- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Derby to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 21
Cheapest price
$52
Average price
$85
Fastest journey
2 h 45 m
Average duration
3 h 1 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
198 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Derby to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Derby to Cardiff will cost around $85 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Derby for Cardiff on Sun, Jun 21, 2 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 198 km distance in an average of 3 h 1 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 45 m .
On Sun, Jun 21 the slowest trains will take 3 h 16 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.
8:31 PM3h16Derby11:47 PMCardiff$521One-way0 transfers- 3:40 PM2h45Derby6:25 PMCardiff$1171One-way0 transfers
- 3:40 PM2h45Derby6:25 PMCardiff$1171One-way0 transfers
- 8:31 PM3h16Derby11:47 PMCardiff$521One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Derby to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Derby to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $22. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 44m. 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 $22, and a train costs an average of $46.
Distance: 123 miles (198 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$70 Average price | $35 Average price Cheapest | $69 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 14m Average total duration Fastest 2h 44m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 58m Average total duration 5h 28m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 0m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  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 Derby to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).
This is compared to other travel options from Derby to Cardiff:
A bus is $35 (€28) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Derby to Cardiff costing on average $70 (€57).
The fastest way to travel from Derby to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 44m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 28m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Derby and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Derby 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 16m sooner (2h 44m by train vs 3h 0m by car). Tickets start at around $70 (€57) compared to roughly $69 (€57) 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 CrossCountry, Cross Country.
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.
Compare prices and tickets Derby 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.
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Jun 21
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Jun 27
Why should you book Derby to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Transport for Wales or Cross Country offer trains services from Derby to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Derby to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Derby 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Derby to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Derby to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Derby to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Derby to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Derby to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 44m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $46 (€38) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 21:32. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 2h 35m.
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 $22 (€18)
Distance 123 miles (198 km) |
Average train duration 2h 44m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€38) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 35m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 9:32 PM |
Cheapest Month Nov |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 2 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 $22 (€18)
Train companies: CrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country from Derby to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, Transport for Wales, Cross Country trains will get you between Derby and Cardiff from $22 (€18). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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
2h 35m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€38)
CrossCountry frequency
6 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
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
3h 9m
Cheapest Price
$106 (€87)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 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
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 31m
Cheapest Price
$177 (€145)
Cross Country frequency
16 a day
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
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with promenades, public buildings, and popular photo-friendly views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park ideal for riverside walks, greenery, and easy access from the castle.
- Must visit
Cardiff Market Arcade Quarter
Network of historic Victorian and Edwardian arcades prized for architecture and local independent shops.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savory cheese sauce, often seasoned with mustard or ale. It is a staple in pubs and cafes across Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steakhouse in central Cardiff, praised for quality Welsh beef, polished service, and a lively modern atmosphere.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Highly regarded fine-dining venue serving well-presented British dishes in a unique and memorable setting.
Madeira Restaurante
Long-running Portuguese restaurant popular for grilled meat, seafood, and generous portions in a warm, traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.
TfW
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.60
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tap in and out with contactless payment on Transport for Wales rail services where available; always use the same card or device for the journey.
- On many local buses in Cardiff, you can buy tickets with contactless card payment, but carry a backup payment method as acceptance can vary by operator.
FAQs: Trains from Derby to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Derby 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.
Train ticket prices from Derby to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $46 (€38), while the average price is around $70 (€57).
The train from Derby to Cardiff takes 2h 35m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Derby to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The distance by train from Derby to Cardiff is 123 miles (198 km).
The last train from Derby to Cardiff leaves at 9:32 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Derby to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Derby to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Derby to Cardiff.
The train station in Derby that goes to Cardiff is Derby station (DBY), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Derby to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $22 (€18).
The train journey from Derby to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including glimpses of the picturesque Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and charming villages, making parts of the trip quite scenic.
A day trip from Derby to Cardiff is not feasible due to the journey duration of 2h 35m. However, there are 8 trains 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.
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 Derby to Cardiff.
Since neither Derby 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 Derby 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 Derby to Cardiff
Most Derby to Cardiff trains use the Derby to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare Derby and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Derby
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Derby station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Derby to Cardiff leave from Derby. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Derby city centre at Derby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU.
DerbyDerby station, Railway Terrace, Derby, Derbyshire, DE1 2RU+44 3457125678
City-centre transport
Getting to Derby from Derby city centre
Derby is 1 km from Derby city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus70A · 4m
Sky · 4m · $2 · every ~14 min
U1, Dp1 · 10m · $1 · every ~2 min
Derby train station facilities and services
Derby has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Derby.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Derby.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Derby.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Derby: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Derby: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Derby: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A step free station. This station has step free access. There are lifts to all platforms. There is a subway to platforms 2,3,4 and 5. Platforms 6 and 7 are accessed by lift only. This station has tactile paving at the edges of all platforms and at the foot and top of stairwells, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
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.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
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.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
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.
Most popular train connections from Derby
More options for your journey from Derby to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Derby
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