Chester to Cardiff from $45: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$45 by carBest price

192.6 kmDistance

3h Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Chester 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.

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Type	Mo 20/01	Tu 21/01	We 22/01	Th 23/01	Fr 24/01	Sa 25/01	Su 26/01
Bus	$43	$56	$48	$46	$50	$42	$75
Train	$62	$33	$44	$50	$42	$56	$56

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Traveling From Chester to Cardiff

The journey from Chester, with its rich medieval history and picturesque rows, to Cardiff, a vibrant capital brimming with modern attractions and cultural experiences, offers a fascinating contrast that enriches your exploration of Wales.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

Cardiff boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and attractions.

Cardiff Bay

• Home to the iconic Wales Millennium Centre.

• Vibrant waterfront with shops and restaurants.

Roath

• Features the picturesque Roath Park Lake.

• Bohemian vibe with trendy cafes and markets.

Catalyst

• A hub for arts, culture, and nightlife.

• Close to Techniquest and other attractions.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cardiff's attractions can elevate your experience and reduce wait times.

Cardiff Castle

Early mornings on weekdays offer quieter exploration of this historic site.

The National Museum Cardiff

Visit on weekdays during off-peak hours for a more relaxed atmosphere.

Cardiff Bay

Late afternoon or early evening is ideal for stunning views and fewer crowds.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild winters and cool summers, with varied rainfall throughout the year. The best times to visit are late spring and early autumn, as pleasant weather enhances outdoor activities and sightseeing.

Dining Recommendation in Cardiff

For a taste of Cardiff, try the famous Welsh rarebit at The Potted Pig, where local ingredients meet modern flair, contrasting beautifully with Chester's traditional offerings. The lively atmosphere and imaginative flavor profile create a dining experience that reflects Cardiff's vibrant culinary scene, setting it apart from the more classic fare found in Chester.

Chester - Cardiff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Chester and Cardiff, 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 Chester to Cardiff Central

Average Duration

3h 1m

Estimated price

$65-100

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

Traveling between Chester 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.

🚗 Set off on a picturesque road trip from Chester to Cardiff, covering a scenic driving distance of 243.0 km in approximately 3 hours. ⛽️ Along the way, you may encounter varying prices for fuel and tolls, but the cost for the journey by car typically ranges between £36 to £59.

Average price

£35 - £58

🚆 Experience a smooth and scenic train journey from Chester to Cardiff with Transport for Wales. Departing every four hours, this direct service takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute to reach Cardiff Central station. 🌄 Sit back and relax as you travel through the picturesque landscapes of the United Kingdom. Enjoy the convenience of a direct route from Chester station to Cardiff Central station, operated by Transport for Wales. 🎟️ Tickets for the Chester to Cardiff train range from £51 to £79, offering an affordable and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the UK. Explore Cardiff's charming atmosphere and cultural attractions upon arrival.

Departure Point

Chester station

Arrival Point

Cardiff Central station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard Services: On your train trip from Chester to Cardiff, services may vary depending on the operator you choose. Generally, both Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast provide light refreshments onboard. Transport for Wales offers a selection of hot and cold drinks, snacks, and sometimes meals during peak hours, while Avanti West Coast has a more extensive menu with a café bar offering meals, alcoholic beverages, and snacks. Make sure to check the specific service you’ll be traveling with for details about menu offerings.

• Seating Options: The trains from Chester to Cardiff typically offer several seating options. Transport for Wales trains feature Economy and First Class seating. Economy is comfortable, while First Class offers more space, complimentary refreshments, and access to better onboard services. Avanti West Coast provides Standard Class and First Class as well; however, it is recommended to book First Class in advance as these seats come with enhanced amenities and a quieter atmosphere.

• Multiple Operators: There are two main train operators for your route: Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast. You can visit their websites for more information about schedules and ticket bookings: Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast. Additionally, for transport schedules and facilities at Cardiff, consider checking Cardiff Transportation.

🚌 Route 1: Embark on a scenic journey from Chester to Cardiff taking a total of 8 hours and 37 minutes with 3 transfers along the way covering a distance of 376 km. 🚌 Route 2: Alternatively, opt for a slightly longer route with a travel time of 9 hours and 22 minutes, also involving 3 transfers but covering a distance of 370 km. 🚌 Route 3: For a unique experience, consider the route via Wrexham and Newtown spanning 9 hours and 6 minutes over a distance of 287 km with 3 transfers before reaching vibrant Cardiff.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Chester to Cardiff.

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The distance between Chester and Cardiff is 193.1 km by road, which takes approximately 3 hours to drive. If you prefer traveling by train, it takes about 3 hours and 1 minute to reach Cardiff from Chester.

The most cost-effective option for traveling from Chester to Cardiff is by driving, which takes around 3 hours and costs £35-£59. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest option is to take the night train, which takes approximately 2 hours and 54 minutes and costs £39-£94.

The prices of a train ticket between Chester and Cardiff can range from £39 to £94, depending on factors such as the date and time of travel, as well as the class of ticket chosen.

To travel from Chester to Cardiff without using public transportation, you can opt to drive. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 243.0 km, and it takes around 3 hours to complete the journey by car. The prices for renting a car or using a taxi service range from £35 to £59, depending on the choice of vehicle and any additional services required.

To travel from Chester to Cardiff without a car, the best option is to take a train. The train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute and is a convenient and comfortable mode of transportation. The train ticket prices range from £39 to £94, depending on the class and time of booking.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Chester and Cardiff. The train services operated by Transport for Wales depart from Chester station and arrive at Cardiff Central station. Trains run every four hours, seven days a week, and the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 1 minute.

There are numerous accommodation options available near Cardiff with over 1134 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in Cardiff start at £33 per night.