Cardiff, South Glamorgan to Swansea, West Glamorgan from $5: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Cardiff to Swansea: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$5 RideshareBest price
67.6 kmDistance
49m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff to Swansea 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 | $6 | $6 | $6 | $6 | $6 | $6 | $6 |
| Train | $6 | $7 | $8 | $7 | $6 | $7 | $7 |
Traveling From Cardiff to Swansea
The journey from Cardiff to Swansea offers a glimpse into two distinct cities, where Cardiff buzzes with vibrant urban life while Swansea showcases its scenic coastal charm.
Best Neighbourhoods in Swansea
Swansea boasts vibrant neighborhoods, each with its own character and attractions.
Mumbles
• Charming seaside village with stunning views.
• Home to trendy cafes and local boutiques.
Uplands
• Known for its lively bar scene and restaurants.
• Features beautiful parks and a local market.
Swansea Marina
• Offers picturesque waterfront walks and activities.
• Great selection of restaurants and shops nearby.
Best Times To Visit Swansea's Attractions
Swansea's attractions are best enjoyed at specific times for an optimal experience.
Swansea Marina
Visit early morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning light.
Oystermouth Castle
Explore during weekdays for a quieter tour of this historic site.
Swansea Market
Go early on Saturdays to enjoy fresh produce and local vibes.
Swansea Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Swansea experiences a maritime climate characterized by mild winters and cool summers, making it a year-round destination. Late spring and early autumn offer the most pleasant conditions for outdoor activities, while visitors should be prepared for rain at any time, impacting travel plans.
Dining Recommendation
For an unforgettable experience in Swansea, try fish and chips from The Mermaid Café, where the coastal setting complements the dish's fresh, locally sourced catch. This contrasts with Cardiff’s vibrant urban dining scene, offering a more laid-back atmosphere that celebrates classic British flavors.
Cardiff - Swansea operators
Explore transport companies operating between Cardiff and Swansea, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125Website
https://www.gwr.com/
Train from Cardiff Central to Swansea
Average Duration
52mEstimated price
$27-65Contact phone
03333 211 202Website
https://tfw.wales/
Train from Cardiff Central to Swansea
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$20-30Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk
Bus from Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music to Swansea City Bus Station
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$8-13Website
https://uk.megabus.com
Bus from Cardiff North Road to Swansea Quadrant Bus Station
Average Duration
1h 15mEstimated price
$11-16Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228Website
https://blablacar.com
Rideshare from Cardiff to Swansea
Average Duration
1h 5mEstimated price
$5-7Contact phone
+44 2921409607Website
http://taxi2cardiff.com
Taxi from Cardiff to Swansea
Average Duration
49mEstimated price
$120-150Contact phone
+44 2920140140Website
http://drivetaxis.wales
Other from Cardiff to Swansea
Average Duration
49mEstimated price
$13-20Cardiff to Swansea: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Cardiff and Swansea 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 picturesque journey from Cardiff to Swansea, spanning a scenic driving distance of 42 miles. In just under 50 minutes, you'll traverse charming landscapes and quaint villages along the way.
🛣️ Enjoy the flexibility of driving your own car, with prices ranging from £10 to £16 for the trip. If you're looking for more cost-effective and eco-friendly options, consider exploring Blablacar's carpooling service for shared rides between the two cities.
Average price
£10 - £16
🚆 The train journey from Cardiff to Swansea is a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two Welsh cities. The direct train departs from Cardiff Central station and arrives at Swansea station, with services running every 30 minutes, seven days a week.
🚆 Operated by First Great Western Service, the Cardiff to Swansea train takes approximately 52 minutes to reach its destination. Passengers can enjoy a comfortable ride while taking in the scenic views of the Welsh countryside along the way.
🚆 Travelers can choose from a range of ticket prices for the Cardiff to Swansea train, with fares typically ranging from £16 to £51. Whether you're commuting for work or exploring the sights of Swansea, the train offers a hassle-free and cost-effective transportation option.
Departure Point
Cardiff Central station
Arrival Point
Swansea station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on trains from Cardiff to Swansea typically include a café car offering snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. Some operators may also provide mobile catering services where you can order refreshments directly to your seat, particularly in First Class.
• The main train operators on the Cardiff to Swansea route are Great Western Railway (GWR) and Transport for Wales. GWR offers both Standard and First-Class seating. In Standard Class, you'll find 2+2 seating arrangements with limited food service, while First Class provides more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages. Transport for Wales offers similar seating configurations but focuses on a more regional travel experience. For more information, check their websites: Great Western Railway and Transport for Wales.
• Upon arrival at Swansea station, you'll find that luggage storage services are available at the station. If you need to freshen up, restrooms are accessible but there may not be showers available. To navigate Swansea station easily, look for the clear signage directing you to exits and facilities. To get to the city center quickly, the fastest option is to take bus number 2 or 4 from directly outside the station, which will take you there in about 10-15 minutes.
🚌 Begin your journey from Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music to Swansea City Bus Station with five daily departures, ensuring flexibility in your travel schedule. The comfortable ride takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes.
🚌 With ticket prices ranging from £9 to £13, the bus journey between Cardiff and Swansea presents a cost-effective and scenic way to travel, allowing you to sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque views along the route.
Departure Point
Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music station
Arrival Point
Swansea City Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music at least 15 minutes before your bus departs, as FlixBus often boards quickly and having your ticket ready will help ensure a smooth boarding process.
• Pack a light snack for the journey; while FlixBus does not usually have food service, the trip only takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes, and you'll want to enjoy the scenic views over the River Neath as you approach Swansea.
• Upon arrival at Swansea City Bus Station, take a moment to familiarize yourself with the station layout; there are map displays located near the main entrance, which can help you easily find your way to local attractions like the Swansea Market just a short walk away.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Cardiff to Swansea.
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The distance between Cardiff and Swansea is approximately 34 miles, or 42 miles by car. It takes about 1 hour and 5 minutes to travel from Cardiff to Swansea by bus, while the travel time by train is not specified. The journey from Swansea to Cardiff by car typically takes around 1 hour.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cardiff to Swansea is to rideshare. It is a cheaper alternative, costing between £3-£5, and takes approximately 1 hour and 5 minutes. If time is of the essence, the quickest option would be taking a taxi, which takes around 49 minutes but comes with a higher cost of £86-£117. Ultimately, the choice between cost-effectiveness and time-efficiency depends on personal preferences and priorities.
The prices for a train ticket between Cardiff and Swansea range from £15 to £51. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Swansea and Cardiff range from £9 to £20. It is advisable to book tickets in advance to secure the best possible fares.
To travel from Cardiff to Swansea without using public transportation, you can consider using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This service connects drivers with available seats in their cars to passengers heading in the same direction. The driving distance between Cardiff and Swansea is approximately 42 miles, and it usually takes around 49 minutes to drive. The prices for a car journey from Cardiff to Swansea on BlaBlaCar range from £10 to £16, depending on the driver and specific arrangements.
The best way to travel from Cardiff to Swansea without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 51 minutes and the ticket prices range from £15 to £51. Trains provide a convenient and efficient mode of transportation between the two cities, allowing you to relax and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cardiff and Swansea. The train service operated by First Great Western departs from Cardiff Central every 30 minutes and arrives at Swansea in approximately 51 minutes. The bus service operated by National Express departs from Sophia Gardens and arrives at Swansea Bus Station Stand A, with a journey time of around 1 hour and 5 minutes. Both the train and bus services operate daily, providing convenient transportation options between Cardiff and Swansea.
There are a variety of accommodation options available near Swansea. There are 1026+ hotels to choose from, offering a range of prices starting at £33. Some popular hotel options include The Dragon Hotel, The Grand Hotel Swansea, and The Marriott Hotel Swansea. Additionally, there are also bed and breakfasts, guesthouses, and vacation rentals available in the area to suit different budgets and preferences.
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