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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Dover
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
€57
Average ticket price on Sep 19
€64
Fastest journey on Sep 19
3 h 53 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
4 h 10 m
Trains on Sep 19
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 €64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €57.
Fast trains
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 3 trains from Cardiff to Dover, including 3 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 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, Sep 19 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€571One-way0 transfers- 5:14 AM3h58Cardiff9:12 AMDover€641One-way0 transfers
- 11:20 AM3h53Cardiff3:13 PMDover€721One-way0 transfers
- 11:20 AM3h53Cardiff3:13 PMDover€721One-way0 transfers
- 5:14 AM3h58Cardiff9:12 AMDover€641One-way0 transfers
- 11:35 AM4h38Cardiff4:13 PMDover€571One-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 an average ticket price of €39 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 4h 8m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €39, while a train costs an average of €91.
Distance: 195 miles (314 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€91 Average price | €39 Average price Cheapest |
4h 8m Average total duration Fastest 3h 38m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 42m Average total duration 7h 12m 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 €39.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Dover:
A bus is €52 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Dover costing on average €91.
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Dover is by train with an average journey time of 3h 38m.
Other travel options to Dover take longer:
Bus takes on average 7h 12m.
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 today, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G15041+ Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+ P85917 | 8:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h55 | 12:13 PM Dover Priory (DVP) | 2 transfers | |
| G15042+P85923+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 8:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h35 | 1:13 PM Dover Priory (DVP) | 2 transfers | |
| G15042+P85663 · P89021+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International | 8:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h17 | 12:55 PM Dover Priory (DVP) | 3 transfers | |
| G15043+P85671+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+P89027 | 9:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h06 | 1:55 PM Dover Priory (DVP) | 3 transfers | |
| W35178+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+P85930 | 10:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h55 | 2:13 PM Dover Priory (DVP) | 2 transfers | |
| G15044+Tube from London Paddington to London St Pancras International+P89033 · P85677 | 10:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h05 | 2:55 PM Dover Priory (DVP) | 3 transfers | |
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
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
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 8 times per day, taking around 3h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €48 but you can travel from only €16 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 10m.
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 €16
Distance 195 miles (314 km) |
Average train duration 3h 38m |
Cheapest ticket price €48 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 10m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 8:49 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Fri |
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 €16
Train companies: Great Western Railway, Southeastern from Cardiff to Dover trainsGreat Western Railway, Southeastern trains will get you between Cardiff and Dover from €16. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
3h 10m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€48
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
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
Southeastern
About
Southeastern is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London to Kent, Sussex, Surrey and parts of East Anglia. It runs services from early morning until late at night, seven days a week. Southeastern has a range of train types, including high-speed Javelin trains, commuter-friendly Metro services, and the classic InterCity services. Ticket types include Advance, Off-Peak, Super Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Southeastern are London to Kent, London to Eastbourne, and London to Hastings.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Southeastern Duration
4h 33m
Cheapest Southeastern Price
€75
Southeastern frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small hand luggage
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at the end of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on most services
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and ramps for boarding
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket. Guide dogs free
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
Dover Museum
Dover's main museum, home to the Bronze Age Boat and exhibits on archaeology, maritime trade, and local history.
- Recommended
Secret Wartime Tunnels Museum Experience
Historic wartime command spaces presented as an immersive museum experience inside the tunnels beneath Dover Castle.
- Must visit
White Cliffs of Dover
World-famous chalk coastline with sweeping sea views and classic cliff-top walks. Dover's signature natural attraction.
- Recommended
Langdon Cliffs
Popular National Trust visitor area with cliff paths, lighthouse access, and some of the finest Channel views near Dover.
- Recommended
Samphire Hoe
Scenic viewpoint and picnic area above Dover with broad views over the port, castle, cliffs, and English Channel.
- Gluten-free
Dover Sole
Dover sole is the town’s signature fish, prized for sweet delicate flesh. It is a classic south coast catch often simply grilled or pan-fried.
- Gluten-free
Whitstable Oysters
Whitstable oysters from the Kent coast are a traditional local shellfish, served raw or dressed and closely tied to the area’s maritime food culture.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkins
Kentish huffkins are soft round bread rolls from Kent, often eaten with ham, cheese, or jam and valued as a classic county bake.
The White Horse
Historic pub and restaurant near Dover Castle, known for traditional British meals, local ales, and a relaxed heritage atmosphere.
Cullins Yard
Established waterfront venue at the marina serving fish, chips, and casual British dishes with harbor views and an easygoing feel.
Mr White's English Chophouse
Well-known seafront restaurant and bar at Dover Marina Hotel, popular for seafood, grills, and sea views in a polished setting.
British pound (£)
Moderate for England: rooms and dining cost more than many UK towns, but local buses and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £50+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes: no obligation, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Dover Priory -> Dover Town Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses, including tap-and-go card payments.
- Dover Priory is within walking distance of the town centre and ferry port bus connections.
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, while the average price is around €91.
The train from Cardiff to Dover takes 3h 10m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Dover is 195 miles (314 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Dover leaves at 4:25 AM.
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 €16.
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 10m. 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
Most Cardiff to Dover trains use the Cardiff Central to Dover Priory station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Dover 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 Dover
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.
Which Dover station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Dover arrive at Dover Priory. Dover Priory is 0 miles (1 km) from Dover city centre.
Dover PrioryDover Priory station, Station Approach, off Folkestone Road, Dover, Kent, CT17 9SB+44 3303339232
City-centre transport
Getting to Dover Priory from Dover city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation forecourt
Dover Priory train station facilities and services
Dover Priory has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Dover Priory.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Dover Priory.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Dover Priory. Information desks are 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.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Dover Priory: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Dover Priory: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Dover Priory: 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.
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
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