Southampton to Cardiff from $40: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$40 by carBest price

133.4 milesDistance

2h 18m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Southampton 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	$20	$23	$28	$25	$21	$15	$18
Train	$28	$36	$65	$60	$28	$28	$28

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Traveling From Southampton to Cardiff

The journey from Southampton to Cardiff offers a fascinating contrast, with Southampton showcasing maritime history and vibrant waterfronts while Cardiff bursts with cultural richness and dynamic urban life.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

Cardiff offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its unique charm and features.

Cardiff Bay

• Scenic waterfront with restaurants and bars.

• Home to the iconic Millennium Centre.

Cathays

• Popular among students with a youthful vibe.

• Close to parks and cultural attractions.

Roath

• Picturesque Roath Park with a lake and gardens.

• Trendy cafés and independent shops abound.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Cardiff experience.

Cardiff Castle

Visit early in the morning on weekdays for fewer crowds.

St. Fagans National Museum of History

Head there on weekdays during school hours for a quieter experience.

Cardiff Bay

Enjoy a stroll during early evenings for stunning sunset views.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff experiences a maritime climate with mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. Generally, late spring to early autumn offers the best weather for outdoor activities, but it’s wise to be prepared for rain at any time.

Dining in Cardiff: A Culinary Contrast

Try the traditional Welsh dish of cawl, a hearty lamb and vegetable stew, at The Potted Pig, which boasts a lively atmosphere and a unique twist on local flavors. This experience contrasts with Southampton’s seafood-centric cuisine, showcasing Cardiff's emphasis on rich, comforting fare and local ingredients.

Southampton - Cardiff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Southampton 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 Southampton Central to Cardiff Central

Average Duration

2h 36m

Estimated price

$65-150

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

Traveling between Southampton 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.

🚗 Begin your scenic road trip from Southampton to Cardiff, spanning a distance of 214.0 km. Enjoy a drive of approximately 2 hours and 18 minutes through picturesque English and Welsh countryside. 💷 Explore the flexible pricing options for your journey, with costs ranging from £32 to £51 for the convenience and freedom of a car ride. 🏴 Arrive in Cardiff, ready to discover the vibrant capital of Wales.

Average price

£31 - £50

🚆 Enjoy a direct train journey from Southampton Central to Cardiff Central, operated by First Great Western Service. Services run hourly every day, with a travel time of approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes. 🌆 Experience the scenic route from Southampton to Cardiff covering a distance of 251 km. Take a two-step journey involving trains towards Manchester Piccadilly and Swansea, with transfers in Reading for a seamless travel experience. 🎫 Prices for the Southampton to Cardiff train ticket range from £51 to £118.

Departure Point

Southampton Central station

Arrival Point

Cardiff Central station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services for your journey between Southampton and Cardiff may include a catering service with a selection of hot and cold beverages, snacks, and light meals. Northern Rail and CrossCountry, the primary operators for this route, typically offer a catering trolley service in First Class, where you can enjoy complimentary refreshments. Be sure to check the specific service status on their respective websites before your trip.

• The seating options on trains from Southampton to Cardiff generally include Standard Class and First Class. Standard Class (Economy) seats are comfortable with a decent amount of legroom, while First Class seats are more spacious and come with additional perks such as complimentary refreshments. Check for train tickets on the National Rail website or the specific train operator's sites to gauge the class and seats available for your chosen train.

• As you prepare for your trip, note that the main operators for Southampton to Cardiff are Great Western Railway (GWR) and CrossCountry. You can visit their websites at gwr.com and crosscountrytrains.co.uk, respectively, for timetables and booking info. Additionally, check out National Rail's website for comprehensive rail travel information and local transport options in Cardiff.