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Cardiff to Birmingham from $8: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cardiff, United Kingdom
to
Birmingham, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cardiff to Birmingham: 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.

$8 RideshareBest price
143.2 kmDistance
1h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff to Birmingham 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
2h 
Estimated price
$65-180
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  26m
Estimated price
$8-18
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 143.2 km
Duration: 1h 55m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$16-23
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  55m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
$65-180

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $17 $13 $10 $13 $13 $16 $14
Train $61 $40 $17 $35 $35 $60 $54
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Traveling From Cardiff to Birmingham

The journey from Cardiff to Birmingham presents an intriguing contrast, where Cardiff offers a vibrant coastline and rich Welsh culture, while Birmingham impresses with its dynamic urban scene and a history steeped in industrial innovation.

Best Neighbourhoods in Birmingham

Birmingham features vibrant neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Jewellery Quarter
• Home to hundreds of jewellery shops.
• Rich in history and stunning architecture.
Birmingham City Centre
• Bustling shopping area with major brands.
• Diverse dining options and lively nightlife.
Kings Heath
• Quirky independent shops and cafés.
• Lovely parks perfect for leisurely strolls.

Best Times To Visit Birmingham's Attractions

Planning your visit to Birmingham can enhance your enjoyment of its attractions.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Weekdays in the morning offer a quieter experience and fewer crowds.
Cadbury World
Visiting on weekdays outside of school holidays allows for shorter wait times.
Birmingham Botanical Gardens
Early morning or late afternoon visits showcase peaceful surroundings and beautiful light.

Birmingham Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Birmingham experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, as pleasant conditions enhance your exploration of the city's attractions.

Dining Recommendation in Birmingham

A visit to the renowned Indian restaurant, Dishoom, is essential for a taste of Birmingham's vibrant culinary scene, showcasing rich flavors and a lively atmosphere that differs from Cardiff’s traditional Welsh fare. The aromatic dishes and communal dining experience create a unique vibe that reflects the city's diverse cultural influences.

Cardiff - Birmingham operators

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

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$65-180
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales/

Train from Cardiff Central to Hereford

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

Bus from Cardiff University Park Place to Birmingham Brunel Street

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$16-23
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk/

Other from Cardiff to Birmingham

Average Duration
2h 26m
Estimated price
$8-18

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

Traveling between Cardiff and Birmingham 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 covering 173.8 km from Cardiff to Birmingham in just under 2 hours, offering picturesque views and smooth roads along the way. 💸Prices for the road trip range from £28 to £43, providing a budget-friendly option for those seeking a convenient and cost-effective mode of transportation.
Average price
£27 - £43
🌟 Enjoy the 2-hour train ride through picturesque landscapes as you travel from Cardiff to Birmingham with CrossCountry. 💸 Ticket prices for the train from Cardiff to Birmingham range from £51 to £142, offering flexibility for travelers to choose a fare that suits their budget.
Departure Point
Cardiff Central station
Arrival Point
Birmingham New Street station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your journey from Cardiff to Birmingham, you'll likely be traveling with either Transport for Wales or West Midlands Railway. Both operators provide onboard catering services, offering a selection of snacks, beverages, and hot meals in their food carriages. You can check Transport for Wales' offerings at Transport for Wales and West Midlands Railway's menu at West Midlands Railway.
• The trains on this route feature different seating options including Standard Class and First Class. Standard Class is comfortable for basic travel, while First Class offers larger seats, extra legroom, and complimentary refreshments. If you prefer more comfort, consider upgrading to First Class, especially for longer travel times.
• Upon arrival at Birmingham New Street Station, you can leave your luggage in the left luggage facility located in the station. This allows you to explore the city hands-free. The station also provides clean restroom facilities, but there are no showers available. For navigating the city, the quickest way to get to Birmingham city center is to take the tram at Birmingham New Street; service numbers and schedules are available at Birmingham City Transport.
🚌 Explore the scenic route from Cardiff to Birmingham by bus with Megabus UK. Departing twice daily, the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes, offering a convenient travel option for visitors. 🚌 Enjoy the affordable fares ranging from £13 to £18 for a bus ride from Cardiff to Birmingham, making it a budget-friendly way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the United Kingdom.
Departure Point
Cardiff University Park Place station
Arrival Point
Birmingham Brunel Street station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Make sure to check Megabus's timetable at Megabus UK for the most accurate departure times from Cardiff University Park Place, as services are limited to twice daily.
• On your arrival at Birmingham Brunel Street, familiarize yourself with the local transport options by reviewing the Birmingham public transport map to navigate quickly to your final destination.
• Bring along snacks and a refillable water bottle, as the journey could last up to 3 hours 25 minutes; there are limited amenities along the route, particularly on Megabus services.

Trips from Cardiff

Trips to Birmingham