Students! Get 15% off your first app booking and 5% off all future trips.

Liverpool to Cardiff train with Transport for Wales

Wed, Jan 14
+ Add return
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
Transport for Wales
CrossCountry
West Midlands Trains
Avanti West Coast
West Midlands Trains
1,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest trains from Liverpool to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jan 16

Cheapest price

$68

Average price

$82

Fastest journey

3 h 29 m

Average duration

3 h 38 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

215 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Liverpool to Cardiff will cost around $82 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $68.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Liverpool for Cardiff on Fri, Jan 16, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Fri, Jan 16 the direct trains cover the 215 km distance in an average of 3 h 38 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 29 m .

On Fri, Jan 16 the slowest trains will take 3 h 46 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

Transport for Wales
09:12AM3h40
Liverpool
12:52PMCardiff
$681One-way
0 transfers
Transport for Wales
07:08AM3h29
Liverpool
10:37AMCardiff
$731One-way
0 transfers
CrossCountry
05:08AM4h17
Liverpool
09:25AMCardiff
$781One-way
0 transfers
Transport for Wales
05:12AM3h46
Liverpool
08:58AMCardiff
$911One-way
0 transfers
Transport for Wales
07:06AM3h32
Liverpool
10:38AMCardiff
$991One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Liverpool to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Liverpool to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 39m. 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 €19, and a train costs an average of €41.

Distance: 133 miles (215 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€77

Average price

€34

Average price

Cheapest

4h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 22m

Average total duration

6h 52m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

Transport for Wales

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Liverpool to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for Liverpool to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, January 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 12:39 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
transport_for_wales6:17 AM Liverpool
3h59
10:16 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
transport_for_wales7:06 AM Liverpool
3h32
10:38 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
transport_for_wales7:08 AM Liverpool
3h29
10:37 AM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
transport_for_wales9:12 AM Liverpool
3h40
12:52 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
transport_for_wales10:47 AM Liverpool
5h30
4:17 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Liverpool 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.

Fri
Jan 16
Sat
Jan 17
Sun
Jan 18
Mon
Jan 19
Wed
Jan 21
Thu
Jan 22
Fri
Jan 23
Sun
Jan 25
Mon
Jan 26
Tue
Jan 27
Thu
Jan 29
Fri
Jan 30
Sun
Feb 01
Wed
Feb 04

Why should you book Liverpool to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains and Avanti West Coast offer trains services from Liverpool to Cardiff. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Liverpool 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, West Midlands Trains and Avanti West Coast to find the best option for your trip from Liverpool 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 Liverpool to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?

Multiple modes of transport
  • 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, West Midlands Trains and Avanti West Coast to help you choose the right option for your journey from Liverpool to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Liverpool to Cardiff.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Liverpool to Cardiff?

The best time to book your train from Liverpool to Cardiff is 21 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Liverpool to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Liverpool to Cardiff per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Liverpool to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Liverpool to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Train Ticket Prices
  • Budget Options: Train tickets from Liverpool to Cardiff start from as low as $51 (€41) if booked well in advance.
  • Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $95 (€77) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
  • On average there are 7 daily trains from Liverpool to Cardiff with 0 direct service.
  • The fastest trains can take as little as 3h 29m but the average duration is 3h 39m
Train Operators
  • Travel from Liverpool to Cardiff with Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast, and West Midlands Trains
  • The most booked train company for this route on Omio is Transport for Wales.
Stations & Schedule
  • Most trains depart from Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) and arrive in Cardiff Central (CDF)
  • First train typically departs at 03:18 AM and the last at 11:34 PM
Distance
133 miles (215 km)
Average train duration
3h 39m
Cheapest ticket price
$51 (€41)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
3h 29m
First train
03:18
Last train
23:34
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 $24 (€19)
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 $24 (€19)

Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast from Liverpool to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Avanti West Coast trains will get you between Liverpool and Cardiff from $24 (€19). 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
3h 29m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€55)
Transport for Wales frequency
5 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 49m
Cheapest Price
$62 (€50)
CrossCountry frequency
3 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

West Midlands Trains

About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
4h 26m
Cheapest Price
$72 (€58)
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
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
4h 2m
Cheapest Price
$169 (€136)
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

FAQs: Trains from Liverpool to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Liverpool to Cardiff by train. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Liverpool to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $51 (€41), while the average price is around $95 (€77).
The train from Liverpool to Cardiff takes 3h 29m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Liverpool to Cardiff is 133 miles (215 km).
The first train from Liverpool to Cardiff leaves at 3:18 AM.
The last train from Liverpool to Cardiff leaves at 11:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Liverpool to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from Liverpool to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Liverpool to Cardiff.
The train station in Liverpool that goes to Cardiff is Liverpool Lime Street (LIV), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Liverpool to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $24 (€19).
The train journey from Liverpool to Cardiff offers scenic views of the English and Welsh countryside, passing through charming towns and lush landscapes, particularly as it crosses the border into Wales.
A day trip from Liverpool to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 29m and the distance is 133 miles (215 km). Trains run 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 Liverpool to Cardiff.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Liverpool to Cardiff

Liverpool
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Liverpool is Liverpool Lime Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Liverpool Lime Street for your trip from Liverpool to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38
  • Sun: 07:15 - 23:05
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free public Wi-Fi available.
Lockers
Lockers
  • The Excess Baggage Co. lockers and staffed luggage storage counter are located in the main concourse near the escalators across from Platform 6. Open daily 08:00 to 21:00.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Various retail establishments including Photo Booths to purchase items whilst in the station
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Short stay car park located on Skelhorne Street & Long Stay Car Park located on Lord Nelson Street
Dining
Dining
  • Caffè Nero
  • Costa Coffee
  • Upper Crust
  • Starbucks
  • JD Wetherspoon
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: The station taxi rank is located at Skelhorne Street side of the station. There are two customer help points located for passengers requiring assistance.
  • Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis at Liverpool Lime Street station can be provided at the taxi rank. If you require a private accessible taxi please locate a member of the station staff and they will provide you with a local taxi firm company number.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Full wheelchair access throughout the station, with help points at the Skelhorne Street entrance and at customer information desk in the main concourse.
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: Male and Female toilets located on the station concourse by Lord Nelson street entrance
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: The National Key (RADAR) toilet is located next to the Male and Female toilets by the Lord Nelson Street entrance. If you do not have a key please locate a member of staff and they will provide you with one.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Hotel
Hotel
  • Pembroke Studios
  • Riley’s Rooms
  • Holiday Inn Liverpool City Center
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Located on main concourse
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38
  • Sun: 07:15 - 23:05
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Alongside station entrance
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main concourse.
Public transit options for Liverpool Lime Street
  • Suburban train lines: Wirral Line (green)
  • Bus lines: 9, 10, 61, 82, 79, 86C, 500
  • Train lines: Northern, West Midlands, TransPennine Express, East Midlands, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, London Northwestern
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement services depart at the Bus stop on Skelhorne Street, near the Tesco Express. L3 5GA.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform”The Ticket Office is step free via James Street only and platforms can be accessed via lifts
  • Accessible toilets: Yes
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
WC
  • National key toilets: No
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage location: N/A
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Liverpool James Street
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: James Street Station, James Street, Liverpool
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 05:25 - 00:16 Sunday 07:45 - 00:16 Station staffing times may vary, please visit Merseyrail.org for up-to-date times.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Shoe repairer Wide range of shops Convenience store Passport Photo Booth
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: Yes
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” All platforms can be accessed via lift
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are no 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: No
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Station Concourse. The National key toilets are located next to the public toilets on the Station Concourse; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: Next to Mail entrance
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
  • Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Liverpool Central
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: 32 Great Charlotte Street, Liverpool 1

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone