Cardiff to Southampton train with Great Western Railway

Sun, Jun 21
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Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Great Western Railway (GWR)
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Southampton

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$86

Average price

$126

Fastest journey

2 h 22 m

Average duration

2 h 34 m

Trains per day

7

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 $126 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $86.

Fast trains

Of the 7 trains that leave Cardiff for Southampton on Sun, Jun 21, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Sun, Jun 21 the direct trains cover the 139 km distance in an average of 2 h 34 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 22 m .

On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 2 h 45 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.

  • Great Western RailwayW34973
    9:18 AM2h45
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:03 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $861One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35054
    8:30 PM2h42
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:12 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $861One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34979
    10:25 AM2h39
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    1:04 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $861One-way
    0 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC00165+South Western RailwayL79357 · L78768
    9:35 AM2h59
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:34 PMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $1561One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC50038+CrossCountryG01004
    8:50 AM2h52
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    11:42 AMSouthampton Central (SOU)
    $1561One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Southampton

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 38m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a train costs an average of $16.

Distance: 86 miles (139 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

$74

Average price

$29

Average price

Cheapest

$42

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 8m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 38m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 59m

Average total duration

5h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 42m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.3kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

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 Southampton is a bus with an average price of $29 (€24).

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

A bus is $45 (€37) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Southampton costing on average $74 (€60).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 2h 38m.

Other travel options to Southampton take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 29m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Southampton including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Southampton 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 4m sooner (2h 38m by train vs 2h 42m by car). Tickets start at around $74 (€60) compared to roughly $42 (€34) 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 Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).

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 Southampton train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Southampton trains for tomorrow, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Great Western RailwayC50038+CrossCountryG010048:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h52
11:42 AM Southampton Central (SOU)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW349739:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h45
12:03 PM Southampton Central (SOU)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayC00165+South Western RailwayL79357 · L787689:35 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h59
12:34 PM Southampton Central (SOU)2 transfers
Great Western RailwayC00123+CrossCountryG01007
On time
10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h24
12:44 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW3497910:25 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h39
1:04 PM Southampton Central (SOU)0 transfersDirect
Great Western RailwayC50037+CrossCountryG0101111:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h22
1:42 PM Southampton Central (SOU)1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35054
On time
8:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
2h42
11:12 PM Southampton Central (SOU)
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 Southampton 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.

Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
Fri
Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cardiff to Southampton trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway as well as Great Western Railway (GWR) offer 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?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Great Western Railway (GWR) to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Southampton.
  • 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.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Southampton

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff to Southampton run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 38m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $16 (€13) if you book in advance.

There are 3 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 32m.

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
Distance
86 miles (139 km)
Average train duration
2h 38m
Cheapest ticket price
$16 (€13)
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
2h 32m
First train
4:45 AM
Last train
9:38 PM
Cheapest Month
Jan
Cheapest Day
Fri
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Thu
Best time to book
42 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

Train companies: Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) from Cardiff to Southampton trainsGreat Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR) trains will get you between Cardiff and Southampton from $16 (€13). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

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 Duration
2h 32m
Cheapest Price
$16 (€13)
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

Great Western Railway (GWR)

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
$116 (€95)
Great Western Railway (GWR) frequency
25 a day

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

SeaCity Museum

Modern city museum focused on Southampton’s maritime history, including the Titanic story and the city’s role as a major port.

  • Must visit

Tudor House and Garden

Restored historic house museum in the Old Town, presenting over 800 years of local history in atmospheric rooms and gardens.

  • Recommended

Solent Sky Museum

Aviation museum with historic aircraft and exhibits on flying boat and regional aviation heritage.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and chains are reasonable, while hotels and waterfront dining cost more.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Around 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not included. Round up in taxis. Small tips are optional in cafes, pubs, and for hotel staff.

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Southampton can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $16 (€13), while the average price is around $74 (€60).
The train from Cardiff to Southampton takes 2h 32m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Cardiff to Southampton leaves at 4:45 AM.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Southampton is 86 miles (139 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Southampton leaves at 9:38 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Southampton.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Southampton. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Great Western Railway (GWR).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Southampton.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Southampton is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Southampton Central (SOU).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Southampton is by train, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
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.
A day trip from Cardiff to Southampton is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 32m. There are 5 trains available per day for this route, covering a distance of 86 miles (139 km).
In Southampton, you can explore the New Forest National Park for hiking and wildlife spotting, take the Hythe Ferry for a scenic trip, or shop at Westquay Shopping Centre. Enjoy the vibrant Ocean Village Marina with its dining and leisure options, or relax in Southampton Common. For cultural experiences, visit the Tudor House and Garden, SeaCity Museum, Southampton City Art Gallery, Solent Sky Museum, and catch a performance at the Mayflower Theatre.
To fully explore Southampton, including its maritime attractions, cultural sites, and local experiences, plan for a stay of 2 to 3 days.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Southampton.
Since neither Cardiff nor Southampton 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 Southampton include London, Bournemouth, Winchester, Portsmouth, Salisbury.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Southampton 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 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.

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 Southampton Airport Parkway. 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 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.

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