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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Aberdeen
Showing times and prices for Dec 22
Cheapest price
$437
Average price
$476
Fastest journey
9 h 6 m
Average duration
10 h 23 m
Trains per day
4
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 $476 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $437.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cardiff for Aberdeen on Mon, Dec 22, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Dec 22 the direct trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 10 h 23 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 6 m .
On Mon, Dec 22 the slowest trains will take 10 h 49 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.
08:53AM9h06
Cardiff05:59PMAberdeen
$4371One-way
0 transfers
03:33AM10h48
Cardiff02:21PMAberdeen
$4831One-way
0 transfers
03:32AM10h49
Cardiff02:21PMAberdeen
$4901One-way
0 transfers
03:34AM10h47
Cardiff02:21PMAberdeen
$4941One-way
0 transfers
08:53AM9h06
Cardiff05:59PMAberdeen
$4371One-way
0 transfers
03:34AM10h47
Cardiff02:21PMAberdeen
$4941One-way
0 transfers
03:33AM10h48
Cardiff02:21PMAberdeen
$4831One-way
0 transfers
03:32AM10h49
Cardiff02:21PMAberdeen
$4901One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus 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 €50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 9h 15m. 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 €50, and a train costs an average of €141.
Distance: 393 miles (634 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€353 Average price | €76 Average price Cheapest |
9h 45m Average total duration Fastest 9h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 49m Average total duration 15h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.6 - 1.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to Aberdeen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Aberdeen trains for today, Sunday, December 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 1:46 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 L64779+W02427+ Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+ Y38546 | On time 8:42 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 9h43 | 6:25 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 3 transfers | |
| L64804+W01947+Y38542 | On time 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 9h44 | 7:29 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 2 transfers | |
| L64804+W02424+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street+Y38549 | On time 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 9h33 | 7:18 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 3 transfers | |
 C74971+W01945+C75333 | On time 11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 8h50 | 8:35 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 2 transfers | |
L64811+W01943+ C74108+W73060 | On time 12:39 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 9h44 | 10:23 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 4 transfers | |
| L64812+W01941+Y38560 | On time 1:51 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 9h46 | 11:37 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 2 transfers | |
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 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
Dec 22
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27
Dec 27
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Dec 28
Dec 28
Why should you book Cardiff to Aberdeen trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper and Transport for Wales 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, Caledonian Sleeper and 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Avanti West Coast tickets can be bought on Avanti West Coast's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper and Transport for Wales to help you choose the right option for your journey from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Aberdeen
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Aberdeen run on average 4 times per day, taking around 9h 15m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $176 (€141) but you can travel from only $62 (€50) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:12, the last at 16:04. The fastest train covers the 393 miles (634 km) distance in 8h 58m.
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 $62 (€50)
Distance 393 miles (634 km) |
Average train duration 9h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $176 (€141) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 8h 58m |
First train 04:12 |
Last train 16:04 |
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 $62 (€50)
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Aberdeen trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Aberdeen from $62 (€50). 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
8h 58m
Cheapest Price
$176 (€141)
Avanti West Coast frequency
3 a day
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 56m
Cheapest Price
$209 (€167)
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
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
Caledonian Sleeper
About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 35m
Cheapest Price
$404 (€324)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 31m
Cheapest Price
$437 (€351)
Transport for Wales frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
9h 56m
Cheapest Price
$778 (€624)
Cross Country frequency
1 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 0m
Cheapest Price
$726 (€582)
first_great_western frequency
1 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.
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.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Aberdeen is 393 miles (634 km).
A day trip from Cardiff to Aberdeen is not feasible as the journey takes 8h 58m. There are 4 trains per day covering a distance of 393 miles (634 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Aberdeen leaves at 4:12 AM.
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.
The last train from Cardiff to Aberdeen leaves at 4:04 PM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Aberdeen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $176 (€141), while the average price is around $441 (€353).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Aberdeen is by bus, with a cost of around $62 (€50).
The train from Cardiff to Aberdeen takes 8h 58m and runs 4 per day.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Aberdeen is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Aberdeen station (ABD).
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Aberdeen
Cardiff
Aberdeen
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
The major train station for arrivals in Aberdeen is Aberdeen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Aberdeen for your journey to Aberdeen from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
Number of platforms
7Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7. Access is available via College Street.
Dining
- The Silver Darling
- Moonfish Cafe
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Residence Inn Aberdeen
- Hilton Aberdeen TECA
- Jurys Inn Aberdeen
Lost and Found Office
- Located in the main concourse
Bike Parking
- 80 places, covered
Car Rental
- Enterprise
- Europcar
Information Desk
- Located in the main concourse
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
- Hall 2: waiting area and shops
Public transit options for Aberdeen
- Bus: Several lines available
- Train: ScotRail services
- National Rail services
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: No
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Fully Accessible - lifts and footbridge Blue Badge spaces: 3
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing)
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Dyce (Aberdeen Airport)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the station car park at the end of Station Road
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Aberdeen
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Aberdeen and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Aberdeen
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