43PM	Arrival Time 10:40PM	Duration 4h57	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €47
Operator National Express	Departure Time 05:49PM	Arrival Time 10:40PM	Duration 4h51	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 05:56PM	Arrival Time 10:40PM	Duration 4h44	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €64
Operator National Express	Departure Time 07:20PM	Arrival Time 12:35AM	Duration 5h15	Departure days Sat	Cheapest price €69
Operator National Express	Departure Time 07:26PM	Arrival Time 12:35AM	Duration 5h09	Departure days Sun	Cheapest price €82
Operator National Express	Departure Time 07:31PM	Arrival Time 12:50AM	Duration 5h19	Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri	Cheapest price €51
Operator National Express	Departure Time 08:03PM	Arrival Time 12:40AM	Duration 4h37	Departure days Tue	Cheapest price €46
Operator National Express	Departure Time 09:03PM	Arrival Time 01:40AM	Duration 4h37	Departure days Everyday	Cheapest price €47
Operator National Express	Departure Time 10:03PM	Arrival Time 04:00AM	Duration 5h57	Departure days Everyday	Cheapest price €47

Live departures

Reading to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Reading to Cardiff buses for today, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at

Provider	Departs	Duration	Arrives	Transfers
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

Why should you book Reading to Cardiff buses with Omio?

FlixBus as well as 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 FlixBus?

Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of 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 FlixBus 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 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.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Reading to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Reading to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as €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 FlixBus Duration

2h 30m

Cheapest FlixBus Price

€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.

Learn more about FlixBus

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 National Express Duration

3h 57m

Cheapest National Express Price

€45

National Express frequency

15 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.

Learn more about National Express

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Reading and Cardiff

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a bus from Reading to Cardiff, you can count on 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.

Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff for bus company FlixBus, National Express.

Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Reading to Cardiff:

National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.

Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Reading to Cardiff depends on the bus companies:

National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.

Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.

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:

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:

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: FlixBus, National Express

Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.

Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Reading to Cardiff with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.

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

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

View on map Visit website

Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.

View on map Visit website

Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.

View on map Visit website

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget: £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
Mid-range: £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining: £60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee: £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.

Plan your visit to Cardiff

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.

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.

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.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Reading and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.

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.

popular bus stations

Which Reading station do buses to Cardiff leave from?

Buses from Reading to Cardiff leave from Reading, Blagrave Street. The station is from Reading city centre at Reading RG1 1PZ, UK.

Reading, Blagrave StreetReading RG1 1PZ, UK Accessibility

City-centre transport

Getting to Reading, Blagrave Street from Reading city centre

Bus19a, 19c · 1h 21m · €2

Reading, Blagrave Street bus station facilities and services

Reading, Blagrave Street has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Reading, Blagrave Street: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

Which Cardiff station do buses from Reading arrive at?

Buses from Reading to Cardiff most often arrive at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Some services arrive at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.

Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK Wifi

City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre

Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · €2 · every ~14 min

C1 · 16m · every ~8 min