- Must visit
The Beatles Story
Acclaimed branch of the Imperial War Museums covering modern conflict, personal stories, and the impact of war in a dramatic dock building.
Cheapest price on Sep 17
$64
Average ticket price on Sep 17
$129
Fastest journey on Sep 17
3 h 38 m
Average journey duration on Sep 17
3 h 45 m
Trains on Sep 17
12
Distance
215 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool will cost around $129 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $64.
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Liverpool without transferring at least once.
G38945+
C17810
G39027 · G38496
G39024+
C07947
G15041+
G00854+
C17797
G38967+
C17774
G66712+
W33916
G00844+
W33983
G39027+
C07963
G38967+
C17774
G38949+
C17780Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Liverpool 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 0m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, while a train costs an average of $98.
Distance: 133 miles (215 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$98 Average price | $39 Average price Cheapest | $62 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 0m Average total duration Fastest 3h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 15m Average total duration 6h 45m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Liverpool:
A bus is $59 (€48) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Liverpool costing on average $98 (€79).
Other travel options to Liverpool take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 45m.
You'll arrive about 45m sooner (3h 30m by train vs 4h 15m by car). Tickets start at around $98 (€79) compared to roughly $62 (€50) 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.
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Liverpool trains for today, Wednesday, September 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Y62730+ W33883 | On time 5:48 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h35 | 9:23 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
Y62730+ C17856+ G30575 | On time 5:48 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h06 | 9:54 AM Liverpool Central (LVC) | 2 transfers | |
G38945+ C17810 | On time 6:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h56 | 10:42 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G39024+ C07947 | On time 7:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h50 | 11:09 AM Liverpool James Street (LVJ) | 1 transfer | |
G38947+ C17771 | On time 7:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h49 | 11:42 AM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G15041+ G00854+ C17797 | On time 8:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h59 | 12:17 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 2 transfers | |
G66712+ W33916 | On time 8:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 12:23 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G38967+ C17774 | On time 8:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h47 | 12:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G39027+ C07963 | 9:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h46 | 1:09 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ) | 1 transfer | |
G38949+ C17780 | On time 9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h49 | 1:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
W35178+ G66735+ C17773 | On time 10:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h59 | 2:17 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 2 transfers | |
G38975+ C17778 | On time 10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h54 | 2:47 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G39032+ C07979 | On time 11:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h46 | 3:09 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ) | 1 transfer | |
G39032 · G38500 | On time 11:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h11 | 3:34 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G00900+ W33996 | On time 11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 3:23 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G38953+ C17775 | On time 11:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h49 | 3:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G15046+ G00872+ C17758 | On time 12:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h59 | 4:17 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 2 transfers | |
G38983+ C17781 | On time 12:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h47 | 4:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G39035+ C07995 | On time 1:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h46 | 5:09 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ) | 1 transfer | |
G00905+ W33918 | On time 1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 5:23 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G38955+ C17966 | On time 1:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h49 | 5:42 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
W35188+ G00883+ C18003 | On time 2:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h59 | 6:17 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 2 transfers | |
G00946+ W34223 | On time 2:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h50 | 6:35 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G38991+ C17869 | On time 2:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h57 | 6:47 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G39037+ C08011 | On time 3:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h46 | 7:09 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ) | 1 transfer | |
G39037 · G38482 | On time 3:23 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h11 | 7:34 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G66797+ C01308 | On time 3:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 7:23 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
G38957+ C17968 | On time 3:51 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h58 | 7:49 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $27 (€22) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 23:34. The fastest train covers the 133 miles (215 km) distance in 3h 9m.
Distance 133 miles (215 km) |
Average train duration 3h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price $27 (€22) |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 9m |
First train 4:00 AM |
Last train 11:34 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 days |
Discover the best of Liverpool — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Liverpool trip today.
Acclaimed branch of the Imperial War Museums covering modern conflict, personal stories, and the impact of war in a dramatic dock building.
Large free museum covering archaeology, natural history, world cultures, and planetarium shows. Excellent for broad insight into the region.
Modern museum telling Liverpool’s story from port city to pop culture capital, with social history, transport, and riverfront galleries.
Scenic riverside promenade with Mersey views, public art, and access to major museums. Ideal for a relaxed walk along the waterfront.
Historic commercial street with restored warehouses, boutiques, and nightlife. Great for architecture, independent shops, and city atmosphere.
Creative district known for independent venues, street art, and converted warehouses. A good area to explore Liverpool’s contemporary culture.
A hearty beef and vegetable stew long linked with Liverpool's seafaring history. It is the city's signature comfort food and gave Liverpudlians the nickname 'Scousers'.
A baked potato filled with corned beef, a classic Merseyside chip shop and pub snack. It is a simple local favourite tied to everyday working-class food culture.
A dense spiced fruit loaf or cake served sliced with butter. Popular across Merseyside, it is a traditional teatime bake with a long local following.
Elegant fine dining restaurant by Chef Paul Askew, known for seasonal British tasting menus and polished service in a refined city-centre setting.
Stylish modern restaurant in the Baltic Triangle serving small plates and seasonal British cooking in a relaxed but ambitious setting.
Historic dining room in the Philharmonic pub, celebrated for classic British dishes and a grand traditional atmosphere with strong local character.
Moderate for UK city breaks: hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while transit and casual meals are fairly affordable for tourists.
Tipping is optional. Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafes and pubs: no tip expected, small change appreciated.
Official public transport app
Liverpool Lime Street -> Liverpool ONE Bus Station, Liverpool
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Liverpool 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 Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cardiff to Liverpool trains use the Cardiff Central to Liverpool Lime Street station pair, with some services arriving at Liverpool James Street. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Liverpool train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Lisvane & Thornhill is 7 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
Lisvane & Thornhill has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink options are available at Lisvane & Thornhill.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Lisvane & Thornhill: Parking.
Available at Lisvane & Thornhill: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Lisvane & Thornhill: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Rhymney) via a ramp with a steep gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Cardiff) via Clos Llysfaen and a ramp with a shallow gradient. Access between the platforms is via a footbridge, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
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 options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
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.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
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.
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Liverpool Lime Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food options include: Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, Upper Crust, Starbucks, JD Wetherspoon
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are located near Platform 7.
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38, Sun: 07:15 - 23:05. Information desks are located in the main concourse.
Luggage storage is the Excess Baggage Co. lockers and staffed luggage storage counter are located in the main concourse near the escalators across from Platform 6. Open daily 08:00 to 21:00. Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Available at Liverpool Lime Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool Lime Street: Full wheelchair access throughout the station, with help points at the Skelhorne Street entrance and at customer information desk in the main concourse.
Nearby hotels include Pembroke Studios, Riley’s Rooms, Holiday Inn Liverpool City Center.
Liverpool James Street is 1 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Liverpool James Street has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Liverpool James Street.
Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool James Street. ATMs are available at Liverpool James Street.
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool James Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Liverpool James Street: Parking, WC.
Available at Liverpool James Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool James Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform”The Ticket Office is step free via James Street only and platforms can be accessed via lifts, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Liverpool South Parkway is 8 km from Liverpool city centre. Public transport options include:
Liverpool South Parkway has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink options are available at Liverpool South Parkway.
Wi-Fi is available at Liverpool South Parkway.
Ticket office support is available at Liverpool South Parkway. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Liverpool South Parkway: Parking, WC.
Available at Liverpool South Parkway: Bike Parking.
Accessibility facilities are available at Liverpool South Parkway: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” Platforms are accessible via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need