- 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.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Holyhead to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20
Cheapest price on Sep 20
$109
Average ticket price on Sep 20
$134
Fastest journey on Sep 20
4 h 58 m
Average journey duration on Sep 20
5 h 5 m
Trains on Sep 20
8
Distance
226 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Holyhead to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Holyhead to Cardiff will cost around $134 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $109.
Fast trains
On Sun, Sep 20, we found 8 trains from Holyhead to Cardiff, including 2 direct services.
On Sun, Sep 20 the direct trains cover the 226 km distance in an average of 5 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 4 h 58 m .
On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest trains will take 5 h 8 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.
G38897+
W332699:38 AM5h11Holyhead station (HHD)2:49 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1091One-way1 transfer- G38859+C012955:53 PM4h58Holyhead station (HHD)10:51 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1091One-way1 transfer
- G389154:26 PM5h04Holyhead station (HHD)9:30 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1181One-way0 transfers
- G3890810:10 AM5h17Holyhead station (HHD)3:27 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1231One-way0 transfers
- W44678 · G388563:27 PM5h15Holyhead station (HHD)8:42 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1341One-way1 transfer
- G38859+C012955:53 PM4h58Holyhead station (HHD)10:51 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1091One-way1 transfer
- G389154:26 PM5h04Holyhead station (HHD)9:30 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1181One-way0 transfers
- G38853+W331651:48 PM5h06Holyhead station (HHD)6:54 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1601One-way1 transfer
- G38850+W3333711:48 AM5h08Holyhead station (HHD)4:56 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1601One-way1 transfer
- G38847+W3335112:47 PM5h08Holyhead station (HHD)5:55 PMCardiff Central (CDF)$1601One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train for Holyhead to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Holyhead to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the train, with an average ticket price of $108 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 5h 20m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $108, while a train costs an average of $108.
Distance: 140 miles (226 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|
$108 Average price Cheapest | $70 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 20m Average total duration Fastest 4h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 47m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Holyhead to Cardiff is a train with an average price of $108.
The fastest way to travel from Holyhead to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 4h 50m.
Yes, you can take a train between Holyhead and Cardiff.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Holyhead to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $108 compared to roughly $70 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-38.65. The journey takes 4h 50m versus 4h 47m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Holyhead to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Holyhead to Cardiff trains for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G38913 | On time 6:25 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 4h51 | 11:16 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W33562+G38871 | On time 6:47 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 4h50 | 11:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G38554 · G38872 | On time 7:23 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 5h22 | 12:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G38922 | On time 8:25 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 4h55 | 1:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G38875+W33491 | Delayed 10:10 AM 8:48 AMHolyhead station (HHD) | 4h57 | 1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G38519 · G38695 · G38876 | On time 9:02 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 5h42 | 2:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| G38924 | On time 10:27 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 4h49 | 3:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G38524 · G38699 · G38881 | On time 11:02 AM Holyhead station (HHD) | 5h42 | 4:44 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| G38926 | On time 12:25 PM Holyhead station (HHD) | 4h53 | 5:18 PM 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 Holyhead to Cardiff by train
Compare train 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
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26
Sep 26
Why should you book Holyhead to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales offer trains services from Holyhead to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Holyhead 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 Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Holyhead 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.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast or Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Holyhead to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Holyhead to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Holyhead to Cardiff run on average 8 times per day, taking around 4h 50m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 if you book in advance.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:21, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 140 miles (226 km) distance in 4h 28m.
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 140 miles (226 km) |
Average train duration 4h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $56 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 4h 28m |
First train 4:21 AM |
Last train 11:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 1 day |
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: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast from Holyhead to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Holyhead and Cardiff from $56. 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 Transport for Wales Duration
4h 28m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
$56
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 CrossCountry Duration
4h 56m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
$154
CrossCountry frequency
1 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 Avanti West Coast Duration
4h 55m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
$158
Avanti West Coast frequency
1 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
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 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.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
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.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
FAQs: Trains from Holyhead to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Holyhead 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 Holyhead to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56, while the average price is around $108.
The train from Holyhead to Cardiff takes 4h 28m and runs 8 per day.
The distance by train from Holyhead to Cardiff is 140 miles (226 km).
The first train from Holyhead to Cardiff leaves at 4:21 AM.
The last train from Holyhead to Cardiff leaves at 11:00 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Holyhead to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Holyhead to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Holyhead to Cardiff.
The train station in Holyhead that goes to Cardiff is Holyhead station (HHD), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Holyhead to Cardiff is by train, with a cost of around $56.
The train journey from Holyhead to Cardiff offers scenic views, including stretches along the coast, rolling Welsh countryside, and glimpses of the Snowdonia mountains, providing passengers with a picturesque travel experience.
A day trip from Holyhead to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 4h 28m each way. The distance is 140 miles (226 km), and trains operate 7 times 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 Holyhead to Cardiff.
Since neither Holyhead 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 Holyhead 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 Holyhead to Cardiff
Most Holyhead to Cardiff trains use the Holyhead to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Holyhead and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Holyhead
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Holyhead station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Holyhead to Cardiff leave from Holyhead. The station is from Holyhead city centre at Holyhead station, Station Approach, London Road, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 2BT.
HolyheadHolyhead station, Station Approach, London Road, Holyhead, Anglesey, LL65 2BT+44 8705755755
City-centre transport
Getting to Holyhead from Holyhead city centre
Bus545, 4 · 2m · $2 · every ~4 min
Holyhead train station facilities and services
Holyhead has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Holyhead.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Holyhead. ATMs are available at Holyhead.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Holyhead. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from information point,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 Holyhead: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Holyhead: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Holyhead: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B Step free access is via the Celtic Gateway Bridge, the ferry terminal, or via gates on to the platforms either side of Stena House. Transferring between platforms is step-free however distance between ferry terminal and Platform 1 is approximately 200m, 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, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Wheelchairs available open hours: Monday - Friday 24 Hours a Day Saturday 00:00 - 21:30 Sunday 07:00 - 00:00, 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.
Most popular train connections from Holyhead
More options for your journey from Holyhead to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Holyhead
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
