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Derby to Cardiff from $18: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Derby, United Kingdom
to
Cardiff, United Kingdom

How to Get from Derby 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.

$18 RideshareBest price
199.5 kmDistance
2h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Derby 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
2h  47m
Estimated price
$85-240
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
3h  11m
Estimated price
$18-18
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 199.5 km
Duration: 2h 37m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  37m
Estimated price
$45-70
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  10m
Estimated price
$51-90
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Traveling From Derby to Cardiff

Traveling from Derby to Cardiff offers you a fascinating contrast between Derby’s rich industrial heritage and Cardiff’s vibrant cultural scene.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

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

Canton
• Trendy cafes and independent shops abound.
• Home to a vibrant nightlife scene.
Cardiff Bay
• Stunning waterfront with scenic views.
• Great dining options and cultural venues.
Pontcanna
• Lush parks and green spaces are plentiful.
• Known for its boutique shops and restaurants.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing can greatly enhance your experience of Cardiff's top attractions.

Cardiff Castle
Visit early in the morning for fewer crowds and a more relaxed exploration.
National Museum Cardiff
Late afternoons on weekdays allow for a quieter visit and more personal interaction.
Cardiff Bay
Explore during weekdays, especially in the offseason, to enjoy tranquility by the water.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff experiences a maritime climate with mild, wet winters and cool summers, making it welcoming throughout the year. Planning your visit during the drier months of late spring or early autumn can enhance your travel experience, allowing for more enjoyable outdoor activities.

Dining Recommendation in Cardiff

In Cardiff, try the famous cawl, a traditional Welsh stew made with local lamb and seasonal vegetables, often enjoyed in cozy pubs like The Old Arcade. This dish offers a heartier flavor profile and a warm, inviting atmosphere that contrasts with Derby's more modern dining scene.

Derby - Cardiff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Derby 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 Derby to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
2h 47m
Estimated price
$85-240

Train from Derby to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$35-70
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Birmingham Brunel Street to Cardiff North Road

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$16-24
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://blablacar.com

Other from Derby to Cardiff

Average Duration
3h 11m
Estimated price
$18-18

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

Traveling between Derby 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 Derby to Cardiff, covering a distance of 238.2 km in approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes. 💰 Prices for the car journey from Derby to Cardiff range from £36 to £55, offering a budget-friendly option for travel between these two vibrant cities. Consider carpooling with Blablacar for a cost-effective and eco-friendly ride-sharing experience.
Average price
£35 - £54
🚆 Explore the scenic route from Derby to Cardiff by train with CrossCountry. The journey lasts approximately 2 hours and 47 minutes, offering a comfortable and relaxing way to travel. 🎫 Prices for the train tickets from Derby to Cardiff can range from £67 to £190, providing flexibility for different budgets.
Departure Point
Derby station
Arrival Point
Cardiff Central station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Derby to Cardiff, you can typically expect onboard catering services provided by the main operators like CrossCountry or Transport for Wales. While some trains may feature a café-bar offering a selection of snacks, drinks, and light meals, it's advisable to check in advance if you wish to pre-order a meal or snack. CrossCountry's website provides up-to-date information on their onboard catering options.
• The journey offers a variety of seating options. On CrossCountry trains, you'll find Standard Class and First Class seating. Standard Class features comfortable, reserved seating and a spacious area for luggage, while First Class provides an enhanced experience with bigger seats, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages. If you're traveling with a group or prefer more space, consider reserving First Class tickets; check seat availability on the CrossCountry or Transport for Wales websites.
• For the Derby to Cardiff route, the main operators are CrossCountry (crosscountrytrains.co.uk) and Transport for Wales (tfw.wales). It's recommended to book in advance for potentially lower fares. Upon arrival in Cardiff, be aware that Cardiff Central Station does provide luggage storage services through a left luggage kiosk, and you can find clean restrooms. Exiting Cardiff Central, you can take the Cardiff bus (number 5 or 6) or the Cardiff Metro (Cardiff Queen Street service) to reach the city center quickly.
🚌 Embark on a scenic bus journey from Derby to Cardiff, spanning over 459 km and taking approximately 7 hours and 40 minutes with a transfer. Travel first towards London Victoria on National Express 440-18, then board a bus to Llanelli at Victoria Coach Station for the last leg to Cardiff Gabalfa Interchange. 🌉 Opt for an alternative route to Cardiff from Derby, covering 286 km in 6 hours and 10 minutes with two transfers. Begin by taking The Red Arrow bus to Nottingham with trentbarton, then switch to a National Express service to Birmingham and finally board a bus to Swansea for your ultimate destination at Cardiff Sophia Gardens. 🌟 Explore a shorter route from Derby to Cardiff, spanning 241 km and taking 6 hours with a transfer. Start by catching a National Express 134-02 bus to Birmingham and then hop on the National Express 111-BJ to Swansea, concluding your journey at Cardiff University.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Derby to Cardiff.

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The distance between Derby and Cardiff is 199.6 km by air. If you prefer to travel by train, it takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes. Taking a train and then a bus will take around 4 hours and 40 minutes. If you choose to drive, it will take you about 2 hours and 37 minutes by car.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Derby to Cardiff is ridesharing, which costs around £13 and takes approximately 3 hours and 11 minutes. This option allows you to save on transportation expenses while enjoying the convenience of a shared ride. However, if time is of the essence, driving yourself is the quickest mode of transportation, taking 2 hours and 37 minutes. Although it may be a bit more expensive with estimated costs of £35-£55, you will have the flexibility to travel at your own pace.
The prices of train tickets from Derby to Cardiff range from £67 to £196, depending on factors such as the class of travel and whether the ticket is refundable or flexible.
To get from Derby to Cardiff without using public transportation, you can consider using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This allows you to share the ride with someone who is already driving in that direction. The driving distance between Derby and Cardiff is approximately 238.2 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 37 minutes to drive. Keep in mind that carpooling prices can vary, but they typically range from £35 to £55.
To travel from Derby to Cardiff without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes and ticket prices range from £67 to £196.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Derby and Cardiff in the United Kingdom. The train service is operated by CrossCountry and departs from Derby station. The journey time is approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Cardiff. With over 1134 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to suit their budget and preferences. Prices start at £33, making it accessible for different types of travelers.

Trips from Derby

Trips to Cardiff