Cardiff to Caernarfon train with Transport for Wales

Fri, Jun 26
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Caernarfon

Showing times and prices for Jun 26

Cheapest price

$90

Average price

$110

Fastest journey

4 h 6 m

Average duration

4 h 25 m

Trains per day

12

Distance

199 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Caernarfon will cost around $110 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.

Fast trains

Of the 12 trains that leave Cardiff for Caernarfon on Fri, Jun 26, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jun 26 the direct trains cover the 199 km distance in an average of 4 h 25 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 6 m .

On Fri, Jun 26 the slowest trains will take 5 h 15 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.

  • Transport for WalesG38950 · G38631 · G38413
    9:53 AM5h15
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    3:08 PMBangor (Gwynedd) (BNG)
    $901One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38950 · G38631 · G38413
    9:53 AM5h24
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    3:17 PMLlanfairpwll (LPG)
    $911One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG39027
    9:23 AM4h06
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:29 PMBangor (Gwynedd) (BNG)
    $1001One-way
    0 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38953 · G38637 · G38417
    11:53 AM5h15
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    5:08 PMBangor (Gwynedd) (BNG)
    $1001One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG39027
    9:23 AM4h14
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:37 PMLlanfairpwll (LPG)
    $1011One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train for Cardiff to Caernarfon

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Caernarfon among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $48. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $48, and a train costs an average of $48.

Distance: 123 miles (199 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$73

Average price

Cheapest

$58

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 16m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Caernarfon is a train with an average price of $73 (€60).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Caernarfon is by train with an average journey time of 4h 16m.
Yes, you can take a train between Cardiff and Caernarfon.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Caernarfon 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 $73 (€60) compared to roughly $58 (€48) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.58 (€-12.06). The journey takes 4h 16m versus 4h 16m 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 Caernarfon train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Caernarfon trains for today, Thursday, June 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for Wales8:53 AM Cardiff
4h48
1:41 PM Caernarfon0 transfersDirect
Transport for Wales11:23 AM Cardiff
5h04
4:27 PM Caernarfon0 transfersDirect
CrossCountry12:45 PM Cardiff
5h35
6:20 PM Caernarfon0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Caernarfon by train

Compare 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.

Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27
Sun
Jun 28
Mon
Jun 29
Tue
Jun 30
Wed
Jul 01
Thu
Jul 02

Why should you book Cardiff to Caernarfon trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales operates all trains services from Cardiff to Caernarfon.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Caernarfon.

Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?

  • 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Caernarfon

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Caernarfon run on average 16 times per day, taking around 4h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€40) if you book in advance.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:44, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (199 km) distance in 4h 12m.

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
123 miles (199 km)
Average train duration
4h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$48 (€40)
Trains per day
16
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
4h 12m
First train
4:44 AM
Last train
9:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Dec
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
14 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

Train companies: Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Caernarfon trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Caernarfon from $48 (€40). 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 Duration
4h 12m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€40)
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

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Caernarfon

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Caernarfon 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 Caernarfon, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Caernarfon can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€40), while the average price is around $73 (€60).
The train from Cardiff to Caernarfon takes 4h 12m and runs 16 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Caernarfon leaves at 4:44 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Caernarfon is 123 miles (199 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Caernarfon leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Caernarfon.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Caernarfon.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Caernarfon.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Caernarfon is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Bangor (Gwynedd) (BNG).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Caernarfon is by train, with a cost of around $48 (€40).
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Caernarfon offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of rolling hills, lush valleys, and glimpses of the Welsh countryside, enhancing the travel experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to Caernarfon is not feasible due to the journey duration of 4h 12m each way. The distance is 123 miles (199 km) and trains operate 15 times per day.
Two to three days in Caernarfon are ideal to explore its main attractions such as the Caernarfon Castle, the Welsh Highland Railway, and the surrounding natural landscapes.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Caernarfon.
Since neither Cardiff nor Caernarfon 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 Caernarfon include Liverpool, Chester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Caernarfon 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 Caernarfon, travelers should be mindful of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas near Caernarfon Castle and local markets. It's advisable to keep personal belongings secure and be cautious when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals. Additionally, travelers should watch for unofficial taxi services and always use licensed transportation to avoid overcharging or scams. Staying aware of surroundings and planning transportation in advance 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 Caernarfon

Cardiff
Caernarfon
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
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
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
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
ParkingParking
DiningDining
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
Hotel
  • Travelodge
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: to the right of the station front
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
  • Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.

More options for your journey from Cardiff to Caernarfon

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular train connections to Caernarfon

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomCardiff to Caernarfon train

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