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Cardiff, South Glamorgan to Manchester, Greater Manchester from $22: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cardiff, United Kingdom
to
Manchester, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cardiff to Manchester: 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.

$22 by busBest price
145 milesDistance
3h 15m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff to Manchester 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
3h  22m
Estimated price
$70-120
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
5h  55m
Estimated price
$22-35
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 145 miles
Duration: 3h 15m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
3h  15m
Estimated price
$60-90
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
4h  3m
Estimated price
$74-296
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  48m
Estimated price
$74-281
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  22m
Estimated price
$115-319

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $16 $13 $12 $19 $17 $19 $20
Train $70 $58 $53 $72 $57 $71 $62
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Cardiff to Manchester

Traveling from Cardiff to Manchester showcases a shift from the picturesque, seaside charm of Wales to the vibrant, industrial pulse of Northern England.

Best Neighbourhoods in Manchester

Manchester's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences and cultural richness for visitors.

Northern Quarter
• Trendy cafes and vintage shops in every corner.
• Street art adds vibrant character to the area.
Ancoats
• Known for its eclectic food scene and eateries.
• Historic industrial architecture creates a unique backdrop.
Didsbury
• Picturesque parks and gardens for relaxation.
• Chic boutiques and local markets enhance the experience.

Best Times To Visit Manchester's Attractions

Timing your visit to Manchester's attractions can enhance your experience significantly.

Manchester Art Gallery
Visit early in the morning on weekdays for a quieter atmosphere.
The Museum of Science and Industry
Afternoons on weekdays typically offer fewer visitors and relaxed exploration.
Etihad Stadium
Catch a weekend match during off-peak seasons to experience local excitement with less stress.

Manchester Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Manchester experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall throughout the year. Spring and early autumn are ideal for visits, as the weather is generally pleasant, allowing you to enjoy the city's outdoor attractions and vibrant neighborhoods.

Dining Recommendation in Manchester

Try the famous Manchester tart, a delightful dessert made with a creamy custard filling and apricot jam, representing the city’s rich culinary heritage. This unique treat, alongside Manchester's thriving food scene filled with international flavors and vibrant pubs, offers an experience that stands in contrast to Cardiff's more traditional Welsh fare.

Cardiff - Manchester operators

Explore transport companies operating between Cardiff and Manchester, 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 Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
3h 22m
Estimated price
$70-120
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Cardiff Central to Bristol Parkway

Average Duration
33m
Estimated price
$20-50

Train from Cardiff Central to Bristol Temple Meads

Average Duration
45m
Estimated price
$22-55
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Bristol Parkway to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
2h 49m
Estimated price
$95-270
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Cardiff North Road to Manchester Shudehill Interchange

Average Duration
5h 55m
Estimated price
$22-35
Plane Show flights
Website
easyjet.com

Plane from Cardiff (CWL) to Manchester (MAN)

Average Duration
4h 10m
Estimated price
$65-280
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Cardiff (CWL) to Manchester (MAN)

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$35-250
Website
aerlingus.com

Plane from Cardiff (CWL) to Manchester (MAN)

Average Duration
3h 20m
Estimated price
$160-1100
Website
klm.com

Plane from Cardiff (CWL) to Manchester (MAN)

Average Duration
4h 48m
Estimated price
$360-1300

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

Traveling between Cardiff and Manchester 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.

🚗 Buckle up for a scenic road trip from Cardiff to Manchester, covering a distance of 189 miles. Enjoy the lush countryside views along the way as you make your way north. 💰 Depending on factors like fuel prices and tolls, the cost of driving from Cardiff to Manchester by car typically ranges from £47 to £71. Plan your budget accordingly for this journey. 🌆 Arrive in lively Manchester after approximately 3 hours and 15 minutes of driving time. Explore the bustling city known for its vibrant music scene, historic architecture, and diverse cultural offerings.
Average price
£47 - £70
🕒 The total duration of the train ride is approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way. Transport for Wales is the operator for these train services, ensuring a safe and efficient travel experience for passengers. 💷 Ticket prices for the Cardiff to Manchester train range from £55 to £95, offering flexibility for travelers with different budgets. Whether you're visiting for business or leisure, taking the train is a great option to explore both Cardiff and Manchester without the hassle of driving.
Departure Point
Cardiff Central station
Arrival Point
Manchester Piccadilly station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard Services: The primary operator for your Cardiff to Manchester route is Transport for Wales. They offer a range of catering services including a food carriage with a selection of hot meals, snacks, and beverages. Look out for their ‘Refreshment Trolley’ service which provides light snacks and drinks delivered to your seat if you are in First Class.
• Seating Options: On your journey, you can choose between Standard Class and First Class. Standard Class offers comfortable seating with ample legroom, while First Class features more spacious seats, complimentary refreshments, and access to power outlets. Book your tickets in advance to ensure you get the class that suits your travel needs.
• Useful Links: Several train operators run this route, including Transport for Wales (tfw.wales), Avanti West Coast (avantiwestcoast.co.uk), and CrossCountry (crosscountrytrains.co.uk). You can also check local transport options after your arrival in Manchester via the Transport for Greater Manchester website (tfgm.com) which provides bus schedules and tram connections.
🛫 Flying from Cardiff to Manchester involves a stopover and can take approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, with airlines like Vueling, Aer Lingus, Ryanair, and KLM offering this route. 🌍 Although there is no direct flight available, the journey from Cardiff to Manchester by plane typically lasts around 4 hours and 3 minutes, providing a convenient travel option between these cities. 💰 Flight prices between Cardiff and Manchester range from £58 to £234, offering travelers flexibility in choosing a suitable fare for their journey.
Departure Point
Cardiff Airport
Arrival Point
Manchester Airport. The quickest flight takes 3h 20m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Plan for your layover wisely: Flights from Cardiff to Manchester typically include one stopover; make sure to check the duration and location of your layover to avoid unnecessary delays.
• Upon arrival at Manchester Airport, follow the signs for the 'Train and Tram' services if you plan to use public transport; the airport's transport hub is well-marked and offers easy access to the city center.
• Expect to pay approximately £20-£25 for a taxi ride from Manchester Airport to the city center; you may also consider using a rideshare service or public transport for a more economical option.
🛣️ The journey by bus from Cardiff to Manchester typically takes around 5 hours and 55 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route as you make your way to the bustling city of Manchester. 💰 Price-wise, tickets for the Cardiff to Manchester bus service range from £17 to £28. Plan your trip accordingly and experience a comfortable and affordable way to travel between these two vibrant cities.
Departure Point
Cardiff North Road station
Arrival Point
Manchester Shudehill Interchange station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cardiff to Manchester.

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The distance between Cardiff and Manchester is approximately 145 miles by train. The typical travel time by train is 3 hours and 22 minutes. If you prefer to fly, you can take a train to Bristol and then catch a flight, which takes a total of 5 hours and 49 minutes. By car, the journey from Cardiff to Manchester takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which usually takes 5 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cardiff to Manchester is by bus, with prices ranging from £21-£31. Although it takes 5h 25m, it is a convenient and economical choice for budget travelers. However, for those looking for a quicker option, driving is the best choice, taking approximately 3h 15m. Although it is slightly more expensive, with costs ranging from £47-£71, it offers a shorter travel time and the flexibility of having your own vehicle.
The prices for traveling from Cardiff to Manchester vary depending on the mode of transportation. For a train journey, ticket prices range between £47 and £110. On the other hand, taking a bus from Manchester to Cardiff can cost between £21 and £31. It is advisable to check for specific pricing and deals before planning your trip.
To get from Cardiff to Manchester without using public transportation, you can drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 189 miles, and it takes around 3 hours and 15 minutes to drive. The cost of this journey by car can vary, with prices ranging from £47 to £71. Driving provides flexibility and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic route between Cardiff and Manchester.
The best way to travel from Cardiff to Manchester without a car is by train. This journey takes approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes and costs between £47 and £110. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 5 hours and 25 minutes and costs between £21 and £31. Alternatively, you can fly from Cardiff to Manchester, which takes about 6 hours and 5 minutes and costs between £31 and £220.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cardiff and Manchester. Train services operated by Transport for Wales depart from Cardiff Central station and arrive at Manchester Piccadilly station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 22 minutes, with trains departing hourly. There is also a direct bus service operated by Megabus UK, with buses departing from Cardiff University Park Place and arriving at Manchester Shudehill Interchange. The bus journey takes approximately 5 hours and 25 minutes and operates twice daily.
The flight between Cardiff and Manchester typically takes around 3 hours with one stopover. The prices for this flight can vary between £33 and £216. However, it is important to note that there are no direct flights from Bristol Airport to Manchester Airport, so travelers would need to consider connecting flights or alternative modes of transportation.
There are many options for accommodations near Manchester. With over 1539 hotels to choose from, travelers can find a variety of choices to suit their preferences and budgets. Prices for hotels start at £23 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you're looking for a luxury hotel or a budget-friendly stay, there are plenty of choices available in Manchester.

Trips to Manchester