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Leicester to Cardiff from $31: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Leicester, United Kingdom
to
Cardiff, United Kingdom

How to Get from Leicester to Cardiff: 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.

$31 by busBest 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 Leicester to Cardiff 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  39m
Estimated price
$100-243
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
6h  56m
Estimated price
$31-46
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 191.5 km
Duration: 2h 33m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  33m
Estimated price
$45-75
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$95-250

Traveling From Leicester to Cardiff

Embarking on the journey from Leicester to Cardiff offers you a fascinating contrast, from the rich tapestry of English history and diverse culture in Leicester to the vibrant Welsh capital, known for its stunning coastline and thriving arts scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

Cardiff features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct charm and attractions.

Cardiff Bay
• Stunning waterfront views and attractions.
• Home to the iconic Wales Millennium Centre.
Canton
• Trendy cafes and independent shops abound.
• A vibrant community with local events.
Roath
• Picturesque parks and beautiful lakes.
• Rich cultural scene with diverse eateries.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits can lead to a more enjoyable experience in Cardiff.

Cardiff Castle
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
National Museum Cardiff
Afternoons on weekdays are ideal for a quieter exploration of the exhibits.
Cardiff Bay
Evenings during weekdays offer stunning sunset views and a serene atmosphere.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. Late spring to early autumn is ideal for visitors, as the weather tends to be drier and more pleasant, enhancing your overall travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Cardiff

For a truly delightful experience, try the traditional Welsh dish, cawl, at The Clink restaurant, where the emphasis on locally sourced ingredients brings a fresh twist to this hearty soup. Unlike the more diverse culinary scene in Leicester, dining in Cardiff immerses you in a rich tapestry of Welsh flavors and a vibrant atmosphere that reflects the city’s heritage.

Leicester - Cardiff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Leicester and Cardiff, 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 Leicester to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$30-65

Train from Birmingham New Street to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
1h 55m
Estimated price
$65-180

Train from Leicester to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
3h 39m
Estimated price
$95-250
Contact phone
+44 333 311 0039
Website
https://www.westmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

Train from Birmingham New Street to Hereford

Average Duration
1h 26m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales/

Train from Hereford to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$24-40
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Asda to Navigation Street

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
$11-16

Bus from Birmingham Brunel Street to Cardiff North Road

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$16-24

Bus from Leicester to Cardiff North Road

Average Duration
6h 56m
Estimated price
$30-50

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

Traveling between Leicester and Cardiff 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 scenic journey from Leicester to Cardiff by car, covering a distance of 239.8 km in approximately 2 hours and 33 minutes. 💷 Enjoy budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging between £36 to £59 for the Leicester to Cardiff drive. 🏰 Arrive in Cardiff, a city rich in history and culture, ready to explore its iconic landmarks such as Cardiff Castle, Millennium Stadium, and the bustling Cardiff Bay.
Average price
£35 - £58
🚆 The journey from Leicester to Cardiff by train involves a transfer at Birmingham New Street. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 3 hours and 39 minutes. 🚆 There are multiple routes you can take from Leicester to Cardiff with varying distances and transfer points. The prices for a train ticket between Leicester and Cardiff range from £79 to £192, depending on the route chosen.
Departure Point
Leicester station
Arrival Point
Cardiff Central station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the trains from Leicester to Cardiff may vary by operator, but you can expect options such as light snacks, drinks, and meals offered on longer journeys. For services like CrossCountry, onboard catering typically includes a café bar with a selection of hot and cold food and beverages. Make sure to check the specific train's catering details as they can differ based on the service time.
• Depending on the operator, you have several seating options. CrossCountry provides Standard Class (Economy) and First Class. Standard Class offers comfortable seating with ample legroom, while First Class features more spacious seats, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages. Another option is Avanti West Coast, which also provides Economy and First Class seats with similar benefits. To ensure availability, consider booking in advance on their respective websites: CrossCountry and Avanti West Coast.
• Upon arrival at Cardiff Central Station, you'll find helpful amenities such as luggage lockers available for short-term storage and several clean restrooms. Note that there's no shower service, but you can freshen up in nearby cafes. To get to the city center quickly, hop on the Cardiff City Bus No. 6 or No. 8, which run frequently and take about 10-15 minutes. Alternatively, the walk is around 20 minutes if you're up for some sightseeing along the way.
🚌 The journey from Leicester to Cardiff by bus takes approximately 6 hours and 56 minutes, including transfers. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Leicester and Cardiff can vary from £24 to £36.
Departure Point
Asda station
Arrival Point
Cardiff North Road station

Trips from Leicester

Trips to Cardiff