Cardiff to Inverness train with Caledonian Sleeper

Sun, Jun 21
+ Add return
Caledonian Sleeper
Scotrail
CrossCountry
London North Eastern Railway
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
Caledonian Sleeper
Scotrail
CrossCountry
London North Eastern Railway
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Inverness

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$479

Average price

$479

Fastest journey

13 h 13 m

Average duration

13 h 13 m

Trains per day

1

Distance

670 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Cardiff to Inverness will cost around $479 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $479.

Fast trains

Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Inverness on Sun, Jun 21, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 670 km distance in an average of 13 h 13 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 13 h 13 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 13 h 13 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.

  • CrossCountry
    9:30 AM13h13
    Cardiff
    10:43 PMInverness
    $4791One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Inverness

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $50. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 10h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $50, and a train costs an average of $106.

Distance: 416 miles (670 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$412

Average price

$105

Average price

Cheapest

$189

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

10h 46m

Average total duration

Fastest

10h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

18h 0m

Average total duration

17h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

10h 35m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Caledonian Sleeper

Most popular train company

FlixBus

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Inverness is a bus with an average price of $105 (€86).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Inverness:

A bus is $307 (€251) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Inverness costing on average $412 (€338).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Inverness is by train with an average journey time of 10h 16m.

Other travel options to Inverness take longer:

Bus takes on average 17h 30m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Inverness including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Inverness among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

You'll arrive about 19m sooner (10h 16m by train vs 10h 35m by car). Tickets start at around $412 (€338) compared to roughly $189 (€155) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.

Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.

Live departures

Cardiff to Inverness train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Inverness trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountry9:30 AM Cardiff
13h13
10:43 PM Inverness0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Inverness by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cardiff to Inverness trains with Omio?

Caledonian Sleeper as well as Scotrail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Inverness.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Inverness.

Why book with Omio vs Caledonian Sleeper?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Caledonian Sleeper, but also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Inverness.
  • 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 Caledonian Sleeper with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Inverness.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Inverness.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Inverness.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Inverness

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Inverness run on average 4 times per day, taking around 10h 16m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $106 (€87) but you can travel from only $50 (€41) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:15, the last at 14:50. The fastest train covers the 416 miles (670 km) distance in 10h 15m.

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 $50 (€41)
Distance
416 miles (670 km)
Average train duration
10h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$106 (€87)
Trains per day
4
Fastest train
10h 15m
First train
4:15 AM
Last train
2:50 PM
Cheapest Month
Nov
Cheapest Day
Mon
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Best time to book
1 day
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 $50 (€41)

Train companies: Caledonian Sleeper, Scotrail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Inverness trainsCaledonian Sleeper, Scotrail, CrossCountry, London North Eastern Railway, Cross Country, Great Western Railway (GWR), Transport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Inverness from $50 (€41). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Caledonian Sleeper

About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Scotrail

About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 25m
Cheapest Price
$470 (€385)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 23m
Cheapest Price
$157 (€128)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 15m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€87)
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 17m
Cheapest Price
$553 (€453)
Cross Country frequency
2 a day

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 16m
Cheapest Price
$562 (€460)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
1 a day

Transport for Wales

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
10h 16m
Cheapest Price
$304 (€249)
Transport for Wales frequency
3 a day

Complete guide to Inverness

Things to do in Inverness

Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.

  • Recommended

Inverness Museum and Art Gallery

The City’s main museum and gallery, covering Highland history, Jacobite heritage, archaeology, and local art in the center of Inverness.

  • Recommended

Tarbat Discovery Centre

A Strong regional museum in Portmahomack focused on Pictish archaeology and an important early medieval monastery site.

Highland Archive Centre

A Local history and archive center with exhibitions and research collections that give deeper insight into Highland families, maps, and records.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and cafes are reasonable, but hotels and summer dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for a quick meal.
Mid-range
GBP 18-30 per person.
Fine dining
GBP 50+ per person.
Coffee
GBP 3-4 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Pubs: not expected. Taxis: round up. Hotels: optional small tip for helpful service.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Inverness

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Inverness can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $106 (€87), while the average price is around $412 (€338).
The train from Cardiff to Inverness takes 10h 15m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 4:15 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Inverness is 416 miles (670 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 2:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Inverness.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Inverness.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Inverness.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Inverness is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Inverness station (INV).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Inverness is by bus, with a cost of around $50 (€41).
The train journey from Cardiff to Inverness is considered scenic, offering views of the Welsh countryside, the rolling hills of the Midlands, and the picturesque landscapes of Scotland, including the Highlands as you approach Inverness.
A day trip from Cardiff to Inverness is not feasible as the journey takes 10h 15m, covering 416 miles (670 km). Trains operate 4 times per day.
In Inverness, visitors can explore the Inverness Museum and Art Gallery to discover local history and art, enjoy performances at Eden Court Theatre, and take a leisurely walk on the Ness Islands. The Caledonian Canal offers scenic walks or boat trips, while the Merkinch Local Nature Reserve is perfect for wildlife exploration. Key sights include the historic Inverness Castle, the scenic Loch Ness, the informative Culloden Battlefield, the impressive Inverness Cathedral, and the ancient Clava Cairns.
To experience the highlights of Inverness, 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore the city, visit nearby attractions like Loch Ness, and enjoy local culture and cuisine.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Inverness.
Since neither Cardiff nor Inverness 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 Inverness include Invergordon, Aviemore, Elgin, Nairn, Pitlochry.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Inverness 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 Inverness, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas and public transport hubs. Some visitors report occasional overcharging by taxi drivers, so it’s advisable to agree on fares beforehand or use licensed services. Always be aware of your surroundings at night and avoid poorly lit or isolated areas. Standard travel safety practices help ensure a secure 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 Inverness

Most Cardiff to Inverness trains use the Cardiff Central to Inverness station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Inverness 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 Inverness
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.

CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LUParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cathays train station facilities and services

Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Cathays.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cathays: Parking.

Bike and car services

Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service, 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. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time, 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 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.

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