Cardiff to Holyhead train with Transport for Wales

Thu, Jul 09
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Transport for Wales
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Holyhead

Showing times and prices for Jul 09

Cheapest price

$89

Average price

$123

Fastest journey

4 h 44 m

Average duration

4 h 47 m

Trains per day

19

Distance

226 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Holyhead will cost around $123 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $89.

Fast trains

Of the 19 trains that leave Cardiff for Holyhead on Thu, Jul 09, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Jul 09 the direct trains cover the 226 km distance in an average of 4 h 47 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 44 m .

On Thu, Jul 09 the slowest trains will take 4 h 49 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 WalesG38947 · G38356 · G38405
    7:53 AM5h47
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:40 PMHolyhead station (HHD)
    $891One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38947 · G38627 · G38405
    7:53 AM5h47
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:40 PMHolyhead station (HHD)
    $1011One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesY62730 · G38352 · G38399
    5:48 AM5h52
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:40 AMHolyhead station (HHD)
    $1011One-way
    2 transfers
  • Transport for WalesG38955+Avanti West CoastW33928
    1:53 PM5h01
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    6:54 PMHolyhead station (HHD)
    $1091One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38957+Avanti West CoastW34276
    3:51 PM5h04
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    8:55 PMHolyhead station (HHD)
    $1091One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train for Cardiff to Holyhead

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Holyhead among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $54. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 4h 53m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $54, and a train costs an average of $54.

Distance: 140 miles (226 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Driving

$91

Average price

Cheapest

$68

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 23m

Average total duration

Fastest

4h 53m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 44m

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 Holyhead is a train with an average price of $91 (€75).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Holyhead is by train with an average journey time of 4h 53m.
Yes, you can take a train between Cardiff and Holyhead.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Holyhead 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 $91 (€75) compared to roughly $68 (€56) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-22.96 (€-18.88). The journey takes 4h 53m versus 4h 44m 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 Holyhead train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Holyhead trains for today, Wednesday, July 8. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG38947 · G38627 · G38405
On time
7:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h47
1:40 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38947 · G38356 · G38405
On time
7:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h47
1:40 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38947+Avanti West CoastW34011
On time
7:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h59
12:52 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39027
On time
9:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h44
2:07 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38950 · G38631 · G38413
On time
9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h47
3:40 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38950 · G38413+Avanti West CoastW34256
On time
9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h47
3:40 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG39032
On time
11:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h49
4:12 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38953 · G38637 · G38417
On time
11:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h55
5:48 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38953 · G38417+Avanti West CoastW34036
On time
11:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h55
5:48 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG39035
On time
1:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h49
6:12 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38955 · G38368 · G38393
On time
1:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h47
7:40 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38955 · G38641 · G38393
On time
1:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h47
7:40 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38955+Avanti West CoastW33928
On time
1:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h01
6:54 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39037
On time
3:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h49
8:12 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38957+Avanti West CoastW34276
On time
3:51 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h04
8:55 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesY63472 · G38371
On time
4:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h59
9:15 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39040
On time
5:22 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h44
10:06 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38959+Avanti West CoastW34062
On time
5:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h09
11:02 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesY63476 · G38407
On time
6:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h18
11:41 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39004+Avanti West CoastW34048
On time
6:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h00
11:53 PM Holyhead station (HHD)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG39042
On time
7:38 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h21
12:59 AM Holyhead station (HHD)
0 transfersDirect
Thursday, July 9
Transport for WalesG390195:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h55
10:14 AM Holyhead station (HHD)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesY62730 · G38352 · G383995:48 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h52
11:40 AM Holyhead station (HHD)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38945+Avanti West CoastC013046:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
5h06
11:52 AM Holyhead station (HHD)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG390247:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h57
12:16 PM Holyhead station (HHD)0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Holyhead 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.

Thu
Jul 09
Fri
Jul 10
Sat
Jul 11
Sun
Jul 12
Mon
Jul 13
Tue
Jul 14
Wed
Jul 15

Why should you book Cardiff to Holyhead trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Holyhead.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Holyhead.

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 Holyhead.
  • 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 Holyhead

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Holyhead run on average 7 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $54 (€44) if you book in advance.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:21, the last at 21:35. The fastest train covers the 140 miles (226 km) distance in 4h 52m.

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
140 miles (226 km)
Average train duration
4h 53m
Cheapest ticket price
$54 (€44)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
4h 52m
First train
4:21 AM
Last train
9:35 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Thu
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
4 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 Holyhead trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Holyhead from $54 (€44). 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 52m
Cheapest Price
$54 (€44)
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 Holyhead

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Holyhead can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $54 (€44), while the average price is around $91 (€75).
The train from Cardiff to Holyhead takes 4h 52m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Holyhead is 140 miles (226 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Holyhead leaves at 4:21 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Holyhead leaves at 9:35 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Holyhead.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Holyhead. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Holyhead.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Holyhead is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Holyhead station (HHD).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Holyhead is by train, with a cost of around $54 (€44).
The train journey from Cardiff to Holyhead is considered scenic, offering views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and stretches along the picturesque North Wales coast, including sights of castles and the Irish Sea.
A day trip from Cardiff to Holyhead is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 52m. The trip covers 140 miles (226 km) with a frequency of 6 times per day for trains.
In Holyhead, you can enjoy the Anglesey Coastal Path for breathtaking landscapes, visit the bustling Holyhead Port to watch ferries and ships, explore local shops and cafes in the town center, and take a boat tour to explore the rugged coastline and nearby islands. For sightseeing, visit the historic South Stack Lighthouse for panoramic views and birdwatching, explore the Holyhead Maritime Museum, enjoy the scenic Holyhead Breakwater Country Park, admire St Cybi's Church, and experience cultural events at the Ucheldre Centre. Additionally, you can enjoy fishing or water sports in the surrounding waters.
For a visit to Holyhead, 1-2 days are generally sufficient to explore its key attractions, such as the Holyhead Maritime Museum, South Stack Lighthouse, and the scenic coastal paths.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Holyhead.
Since neither Cardiff nor Holyhead 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 Holyhead include Chester, Bangor, Llandudno, Rhyl, Conwy.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Holyhead 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 Holyhead, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially around busy areas like the ferry terminal and train station. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed providers. Additionally, watch out for scams involving counterfeit tickets or overpriced transportation offers. Staying alert in crowded spots and verifying services beforehand 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 Holyhead

Most Cardiff to Holyhead trains use the Cardiff Central to Holyhead station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Holyhead 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 Holyhead
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
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.

Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EYParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
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.

Cardiff BayCardiff Bay station, Bute Street, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 5LEParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff Bay from Cardiff city centre

Cardiff Bay is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainCardiff Central - Cardiff Bay, Pontypridd - Cardiff Bay, Cardiff Queen Street - Cardiff Bay, Radyr - Cardiff Bay · 3m · $1 · every ~8 min
Bus6, 305, Sky · 9m · $5 · every ~10 min

Cardiff Bay train station facilities and services

Cardiff Bay has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Bay.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff Bay: Parking, Taxis.

Bike and car services

Available at Cardiff Bay: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Bay: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

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