1map logoGo to main page

Cardiff to Porthcawl from $9: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cardiff, United Kingdom
to
Porthcawl, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cardiff to Porthcawl: 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.

$9 - DriveBest price
46.9 kmDistance
32m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff to Porthcawl 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
Transport for Wales
Train
Average Duration
36m
Estimated price
$26-36
Recommended
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$9-14
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 46.9 km
Duration: 32m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$75-95

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Train $12 $12 $12 $12 $12 $12 $12
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cardiff to Porthcawl

The journey from Cardiff to Porthcawl offers a striking contrast, with Cardiff's vibrant city life transitioning to Porthcawl's serene coastal charm.

Best Neighbourhoods in Porthcawl

Porthcawl boasts charming neighborhoods, each offering distinctive attractions for visitors.

Coney Beach
• Popular for its sandy beach and amusement park.
• Great spot for family-friendly activities and seaside cafes.
Rest Bay
• Ideal for water sports enthusiasts and surfers.
• Scenic coastal walks with stunning sunset views.
Nash Point
• Features dramatic cliffs and a historic lighthouse.
• Excellent for wildlife spotting and photography opportunities.

Best Times To Visit Porthcawl's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Porthcawl.

Coney Beach
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Rest Bay
Best enjoyed during weekdays, especially in the spring for a quieter atmosphere.
Nash Point Lighthouse
Early mornings or weekdays provide peace and stunning coastal views.

Porthcawl Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Porthcawl enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it an inviting destination year-round. Late spring and early summer offer the best weather for outdoor activities, so plan your visit accordingly to fully savor the coastal experience.

Dining Recommendation in Porthcawl

A visit to The Old Lighthouse offers an irresistible taste of Porthcawl's seafood heritage, featuring locally-sourced fish dishes that delight the palate with fresh coastal flavors. Unlike the bustling dining scene in Cardiff, this charming eatery provides a relaxed atmosphere where the emphasis is on the simplicity and quality of the ingredients.

Cardiff - Porthcawl operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales/

Train from Cardiff Central to Pyle

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
$11-18
Taxi
Contact phone
+44 2921409607
Website
http://taxi2cardiff.com

Taxi from Cardiff to Porthcawl

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$75-95
Contact phone
+44 2920 333 333
Website
http://dragontaxis.com

Taxi from Cardiff to Porthcawl

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$0-0
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+44 2920140140
Website
http://drivetaxis.wales

Other from Cardiff to Porthcawl

Average Duration
32m
Estimated price
$9-14

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

Traveling between Cardiff and Porthcawl 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.

🚗 Take a scenic drive from Cardiff to Porthcawl, covering a distance of 46.7 km in just 32 minutes. ⛽ Enjoy the flexibility of traveling by car with prices ranging from £7 to £11 for the journey.
Average price
£7 - £11
💷 The prices for a train ticket between Cardiff and Porthcawl typically range from £21 to £28, depending on the time of booking and availability.
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Cardiff to Porthcawl, services vary depending on the operator. Transport for Wales typically provides a catering service offering light snacks and refreshments. Be sure to check if there are any seasonal menus available on your specific train, as some may provide hot meals.
• The train services on this route primarily offer Standard Class seating, which is spacious and comfortable. However, if you're looking for a quieter and more comfortable experience, you may want to consider upgrading to First Class if available. First Class usually provides larger seats and complimentary refreshments, which can enhance your travel experience.
• The main operators for the Cardiff to Porthcawl route are Transport for Wales and, occasionally, Great Western Railway. For the most accurate schedules and details, visit their respective websites: Transport for Wales ">">tfw.wales and Great Western Railway ">">gwr.com
• Upon arriving at Porthcawl, the station is quite compact and doesn’t have an extensive range of services, but you will find restrooms available. Unfortunately, there are no luggage storage services at the station, so plan your packing accordingly. To navigate the area easily, note that signage at the station is clear and will guide you toward the town center.
• The fastest way to get from Porthcawl station to the city center is to take the local bus services. The `X3` bus runs frequently and will drop you off close to the main attractions in the city; check the timetable for the latest information. Alternatively, you can opt for a short taxi ride, which is also a convenient option.
🚌 Starting from Cardiff you can take a bus towards Porthcawl that will take approximately 1 hour and 56 minutes to reach your destination, covering a distance of 46.9 km. The bus departs from The Flourish and arrives at Lias Road, operated by First Cymru. 🚌 If you opt for a different route, the journey from Cardiff to Porthcawl can take around 1 hour and 35 minutes, covering a distance of 43.9 km. The bus departs from The Flourish and arrives at Lias Road, also operated by First Cymru. 🚌 Another option for traveling from Cardiff to Porthcawl is a bus ride that takes approximately 1 hour and 48 minutes, covering a distance of 46.4 km. The bus departs from Mermaid Quay and arrives at Lias Road, operated by First Cymru.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• For a smoother journey, opt for the Cardiff to Porthcawl route departing from The Flourish, as it typically takes about 1 hour 35 minutes, shorter than some other options; you can check the schedule at First Cymru's website: firstbus.co.uk
• When you arrive at Lias Road in Porthcawl, there’s a fantastic local café called The Seaside Café nearby for breakfast or a refreshing drink; be sure to enjoy the beautiful coastal views while you give yourself a little break after your journey.
• To ensure you can navigate the bus routes effectively, familiarize yourself with the local transport schedules beforehand, as First Cymru operates multiple daily services, and plan your return trip to Cardiff accordingly using their website for real-time updates: firstbus.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cardiff to Porthcawl.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cardiff and Porthcawl is 37.0 km by road and 47.0 km by train and bus. The typical travel time from Cardiff to Porthcawl is 1 hour and 15 minutes by train and bus, while the journey by car typically takes around 35 minutes. The return journey from Porthcawl to Cardiff takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes by bus.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cardiff to Porthcawl is to drive. It takes approximately 32 minutes and costs around £7-£11. Alternatively, taking a taxi is the quickest way, also taking around 32 minutes, but it is more expensive, costing around £59-£71.
To travel from Cardiff to Porthcawl without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of about 46.7 km. The journey typically takes around 32 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of this mode of transport can range from £7 to £11, depending on fuel prices and any tolls along the route.
The distance between Cardiff and Porthcawl is approximately 37.0 km by road. However, the best way to travel between these two places without a car is by taking a train and then a bus. This journey takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes, and the cost will vary depending on the specific operator and ticket type. Alternatively, there is also a bus option available which takes around 1 hour and 28 minutes.
Yes, there is a direct bus link between Cardiff and Porthcawl. The bus service, operated by First South & West Wales, departs from Atlantic Wharf, Vellacott Close and arrives at Porthcawl journey takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes, and the buses run hourly, operating every day.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Porthcawl. With over 707 hotels to choose from, ranging in price starting at £33, you will be sure to find something that suits your budget and preferences.
Yes, it is possible to travel from Cardiff to Porthcawl by bicycle. The distance between the two places is approximately 37.0 km. The estimated travel time will depend on your cycling speed, but it typically takes around 2 hours to cover this distance by bike.

Trips from Cardiff