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Edinburgh, Edinburgh to Cardiff, South Glamorgan from $39: 9 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
to
Cardiff, United Kingdom

How to Get from Edinburgh 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.

$39 by busBest price
500.1 kmDistance
3h 5m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Edinburgh 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  5m
Estimated price
$68-274
Recommended
Company
megabus
Bus
Average Duration
11h  43m
Estimated price
$39-63
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 500.1 km
Duration: 3h 5m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  32m
Estimated price
$55-244
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
12h  20m
Estimated price
$60-84
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  1m
Estimated price
$70-261
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
4h  40m
Estimated price
$73-214
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
6h  39m
Estimated price
$120-190
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
6h  27m
Estimated price
$175-366
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
7h  46m
Estimated price
$228-731

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $33 $31 $38 $35 $42 $45 $35
Train $91 $157 $84 $131 $115 $261 $289
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Edinburgh to Cardiff

Embarking on a journey from Edinburgh to Cardiff reveals a fascinating contrast between Scotland’s historic charm and Wales’ vibrant culture.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

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

Cardiff Bay
• Home to the iconic Wales Millennium Centre.
• Great waterfront dining and entertainment options.
Roath
• Known for its picturesque Roath Park Lake.
• A vibrant mix of cafes, shops, and culture.
Canton
• Popular for its trendy bars and restaurants.
• Offers a lively and welcoming atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits to Cardiff's major attractions can greatly enhance your experience.

Cardiff Castle
Visit early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
National Museum Cardiff
Weekdays are ideal, especially in the early hours, for a peaceful experience.
Cardiff Bay
Enjoy early evening visits for stunning sunsets and a relaxed atmosphere.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff features a maritime climate, offering mild winters and cool summers with a fair amount of rainfall throughout the year. Late spring and early autumn are often the best times to visit, allowing you to enjoy outdoor attractions while minimizing the impact of unpredictable weather.

Dining Recommendation in Cardiff

Try the famous Welsh rarebit at The Potted Pig, where rich Cheddar cheese is delicately blended with local ingredients and served in a cozy, rustic setting that contrasts with Edinburgh’s traditional meat-heavy dishes. The vibrant atmosphere and unique flavor profile of this classic Welsh dish provide a refreshing culinary experience that captures the essence of Cardiff.

Edinburgh - Cardiff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Edinburgh and Cardiff, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Plane Show flights
Website
loganair.co.uk

Plane from Edinburgh (EDI) to Cardiff (CWL)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$68-274
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
avantiwestcoast.co.uk

Train from Edinburgh to Crewe

Average Duration
3h 10m
Estimated price
$110-280

Train from Edinburgh to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
4h 15m
Estimated price
$160-370
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
gwr.com

Train from Bristol Temple Meads to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
46m
Estimated price
$22-55
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
crosscountrytrains.co.uk

Train from Bristol Temple Meads to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
1h 1m
Estimated price
$30-65

Train from Edinburgh to Newcastle

Average Duration
1h 31m
Estimated price
$75-200

Train from Edinburgh to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
5h 4m
Estimated price
$180-550
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
tfw.wales

Train from Crewe to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
$60-95
Bus Show bus routes
Website
uk.megabus.com

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$11-16

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Cardiff North Road

Average Duration
9h 20m
Estimated price
$30-50
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Glasgow

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
$9-13

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Bristol

Average Duration
10h 10m
Estimated price
$50-75

Bus from Bristol to Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$8-13

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

Traveling between Edinburgh 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 picturesque journey from Edinburgh to Cardiff, covering a scenic driving distance of 389 miles. Enjoy the beautiful landscapes and charming towns along the way. 💰 Experience the flexibility and convenience of traveling by car, with prices ranging from £95 to £150 for the trip from Edinburgh to Cardiff. Compare deals and choose the option that best fits your budget and preferences. 🌟 Arrive in vibrant Cardiff after approximately 6 hours and 39 minutes of driving, ready to explore the rich culture, historic sites, and lively atmosphere of the capital city of Wales. Your road trip promises to be a memorable adventure filled with new discoveries and unforgettable experiences.
Average price
£93 - £148
🌉 The picturesque journey will take approximately 6 hours and 27 minutes, offering stunning views along the way. Avanti West Coast operates the Edinburgh to Crewe leg, while Transport for Wales completes the final stretch to Cardiff Central station. 💸 Ticket prices for the train ride between Edinburgh and Cardiff range from £138 to £289, depending on the class and availability. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the scenic route as you make your way from historic Edinburgh to vibrant Cardiff by rail.
Departure Point
Edinburgh station
Arrival Point
Cardiff Central station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On your journey from Edinburgh to Cardiff, you'll likely be traveling with either LNER (London North Eastern Railway) or CrossCountry. Onboard services typically include a cafe car where you can purchase a variety of snacks, meals, and beverages, including local and seasonal options. LNER often offers complimentary refreshments in First Class, making it a pleasant choice for those seeking comfort.
• Both LNER and CrossCountry offer multiple seating options. In First Class, you'll enjoy wider seats with more legroom, complimentary food and drinks, and a quieter atmosphere. Economy class is more budget-friendly and has standard seating but still provides a comfortable ride. Make sure to check the operator's website for specific seating arrangements, as LNER provides a mix of reservations and non-reservable seats.
• Upon arriving at Cardiff Central Station, expect a busy environment as it's a major transport hub. The station provides luggage storage services for a fee, allowing you to explore Cardiff unencumbered. The restrooms are easily accessible, and while there are no showers available directly in the station, nearby hotels may offer day rates if you wish to freshen up. For navigating around, head straight for Bus Stand B for immediate access to city center routes.
🛫 Flying from Edinburgh Airport to Cardiff Airport is a convenient option, with the quickest direct flight taking only 1 hour and 15 minutes with Loganair. 🧳 Once you board the plane, you can sit back and relax for approximately 3 hours and 5 minutes before landing in Cardiff, ready to explore the Welsh capital. 💸 Prices for flights between Cardiff and Edinburgh can vary, typically ranging from £54 to £216, offering flexible options to suit different budgets.
Departure Point
Edinburgh Airport
Arrival Point
Cardiff Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider checking Loganair's schedule for early morning flights, as they usually experience less congestion and can provide a smoother travel experience from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
• Upon arrival at Cardiff Airport, look for the clearly marked information desk for assistance with local transportation; it's located near the exit and can help you find the best route into the city.
• Expect to pay approximately £30 to £40 for a taxi from Cardiff Airport to the city center; alternatively, you can take the T9 bus, which connects the airport to the city for around £5. For more about local transport options, visit Cardiff Airport Transport.
🚌 The total duration of the bus trip from Edinburgh to Cardiff is approximately 11 hours and 43 minutes. It offers a scenic route through parts of Scotland and Wales. 🚌 FlixBus operates the bus service, with prices typically ranging from £31 to £50 for a one-way ticket between the two cities. Arrival is at Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music station.
Departure Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Arrival Point
Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Ensure you check the transfer times at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station, as you may have to wait for your onward bus to Cardiff; you can find schedules and information at citylink.co.uk
• Bring snacks and entertainment for the long journey, as there may not be extensive dining options onboard; popular spots for grab-and-go snacks in Edinburgh include Marks & Spencer at the bus station and nearby cafes such as The Elephant House.
• Upon arrival at Cardiff Royal Welsh College of Music station, be prepared for a short walk to the main city center; use Google Maps or the Transport for Wales app to navigate public transport options such as buses or trains available from the station to your final destination.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

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The distance between Edinburgh and Cardiff is approximately 311 miles. By car, it would take around 6 hours and 39 minutes to travel from Edinburgh to Cardiff. Alternatively, taking the train from Edinburgh to Cardiff would take approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes. If you choose to fly from Edinburgh to Cardiff and then take a train, the total travel time would be around 4 hours and 25 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Edinburgh to Cardiff is by bus, with prices typically ranging from £39 to £63. However, this option is also the most time-consuming, with a journey time of 11 hours and 29 minutes. If time is of the essence, the quickest option is to fly from Edinburgh to Cardiff and then take a train, which typically takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes and costs £31 to £188. This option provides a balance between cost and efficiency.
When traveling from Edinburgh to Cardiff, the prices can vary depending on the mode of transportation. The train ticket prices range from £125 to £291, while the bus prices range from £42 to £62. It is advisable to check for any discounts or deals available at the time of travel to get the best value for money.
To travel from Edinburgh to Cardiff without using public transportation, the most convenient option would be to drive. The distance between the two cities is approximately 389 miles, and it takes about 6 hours and 39 minutes to complete the journey by car. However, it's important to consider the cost of fuel and tolls, as well as the availability of parking in Cardiff. The estimated prices for this journey range from £94 to £149, depending on factors such as vehicle type and fuel efficiency.
The best way to travel from Edinburgh to Cardiff without a car is by train. The journey takes around 6 hours and 29 minutes and includes a transfer at Crewe. The cost of the train ticket ranges from £125 to £298. By choosing this option, you can enjoy a comfortable and convenient journey while taking in the scenic views along the way.
No, there is no direct link between Edinburgh and Cardiff. The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by train, with a journey time of approximately 6 hours and 29 minutes, including transfers at Crewe. Alternatively, there is the option to fly from Edinburgh to Cardiff and then take a train, which takes around 4 hours and 25 minutes in total. If you prefer to drive, the distance is approximately 311 miles and the journey takes about 6 hours and 39 minutes. Buses are also available, but the travel time is longer, taking approximately 11 hours and 29 minutes.
The flight between Edinburgh and Cardiff typically takes around 1 hour and 15 minutes. The quickest flight is a direct flight from Edinburgh Airport to Bristol Airport. The cost of the flight can vary depending on the airline and time of booking, but typically it ranges from $100 to $200.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Cardiff. With over 1134 hotels to choose from, there is something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at £33, offering affordable options for travelers. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability and secure the best rates.

Trips from Edinburgh