London Luton Airport to Cardiff train with Great Western Railway

Fri, Jun 19
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Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
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Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
Great Western Railway
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from London Luton Airport to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Jun 19

Cheapest price

$76

Average price

$94

Fastest journey

3 h 15 m

Average duration

3 h 18 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

198 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from London Luton Airport to Cardiff will cost around $94 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $76.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from London Luton Airport to Cardiff without transferring at least 3 times.

  • Great Western RailwayG14939+MetroLuton Dart+Elizabeth lineC38397+ThameslinkW32947
    9:51 AM3h25
    London Luton Airport (LUA)
    1:16 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $761One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34622+Elizabeth lineC38478+MetroLuton Dart+ThameslinkW32964
    10:51 AM3h17
    London Luton Airport (LUA)
    2:08 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $911One-way
    3 transfers
  • MetroLuton Dart+Great Western RailwayW35417+ThameslinkW45384+Elizabeth lineC38436
    10:21 AM3h15
    London Luton Airport (LUA)
    1:36 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $911One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34618+MetroLuton Dart+ThameslinkW32966+Elizabeth lineC38356
    9:21 AM3h16
    London Luton Airport (LUA)
    12:37 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $911One-way
    3 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW34617+MetroLuton Dart+Elizabeth lineC38305+ThameslinkW32951
    8:51 AM3h19
    London Luton Airport (LUA)
    12:10 PMCardiff Central (CDF)
    $911One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for London Luton Airport to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from London Luton Airport to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 48m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $23, and a train costs an average of $40.

Distance: 123 miles (198 km)

Compare train with

Train
Most popular
Bus
Driving

$81

Average price

$35

Average price

Cheapest

$53

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 18m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 48m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 29m

Average total duration

4h 59m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 1m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

Great Western Railway

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from London Luton Airport to Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $35 (€29).

This is compared to other travel options from London Luton Airport to Cardiff:

A bus is $47 (€38) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from London Luton Airport to Cardiff costing on average $81 (€67).

The fastest way to travel from London Luton Airport to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 2h 48m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 4h 59m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between London Luton Airport and Cardiff including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from London Luton Airport 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 13m sooner (2h 48m by train vs 3h 1m by car). Tickets start at around $81 (€67) compared to roughly $53 (€43) 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

London Luton Airport to Cardiff train times

The table below shows live departures for London Luton Airport to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
Elizabeth lineC38250+Great Western RailwayG14938+ThameslinkW32958+MetroLuton Dart8:19 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
3h21
11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers
Elizabeth lineC38305+Great Western RailwayW34617+ThameslinkW32951+MetroLuton Dart8:51 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
3h19
12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers
Elizabeth lineC38356+Great Western RailwayW34618+MetroLuton Dart+ThameslinkW329669:21 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
3h16
12:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers
Elizabeth lineC38397+Great Western RailwayG14939+MetroLuton Dart+ThameslinkW329479:51 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
3h25
1:16 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers
Elizabeth lineC38436+Great Western RailwayW35417+MetroLuton Dart+ThameslinkW4538410:21 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
3h15
1:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers
Elizabeth lineC38478+Great Western RailwayW34622+MetroLuton Dart+ThameslinkW3296410:51 AM London Luton Airport (LUA)
3h17
2:08 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)3 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets London Luton Airport 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.

Fri
Jun 19
Sat
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Tue
Jun 23
Wed
Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25

Why should you book London Luton Airport to Cardiff trains with Omio?

Great Western Railway operates all trains services from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?

  • 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Train from London Luton Airport to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from London Luton Airport to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 48m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $40 (€33) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 07:21, the last at 20:21. The fastest train covers the 123 miles (198 km) distance in 3h 14m.

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 $23 (€19)
Distance
123 miles (198 km)
Average train duration
2h 48m
Cheapest ticket price
$40 (€33)
Trains per day
6
Fastest train
3h 14m
First train
7:21 AM
Last train
8:21 PM
Cheapest Month
Apr
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Sun
Least Busy Day
Tue
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 $23 (€19)

Train companies: Great Western Railway from London Luton Airport to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between London Luton Airport and Cardiff from $23 (€19). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

Great Western Railway

About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 14m
Cheapest Price
$40 (€33)
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
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

National Museum Cardiff

Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Trains from London Luton Airport to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $40 (€33), while the average price is around $81 (€67).
The train from London Luton Airport to Cardiff takes 3h 14m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from London Luton Airport to Cardiff leaves at 7:21 AM.
The distance by train from London Luton Airport to Cardiff is 123 miles (198 km).
The last train from London Luton Airport to Cardiff leaves at 8:21 PM.
There is no high speed train available from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
There is no direct train service currently available from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
The cheapest way to get from London Luton Airport to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $23 (€19).
The train journey from London Luton Airport to Cardiff offers a mix of urban and countryside views, passing through areas like the Chiltern Hills and the Severn Tunnel, offering glimpses of lush landscapes and picturesque towns.
A day trip from London Luton Airport to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 14m and the distance is 123 miles (198 km). However, there are 5 trains available 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 London Luton Airport to Cardiff.
Since neither London Luton Airport 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from London Luton Airport 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 London Luton Airport to Cardiff

Most London Luton Airport to Cardiff trains use the London Paddington to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff Queen Street. Use this guide to compare London Luton Airport and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in London
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
London PaddingtonPraed Street, London, Greater London, W2 1HQ, United Kingdom+44 3457114141WifiLockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to London Paddington from London city centre

TrainElizabeth · 7m · $2 · every ~21 min
BusN118, N18 · 21m · $5 · every ~6 min
36 · 31m · $28 · every ~29 min
N205 · 32m · $5 · every ~2 min
46 · 1h 22m · $2 · every ~19 min
SubwayBakerloo · 12m · $5 · every ~65 min

London Paddington train station facilities and services

London Paddington has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food options include: Wasabi, The Beer House, Barburrito, Upper Crust, The Mad Bishop & Bear (Fullers), The Pasty Shop, Burger King, Pret a Manger, The Savanna, Soboro Bakery, & more

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located next to the ticket office.

Tickets and information

The ticket office is open 24/7. Information desks are located near Platform 1.

Luggage and lost property

Luggage storage is luggage lockers are located near the taxi stand beside Platform 11. . Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at London Paddington: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at London Paddington: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at London Paddington: Wheelchair access, escalators, elevators.

Shops, hotels and contact

Nearby hotels include Hilton London Paddington, Mercure London Paddington Hotel, The Pilgrm.

Heathrow Terminal 5Heathrow Airport Terminal 5 station, Terminal 5, Heathrow Airport, Greater London, TW6 2GAParkingAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Heathrow Terminal 5 from London city centre

Heathrow Terminal 5 is 25 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainElizabeth, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 5 · 30m · $43
Elizabeth, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 5 · 30m · $43
BusUk061 · 1h 5m · $4 · every ~1 min
035, 025, 030, 032, A40 · 1h 10m · $6 · every ~12 min
025, 030, 032, 035, A40 · 1h 10m · $6 · every ~12 min
N9 · 1h 24m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 53m · $28 · every ~27 min

Heathrow Terminal 5 train station facilities and services

Heathrow Terminal 5 has practical services for this route, including Parking, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, and Ticket Office.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Heathrow Terminal 5.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heathrow Terminal 5: Parking.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heathrow Terminal 5: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3Heathrow Airport Terminals 2 & 3 station, Inner Ring Road, Heathrow Airport, Greater London, TW6 1WDWifiShoppingParkingATMAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 from London city centre

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 is 23 km from London city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainElizabeth, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 4, London Paddington - Heathrow Terminal 5 · 21m · $43 · every ~3 min
Elizabeth · 41m · $21 · every ~8 min
BusUkn14, Ukn02, Uk043, Uk042, Ukn23, Ukxn10, Ukn49 · 50m · $2 · every ~1 min
Ukxn10 · 50m · $4 · every ~1 min
Ukxn10 · 50m · $4 · every ~1 min
N9 · 1h 11m · $2 · every ~4 min
SubwayPiccadilly · 47m · $26 · every ~27 min

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 train station facilities and services

Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3 has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Lost and Found Office, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3. ATMs are available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3: Parking, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Heathrow Terminals 2 & 3: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Level access to platforms, lifts to airport facilities. Ticket Office is step free. Wheelchair users can board trains with ease as the platforms are level with the trains, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.

Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and London Luton Airport

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