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Cardiff to Leicester from $45: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cardiff, United Kingdom
to
Leicester, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cardiff to Leicester: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$45 - OtherBest price
191.5 kmDistance
2h 33m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff to Leicester with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
CrossCountry
Train
Average Duration
3h  3m
Estimated price
$85-240
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  33m
Estimated price
$45-75
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 191.5 km
Duration: 2h 33m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  38m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
3h  20m
Estimated price
$98-238

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $14 $13 $14 $14 $14 $11 $9
Train $59 $59 $60 $53 $59 $58 $60

Traveling From Cardiff to Leicester

The journey from Cardiff to Leicester brings you from the vibrant coastal culture of Wales to the historic charm of the East Midlands, showcasing a rich tapestry of experiences along the way.

Best Neighbourhoods in Leicester

Leicester boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its distinctive character and charm.

Highfields
• Known for its vibrant multicultural atmosphere
• Home to beautiful parks and gardens
Stoneygate
• Offers a mix of independent shops and cafes
• Features stunning Victorian and Edwardian architecture
City Centre
• Bustling retail hub with major shopping brands
• Close proximity to cultural attractions and theaters

Best Times To Visit Leicester's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Leicester by timing your visits to key attractions right.

Leicester Cathedral
Visit early mornings or weekdays for a serene atmosphere and fewer visitors.
King Richard III Visitor Centre
Afternoons during weekdays tend to be less crowded, allowing for a more immersive experience.
Jewry Wall Museum
Sunday mornings offer a peaceful exploration of Roman history amid smaller crowds.

Leicester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Leicester experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making spring and early autumn ideal for visiting. Being aware of the rain during the winter months can help you plan outdoor activities and enjoy the city comfortably.

Dining Recommendation in Leicester

In Leicester, don’t miss out on enjoying a plate of authentic Pork Pie from the famous Peterborough's Butchery, offering a flaky crust filled with succulent meat that sets it apart from Cardiff's seafood delights. The vibrant market setting and the use of local ingredients provide a unique contrast to the dining scene in Cardiff, enriching your culinary adventure.

Cardiff - Leicester operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cardiff and Leicester, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Cardiff Central to Leicester

Average Duration
3h 3m
Estimated price
$85-240

Train from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$65-180

Train from Birmingham New Street to Leicester

Average Duration
59m
Estimated price
$30-65
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales

Train from Cardiff Central to Hereford

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$23-50
Contact phone
+44 333 311 0039
Website
https://www.westmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

Train from Hereford to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
0-0

Cardiff to Leicester: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Cardiff and Leicester offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey from Cardiff to Leicester by car, covering a distance of 241.4 km. 💷 The cost of traveling from Cardiff to Leicester by car ranges from £36 to £59, offering budget-friendly options for every traveler. ⏱️ With an estimated driving time of 2 hours and 33 minutes, this road trip promises a blend of adventure and comfort as you make your way from Cardiff to Leicester.
Average price
£35 - £58
🚂 Traveling by train from Cardiff to Leicester is a convenient option, with direct services operated by CrossCountry. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 3 minutes, offering a relaxing way to reach your destination on Sunday. 🌆 Route options vary in terms of transfers and duration, with some taking longer but offering unique scenic experiences along the way. Prices for the journey can range from £67 to £190, providing flexibility for different budgets.
Departure Point
Cardiff Central station
Arrival Point
Leicester station
Useful tips for train travellers
Onboard Services: When traveling from Cardiff to Leicester, you will likely be using services operated by Avanti West Coast. They offer a catering service featuring a selection of hot and cold meals, snacks, and beverages available for purchase through a trolley service that comes through the carriage. First Class passengers benefit from complimentary refreshments, including meals and drinks served at their seat.
Seating Options: The trains on this route typically offer three seating classes: Standard (Economy), First Class, and Business Premier. Standard Class is comfortable for most travelers, but for a quieter and more spacious experience, consider upgrading to First Class. First Class provides wider seats, more legroom, and access to the quiet carriage. Check Avanti West Coast's website for seat selection and availability.
Arrival Station Tip: Upon arriving at Leicester Station, there are luggage storage facilities available where you can leave your bags for a small fee. The station is equipped with restrooms, and unfortunately, it does not have shower facilities. To navigate the station easily, look for signage directing you to local bus services, which are conveniently located right outside. Additionally, the station has an information desk for assistance.
🚌 Starting from Cardiff your journey to Leicester by bus will take approximately 6 hours and 30 minutes covering a distance of 397 km. 🚏 The first leg of the trip involves catching a bus towards London Victoria, which takes about 3 hours and 10 minutes. The bus departs from Cardiff University Park Place and arrives at Victoria Coach Station. 🌆 For the second step, you'll board a bus towards Newcastle upon Tyne, a journey lasting around 2 hours and 45 minutes. The bus departs from Victoria Coach Station in London and arrives at Leicester Fosse Park, your final destination.

Trips from Cardiff

Trips to Leicester