Cardiff to Aberdeen train with Avanti West Coast

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Transport for Wales
Regionale
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Aberdeen

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$427

Average price

$427

Fastest journey

11 h 6 m

Average duration

11 h 6 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

634 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Aberdeen will cost around $427 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $427.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Aberdeen on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 11 h 6 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 11 h 6 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 11 h 6 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.

  • CrossCountry
    7:23 AM11h06
    Cardiff
    6:29 PMAberdeen
    $4271One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Aberdeen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Aberdeen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 9h 13m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.6kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, and a train costs an average of $126.

Distance: 393 miles (634 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$286

Average price

$82

Average price

Cheapest

$177

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

9h 43m

Average total duration

Fastest

9h 13m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

15h 49m

Average total duration

15h 19m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

9h 57m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.6 - 1.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Avanti West Coast

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus 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 Cardiff to Aberdeen is a bus with an average price of $82 (€67).

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

A bus is $204 (€167) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Aberdeen costing on average $286 (€234).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Aberdeen is by train with an average journey time of 9h 13m.

Other travel options to Aberdeen take longer:

Bus takes on average 15h 19m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Aberdeen including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Aberdeen among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 44m sooner (9h 13m by train vs 9h 57m by car). Tickets start at around $286 (€234) compared to roughly $177 (€145) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cardiff to Aberdeen train times

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

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Avanti West Coast5:49 AM Cardiff
10h09
3:58 PM Aberdeen0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry9:45 AM Cardiff
9h56
7:41 PM Aberdeen0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast10:45 AM Cardiff
10h29
9:14 PM Aberdeen0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry11:00 AM Cardiff
9h55
8:55 PM Aberdeen0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast11:05 AM Cardiff
10h10
9:15 PM Aberdeen0 transfersDirect
Avanti West Coast11:45 AM Cardiff
9h29
9:14 PM Aberdeen0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Aberdeen by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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 Cardiff to Aberdeen trains with Omio?

Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Aberdeen.

Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
  • 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Aberdeen.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR) or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Aberdeen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Aberdeen

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Aberdeen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $126 (€103) but you can travel from only $51 (€42) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 16:04. The fastest train covers the 393 miles (634 km) distance in 9h 7m.

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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $51 (€42)
Distance
393 miles (634 km)
Average train duration
9h 13m
Cheapest ticket price
$126 (€103)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
9h 7m
First train
4:15 AM
Last train
4:04 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
21 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $51 (€42)

Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Aberdeen trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Aberdeen from $51 (€42). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 7m
Cheapest Price
$171 (€140)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 55m
Cheapest Price
$126 (€103)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 51m
Cheapest Price
$715 (€585)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 48m
Cheapest Price
$302 (€247)
Transport for Wales frequency
11 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Aberdeen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Aberdeen by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Aberdeen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Aberdeen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $126 (€103), while the average price is around $286 (€234).
The train from Cardiff to Aberdeen takes 9h 7m and runs 4 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Aberdeen is 393 miles (634 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Aberdeen leaves at 4:15 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Aberdeen leaves at 4:04 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Aberdeen is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Aberdeen station (ABD).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Aberdeen is by bus, with a cost of around $51 (€42).
The train journey from Cardiff to Aberdeen offers scenic views, especially as it passes through the rolling hills and picturesque landscapes of the Welsh countryside and the rugged beauty of the Scottish Lowlands.
A day trip from Cardiff to Aberdeen is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 7m. There are 4 trains per day covering a distance of 393 miles (634 km).
In Aberdeen, you can explore the Aberdeen Art Gallery with its impressive art collection, enjoy the scenic Aberdeen Beach Esplanade, and visit the serene Cruickshank Botanic Garden. Discover history at Provost Skene's House and catch a show at His Majesty's Theatre. Don't miss the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, St Machar's Cathedral, and the picturesque Footdee fishing village. Relax in Duthie Park or delve into military history at The Gordon Highlanders Museum.
To explore Aberdeen's main attractions, such as the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Duthie Park, and the historic Aberdeen Art Gallery, a 2 to 3-day visit is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Since neither Cardiff nor Aberdeen 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.
Popular day trips by train from Aberdeen include Dundee, Stonehaven, Elgin, Dyce, Inverurie.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Aberdeen among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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 Aberdeen, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport. Scams involving overcharging by taxis can occur, so it's advisable to use licensed cabs or pre-book rides. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional distraction tactics used to divert attention while belongings are stolen. Staying vigilant and securing personal items 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 train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Aberdeen

Most Cardiff to Aberdeen trains use the Cardiff Central to Aberdeen station pair, with some services arriving at Dyce (Aberdeen Airport). Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Aberdeen train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Aberdeen
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre

Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min

Cardiff Central train station facilities and services

Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.

Food and drink

Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cathays train station facilities and services

Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cathays.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cathays: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Travelodge.

Ninian ParkNinian Park station, Leckwith Road, Ninian Park, Cardiff, CF11 8AHParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Ninian Park from Cardiff city centre

Ninian Park is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Milford Haven, Cardiff Central - Carmarthen, Cardiff Central - Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil - Aberdare, Cardiff Central - Pembroke Dock, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus4, 611, 95 · 5m · $2 · every ~9 min

Ninian Park train station facilities and services

Ninian Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Ninian Park.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Ninian Park: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Ninian Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Ninian Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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