- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Southampton to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 11
- Cheapest price on Nov 11
- €74
- Average ticket price on Nov 11
- €147
- Fastest journey on Nov 11
- 2 h 35 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 11
- 2 h 41 m
- Trains on Nov 11
- 11
- Distance
- 139 km
Cheap tickets
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 €147 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €74.
Fast trains
On Wed, Nov 11, we found 11 trains from Southampton to Cardiff, including 3 direct services.
On Wed, Nov 11 the direct trains cover the 139 km distance in an average of 2 h 41 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 35 m .
On Wed, Nov 11 the slowest trains will take 2 h 52 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.
G150048:10 AM 2h42 Southampton Central (SOU) 10:52 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €74 1 One-way 0 transfers- G15519 · G15216 · G14938
8:23 AM 3h17 Southampton Central (SOU) 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €74 1 One-way 2 transfers - G15005
9:11 AM 2h35 Southampton Central (SOU) 11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €74 1 One-way 0 transfers - G15002
6:47 AM 2h59 Southampton Central (SOU) 9:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €74 1 One-way 0 transfers - W34617+
G008589:15 AM 2h55 Southampton Central (SOU) 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) €177 1 One-way 1 transfer
- G15005
9:11 AM 2h35 Southampton Central (SOU) 11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €74 1 One-way 0 transfers - C03033 · G14934+
L787517:00 AM 2h36 Southampton Central (SOU) 9:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €191 1 One-way 2 transfers - G15004
8:10 AM 2h42 Southampton Central (SOU) 10:52 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €74 1 One-way 0 transfers - G14936+G00739
7:55 AM 2h42 Southampton Central (SOU) 10:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €191 1 One-way 1 transfer - G14937+G00855
8:15 AM 2h52 Southampton Central (SOU) 11:07 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) €191 1 One-way 1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Train from Southampton to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Southampton to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 34m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €28 but you can travel from only €14 by bus.
There are 3 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 11m.
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 €14
Distance 86 miles (139 km) |
Average train duration 2h 34m |
Cheapest ticket price €28 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 2h 11m |
First train 4:25 AM |
Last train 9:30 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 €14
Frequently asked questions about your Southampton to Cardiff trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Southampton to Cardiff.
Train ticket prices from Southampton to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at €28, while the average price is around €76.
The train from Southampton to Cardiff takes 2h 11m and runs 7 per day.
The first train from Southampton to Cardiff leaves at 4:25 AM.
The distance by train from Southampton to Cardiff is 86 miles (139 km).
The last train from Southampton to Cardiff leaves at 9:30 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Southampton to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
Live departures
Southampton to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Wednesday, November 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G00849+G14933 | 6:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h53 | 9:08 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G15002 | 6:47 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h59 | 9:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| C03033 · G14934+L78751 | 7:00 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h36 | 9:36 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| G14935+G00851 | 7:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h57 | 10:12 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G14936+G00739 | 7:55 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h42 | 10:37 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G15004 | 8:10 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h42 | 10:52 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G14937+G00855 | 8:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h52 | 11:07 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| G15519 · G15216 · G14938 | 8:23 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h17 | 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 transfers | |
| C03041 · G14938+L78761 · L79928 | 8:30 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 3h10 | 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| G15005 | 9:11 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h35 | 11:46 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W34617+G00858 | 9:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 2h55 | 12:10 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Southampton to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Southampton to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Southampton to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Cardiff.
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Southampton to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Southampton and Cardiff from €14. 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 Great Western Railway Duration
2h 11m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
€28
Great Western Railway frequency
7 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
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Southampton and Cardiff
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Yes, there is a high-speed train from Southampton to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a night train from Southampton to Cardiff.
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.
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 history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.70
To the city center
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 900 m
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless card and mobile payments on buses. Exact fare is not needed if you pay contactless.
- For rail travel around Cardiff, use the official Transport for Wales app for tickets and live times.
Plan your visit to Cardiff
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.
The train journey from Southampton to Cardiff offers varied scenery, featuring rolling countryside, picturesque villages, and occasional views of the Severn Estuary, providing a pleasant and visually appealing experience for travelers.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
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.
FAQs: Trains from Southampton to Cardiff
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Southampton to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Southampton to Cardiff
Most Southampton to Cardiff trains use the Southampton Central to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Southampton
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Southampton station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Southampton to Cardiff leave from Southampton Central. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Southampton city centre at Southampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL.
Southampton CentralSouthampton Central station, Blechynden Terrace, Southampton, Hampshire, SO15 1AL+44 345 600 0650
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton Central from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton Central train station facilities and services
Southampton Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Southampton Central.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton Central. ATMs are available at Southampton Central.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton Central.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Southampton Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton Central: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
RedbridgeRedbridge station, Station Road, Redbridge, Hampshire, SO15 0NB
City-centre transport
Getting to Redbridge from Southampton city centre
Redbridge is 4 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainWeymouth - London Waterloo, Poole - London Waterloo, Southampton Central - London Waterloo, Bournemouth - London Waterloo · 1h 53m · €61 · every ~4 min
Bus032 · 4h 40m · €22 · every ~3 min
SubwayCentral · 2h 52m · €87 · every ~30 min
Redbridge train station facilities and services
Redbridge has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Lost and Found Office, and Bike Parking.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Redbridge.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Redbridge.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Redbridge: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Redbridge: Bike Parking.
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · €2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Train stations for Southampton to Cardiff
Check train stations information for Southampton and Cardiff, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Southampton that goes to Cardiff is Southampton Central, which connects to Cardiff Central.
Most popular train connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Southampton
Most popular train connections to Cardiff
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