- Must visit
Musical Instruments Museum
Major museum in an Art Nouveau landmark with an outstanding collection of instruments from around the world and panoramic rooftop views.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
Travel Information
Compare bus and flight for Cardiff to Brussels
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Brussels 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 flight which can get you there in 2h 24m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 0.5 - 1.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $51, and a flight costs an average of $240.
Distance: 328 miles (529 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$87 Average price Cheapest | $354 Average price | $78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 32m Average total duration 13h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 24m Average total duration Fastest 2h 24m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 11m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.6 - 3.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular airline | 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 Brussels is a bus with an average price of $87 (€72).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Brussels:
A bus is $267 (€220) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cardiff to Brussels costing on average $354 (€291).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Brussels is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 24m.
Other travel options to Brussels take longer:
Bus takes on average 13h 2m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Brussels including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Brussels among Omio's users.
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Brussels by bus or flight
Compare bus and flight 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
Jul 12
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15
Jul 15
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
Fri
Jul 17
Jul 17
Sat
Jul 18
Jul 18
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Brussels
United Kingdom
Belgium
Take a train from Cardiff to Brussels and enjoy the approximately 328 miles (529 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
The earliest train runs at 05:53, the last at 17:30.
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 328 miles (529 km) |
First train 5:53 AM |
Last train 5:30 PM |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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)
Complete guide to Brussels
Things to do in Brussels
Discover the best of Brussels — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Brussels trip today.
- Must visit
Magritte Museum
Leading museum dedicated to René Magritte, presenting a large collection of surrealist works in the Royal Museums complex.
- Must visit
Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium
Flagship fine arts museums covering Flemish masters, Belgian art, and major temporary exhibitions in central Brussels.
- Must visit
Galeries Royales Saint-Hubert
Elegant 19th-century covered arcade lined with historic shops and cafes, popular for architecture, strolling, and photos.
- Must visit
Mont des Arts Garden
Terraced garden and viewpoint with one of the most recognizable panoramas in central Brussels.
- Recommended
Place du Grand Sablon
Stylish square known for antiques, architecture, and an upscale yet distinctly Brussels atmosphere.
- Gluten-free
Moules-Frites
Mussels steamed with white wine, celery, and herbs, served with fries. It is one of Belgium’s most iconic comfort dishes and a staple in Brussels brasseries.
Carbonnade Flamande
A traditional Belgian beef and onion stew slowly cooked with dark Belgian beer, often slightly sweet-sour and served with fries or bread.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Stoemp
A rustic Brussels side dish of mashed potatoes mixed with vegetables such as carrots, leeks, or spinach, commonly served with sausage or meat dishes.
Comme Chez Soi Brussels
One of Brussels’ most famous fine dining institutions, celebrated for refined Belgian-French cuisine and elegant historic interiors.
Fin de Siècle Brussels
Popular traditional restaurant known for generous Belgian comfort food, beer-based dishes, and an informal, bustling atmosphere.
Chez Léon Brussels
Historic, long-running brasserie best known for moules-frites and classic Belgian dishes in a lively central setting.
Euro
Brussels is pricier than many Belgian cities. Hotels and dining add up, but transit and casual eats are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- EUR 10-18 for fries, kebabs, or simple lunch.
- Mid-range
- EUR 25-45 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- EUR 80+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- EUR 3-5 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service is usually included. Tipping is not required, but rounding up or leaving 5-10% for great service is appreciated. Round up taxi fares; small tips are optional at cafes and bars.
STIB-MIVB
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- 2.60 EUR
- Day pass
- 8.00 EUR
To the city center
Brussels-Midi, Brussels -> Brussels-Central, Brussels
- Distance
- 2 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless card payment is available on STIB-MIVB trams, buses, and metro through tap-in validators.
- A single Brupass ticket can be useful if you combine STIB-MIVB with SNCB, De Lijn, or TEC within the Brussels area.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Brussels
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Brussels 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 Brussels, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The first train from Cardiff to Brussels leaves at 5:53 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Brussels is 328 miles (529 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Brussels leaves at 5:30 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Brussels.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Brussels is by bus, with a cost of around $51 (€42).
The train journey from Cardiff to Brussels offers a mix of urban and rural landscapes. As you travel through the UK, you can enjoy views of the rolling countryside and picturesque towns. Crossing the English Channel provides a unique experience via the Eurotunnel, although the tunnel itself is not scenic. Once in Belgium, the route includes charming villages and lush greenery before arriving in the vibrant city of Brussels.
In Brussels, explore the vibrant Marolles district with its antique shops and street art, and enjoy a stroll through Parc du Cinquantenaire with its impressive arches and museums. Sample Belgian chocolates at the city's renowned chocolatiers, and experience the lively Saint-Géry district's trendy bars and cafes. Attend a performance at the historic La Monnaie opera house. Don't miss top sights like the opulent Grand Place, Atomium for panoramic views, the iconic Manneken Pis statue, the Royal Palace of Brussels, and the Magritte Museum.
For a fulfilling experience in Brussels, plan on spending 2 to 3 days to explore key attractions such as the Grand Place, Atomium, and various museums, as well as to enjoy the local cuisine and vibrant neighborhoods.
No, you cannot take the train from Cardiff to Brussels.
Brussels is within the Schengen Area. Passport and visa requirements depend on your nationality. 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 Brussels include Bruges, Ghent, Antwerp, Lille, Rotterdam.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Brussels among Omio's users.
Currently, UK citizens do not need a visa for short stays (up to 90 days in a 180-day period) for tourism or business in the Schengen Area. However, the new ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorisation System) is scheduled to launch in late 2026. Once active, this digital travel authorization will be a mandatory pre-travel requirement for all UK passport holders.
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.
Belgium uses the euro (EUR) as its currency. Travelers generally find card payments widely accepted in cities, restaurants, and shops, though carrying some cash is advisable for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Brussels, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Grand Place, public transport, and popular tourist sites. Common scams include distraction techniques and fake petitions. It's advisable to stay vigilant, avoid displaying expensive items, and use official taxi services to ensure safety.
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.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Brussels
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Brussels and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Brussels
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
