Manchester to Cardiff bus with National Express

Tue, Sep 08
+ Add return
Megabus
FlixBus
National Express
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
2,000+ travel companies
Megabus
FlixBus
National Express
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 Manchester to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 08

Cheapest price on Sep 08

$25

Average ticket price on Sep 08

$36

Fastest journey on Sep 08

5 h 45 m

Average journey duration on Sep 08

5 h 59 m

Buses on Sep 08

20

Distance

231 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester to Cardiff will cost around $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $25.

Fast buses

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

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    6:10 PM6h15
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    12:25 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $251One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    8:50 AM7h40
    Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    4:30 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $251One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    6:35 PM5h50
    Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
    12:25 AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $251One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    9:15 AM7h15
    Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
    4:30 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $251One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    12:05 PM6h30
    Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
    6:35 PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    $251One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Manchester to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $38 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 52m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $38, while a train costs an average of $89.

Distance: 143 miles (231 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$38

Average price

Cheapest

$89

Average price

$65

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 35m

Average total duration

6h 5m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 52m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 22m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 39m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

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

The cheapest way to travel from Manchester to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $38.

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

A bus is $51 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Cardiff costing on average $89.

The fastest way to travel from Manchester to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 22m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 5m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Manchester 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 $38 compared to roughly $65 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $27. The journey takes 6h 5m versus 4h 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.

Manchester to Cardiff Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:45AM
Arrival Time
01:40PM
Duration
10h55
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10AM
Arrival Time
02:00PM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
03:05PM
Duration
9h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:50AM
Arrival Time
01:00PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:10AM
Arrival Time
01:00PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
04:55PM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$46
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:25AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
9h05
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
06:40PM
Duration
9h50
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$46
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:50AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:15AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:50AM
Arrival Time
07:05PM
Duration
9h15
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:00AM
Arrival Time
04:40PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:20AM
Arrival Time
04:40PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
06:30PM
Duration
7h45
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:55AM
Arrival Time
07:55PM
Duration
9h00
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$43
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:40AM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
6h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:05PM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:15PM
Arrival Time
09:35PM
Duration
9h20
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:25PM
Arrival Time
07:45PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:10PM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:25PM
Arrival Time
10:35PM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:35PM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$26
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
10:00PM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:20PM
Arrival Time
11:59PM
Duration
9h39
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:35PM
Arrival Time
11:59PM
Duration
9h24
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:00PM
Arrival Time
09:10PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:25PM
Arrival Time
09:10PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:40PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
9h10
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:50PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
9h00
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:10PM
Arrival Time
01:45AM
Duration
8h35
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$34
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00PM
Arrival Time
02:55AM
Duration
8h55
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$30
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:10PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:35PM
Arrival Time
12:25AM
Duration
5h50
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$23
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30PM
Arrival Time
03:45AM
Duration
8h15
Departure days
Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$31
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55PM
Arrival Time
11:50AM
Duration
11h55
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50

Live departures

Manchester to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cardiff buses for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX590 · NX100 · NX2022:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h00
10:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h10
9:10 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:25 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
5h45
9:10 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
National ExpressNX541 · NX100 · NX2023:40 PM Manchester, Coach Station
9h10
12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 transfers
National ExpressNX540 · NX5096:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h45
2:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h15
12:25 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus6:35 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
5h50
12:25 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
National ExpressNX424 · NX50711:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station
11h55
11:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
Tuesday, September 8
National ExpressNX421 · NX5092:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station
10h55
1:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
National ExpressNX540 · NX5085:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station
9h50
3:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
National ExpressNX541 · NX100 · NX2027:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station
9h05
4:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 transfers
National ExpressNX541 · NX104 · NX2027:25 AM Manchester, Coach Station
9h05
4:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens2 transfers
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:50 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
7h40
4:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus9:15 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
7h15
4:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
National ExpressNX541 · NX11210:20 AM Manchester, Coach Station
6h20
4:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus11:40 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h55
6:35 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus12:05 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
6h30
6:35 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
National ExpressNX541 · NX11112:25 PM Manchester, Coach Station
7h20
7:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus1:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h20
7:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus1:35 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
5h55
7:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Manchester 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.

Mon
Sep 07
Tue
Sep 08
Wed
Sep 09
Thu
Sep 10
Fri
Sep 11
Sat
Sep 12
Sun
Sep 13
Mon
Sep 14
Tue
Sep 15
Wed
Sep 16
Thu
Sep 17
Fri
Sep 18
Sat
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20

Why should you book Manchester to Cardiff buses with Omio?

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

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester to Cardiff run on average 20 times per day, taking around 6h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $16 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:57. The fastest bus covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 4h 10m.

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
143 miles (231 km)
Average bus duration
6h 5m
Cheapest ticket price
$16
Buses per day
20
Fastest bus
4h 10m
First bus
12:05 AM
Last bus
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
35 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, FlixBus from Manchester to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $16. 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
4h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$16
FlixBus frequency
11 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 National Express Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
$21
National Express frequency
10 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.

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.

  • 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.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

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

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.

FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff can start from as little as $16 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester to Cardiff is $38 ; 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 Manchester to Cardiff is 4h 10m to travel the 143 miles (231 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 Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 11:57 PM.
There are 20 buses a day from Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Manchester , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Manchester, Coach Station, Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East, Manchester, Airport . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, University, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Newport, Queensway, Weston-super-Mare, Regent St (Interchange), Weston-super-Mare, Diamond Batch Car Park Stop (Worle Station), Cardiff, Millennium Stadium, Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent), Bridgend, Sarn Odeon .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Manchester, Coach Station, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Cardiff from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Manchester to Cardiff is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff for bus company Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester 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.
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 Manchester to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester to Cardiff with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus, National Express.
Since neither Manchester 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 Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff

Most Manchester to Cardiff buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Use this guide to compare Manchester and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Manchester
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff

Which Manchester station do buses to Cardiff leave from?

Buses from Manchester to Cardiff leave from Manchester, Coach Station. The station is from Manchester city centre at Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom.
Manchester, Coach StationChorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester, Coach Station from Manchester city centre

Bus42A, 43, 42, 101, 85, 85A, 111, 263, 142, 143, 87, 41, 18, 33, 86, 15, 250, 42B, 42C, 103, 102 · 1m · $2 · every ~231 min

Manchester, Coach Station bus station facilities and services

Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.

Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeShudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United KingdomWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester, Shudehill Interchange from Manchester city centre

Bus163, 118, 119, 18, 112, 114, 117, 81 · 3m · $2 · every ~69 min
TramBlue Line, Navy Line, Green Line, Yellow Line · 2m · $2 · every ~23 min

Manchester, Shudehill Interchange bus station facilities and services

Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane EastMoss Ln E & Princess Rd, Manchester M15 6LD, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East from Manchester city centre

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus101, 15, 103, 102 · 14m · $2 · every ~31 min
Uk023, Ukn23, Uk071 · 21m · $1 · every ~2 min

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East bus station facilities and services

Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East. ATMs are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East: Accessible for wheelchairs.

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