Sunderland to Cardiff bus with Megabus

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Megabus
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
Megabus
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Sunderland to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$46

Average price

$59

Fastest journey

9 h 10 m

Average duration

9 h 42 m

Buses per day

9

Distance

399 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Sunderland to Cardiff will cost around $59 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $46.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Sunderland to Cardiff without transferring at least once.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    10:55 AM9h30
    Sunderland, Interchange
    8:25 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $461One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    12:30 PM12h15
    Sunderland, Interchange
    12:45 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $491One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX426 · NX509
    3:30 PM11h25
    Sunderland, Interchange
    2:55 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
    $491One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX426 · NX509
    12:20 PM12h40
    Sunderland, Interchange
    1:00 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
    $531One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX436 · NX507
    11:35 PM12h25
    Sunderland, Interchange
    12:00 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
    $621One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Sunderland to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Sunderland to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $32. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 5h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $32, and a train costs an average of $120.

Distance: 247 miles (399 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

$53

Average price

Cheapest

$287

Average price

$110

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 30m

Average total duration

10h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

5h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 39m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Megabus

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Sunderland to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $53 (€43).

This is compared to other travel options from Sunderland to Cardiff:

A bus is $234 (€191) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Sunderland to Cardiff costing on average $287 (€235).

The fastest way to travel from Sunderland to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 5h 53m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 10h 0m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sunderland and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sunderland 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 $53 (€43) compared to roughly $110 (€90) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $56 (€46). The journey takes 10h 0m versus 6h 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.

Sunderland to Cardiff Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:05AM
Arrival Time
12:40PM
Duration
12h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$47
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35AM
Arrival Time
06:20PM
Duration
12h45
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:30AM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
11h30
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:35AM
Arrival Time
04:10PM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:50AM
Arrival Time
04:05PM
Duration
9h15
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
06:00PM
Duration
9h40
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:25AM
Arrival Time
05:35PM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$67
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:25AM
Arrival Time
08:10PM
Duration
10h45
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
9h25
Departure days
Mon, Sun
Cheapest price
$59
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:55AM
Arrival Time
08:25PM
Duration
9h30
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:30AM
Arrival Time
11:45PM
Duration
12h15
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:35AM
Arrival Time
11:45PM
Duration
12h10
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:20PM
Arrival Time
12:55AM
Duration
12h35
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$46
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
12:45AM
Duration
12h15
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:35PM
Arrival Time
12:45AM
Duration
12h10
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:30PM
Arrival Time
01:55AM
Duration
11h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$48
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20PM
Arrival Time
03:15AM
Duration
11h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$44
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:30PM
Arrival Time
02:55AM
Duration
11h25
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45PM
Arrival Time
11:35AM
Duration
12h50
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:35PM
Arrival Time
12:00PM
Duration
12h25
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$53
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
11:40AM
Duration
11h45
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Thu, Sun
Cheapest price
$57

Live departures

Sunderland to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Sunderland to Cardiff buses for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National Express2:30 PM Sunderland
11h25
1:55 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
National Express10:45 PM Sunderland
12h50
11:35 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
Sunday, June 21
National ExpressNX133 · NX112
On time
6:50 AM Sunderland, Interchange
9h15
4:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
1 transfer
National ExpressNX133 · NX111
On time
8:25 AM Sunderland, Interchange
9h10
5:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
1 transfer
National ExpressNX133 · NX111
On time
10:00 AM Sunderland, Interchange
9h10
7:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:55 AM Sunderland, Interchange
9h30
8:25 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:30 PM Sunderland, Interchange
12h15
12:45 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Sunderland 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Sunderland to Cardiff buses with Omio?

Megabus as well as National Express or FlixBus offer buses services from Sunderland to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Sunderland 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 National Express or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland 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 Sunderland 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 or FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Sunderland to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Sunderland to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Sunderland to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Sunderland to Cardiff run on average 9 times per day, taking around 10h 0m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $32 (€26) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 247 miles (399 km) distance in 11h 25m.

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
247 miles (399 km)
Average bus duration
10h 0m
Cheapest ticket price
$32 (€26)
Buses per day
9
Fastest bus
11h 25m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Sat
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
3 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, National Express, FlixBus from Sunderland to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Sunderland to Cardiff with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus for as low as $32 (€26). 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
11h 45m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€39)
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
11h 25m
Cheapest Price
$32 (€26)
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
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€36)
Megabus frequency
3 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

National Museum Cardiff

Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.

Pound Sterling

Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.

FAQs: Bus from Sunderland to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Cardiff can start from as little as $32 (€26) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Sunderland to Cardiff is $53 (€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 Sunderland to Cardiff is 11h 25m to travel the 247 miles (399 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 Sunderland to Cardiff leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Sunderland to Cardiff leaves at 11:55 PM.
There are 9 buses a day from Sunderland to Cardiff which require at least one change with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Sunderland to Cardiff, you can count on Megabus, National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Sunderland and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Sunderland is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 11h 25m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Sunderland to Cardiff is November.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Sunderland and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Sunderland to Cardiff for bus company Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Sunderland 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.
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 Sunderland 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 National Express, FlixBus.
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 Sunderland to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Sunderland 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 Sunderland 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 Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Sunderland to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Sunderland to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Sunderland 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Sunderland 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 Sunderland to Cardiff

Sunderland
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Sunderland is Sunderland, Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Sunderland, Interchange for your trip from Sunderland to Cardiff.
Sunderland, Interchange
information

More options for your journey from Sunderland to Cardiff

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone