- Must visit
Aberdeen Art Gallery
Aberdeen's main art museum with strong Scottish collections, decorative arts, and major temporary exhibitions in a restored building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Aberdeen
Showing times and prices for Aug 05
Cheapest price
€193
Average price
€193
Fastest journey
9 h 24 m
Average duration
9 h 24 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 €193 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €193.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Aberdeen on Wed, Aug 05, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Aug 05 the direct trains cover the 634 km distance in an average of 9 h 24 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 9 h 24 m .
On Wed, Aug 05 the slowest trains will take 9 h 24 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.
1:45 PM9h24Cardiff11:09 PMAberdeen€1931One-way0 transfers
- 1:45 PM9h24Cardiff11:09 PMAberdeen€1931One-way0 transfers
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 13m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €103 but you can travel from only €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 €42
Distance 393 miles (634 km) |
Average train duration 9h 13m |
Cheapest ticket price €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 €42
Live departures
Cardiff to Aberdeen train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Aberdeen trains for today, Tuesday, August 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
W34286+ G38950+ C14641 | Delayed 12:09 PM 9:53 AMCardiff Central (CDF) | 9h07 | 7:00 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 2 transfers | |
 G01069+ G15044 | Delayed 10:42 AM 10:50 AMCardiff Central (CDF) | 9h51 | 8:41 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 1 transfer | |
G38975+C01372+G01069+ W85191 | On time 10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 9h48 | 8:41 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 3 transfers | |
W34290+ G80241+G38953 | Delayed 2:09 PM 11:53 AMCardiff Central (CDF) | 9h21 | 9:14 PM Aberdeen station (ABD) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
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 €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
€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
€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
€585
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day
Transport for Wales
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
8h 48m
Cheapest Price
€247
Transport for Wales frequency
11 a day
Complete guide to Aberdeen
Things to do in Aberdeen
Discover the best of Aberdeen — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Aberdeen trip today.
- Must visit
Aberdeen Maritime Museum
Interactive maritime museum on the harbour, covering shipbuilding, fishing, and the offshore industry with excellent harbour views.
- Recommended
Aberdeen Science Centre
Award-winning museum of North Sea oil and gas, with interactive displays on offshore platforms, energy history, and future technology.
- Must visit
Union Street
Aberdeen's grand main street, lined with granite architecture, shops, theatres, and key civic landmarks through the city centre.
- Must visit
Old Aberdeen
Historic old town around the university, known for cobbled lanes, medieval buildings, and a calm atmosphere away from the centre.
- Must visit
Aberdeen Beach and Esplanade
Long sandy beach and promenade popular for walks, sea views, and easy access to leisure areas north of the harbour.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich local soup of smoked haddock, potatoes, onion and cream. It is closely tied to Aberdeen’s fishing heritage and is a classic North-East comfort dish.
- Vegetarian
Scottish Porridge
Traditional Scottish porridge made with oats, often served with salt or cream. Oats are central to regional food culture and a longstanding breakfast staple.
- Vegetarian
Buttery (Rowie)
A soft buttered rowie, also called an Aberdeen roll. Its flaky, salty texture makes it a distinctive local bakery specialty from the North-East.
The Bay Fish & Chips
Popular casual seafood spot by the harbour, valued for fresh fish, simple preparation and relaxed waterside atmosphere.
Moonfish Cafe
Refined fine dining in a historic setting, known for polished Scottish tasting menus and high-end local produce.
The Silver Darling
Stylish modern Scottish restaurant with a strong local reputation for seasonal dishes, seafood and carefully sourced produce.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can be pricey in peak periods, but dining and local transit are usually manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- 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
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis; cafes usually do not expect tips.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.70
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city center
Aberdeen Airport -> Union Square, Aberdeen
- Distance
- 10 km
- Travel time
- 30 min
- Contactless card payment works on Stagecoach buses in Aberdeen; tap your bank card or device when boarding.
- The Stagecoach Bus app lets you buy tickets and check live bus times before you travel.
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.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Aberdeen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €103, while the average price is around €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 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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Aberdeen.
Popular day trips by train from Aberdeen include Dundee, Stonehaven, Elgin, Dyce, Inverurie.
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 3457114141
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 3LU
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 8AH
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.
Which Aberdeen station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Aberdeen most often arrive at Aberdeen. Some services arrive at Dyce (Aberdeen Airport), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Aberdeen arrival station.
AberdeenAberdeen Railway Station, Guild Street, Aberdeen AB11 6LX, United Kingdom+44 345 748 4950
City-centre transport
Getting to Aberdeen from Aberdeen city centre
BusSeveral lines available
TrainScotRail services
National Rail services
Aberdeen train station facilities and services
Aberdeen has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, Information Desk, and Luggage Carts.
Food and drink
Food options include: The Silver Darling, Moonfish Cafe
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free. ATMs are available in the train station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aberdeen. Information desks are located in the main concourse.
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is available at Aberdeen. Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aberdeen: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Aberdeen: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aberdeen: Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Residence Inn Aberdeen, Hilton Aberdeen TECA, Jurys Inn Aberdeen.
Dyce (Aberdeen Airport)Dyce station, Station Road, Dyce, Aberdeenshire, AB21 7EQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Dyce (Aberdeen Airport) from Aberdeen city centre
TrainGlasgow Queen Street - Inverness, Aberdeen - Inverness, Aberdeen - Inverurie, Perth - Inverurie, Montrose - Inverurie, Dundee - Inverness · 8m · €4 · every ~3 min
BusEmber · 19m · €7 · every ~2 min
17K, 18B, 18A, 18 · 30m · every ~7 min
727 · 33m · €5 · every ~13 min
727 · 39m · €5 · every ~13 min
Dyce (Aberdeen Airport) train station facilities and services
Dyce (Aberdeen Airport) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Dyce (Aberdeen Airport).
Tickets and information
Information desks are 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.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dyce (Aberdeen Airport): Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Dyce (Aberdeen Airport): Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dyce (Aberdeen Airport): 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.
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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