Chester to Cardiff train with Transport for Wales

Mon, Aug 03
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
Transport for Wales
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Aug 03

Cheapest price

CHF62

Average price

CHF64

Fastest journey

2 h 51 m

Average duration

3 h 5 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

191 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Chester to Cardiff will cost around CHF64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only CHF62.

Fast trains

Of the 6 trains that leave Chester for Cardiff on Mon, Aug 03, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Aug 03 the direct trains cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 51 m .

On Mon, Aug 03 the slowest trains will take 3 h 14 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.

  • Transport for WalesG38878+Avanti West CoastW33934
    12:32 PM3h13
    Chester station (CTR)
    3:45 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    CHF621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38882+Avanti West CoastW34281
    2:32 PM3h12
    Chester station (CTR)
    5:44 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    CHF621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38880+Avanti West CoastW34217
    1:32 PM3h14
    Chester station (CTR)
    4:46 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    CHF621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38885+Avanti West CoastW34197
    3:32 PM3h14
    Chester station (CTR)
    6:46 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    CHF621One-way
    1 transfer
  • Transport for WalesG38927
    2:22 PM2h55
    Chester station (CTR)
    5:17 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    CHF651One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Chester to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from CHF14. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 4m. 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 CHF14, and a train costs an average of CHF34.

Distance: 118 miles (191 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Driving

CHF56

Average price

CHF26

Average price

Cheapest

CHF44

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 34m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

6h 14m

Average total duration

5h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 45m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

-

CO2 emissions

Transport for Wales

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 Chester to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of CHF26.

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

A bus is CHF30 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Cardiff costing on average CHF56.

The fastest way to travel from Chester to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 4m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 44m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Chester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Cardiff 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 41m sooner (3h 4m by train vs 3h 45m by car). Tickets start at around CHF56 compared to roughly CHF44 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

Chester to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Chester to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Transport for WalesG3892512:27 PM Chester station (CTR)
2h51
3:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38878+Avanti West CoastW33934
On time
12:32 PM Chester station (CTR)
3h13
3:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38880+Avanti West CoastW342171:32 PM Chester station (CTR)
3h14
4:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG389272:22 PM Chester station (CTR)
2h55
5:17 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)0 transfersDirect
Transport for WalesG38882+Avanti West CoastW342812:32 PM Chester station (CTR)
3h12
5:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer
Transport for WalesG38885+Avanti West CoastW341973:32 PM Chester station (CTR)
3h14
6:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Chester to Cardiff 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.

Mon
Aug 03
Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09

Why should you book Chester to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Chester to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Cardiff.

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 Chester to Cardiff.
  • 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 Chester to Cardiff.

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 Chester to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chester to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Chester to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Chester to Cardiff run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at CHF34 but you can travel from only CHF14 by bus.

There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:31, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 2h 55m.

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 CHF14
Distance
118 miles (191 km)
Average train duration
3h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
CHF34
Trains per day
8
Direct trains
2
Fastest train
2h 55m
First train
3:31 AM
Last train
11:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Wed
Best time to book
35 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 CHF14

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Chester to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Chester and Cardiff from CHF14. 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
2h 55m
Cheapest Price
CHF34
Transport for Wales frequency
7 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
4h 1m
Cheapest Price
CHF52
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

Complete guide to Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

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

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.

FAQs: Trains from Chester to Cardiff

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

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Chester to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at CHF34, while the average price is around CHF56.
The train from Chester to Cardiff takes 2h 55m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Chester to Cardiff is 118 miles (191 km).
The first train from Chester to Cardiff leaves at 3:31 AM.
The last train from Chester to Cardiff leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Chester to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Chester to Cardiff. This service operates 2 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Chester to Cardiff.
The train station in Chester that goes to Cardiff is Chester station (CTR), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Chester to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around CHF14.
The train journey from Chester to Cardiff offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the Welsh countryside and along parts of the beautiful coast, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Chester to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 55m. There are 8 trains per day covering the distance of 118 miles (191 km).
In Cardiff, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Attend performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, or take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay. For adventure, visit Cardiff International White Water for rafting and kayaking. Shop and dine at Cardiff Market. Discover history at Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore art and culture at the National Museum Cardiff, and relax in Bute Park. Cardiff Bay also offers dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
A visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore Cardiff's main attractions, such as Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and Cardiff Bay, while allowing time for leisure and dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Cardiff.
Since neither Chester nor Cardiff 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 Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps 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 Chester to Cardiff

Most Chester to Cardiff trains use the Chester to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Chester and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Cardiff

Which Chester station do trains to Cardiff leave from?

Trains from Chester to Cardiff leave from Chester. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Chester from Chester city centre

Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:

Bus100, 16 · 4m · CHF4 · every ~2 min

Chester train station facilities and services

Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Chester.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

ATMs are available at Chester.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, 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 Chester: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.

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