- Recommended
Dover Museum
Town museum covering Dover’s history from prehistory to the modern port, best known for displaying the Bronze Age Boat.
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
The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Dover
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
3 h 53 m
Average duration
4 h 10 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
314 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Dover is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Dover will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Cardiff for Dover on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct trains cover the 314 km distance in an average of 4 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 53 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest trains will take 4 h 38 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.
11:35 AM4h38Cardiff4:13 PMDover$701One-way0 transfers- 5:14 AM3h58Cardiff9:12 AMDover$771One-way0 transfers
- 11:20 AM3h53Cardiff3:13 PMDover$871One-way0 transfers
- 11:20 AM3h53Cardiff3:13 PMDover$871One-way0 transfers
- 5:14 AM3h58Cardiff9:12 AMDover$771One-way0 transfers
- 11:35 AM4h38Cardiff4:13 PMDover$701One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Dover
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Dover among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 21m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $20, and a train costs an average of $48.
Distance: 195 miles (314 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$77 Average price | $33 Average price Cheapest |
3h 51m Average total duration Fastest 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 23m Average total duration 6h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.3 - 0.8kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Dover is a bus with an average price of $33 (€27).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Dover:
A bus is $44 (€36) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Dover costing on average $77 (€63).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Dover is by train with an average journey time of 3h 21m.
Other travel options to Dover take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Dover including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Dover among Omio's users.
Live departures
Cardiff to Dover train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Dover trains for tomorrow, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:14 AM Cardiff | 3h58 | 9:12 AM Dover | 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 Dover 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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Cardiff to Dover trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Dover.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Dover.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Dover.
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 Dover.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Dover
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Dover run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 21m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $48 (€39) but you can travel from only $20 (€17) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 20:49. The fastest train covers the 195 miles (314 km) distance in 3h 53m.
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 $20 (€17)
Distance 195 miles (314 km) |
Average train duration 3h 21m |
Cheapest ticket price $48 (€39) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 53m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 8:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 70 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 $20 (€17)
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Dover trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Dover from $20 (€17). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 53m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Dover
Things to do in Dover
Discover the best of Dover — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dover trip today.
- Recommended
The Bronze Age Boat Gallery
Special gallery within Dover Museum focused on the internationally significant Bronze Age Boat and its archaeological context.
- Recommended
Roman Painted House
Exceptional Roman-era domestic remains with rare wall paintings, one of Dover’s most important archaeological attractions.
- Must visit
The White Cliffs Viewing Area
Popular viewpoint area for classic cliff panoramas and Channel views, frequently featured in social media photography.
- Recommended
Dover Seafront
Pleasant waterfront promenade for walking, sea views and photos, especially popular in fair weather and at sunset.
- Recommended
Samphire Hoe
A landscaped coastal park created from Channel Tunnel spoil, valued for walks, wildlife and uncommon perspectives back to the cliffs.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
A classic Kent coast fish dish featuring delicate flatfish, usually grilled or pan-fried with butter and lemon. It is closely associated with Dover and is the destination's signature seafood specialty
- Vegetarian
Kentish Rarebit
A regional take on Welsh rarebit, with toasted bread topped with a rich cheese sauce often made using local ale or mustard. It is a comforting pub staple in Kent
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkin
A traditional Kent bread roll, slightly sweet and often served split with cheese, ham, or fruit preserves. It is a long-standing local bakery item from the county around Dover
Blakes of Dover Restaurant
An established independent restaurant set in a historic townhouse, known for refined British and European cooking in an intimate setting
The White Cliffs Hotel Restaurant
A well-regarded dining room in St Margaret's at Cliffe, serving modern British dishes in a polished country-house atmosphere near Dover
Cullins Yard
A long-established waterfront restaurant and bar in Dover Marina, known for seafood, steaks, and harbour views in a relaxed setting
Pound Sterling
Generally moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and coffee are manageable, while hotels and seafront dining can cost more in peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 45-80 per person at an upscale restaurant.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. If not included, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is not usually expected.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Dover Priory -> Pencester Road, Dover
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Stagecoach buses are the main local public transport in Dover, and fares can vary by route and operator promotions.
- Card payment is generally accepted on Stagecoach buses, but carrying a backup payment method is advisable.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Dover
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Dover 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 Dover, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Dover can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $48 (€39), while the average price is around $77 (€63).
The train from Cardiff to Dover takes 3h 53m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Dover leaves at 4:25 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Dover is 195 miles (314 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Dover leaves at 8:49 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Dover.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Dover.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Dover.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Dover is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Dover Priory (DVP).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Dover is by bus, with a cost of around $20 (€17).
The train journey from Cardiff to Dover offers a mix of urban and rural views, with scenic sections through the rolling hills of the South Wales countryside and picturesque landscapes as you pass through the Kent Downs, an Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty.
A day trip from Cardiff to Dover is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 53m. The distance is 195 miles (314 km). There are 6 trains per day.
In Dover, you can explore the Dover Western Heights for historical fortifications and views, take a boat tour to see the White Cliffs, and visit the Dover Transport Museum for vintage vehicles. Enjoy Kearsney Abbey Gardens and discover the South Foreland Lighthouse. Don't miss Dover Castle with its medieval tunnels, the iconic White Cliffs, Dover Museum, Samphire Hoe nature reserve, and the Roman Painted House with ancient wall paintings.
Two to three days is sufficient to explore Dover's main attractions, including the White Cliffs, Dover Castle, and the nearby countryside.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Dover.
Since neither Cardiff nor Dover 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 Dover include Canterbury, Deal, Ashford, Ebbsfleet Valley, Stratford.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Dover 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 Dover, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially around busy areas like the ferry terminals and tourist attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed operators to avoid overcharging. Scams involving overpriced souvenirs or unauthorized tour guides can occur near popular sites. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official services 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 Dover
Cardiff
Dover
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 Dover.
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
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
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
- Car Park: No
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
- 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
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
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.
The major train station for arrivals in Dover is Dover Priory. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dover Priory for your journey to Dover from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:30 - 21:30 Saturday 05:30 - 21:30 Sunday 06:15 - 21:30 Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: newspapers
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A. This station has step free access to all platforms - Access to all platforms and interchange via lifts and stairs via booking hall
- Accessible public telephones: Public telephones are not wheelchair accessible
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis are available to book
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: At the front of the station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 24 Hours a Day Sunday 24 Hours a Day Assistance/Help available from station staff from First to Last trains
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: platform 1 - Available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: Platform 1 - Available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Platform 1- Available during staffing hours
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: There are waiting facilities on all platforms. Only available when staff present. Heated waiting room only on platform 1
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: 0345 322 7021 or Text relay 18001 0345 322 7021 Freephone 0800 783 4524 or Text Relay 18001 0800 783 4524
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transit options for Dover Priory
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station forecourt
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Dover
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Dover and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Dover
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.
