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Oxford to Cardiff from $20: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Oxford, United Kingdom
to
Cardiff, United Kingdom

How to Get from Oxford 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.

$20 by busBest price
85 milesDistance
1h 56m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Oxford 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
First Great Western Service
Train
Average Duration
2h  31m
Estimated price
$61-141
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
2h  52m
Estimated price
$20-50
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 85 miles
Duration: 1h 56m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  56m
Estimated price
$30-50
Company
Various
Bus
Train
Average Duration
2h  55m
Estimated price
$46-96

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $26 $29 $31 $31 $27 $27 $24
Train $77 $71 $68 $72 $62 $56 $56

Traveling From Oxford to Cardiff

The journey from Oxford to Cardiff offers a captivating contrast, with Oxford’s historic charm and academic atmosphere juxtaposed against Cardiff’s vibrant culture and modern waterfront.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

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

Cardiff Bay
• Stunning waterfront area with restaurants and shops.
• Home to the iconic Millennium Centre.
Roath
• Lively atmosphere with parks and independent cafes.
• Picturesque Roath Park Lake for leisurely strolls.
Cathays
• Vibrant student community with a bustling nightlife.
• Rich in cultural heritage and community events.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cardiff's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Cardiff Castle
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for quieter tours.
National Museum Cardiff
Explore during Tuesday afternoons, usually less crowded with school groups.
Cardiff Bay
Enjoy leisurely walks at sunset for stunning views and fewer tourists.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it suitable for year-round visits. Spring and early autumn are often the best times to explore, as you can enjoy comfortable temperatures and fewer rainy days, enhancing your travel experience.

Dining in Cardiff: A Culinary Adventure

Try the iconic Welsh specialty, cawl, at The Potted Pig, where hearty flavors and locally-sourced ingredients showcase Cardiff's unique culinary flair. This vibrant restaurant, situated in a former bank vault, delivers a distinctive atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with the more traditional dining scene in Oxford.

Oxford - Cardiff operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Didcot Parkway to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
1h 14m
Estimated price
$55-120

Train from Swindon to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
54m
Estimated price
$40-90
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Gloucester Green Bus Station to Newport South Wales Train Station

Average Duration
2h 35m
Estimated price
$15-21
Website
https://www.stagecoachbus.com

Bus from Osney Island to Market Place

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$3-3

Bus from Market Place to Bus Station

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$3-3

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

Traveling between Oxford 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 road trip from Oxford to Cardiff covering a driving distance of 170.6 km, with captivating countryside views along the way. 💸 Depending on factors like fuel prices and toll roads, the cost of your journey by car from Oxford to Cardiff can range between £24 to £39, providing budget flexibility for travelers. 🌟 Enjoy a smooth and efficient drive lasting approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes, as you cruise through the charming landscapes from Oxford to the vibrant city of Cardiff.
Average price
£23 - £39
🚆 Despite there being no direct train from Oxford to Cardiff, travelers can easily make the journey with a transfer at Didcot Parkway. The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 2 hours and 31 minutes. 💷 Train tickets between Oxford and Cardiff typically range from £48 to £111, offering passengers flexibility in choosing the fare that suits their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Didcot Parkway station
Arrival Point
Cardiff Central station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the Great Western Railway trains from Oxford to Cardiff include a catering service that offers a selection of light snacks and beverages. The 'Grab & Go' menu typically features sandwiches, pastries, and a variety of hot and cold drinks. First Class passengers enjoy complimentary refreshments and can also pre-order more substantial meals for a fee.
• The trains on this route offer three main seating options: Standard Class, First Class, and Business Premier. Standard Class provides comfortable seating with power sockets available on many trains. First Class offers more spacious seating with wider seats, fewer passengers per carriage, complimentary newspapers, and extra amenities. Business Premier is available on some services for those needing a quieter, more luxurious environment.
• The primary operators on this route are Great Western Railway and Transport for Wales. Visit their websites for schedules and ticket booking: Great Western Railway - gwr.com and Transport for Wales - tfw.wales Additionally, for local transport schedules and station information, you can refer to the Cardiff Council website at cardiff.gov.uk
🚌 Embark on an approximately 2 hour and 52-minute bus journey from Oxford to Cardiff passing through scenic landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💷 Prices for a bus ticket between Oxford and Cardiff range from £16 to £39, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore both cities.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your ticket with either National Express or Megabus, as both operators offer a range of prices and departure times; check their websites at National Express and Megabus for the latest information and deals.
• To enhance your journey, bring along some snacks and drinks, as services on board can be limited; shops in Oxford's Gloucester Green Bus Station offer a variety of options for pre-boarding.
• Upon arrival at Cardiff Bus Station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the station's layout using this map as it conveniently connects you to local bus services and the city center, making navigation easier.

Trips from Oxford

Trips to Cardiff