- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
The National Museum Cardiff offers art, geology, and natural history exhibits, including an impressive array of Impressionist art.
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$81
Fastest journey
2 h 35 m
Average duration
2 h 39 m
Trains per day
7
Distance
139 km
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Southampton to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Cardiff will cost around $81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Of the 7 trains that leave Southampton for Cardiff on Fri, May 15, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, May 15 the direct trains cover the 139 km distance in an average of 2 h 39 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Fri, May 15 the slowest trains will take 2 h 42 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.










Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 43m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $17.
Distance: 86 miles (139 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$80 Average price | $31 Average price Cheapest | $43 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 13m Average total duration Fastest 2h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 25m Average total duration 5h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.3kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Cardiff:
A bus is $48 (€39) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Cardiff costing on average $80 (€64).
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 55m.
Tickets start at around $80 (€64) compared to roughly $43 (€34) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-36.62 (€-29.36). The journey takes 2h 43m versus 2h 37m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cardiff trains for today, Thursday, May 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 9:11 AM Southampton | 2h35 | 11:46 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, May 15 | |||||
![]() | 4:33 AM Southampton | 4h13 | 8:46 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:33 AM Southampton | 4h13 | 9:46 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 7:10 AM Southampton | 2h42 | 9:52 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:10 AM Southampton | 2h42 | 10:52 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:11 AM Southampton | 2h35 | 10:46 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Trains from Southampton to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 43m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $17 (€14) if you book in advance.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:25, the last at 21:30. The fastest train covers the 86 miles (139 km) distance in 2h 22m.
Distance 86 miles (139 km) |
Average train duration 2h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $17 (€14) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 22m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 3 days |
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
The National Museum Cardiff offers art, geology, and natural history exhibits, including an impressive array of Impressionist art.
An open-air museum showcasing the historical lifestyle, culture, and architecture of Wales across centuries.
A hands-on science and discovery center that offers interactive exhibits to engage all ages.
A vibrant waterfront area known for its modern architecture, cultural attractions, and dining options.
Historic shopping arcades with independent boutiques and specialty shops.
A bustling street in the city center lined with shops, restaurants, and historic buildings.
A traditional dish made with a savory sauce of melted cheese, ale, and mustard over toasted bread.
A Welsh delicacy made from cooked laver, a type of seaweed, often served with breakfast or seafood dishes.
A Welsh tea loaf made with dried fruits and spices. Often served sliced and buttered.
A cozy, family-run Italian restaurant known for its authentic dishes and intimate atmosphere.
A unique dining experience with a menu prepared and served by prisoners training for their future careers in hospitality.
Known for its British cuisine with an emphasis on locally-sourced produce, located in a former bank vault.
Prices are generally moderate compared to other UK cities. Accommodation is affordable, but dining varies widely by type.
Not expected in cafes, round up taxis, 10-15% in restaurants if service is good.
Official public transport app
Cardiff Central -> Cardiff Castle
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need