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Liverpool, Merseyside to Cardiff, South Glamorgan from $32: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Liverpool, United Kingdom
to
Cardiff, United Kingdom

How to Get from Liverpool 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.

$32 by busBest price
216.9 kmDistance
3h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Liverpool 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
Train
Average Duration
3h  55m
Estimated price
$77-175
Recommended
Company
FlixBus, Megabus
Bus
Average Duration
6h  44m
Estimated price
$32-45
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 216.9 km
Duration: 3h 21m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
easyJet, various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
6h  6m
Estimated price
$61-300
Company
N/A
Drive
Average Duration
3h  21m
Estimated price
$65-95
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  46m
Estimated price
$71-108

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $23 $20 $26 $23 $25 $25 $26
Train $54 $54 $87 $57 $52 $55 $57

Traveling From Liverpool to Cardiff

The journey from Liverpool to Cardiff presents an exciting contrast between Liverpool's vibrant cultural scene and Cardiff's rich history and picturesque landscape.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

Cardiff boasts diverse neighborhoods each offering distinct experiences for visitors.

Cardiff Bay
• Waterfront dining and entertainment options abound.
• Home to the iconic Wales Millennium Centre.
Roath
• Known for its beautiful parks and lakes.
• Vibrant arts scene with numerous galleries and studios.
Llandaff
• Features the stunning Llandaff Cathedral.
• Quaint village atmosphere with charming boutiques.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits can significantly enhance your experience in Cardiff.

Cardiff Castle
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Cardiff Bay
Weekday afternoons provide a more relaxed atmosphere and fewer tourists.
National Museum Cardiff
Try visiting on a Thursday evening when admission is often quieter.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and cool summers, making it accessible year-round. Planning your visit during late spring or early autumn can enhance your experience, as you’ll enjoy more pleasant temperatures and fewer rain showers.

Dining Recommendation in Cardiff

A visit to Cardiff isn't complete without trying the iconic Welsh dish, cawl, a flavorful lamb and vegetable stew that showcases local ingredients. The cozy, traditional pubs in Cardiff provide a rustic dining atmosphere that contrasts beautifully with Liverpool's bustling waterfront eateries, inviting you to savor the essence of Welsh cuisine.

Liverpool - Cardiff operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/

Train from Liverpool Lime Street to Crewe

Average Duration
38m
Estimated price
$16-80

Train from Crewe to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
$60-95
Contact phone
+44 333 311 0039
Website
https://www.westmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

Train from Liverpool Lime Street to Crewe

Average Duration
44m
Estimated price
0-0
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales/

Train from Crewe to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
2h 32m
Estimated price
$60-95

Train from Chester to Cardiff Central

Average Duration
3h 1m
Estimated price
$65-100
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Liverpool to Birmingham Summer Row- Great Charles Street

Average Duration
2h 10m
Estimated price
$15-22
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Birmingham Brunel Street to Cardiff North Road

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$16-24
Plane Show flights
Website
easyjet.com

Plane from Liverpool (LPL) to Bristol (BRS)

Average Duration
3h 1m
Estimated price
$85-300
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Liverpool (LPL) to Bristol (BRS)

Average Duration
3h 5m
Estimated price
$35-300
Website
aerlingus.com

Plane from Liverpool (LPL) to Bristol (BRS)

Average Duration
5h 50m
Estimated price
$190-600

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

Traveling between Liverpool 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 journey from Liverpool to Cardiff, covering a distance of 200 miles by car. The approximately 3 hours and 21 minutes drive promises picturesque views and smooth roads. 💷 The prices for this road trip adventure from Liverpool to Cardiff range from £51 to £75, offering budget-friendly options for travelers looking to explore the stunning Welsh capital by car.
Average price
£50 - £74
🚆 If you're looking to travel from Liverpool to Cardiff by train, there is no direct route available. Instead, you can take a service departing from Liverpool Lime Street and arriving at Cardiff Central via Crewe. The journey, with transfers, typically takes around 3 hours and 55 minutes. 🎟️ Liverpool to Cardiff train services are operated by Avanti West Coast for the departure leg from Liverpool Lime Street station. On the arrival end, Transport for Wales operates the train services into Cardiff Central station. The price range for a train ticket between Liverpool and Cardiff can vary between £61 to £138.
Departure Point
Liverpool Lime Street station
Arrival Point
Cardiff Central station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train trip include a catering service offering a variety of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages. If you are traveling with Transport for Wales, which operates many services between Liverpool and Cardiff, you can enjoy a selection of complimentary refreshments in First Class, keeping your journey comfortable and convenient.
• For seating options, the operators on this route generally provide two classes: First Class and Standard (Economy). First Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary newspapers, and a quieter environment, making it ideal for business travelers or those seeking extra comfort. Standard class is perfectly adequate for most travelers, with comfortable seating and power outlets available on many trains. Check both Transport for Wales (tfw.wales) and Avanti West Coast (avantiwestcoast.co.uk) for detailed seating layouts and booking options.
• Upon arriving at Cardiff Central Station, expect easy access to local transport options. You can leave luggage at the station's left luggage facility, which is particularly useful if you want to explore the city before checking into your accommodation. Additionally, there are restrooms available. To get to Cardiff city center quickly, the easiest option is to take the Cardiff Metro. The most frequent service is the 'Cardiff Bay' line that departs directly from Cardiff Central Station. Alternatively, buses like the number 6 can take you to various parts of the city center swiftly.
🛫 Traveling from Liverpool to Cardiff by plane involves taking a flight with a stopover in Bristol. The quickest flights typically take about 2 hours and 50 minutes in total.
Departure Point
Liverpool Airport
Arrival Point
Bristol Airport. The quickest flight takes 2h 50m and has one stopover
🚌 Despite there not being a direct bus from Liverpool to Cardiff, travelers can still embark on this journey with services that depart from Liverpool and arrive at Cardiff North Road via Birmingham Brunel Street. The total travel time, including transfers, is estimated to be around 6 hours and 44 minutes. 🚌 Travelers should budget varying prices for their bus ticket between Cardiff and Liverpool, with costs typically ranging from £25 to £36 for this approximately 6-hour and 44-minute journey. Planning ahead and booking early can help secure the best fares for this bus route.
Departure Point
Liverpool station
Arrival Point
Cardiff North Road station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your bus in advance with operators such as FlixBus and Megabus UK to secure the best fares, which typically range between £24 and £34; you can check fares and book your tickets through their websites: FlixBus and Megabus.
• Since there is no direct bus service, prepare for the transfer at Birmingham Brunel Street; allow time to navigate the bus stop and check departure boards to locate your connecting bus to Cardiff.
• Upon arriving at Cardiff North Road station, expect a bustling environment; take a moment to grab a city map from the information desk and consider exploring nearby attractions like Cardiff Castle, which is just a 15-minute walk away.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Liverpool to Cardiff.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Liverpool and Cardiff is approximately 134 miles by air, but the road distance is slightly longer at 200.9 miles. Traveling by train is the fastest option, taking about 4 hours and 3 minutes. It is also possible to fly to Bristol and then take a train, which takes about 6 hours and 13 minutes. Driving by car takes around 3 hours and 23 minutes, while taking a bus can take up to 6 hours and 54 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Liverpool to Cardiff is by bus, with fares ranging from £24 to £39. However, this option also takes the longest time, approximately 6 hours and 54 minutes. If you are looking for a quicker option, driving is the best choice, with a travel time of 3 hours and 23 minutes. However, keep in mind that driving will incur additional costs for fuel and tolls, with prices ranging from £51 to £75.
The prices for a train journey between Liverpool and Cardiff can range from £50 to £147. On the other hand, the prices for a bus trip between Cardiff and Liverpool can vary from £27 to £38. It is advisable to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deals for your travel between these two cities.
To travel from Liverpool to Cardiff without using public transportation, you can drive the 201-mile distance, which takes approximately 3 hours and 23 minutes. The road trip offers the flexibility to make stops along the way and enjoy the scenic route. Depending on factors such as fuel consumption and toll fees, prices for car travel can range from £51 to £75.
The best way to travel from Liverpool to Cardiff without a car is by train, which takes approximately 4 hours and 3 minutes. The train ticket prices typically range from £47 to £150. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a bus, which takes around 6 hours and 54 minutes and costs between £24 and £39. Another option is taking a flight, which takes approximately 6 hours and 48 minutes and costs between £28 and £283.
There is no direct train or bus link between Liverpool and Cardiff. To travel by train, you would need to take a London Northwestern Railway service from Liverpool Lime Street to Crewe, and then transfer to another train to Cardiff Central. This journey takes approximately 4 hours and 3 minutes. If you prefer to travel by bus, you would need to take a FlixBus service from Liverpool to Birmingham Brunel Street, and then transfer to another bus to Cardiff North Road. This journey takes approximately 6 hours and 54 minutes.
The flight duration between Liverpool and Cardiff can vary depending on the number of stopovers. The quickest flight with one stopover takes approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes. The cost of a flight between Cardiff and Liverpool can range from £31 to £279, depending on the airline and timing of the booking. It is important to compare prices and consider the duration of the flight when planning a trip between these cities.
There are numerous options for accommodation near Cardiff with over 1134 available hotels. Prices for these hotels start at £33. Travelers can choose from a variety of options depending on their preferences and budget. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best deals and availability.

Trips from Liverpool