- Must visit
SeaCity Museum
Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Southampton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 04
- Cheapest price on Nov 04
- €14
- Average ticket price on Nov 04
- €54
- Fastest journey on Nov 04
- 2 h 32 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 04
- 2 h 35 m
- Trains on Nov 04
- 5
- Distance
- 139 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Southampton will cost around €54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €14.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 04, we found 5 trains from Cardiff to Southampton, including 5 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 04 the direct trains cover the 139 km distance in an average of 2 h 35 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 32 m .
On Wed, Nov 04 the slowest trains will take 2 h 38 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.
8:28 AM 2h34 Cardiff 11:02 AM Southampton €14 1 One-way 0 transfers9:28 AM 2h34 Cardiff 12:02 PM Southampton €51 1 One-way 0 transfers6:28 AM 2h35 Cardiff 9:03 AM Southampton €64 1 One-way 0 transfers2:30 PM 2h32 Cardiff 5:02 PM Southampton €69 1 One-way 0 transfers6:27 AM 2h38 Cardiff 9:05 AM Southampton €71 1 One-way 0 transfers
2:30 PM 2h32 Cardiff 5:02 PM Southampton €69 1 One-way 0 transfers9:28 AM 2h34 Cardiff 12:02 PM Southampton €51 1 One-way 0 transfers8:28 AM 2h34 Cardiff 11:02 AM Southampton €14 1 One-way 0 transfers6:28 AM 2h35 Cardiff 9:03 AM Southampton €64 1 One-way 0 transfers6:27 AM 2h38 Cardiff 9:05 AM Southampton €71 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Southampton run on average 8 times per day, taking around 2h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €29 but you can travel from only €13 by bus.
There are 5 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 21:38. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (139 km) distance in 2h 13m.
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 €13
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance86 miles (139 km)
- Average train duration2h 29m
- Cheapest ticket price€29
- Trains per day8
- Direct trains5
- Fastest train2h 13m
- First train4:45 AM
- Last train9:38 PM
- Cheapest MonthAug
- Cheapest DayWed
- High SeasonJul - Sep
- Low SeasonOct - Dec
- Busiest DayTue
- Least Busy DayWed
- Best time to book28 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 €13
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Southampton trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Southampton.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €29, while the average price is around €74.
The train from Cardiff to Southampton takes 2h 13m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Southampton is 86 miles (139 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Southampton leaves at 4:45 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Southampton leaves at 9:38 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Southampton. This service operates 5 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
Live departures
Cardiff to Southampton train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Southampton trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:27 AM Cardiff | 2h38 | 9:05 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:28 AM Cardiff | 2h35 | 9:03 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:28 AM Cardiff | 2h34 | 11:02 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:28 AM Cardiff | 2h34 | 12:02 PM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 2:30 PM Cardiff | 2h32 | 5:02 PM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Southampton trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Southampton.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Southampton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Southampton.
Train companies
Train companies from Cardiff to Southampton
Trains from Cardiff to Southampton with Great Western Railway. Night trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. High-speed trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. Regional trains available on this route with Great Western Railway. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 13m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€29
Great Western Railway frequency
8 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Southampton
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Cardiff to Southampton.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Southampton.
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.
Complete guide to Southampton
Things to do in Southampton
Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.
- Must visit
Tudor House and Garden
Restored Tudor home and remains of a Norman house reveal centuries of domestic and maritime history in Southampton's atmospheric Old Town.
- Recommended
Southampton City Art Gallery
Art gallery with a respected collection spanning old masters to contemporary works, plus changing exhibitions in the Cultural Quarter.
- Must visit
Old Town
Historic quarter enclosed by medieval walls, packed with lanes, pubs, museums, and merchant houses that showcase Southampton's oldest character.
- Must visit
Southampton Common
Large central park popular for walks, events, and city views, linking major cultural venues with green space in the heart of Southampton.
- Recommended
East Park
Leafy Victorian park with formal gardens, memorials, and broad lawns. It is ideal for a break between museums and shopping streets.
- Gluten-free
Solent Oysters
A fresh oyster from nearby Hampshire waters, long linked to the Solent coast and traditionally eaten raw with lemon.
Fish And Chips
White fish coated in beer batter and fried, then served with chips. A classic British seaside meal popular in Southampton pubs and takeaways.
Hampshire Sausages
Hampshire pork sausages, often made with local meat and served with mash. A hearty pub staple across Southampton and the wider county.
Dancing Man Brewery
Well-regarded craft brewery and taproom pouring local beers in a casual industrial space with a strong local following.
The Jetty
Refined modern British dining in a smart, intimate setting. Best known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service.
The Duke Of Wellington
Historic pub in the old town serving cask ales and classic British dishes in a traditional, atmospheric setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transport are typical for a mid-sized English city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
Bluestar
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Southampton Central -> Above Bar Street, Southampton
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Bluestar buses, including tap on and tap off for adult fares.
- Southampton has no tram or metro system; local public transport is mainly buses and trains.
Plan your visit to Southampton
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Southampton.
The train journey from Cardiff to Southampton offers diverse scenery, including views of the Severn Estuary, rolling countryside, and charming towns, providing a pleasant and varied visual experience.
Popular day trips by train from Southampton include London, Bournemouth, Winchester, Portsmouth, Salisbury.
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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe 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.
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Southampton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Southampton.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Southampton
Most Cardiff to Southampton trains use the Cardiff Central to Southampton Central station pair, with some services arriving at Woolston. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Southampton 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 Southampton
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
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.
Which Southampton station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Southampton most often arrive at Southampton Central. Some services arrive at Woolston, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southampton arrival station.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
WoolstonWoolston station, Garton Road, Woolston, Hampshire, SO19 2DJ
City-centre transport
Getting to Woolston from Southampton city centre
Woolston is 1 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainSouthampton Central - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - Portsmouth & Southsea, Southampton Central - Portsmouth Harbour, Southampton Central - Woking · 9m · €3 · every ~2 min
Bus17, 10, 15, 13, N17 · 5m · €2 · every ~51 min
7 · 7m · €2 · every ~9 min
17, 13, 19, 15, 19a, 7, 10, N17 · 10m · €2 · every ~82 min
Woolston train station facilities and services
Woolston has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Woolston.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Woolston.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Woolston.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Woolston: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Woolston: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Woolston: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: No, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Level access to Platform 1 (for trains towards Southampton). Steps to Platform 2 (for trains towards Portsmouth). Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Cardiff to Southampton
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Southampton, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Southampton is Cardiff Central, which connects to Southampton Central.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
Most popular trains to and from Southampton and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Southampton
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