- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in the city centre. Best known for its impressive Impressionist and Welsh art galleries.
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 Leicester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 01
Cheapest price
$69
Average price
$71
Fastest journey
3 h 3 m
Average duration
3 h 7 m
Trains per day
3
Distance
190 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Leicester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Cardiff will cost around $71 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.
Fast trains
Of the 3 trains that leave Leicester for Cardiff on Mon, Jun 01, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Jun 01 the direct trains cover the 190 km distance in an average of 3 h 7 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 3 m .
On Mon, Jun 01 the slowest trains will take 3 h 9 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.
10:16 AM3h09Leicester1:25 PMCardiff$691One-way0 transfers- 7:22 AM3h03Leicester10:25 AMCardiff$721One-way0 transfers
- 9:16 AM3h09Leicester12:25 PMCardiff$731One-way0 transfers
- 7:22 AM3h03Leicester10:25 AMCardiff$721One-way0 transfers
- 10:16 AM3h09Leicester1:25 PMCardiff$691One-way0 transfers
- 9:16 AM3h09Leicester12:25 PMCardiff$731One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Leicester to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 51m. 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 $16, and a train costs an average of $38.
Distance: 118 miles (190 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$75 Average price | $27 Average price Cheapest | $52 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 21m Average total duration Fastest 2h 51m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 20m Average total duration 5h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 59m 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 Leicester to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $27 (€22).
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Cardiff:
A bus is $48 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Cardiff costing on average $75 (€60).
The fastest way to travel from Leicester to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 51m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 50m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Leicester and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Leicester 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 8m sooner (2h 51m by train vs 2h 59m by car). Tickets start at around $75 (€60) compared to roughly $52 (€42) 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.
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
Leicester to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Cardiff trains for today, Sunday, May 31. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 10:20 AM Leicester | 3h14 | 1:34 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 12:50 PM Leicester | 3h22 | 4:12 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:20 PM Leicester | 4h05 | 5:25 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Leicester to Cardiff by bus or train
Compare bus and 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.
Mon
Jun 01
Jun 01
Tue
Jun 02
Jun 02
Wed
Jun 03
Jun 03
Thu
Jun 04
Jun 04
Fri
Jun 05
Jun 05
Sat
Jun 06
Jun 06
Sun
Jun 07
Jun 07
Why should you book Leicester to Cardiff trains with Omio?
CrossCountry as well as east_midlands_trains or Cross Country offer trains services from Leicester to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Leicester 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 east_midlands_trains or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Leicester 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Leicester to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Leicester to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Leicester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Leicester to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $38 (€30) but you can travel from only $16 (€13) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 05:07, the last at 20:50. The fastest train covers the 118 miles (190 km) distance in 3h 3m.
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 (190 km) |
Average train duration 2h 51m |
Cheapest ticket price $38 (€30) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 3h 3m |
First train 5:07 AM |
Last train 8:50 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 21 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 $16 (€13)
Train companies: CrossCountry, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country from Leicester to Cardiff trainsCrossCountry, east_midlands_trains, Cross Country trains will get you between Leicester and Cardiff from $16 (€13). 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
3h 3m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€30)
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
east_midlands_trains
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 59m
Cheapest Price
$241 (€194)
east_midlands_trains frequency
1 a day
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 2m
Cheapest Price
$224 (€180)
Cross Country frequency
9 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 showing Welsh life through historic buildings moved from across Wales. One of the country’s most loved cultural attractions.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city museum covering Cardiff’s growth from market town to capital, with local stories, objects, and interactive displays.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Waterside district with modern landmarks, walking routes, public art, and some of the city’s most shared photo spots.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind Cardiff Castle, ideal for riverside walks, picnics, and easy access to historic sites.
- Must visit
Arcades of Cardiff
Historic Victorian and Edwardian shopping arcades that give central Cardiff much of its character. Excellent for walking and architecture lovers.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’ most iconic comfort foods.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savoury cheese sauce, often flavoured with mustard or ale. It is a staple pub and cafe dish in Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
Traditional Welsh vegetarian sausages made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. They are especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steak restaurant with an open-fire cooking style, stylish interior, and strong reputation for high-quality meat and memorable service.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Established restaurant at HMP Cardiff, known for refined dining prepared and served by trainees in a unique, professional setting.
Porro
Highly regarded neighbourhood restaurant in Llandaff serving seasonal small plates, natural wine, and modern cooking in a relaxed contemporary space.
Pound sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Pub meals and chain cafes are reasonable, while central hotels and upscale dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for fast food, cafes, or takeaway.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central, Cardiff -> Cardiff City Centre, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 7 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless bank card is available on Transport for Wales rail services in the South Wales Metro area, including Cardiff.
- On Cardiff Bus, buying tickets in the Cardiff Bus app is often easiest; some onboard payments accept contactless card, but check before boarding.
FAQs: Trains from Leicester to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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 Leicester to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $38 (€30), while the average price is around $75 (€60).
The train from Leicester to Cardiff takes 3h 3m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Leicester to Cardiff is 118 miles (190 km).
The first train from Leicester to Cardiff leaves at 5:07 AM.
The last train from Leicester to Cardiff leaves at 8:50 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Leicester to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Leicester to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Leicester to Cardiff.
The train station in Leicester that goes to Cardiff is Leicester station (LEI), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Leicester to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $16 (€13).
The train journey from Leicester to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and rural scenery. As you travel, you can enjoy views of the English countryside, including rolling hills and quaint villages, particularly as you pass through the Cotswolds region.
A day trip from Leicester to Cardiff is not feasible, as the journey takes 3h 3m, covering 118 miles (190 km). Trains run 6 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 Leicester to Cardiff.
Since neither Leicester 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 Leicester 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 Leicester to Cardiff
Leicester
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Leicester is Leicester. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Leicester for your trip from Leicester to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:20 - 22:30 Saturday 05:20 - 22:30 Sunday 07:15 - 22:30
Parking
- Car Park: Short stay car park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A access station. There is step free access to the main entrance and lifts to all platforms. Customers with wheelchairs who require assistance on graduated slopes should press the ticket gate 'assistance' button located at the bottom of the stairs near the self service ticket machines. To ensure availability of staff to assist, it is imperative that customers book assistance in advance. This station has tactile paving at the edge of all platforms and at the bottom of all staircases.
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Main Concourse, Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1/2 and Platform 3/4; these toilets are operated by a radar key. The radar key is available from the Duty Manager located on the end of Platform 3/4.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle hub situated on the lower floor (old Red Star parcels area) which can be accessed via the lift located to the left of the Customer Information desk. Stands also available in main car park and station front near short stay car park.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from information point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 08000 11 33 23
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Leicester
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Coaches leave from 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 Leicester.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
Lounge
Lost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car 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
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
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.
Most popular train connections from Leicester
More options for your journey from Leicester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Leicester
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.
