1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ 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 Manchester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Dec 12
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$116
Fastest journey
3 h 7 m
Average duration
3 h 20 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Cardiff will cost around $116 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Manchester for Cardiff on Fri, Dec 12, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Dec 12 the direct trains cover the 231 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 7 m .
On Fri, Dec 12 the slowest trains will take 3 h 33 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.
G5595606:27AM3h24
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)09:51AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$941One-way
0 transfers
G5595807:30AM3h19
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)10:49AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1041One-way
0 transfers
G5596008:30AM3h07
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:37AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1041One-way
0 transfers
C23559 · C2370109:25AM4h00
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)01:25PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1091One-way
1 transfer
G5596209:30AM3h15
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:45PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1321One-way
0 transfers
G5596008:30AM3h07
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:37AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1041One-way
0 transfers
G5596209:30AM3h15
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:45PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1321One-way
0 transfers
G5595807:30AM3h19
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)10:49AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1041One-way
0 transfers
G5595606:27AM3h24
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)09:51AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$941One-way
0 transfers
C23747+
P0824109:03AM3h33
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:36PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1561One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Manchester to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. 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 €15, and a train costs an average of €39.
Distance: 143 miles (231 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€74 Average price | €29 Average price Cheapest |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 7m Average total duration 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Manchester to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, December 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:40 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G55956 | On time 6:27 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h24 | 9:51 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G55958 | On time 7:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h19 | 10:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G55960 | On time 8:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h07 | 11:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C23747+P08241 | On time 9:03 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h33 | 12:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| C23559 · C23701 | On time 9:25 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h00 | 1:25 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G55962 | On time 9:30 AM Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h15 | 12:45 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 Manchester 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
Dec 12
Dec 12
Sat
Dec 13
Dec 13
Sun
Dec 14
Dec 14
Mon
Dec 15
Dec 15
Tue
Dec 16
Dec 16
Wed
Dec 17
Dec 17
Thu
Dec 18
Dec 18
Fri
Dec 19
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27
Dec 27
Sun
Dec 28
Dec 28
Mon
Dec 29
Dec 29
Tue
Dec 30
Dec 30
Wed
Dec 31
Dec 31
Thu
Jan 01
Jan 01
Why should you book Manchester to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Manchester to Cardiff. Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester 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 to find the best option for your trip from Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Trainline and Rail Europe?
- 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 to help you choose the right option for your journey from Manchester to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Manchester to Cardiff.
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Cardiff?
The best time to book your train from Manchester to Cardiff is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff.
Trains
from $89Buses
from $18Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 (€39) but you can travel from only $19 (€15) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:26, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 143 miles (231 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 $19 (€15)
Distance 143 miles (231 km) |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 (€39) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 3h 3m |
First train 00:26 |
Last train 23:51 |
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 $19 (€15)
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Manchester to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Manchester and Cardiff from $19 (€15). 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 3m
Cheapest Price
$59 (€48)
Transport for Wales frequency
4 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 56m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
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
Train tickets from Manchester to Cardiff: when to book to save $
The rule of buying in advance to save money is not only valid when booking a flight but also for train travel. Train tickets are generally on sale 6 months before the departure date. Some train booking tips from us:
- Buying your train ticket from Manchester - Cardiff 3 weeks in advance means you can save on average up to 17% compared to the price available on the day of departure.
- If you book a ticket Manchester - Cardiff with 2 months in advance you save up to about 13% compared to the initial price.
- By booking 3 months in advance, you could save up to 13%.
- On Omio you can find all offers, train times and prices for train travel in Europe, the U.S., and Canada.
FAQs: Trains from Manchester to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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.
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.
A day trip from Manchester to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 3h 3m. Trains run 7 times per day over a distance of 143 miles (231 km).
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.
The train journey from Manchester to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including glimpses of the picturesque English countryside, rolling hills, and views of the River Severn as you approach Cardiff.
Train ticket prices from Manchester to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $49 (€39), while the average price is around $93 (€74).
The distance by train from Manchester to Cardiff is 143 miles (231 km).
The train from Manchester to Cardiff takes 3h 3m and runs 7 per day.
The train station in Manchester that goes to Cardiff is Manchester Piccadilly (MAN), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Manchester to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $19 (€15).
The last train from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 11:51 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Manchester to Cardiff.
The first train from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 12:26 AM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Manchester to Cardiff.
Yes, you can take the train from Manchester to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Manchester to Cardiff. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales, Transport for Wales.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Manchester to Cardiff
Manchester
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Deansgate. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Deansgate for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Taxis
Accessibility
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:20 - 23:40 Sunday 08:10 - 23:30
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station From Whitworth Street, up a ramp (43 paces, 1:25 slope) and level access through the entrance into the foyer. Or from the junction of Chester Road, Whitworth Street and Deansgate, level access through the entrance, along the corridor and up 21 steps into the foyer. Then, to Manchester: Past the ticket office, via the lift in the foyer. Or up a ramp (34 paces), up 17 steps onto the platform. To Bolton, Warrington and Wigan : Via the lift in the foyer or along the subway (26 paces), up a ramp (32 paces) and up 18 steps onto the platform. Level access to Manchester platform also via overbridge from Metrolink G-Mex Metrolink stop. Lift available first to last train, currently 06:20 - 23:40 Monday to Saturday. 08:10 - 23:30 Sunday.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Deansgate
- Onward travel information: Free Metro shuttle bus link from station front serving Manchester City centre including Victoria Station On both sides of Whitworth Street, Deansgate and Chester Road for buses to Piccadilly Gardens, Altrincham or Sale. Contact Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at bus stops on Whitworth St.
- Metro: Metrolink G-Mex tram stop linked by footbridge from Manchester platform. 0161 228 7811
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibility
WCHotelTicket OfficeBike Parking
Information Desk
Luggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
8 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Wilmslow Road.
Dining
- The Didsbury
- The Gateway
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Travelodge Manchester Didsbury
- Premier Inn Manchester Didsbury
- Eleven Didsbury Park Hotel
Information Desk
- Located near the ticket office
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: entrance and ticket office
- Hall 2: access to platforms
Public transit options for East Didsbury
- Tram: Metrolink East Didsbury Line
- Bus: Several lines available including 42, 142, 50
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 06:20 - 19:35 Sunday 09:00 - 16:30
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category C station, From Albert Road up 20 steps to reach the ticket office, then for services to Manchester up a further 26 steps onto the platform. For Services towards Stockport from ticket office go through the underpass (29 paces) and up 26 steps onto the platform.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Levenshulme
- Onward travel information: On both sides of Albert Road for buses to Manchester, Reddish, Stockport or Droylsden. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: the bus stop for Manchester Pic is located on the station side of Stockport Road. The bus stop for Stockport is located on the opposite side of Stockport Road.
- Metro: GMPTE 0161 228 7811
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your journey to Cardiff from Manchester.
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- 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.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- 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.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
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
Most popular train connections from Manchester
More options for your journey from Manchester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Manchester
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.
