Cardiff to Manchester Airport train with Transport for Wales

Wed, Nov 04
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Manchester Airport

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
Cheapest price on Nov 04
€71
Average ticket price on Nov 04
€79
Fastest journey on Nov 04
3 h 49 m
Average journey duration on Nov 04
4 h 7 m
Trains on Nov 04
6
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 €79 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €71.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Manchester Airport without transferring at least once.

  • Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressW84903
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38949 · G38523
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38949+Transpennine ExpressW84907
    1 transfer
  • CrossCountryG66735+Northern RailG89861+Great Western RailwayW35178
    2 transfers
  • CrossCountryG66730+Northern RailG89854+Great Western RailwayW35432
    2 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Manchester Airport run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 36m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €39 but you can travel from only €20 by bus.

The earliest train runs at 07:42, the last at 10:48. The fastest train covers the 135 miles (218 km) distance in 3h 2m.

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 €20
Distance
135 miles (218 km)
Average train duration
3h 36m
Cheapest ticket price
€39
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 2m
First train
7:42 AM
Last train
10:48 AM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jan - Mar
Low Season
Jul - Sep
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
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 €20

Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Manchester Airport trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.

Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Manchester Airport can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €39, while the average price is around €72.
The train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport takes 3h 2m 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 10:48 AM.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.

Live departures

Cardiff to Manchester Airport train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Manchester Airport trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayG15041+CrossCountryG00854+Northern RailG898478:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h18
12:36 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38967+Transpennine ExpressW849038:55 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h49
12:44 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35432+CrossCountryG66730+Northern RailG898549:19 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h17
1:36 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)2 transfers
Transport for WalesG38949 · G385239:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h22
2:15 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38949+Transpennine ExpressW849079:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
3h51
1:44 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35178+CrossCountryG66735+Northern RailG8986110:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
4h18
2:36 PM Manchester Airport (MIA)2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Cardiff to Manchester Airport trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry 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 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 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.

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 €20. 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 Transport for Wales Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
€39
Transport for Wales frequency
5 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 CrossCountry Duration
3h 38m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
€60
CrossCountry frequency
2 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

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Manchester Airport

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.
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.

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.

FAQs
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Manchester Airport.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Manchester Airport

Most Cardiff to Manchester Airport trains use the Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Manchester Airport 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.

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.

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

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