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The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Dec 17
Cheapest price
$68
Average price
$91
Fastest journey
2 h 42 m
Average duration
3 h 3 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 $91 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Chester for Cardiff on Wed, Dec 17, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Wed, Dec 17 the direct trains cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 3 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 42 m .
On Wed, Dec 17 the slowest trains will take 3 h 20 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.
L6475907:16AM2h42
Chester station (CTR)09:58AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$681One-way
0 transfers
L6476208:20AM2h55
Chester station (CTR)11:15AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$681One-way
0 transfers
L6475806:18AM3h00
Chester station (CTR)09:18AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$681One-way
0 transfers
L64560_L64472 · L6471807:29AM3h20
Chester station (CTR)10:49AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$791One-way
1 transfer
L02274+L6471606:24AM3h28
Chester station (CTR)09:52AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1321One-way
1 transfer
L6475907:16AM2h42
Chester station (CTR)09:58AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$681One-way
0 transfers
L6476208:20AM2h55
Chester station (CTR)11:15AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$681One-way
0 transfers
L6475806:18AM3h00
Chester station (CTR)09:18AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$681One-way
0 transfers
L02280+L6471807:32AM3h17
Chester station (CTR)10:49AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1321One-way
1 transfer
L64560_L64472 · L6471807:29AM3h20
Chester station (CTR)10:49AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$791One-way
1 transfer
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 €13. 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 €13, and a train costs an average of €32.
Distance: 118 miles (191 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€58 Average price | €24 Average price Cheapest |
3h 34m Average total duration Fastest 3h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 14m Average total duration 5h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Chester to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Cardiff trains for today, Tuesday, December 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 10:08 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L64765 | On time 10:20 AM Chester station (CTR) | 2h55 | 1:15 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Wednesday, December 17 | |||||
| L64758 | On time 6:18 AM Chester station (CTR) | 3h00 | 9:18 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L02274+L64716 | On time 6:24 AM Chester station (CTR) | 3h28 | 9:52 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| L64759 | On time 7:16 AM Chester station (CTR) | 2h42 | 9:58 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L64560_L64472 · L64718 | On time 7:29 AM Chester station (CTR) | 3h20 | 10:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| L02280+L64718 | On time 7:32 AM Chester station (CTR) | 3h17 | 10:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| L64762 | On time 8:20 AM Chester station (CTR) | 2h55 | 11:15 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
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.
Wed
Dec 17
Dec 17
Thu
Dec 18
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Dec 23
Why should you book Chester to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast 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 and Avanti West Coast 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 Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Transport for Wales tickets can be bought on Transport for Wales's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast to help you choose the right option for your journey 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
Trains from Chester to Cardiff run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 (€32) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:39, the last at 22:25. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 2h 42m.
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 $16 (€13)
Distance 118 miles (191 km) |
Average train duration 3h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 (€32) |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 03:39 |
Last train 22:25 |
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 $16 (€13)
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Chester to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Chester and Cardiff from $16 (€13). 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 42m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€31)
Transport for Wales frequency
6 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
3h 55m
Cheapest Price
$61 (€49)
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
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 4m
Cheapest Price
$159 (€127)
Avanti West Coast frequency
11 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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.
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.
A day trip from Chester to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 42m. There are 8 trains per day covering the distance of 118 miles (191 km).
The train from Chester to Cardiff takes 2h 42m and runs 8 per day.
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.
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.
The distance by train from Chester to Cardiff is 118 miles (191 km).
Train ticket prices from Chester to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $41 (€32), while the average price is around $73 (€58).
The last train from Chester to Cardiff leaves at 10:25 PM.
The cheapest way to get from Chester to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
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 first train from Chester to Cardiff leaves at 3:39 AM.
There is no high speed train available from Chester to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train 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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Chester to Cardiff
Chester
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Chester is Chester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chester for your trip from Chester to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 21:40 Saturday 05:40 - 21:40 Sunday 07:10 - 20:40
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: Chester West
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Main Concourse and on Platform 7a. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse and on Platform 7a; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: On the concourse
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Chester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stop outside the station front
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Chester.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Bike RentalCar 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 RentalInformation 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platforms 1 (to Rhymney) via the car park. There are two routes onto the platform, one with a steep gradient and one with a moderate gradient. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Cardiff) via a ramp with a steep gradient. Access between the platforms is via a roadbridge with a walkway but no pavement
- 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 ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Llanishen
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Station Road
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: On the road outside the station
Most popular train connections from Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Chester
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