CardiffManchester
Fri, Jul 10, 1 adult
Fri, Jul 10
+ Add return
Fri, Jul 10
+ Add return

Cheapest, Fastest
National Express
10:10PM9h25m07:35AM
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
Manchester, Coach Station
$591One-way

The cheapest and fastest busesfrom Cardiff to ManchesterShowing times and prices for Jul 09

Cheapest price

$59

Average price

$59

Fastest journey

9h 25m

Average duration

9h 25m

Buses per day

1

Distance

141 km

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Cardiff to Manchester train with Transport for Wales

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Manchester

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Manchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $37.

Distance: 143 miles (231 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$78

Average price

$31

Average price

Cheapest

$63

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 57m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 27m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 3m

Average total duration

5h 33m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 49m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

Megabus

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.

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Manchester is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).

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

A bus is $47 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Manchester costing on average $78 (€64).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Manchester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 27m.

Other travel options to Manchester take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 33m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Manchester including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Manchester 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 22m sooner (3h 27m by train vs 3h 49m by car). Tickets start at around $78 (€64) compared to roughly $63 (€52) 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.

Direct services run with Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales.

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 Manchester train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Manchester trains for tomorrow, Friday, July 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG389434:33 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h40
8:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesY627305:48 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h25
9:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15040+CrossCountryG667166:24 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h35
9:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG389456:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h27
10:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35167+CrossCountryG667217:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h36
10:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG389477:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h20
11:13 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15041+CrossCountryG008548:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h41
11:59 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG389678:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h18
12:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35432+CrossCountryG667309:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h40
12:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG389509:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h20
1:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35178+CrossCountryG6673510:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h41
1:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG3897510:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h20
2:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG3895311:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h20
3:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayG15046+CrossCountryG0087212:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h41
3:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG3898312:55 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h18
4:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35434+CrossCountryG008761:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h41
4:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG389551:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h20
5:13 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayW35188+CrossCountryG008832:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h41
5:59 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer
Transport for WalesY627648:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h27
11:37 PM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG39013+Northern RailG900539:26 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h01
1:27 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Manchester 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.

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Why should you book Cardiff to Manchester trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, Cross Country, Transport for Wales and more offer trains services from Cardiff to Manchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Manchester.

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 CrossCountry, Cross Country or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester.
  • 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Manchester.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

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

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Manchester?

The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Manchester is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Manchester route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Manchester per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Manchester.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Manchester

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Manchester run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $37 (€31) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 02:37, the last at 23:57. The fastest train covers the 143 miles (231 km) distance in 3h 19m.

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 $17 (€14)
Distance
143 miles (231 km)
Average train duration
3h 27m
Cheapest ticket price
$37 (€31)
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
3h 19m
First train
2:37 AM
Last train
11:57 PM
Cheapest Month
Mar
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Fri
Best time to book
7 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 $17 (€14)

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country from Cardiff to Manchester trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Manchester from $17 (€14). 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
3h 19m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€42)
Transport for Wales frequency
4 a day
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

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
3h 44m
Cheapest Price
$37 (€31)
CrossCountry frequency
4 a day
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

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$278 (€228)
Cross Country frequency
9 a day

Complete guide to Manchester

Things to do in Manchester

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

  • Must visit

Science and Industry Museum

Major museum on Manchester’s industrial heritage, science, engineering, and transport, set on the historic Liverpool Road site.

  • Must visit

Manchester Museum

Large university museum with noted natural history, archaeology, and cultural collections; recently renewed and very popular.

  • Must visit

National Football Museum

Football museum with trophies, memorabilia, and interactive exhibits; one of the city’s best-known paid attractions.

Pound sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Budget food is easy to find, but hotels and central dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-12 for a casual meal.
Mid-range
GBP 18-30 per person.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person.
Coffee
GBP 3-4 for a coffee.

Tipping culture

Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up taxis. Tipping is not expected for pubs or counter service.

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Manchester

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Manchester can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $37 (€31), while the average price is around $78 (€64).
The train from Cardiff to Manchester takes 3h 19m and runs 8 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Manchester leaves at 2:37 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Manchester is 143 miles (231 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Manchester leaves at 11:57 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Manchester.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Manchester. 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 Manchester.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Manchester is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Manchester Piccadilly (MAN).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Manchester is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The Cardiff to Manchester train route offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, including views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque towns, providing a moderately scenic journey.
A day trip from Cardiff to Manchester is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 19m. The distance between the two cities is 143 miles (231 km). There are 7 trains per day for this route.
In Manchester, you can explore Old Trafford, the home of Manchester United, with its tours and museum. Discover the Northern Quarter, known for its independent shops and street art, or enjoy a captivating performance at the Manchester Opera House. For nightlife, check out Deansgate Locks' bars and clubs. Spend a relaxing day at Heaton Park, one of Europe's largest municipal parks. Visit the Manchester Art Gallery, Science and Industry Museum, and see the stunning architecture of Manchester Cathedral. The John Rylands Library offers a look at rare manuscripts, while Castlefield invites leisurely strolls through its historic ruins and canals.
To fully experience Manchester, including its cultural landmarks, museums, and vibrant nightlife, spending 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Manchester.
Since neither Cardiff nor Manchester 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 Manchester include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Newton-le-Willows, Chester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Manchester 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 Manchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like markets, public transport, and popular tourist spots. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by unofficial taxi drivers. It is advisable to use licensed taxis and keep personal belongings secure to avoid theft. Staying aware of surroundings, particularly at night, helps reduce safety risks.
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 Manchester

Most Cardiff to Manchester trains use the Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly station pair, with some services arriving at Manchester Airport. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Manchester 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 Manchester
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.

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.

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