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National Library of Wales Exhibitions
National library galleries displaying manuscripts, art, photography, and treasures of Welsh culture in an important institution.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 01
Cheapest price on Sep 01
$67
Average ticket price on Sep 01
$72
Fastest journey on Sep 01
3 h 59 m
Average journey duration on Sep 01
3 h 59 m
Trains on Sep 01
3
Distance
121 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Aberystwyth will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $67.
Fast trains
On Tue, Sep 01, we found 3 trains from Cardiff to Aberystwyth, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 01 the direct trains cover the 121 km distance in an average of 3 h 59 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 59 m .
On Tue, Sep 01 the slowest trains will take 4 h 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.
8:23 AM3h59Cardiff12:22 PMAberystwyth$671One-way0 transfers- 9:23 AM3h59Cardiff1:22 PMAberystwyth$681One-way0 transfers
- 3:23 PM4h00Cardiff7:23 PMAberystwyth$831One-way0 transfers
- 9:23 AM3h59Cardiff1:22 PMAberystwyth$681One-way0 transfers
- 8:23 AM3h59Cardiff12:22 PMAberystwyth$671One-way0 transfers
- 3:23 PM4h00Cardiff7:23 PMAberystwyth$831One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Aberystwyth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $56 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 23m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $56, while a train costs an average of $66.
Distance: 75 miles (121 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price | $56 Average price Cheapest | $37 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 3h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 29m Average total duration 6h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Aberystwyth is a bus with an average price of $56 (€45).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Aberystwyth:
A bus is $10 (€8) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth costing on average $66 (€53).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 53m.
Other travel options to Aberystwyth take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 59m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Aberystwyth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Aberystwyth among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $66 (€53) compared to roughly $37 (€30) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-28.49 (€-23.03). The journey takes 3h 53m versus 2h 47m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Cardiff to Aberystwyth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Aberystwyth trains for tomorrow, Tuesday, September 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:23 AM Cardiff | 3h59 | 12:22 PM Aberystwyth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:23 AM Cardiff | 3h59 | 1:22 PM Aberystwyth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 3:23 PM Cardiff | 4h00 | 7:23 PM Aberystwyth | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Aberystwyth 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.
Tue
Sep 01
Sep 01
Wed
Sep 02
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Fri
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Sep 05
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Sep 07
Sep 07
Why should you book Cardiff to Aberystwyth trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Aberystwyth run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 04:19, the last at 19:38. The fastest train covers the 75 miles (121 km) distance in 3h 41m.
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 75 miles (121 km) |
Average train duration 3h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€27) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 41m |
First train 4:19 AM |
Last train 7:38 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 1 day |
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
Train companies: Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Aberystwyth trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Aberystwyth from $33 (€27). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 Transport for Wales Duration
3h 41m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$33 (€27)
Transport for Wales frequency
4 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
Complete guide to Aberystwyth
Things to do in Aberystwyth
Discover the best of Aberystwyth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Aberystwyth trip today.
- Recommended
Ceredigion Museum
Town museum in a former Edwardian theatre, covering local history, costume, archaeology, and seafront resort heritage.
- Recommended
School of Art Museum and Galleries
Major university arts centre gallery presenting changing exhibitions of Welsh and international art in a leading cultural venue.
- Must visit
Aberystwyth Promenade
Victorian promenade along Cardigan Bay, ideal for sea views, sunsets, and classic Aberystwyth resort atmosphere.
- Recommended
North Beach
Popular urban beach beside the promenade, great for walking, paddling, and enjoying wide coastal views near the town centre.
- Recommended
Aberystwyth Harbour
Pleasant harbour area where river and sea meet, known for boats, coastal walks, and a more local side of town.
Welsh Breakfast
A traditional Welsh breakfast with bacon, sausage, eggs, laverbread and cockles. It reflects coastal produce and classic Welsh morning fare.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
Seaweed cooked into a soft savory paste, often served at breakfast. It is a classic Welsh coastal specialty linked to local gathering traditions.
- Gluten-free
Cockles
Small local shellfish often served with laverbread or breakfast. They are a long-standing Welsh seaside delicacy on the Cardigan Bay coast.
Little Italy
Long-running town centre Italian restaurant with a good local reputation. Friendly, lively and suitable for a relaxed sit-down meal.
Baravin
Popular seafront venue known for fresh seafood and modern British cooking in a relaxed bistro setting with bay views.
The Ship and Castle
Established harbourside pub serving Welsh ales and classic pub dishes. Casual atmosphere and a reliable choice for local seafood and comfort food.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than major UK tourist cities, while local buses and everyday costs stay fairly manageable for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee or cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is appreciated if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafe tipping is uncommon, but small change is welcome.
TrawsCymru
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- /
To the city center
Aberystwyth Railway Station -> Aberystwyth Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Most local and regional buses accept contactless card payment, but carry a backup payment method for smaller operators.
- Aberystwyth town centre is walkable from the railway station, so you may not need a bus for short central trips.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Aberystwyth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $33 (€27), while the average price is around $66 (€53).
The train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth takes 3h 41m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth leaves at 4:19 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is 75 miles (121 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth leaves at 7:38 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Aberystwyth is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Aberystwyth station (AYW).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is by train, with a cost of around $33 (€27).
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is scenic, offering views of the Cambrian Mountains, picturesque Welsh countryside, and glimpses of the coast along the way.
A day trip from Cardiff to Aberystwyth is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 41m and the frequency of trains is 3 per day.
To fully explore Aberystwyth, including its cultural attractions, historic sites, and natural beauty, spending 2 to 3 days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Aberystwyth.
Since neither Cardiff nor Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth include Shrewsbury, Newtown, Borth, Barmouth, Tywyn.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth, travelers should be mindful of typical coastal town safety concerns such as petty theft, especially around busy areas like the seafront and train station. Common scams include overcharging in some local taxis and occasional street distraction tactics. Staying vigilant with personal belongings and using licensed transportation 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 Aberystwyth
Most Cardiff to Aberystwyth trains use the Cardiff Central to Aberystwyth station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Aberystwyth 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 Aberystwyth
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.
LlandafLlandaf station, Station Road, Llandaf, Cardiff, CF14 2EZ+44 3333211202
City-centre transport
Getting to Llandaf from Cardiff city centre
Llandaf is 4 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Bay - Pontypridd, Cardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr, Cardiff Bay - Radyr · 3m · $1 · every ~11 min
Cardiff Bay - Pontypridd, Cardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr, Cardiff Bay - Radyr · 6m · $2 · every ~11 min
Cardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 10m · $2 · every ~8 min
Bus24 · 27m · $2 · every ~6 min
24, 25, 101, 102 · 30m · $2 · every ~12 min
Llandaf train station facilities and services
Llandaf has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Llandaf.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Llandaf. 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 Llandaf: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Llandaf: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Llandaf: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) via a footbridge with lifts. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Pontypridd) from the station car park. Access between the platforms is via a footbridge with lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: There are two ticket machines. One accepts cash and the other accepts payment by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · $2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, 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.
Which Aberystwyth station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Aberystwyth arrive at Aberystwyth. Aberystwyth is from Aberystwyth city centre.
AberystwythAberystwyth station, Alexandra Road, Aberystwyth, Ceredigion, SY23 1LH+44 3333211202
City-centre transport
Getting to Aberystwyth from Aberystwyth city centre
Bus304 · 3m · every ~1 min
Aberystwyth train station facilities and services
Aberystwyth has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Aberystwyth.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Aberystwyth. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Aberystwyth: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Aberystwyth: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Aberystwyth: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Access to the station platform is possible via a short accessible ramp with handrails or four steps with handrails, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Aberystwyth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Aberystwyth and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Aberystwyth
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