- Must visit
The Whitworth
University art gallery in nearby Manchester known for historic and contemporary collections, strong temporary exhibitions, and a park-side setting.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$80
Average price
$90
Fastest journey
3 h 51 m
Average duration
4 h 9 m
Trains per day
4
Distance
218 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Manchester Airport will cost around $90 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $80.
Fast trains
Of the 4 trains that leave Cardiff for Manchester Airport on Mon, Jun 22, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 22 the direct trains cover the 218 km distance in an average of 4 h 9 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 51 m .
On Mon, Jun 22 the slowest trains will take 4 h 22 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.
8:53 AM4h22Cardiff1:15 PMManchester Airport$801One-way0 transfers- 9:53 AM4h22Cardiff2:15 PMManchester Airport$891One-way0 transfers
- 7:53 AM3h51Cardiff11:44 AMManchester Airport$911One-way0 transfers
- 10:53 AM3h59Cardiff2:52 PMManchester Airport$1001One-way0 transfers
- 7:53 AM3h51Cardiff11:44 AMManchester Airport$911One-way0 transfers
- 10:53 AM3h59Cardiff2:52 PMManchester Airport$1001One-way0 transfers
- 9:53 AM4h22Cardiff2:15 PMManchester Airport$891One-way0 transfers
- 8:53 AM4h22Cardiff1:15 PMManchester Airport$801One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Manchester Airport 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 42m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 135 miles (218 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$91 Average price | $29 Average price Cheapest | $61 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 12m Average total duration Fastest 3h 42m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 4m Average total duration 4h 34m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is a bus with an average price of $29 (€23).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Manchester Airport:
A bus is $62 (€51) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport costing on average $91 (€74).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is by train with an average journey time of 3h 42m.
Other travel options to Manchester Airport take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 34m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Manchester Airport including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Manchester Airport 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 34m sooner (3h 42m by train vs 4h 16m by car). Tickets start at around $91 (€74) compared to roughly $61 (€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.
Live departures
Cardiff to Manchester Airport train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Manchester Airport trains for tomorrow, Monday, June 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:53 AM Cardiff | 3h51 | 11:44 AM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:53 AM Cardiff | 4h22 | 1:15 PM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:53 AM Cardiff | 4h22 | 2:15 PM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:53 AM Cardiff | 3h59 | 2:52 PM Manchester Airport | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Manchester Airport 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.
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
Tue
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Jun 28
Jun 28
Why should you book Cardiff to Manchester Airport trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
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 or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
- 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Manchester Airport run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 42m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 07:42, the last at 11:40. The fastest train covers the 135 miles (218 km) distance in 3h 51m.
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 135 miles (218 km) |
Average train duration 3h 42m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€38) |
Trains per day 7 |
Fastest train 3h 51m |
First train 7:42 AM |
Last train 11:40 AM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Tue |
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 from Cardiff to Manchester Airport trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Cardiff and Manchester Airport 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 51m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
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
4h 18m
Cheapest Price
$143 (€117)
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
Complete guide to Manchester Airport
Things to do in Manchester Airport
Discover the best of Manchester Airport — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Manchester Airport trip today.
- Must visit
Manchester Museum
Major university museum with natural history, archaeology, and cultural collections; one of the region's best all-round museums.
- Must visit
Science and Industry Museum
One of Manchester's signature museums, covering industry, transport, computing, and the city's role in the Industrial Revolution.
- Must visit
The Runway Visitor Park Viewing Area
One of the best plane-spotting areas in the United Kingdom and a distinctive experience right next to the airport.
- Must visit
Castlefield
Historic canal-side district with warehouses, bridges, waterside walks, and a strong industrial character popular with visitors.
- Recommended
Quarry Bank Garden and Estate Walks
Scenic estate walks, woodland trails, and gardens around Quarry Bank, ideal for a half-day heritage and nature visit.
- Vegetarian
Manchester Tart
A classic local dessert with shortcrust pastry, raspberry jam, custard, coconut, and a cherry, long associated with Greater Manchester school dinners.
- Vegetarian
Eccles Cake
A traditional Greater Manchester pastry from nearby Eccles, filled with currants, butter, and sugar inside flaky pastry.
- Gluten-free
Bury Black Pudding
A famous Lancashire and Greater Manchester speciality made from pork blood, oats, and seasoning, often served in a full breakfast.
The Grain Loft
A popular airside airport gastropub in Terminal 1 known for British comfort food, beers, and a relaxed pre-flight atmosphere.
San Carlo
An established Italian restaurant at Manchester Airport with polished service, classic dishes, and a more upscale terminal dining option.
Trattoria Milano
A long-running airport restaurant serving Italian staples in a casual sit-down setting, suitable for travellers wanting a full meal.
Pound Sterling
Airport prices are higher than city averages, but UK chain cafes and fast food keep basic meals manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for fast food or a simple takeaway.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-25 per person at a casual sit-down restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 35-60+ per person at upscale airport dining.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included or optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is typical if not added. No tip needed for counter service; round up taxis if you wish.
Bee Network
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Manchester Airport Station, Manchester -> Manchester Piccadilly Station, Manchester
- Distance
- 14 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- On Bee Network buses in Greater Manchester, the adult single fare is capped at GBP 2.00 and contactless card payment is widely accepted.
- For travel from Manchester Airport to the city centre, the train to Manchester Piccadilly is usually the fastest option; buy tickets in advance online or at the station.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Manchester Airport 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 Airport, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Manchester Airport can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€38), while the average price is around $91 (€74).
The train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport takes 3h 51m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport leaves at 7:42 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is 135 miles (218 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport leaves at 11:40 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Cardiff to Manchester Airport offers some scenic views, particularly as it passes through the countryside of South Wales and parts of the Peak District. However, much of the route is urban or suburban, so the scenery can be mixed.
A day trip from Cardiff to Manchester Airport is not feasible due to the travel time of 3h 51m. However, there are 7 train services available per day. The distance is 135 miles (218 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Since neither Cardiff nor Manchester Airport 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 Airport include Liverpool, Leeds, Sheffield, Manchester, Preston.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Manchester Airport 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.
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 Airport
Cardiff
Manchester
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Manchester Airport
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Manchester Airport and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Manchester Airport
HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to Manchester AirportCardiff to Manchester Airport train
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