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Cardiff, South Glamorgan to Birmingham, West Midlands from $8: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Cardiff, United Kingdom
to
Birmingham, United Kingdom

How to Get from Cardiff to Birmingham: 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.

$8 RideshareBest price
143.2 kmDistance
1h 55m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff to Birmingham 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
CrossCountry
Train
Average Duration
2h 
Estimated price
$65-180
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  26m
Estimated price
$8-18
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 143.2 km
Duration: 1h 55m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$16-23
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  55m
Estimated price
$35-55
Company
Various
Train
Average Duration
3h  17m
Estimated price
$65-180

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $17 $13 $10 $13 $13 $16 $14
Train $61 $40 $17 $35 $35 $60 $54
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Traveling From Cardiff to Birmingham

The journey from Cardiff to Birmingham offers a fascinating contrast, with Cardiff showcasing its vibrant Welsh culture and historic waterfront, while Birmingham impresses with its bustling city life and rich industrial heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Birmingham

Birmingham boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering its own character and charm.

Jewellery Quarter
• Home to over 100 jewelry shops
• Rich history in gold and silver craftsmanship
Birmingham City Centre
• Bustling shopping and dining options
• Iconic landmarks like the Bullring and Library
Digbeth
• Known for its vibrant street art scene
• Trendy cafes and independent shops

Best Times To Visit Birmingham's Attractions

Visiting Birmingham? Timing your trips to attractions can enhance your experience.

Birmingham Museum and Art Gallery
Visit early weekdays to enjoy quieter galleries and special exhibits.
Cadbury World
Go in the afternoons during weekdays for shorter wait times.
Library of Birmingham
Visit early mornings or late afternoons to soak in the peaceful atmosphere.

Birmingham Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Birmingham experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, making it suitable for year-round visits. Optimal times to explore are late spring and early autumn, when the weather is generally pleasant, contributing to a more enjoyable travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Birmingham

Consider trying a classic Birmingham dish, the Balti, which reflects the city's rich South Asian influences that differ from Cardiff's more traditional Welsh fare. Dining in Birmingham often gives you a vibrant atmosphere paired with bold flavors and fresh, local ingredients that create a distinct culinary experience.

Cardiff - Birmingham operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
2h
Estimated price
$65-180
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales/

Train from Cardiff Central to Hereford

Average Duration
1h 2m
Estimated price
$24-40
Contact phone
+44 333 311 0039
Website
https://www.westmidlandsrailway.co.uk/

Train from Hereford to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
1h 27m
Estimated price
0-0
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Cardiff University Park Place to Birmingham Brunel Street

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$16-23
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.co.uk/

Other from Cardiff to Birmingham

Average Duration
2h 26m
Estimated price
$8-18

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

Traveling between Cardiff and Birmingham 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 Birmingham, spanning a driving distance of 108 miles. Enjoy the smooth drive that takes approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes, showcasing the beauty of the British landscapes along the way. 💰 Explore budget-friendly travel options with prices ranging from £28 to £43 for a car trip from Cardiff to Birmingham. Whether you're a solo traveler or tagging along with friends, this cost-effective mode of transportation offers convenience and flexibility for your adventure.
Average price
£27 - £43
🕒 The approximate duration of the train journey is 2 hours, making it a relatively quick trip for travelers looking to reach Birmingham from Cardiff. The route offers a comfortable and scenic ride through the British countryside. 💷 Ticket prices for the Cardiff to Birmingham train vary depending on factors such as class of travel and time of booking, with fares ranging from £51 to £142. Passengers can enjoy a hassle-free and cost-effective journey on this popular rail route.
Departure Point
Cardiff Central station
Arrival Point
Birmingham New Street station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On trains operated by Transport for Wales and Avanti West Coast, you can expect catering services that include a selection of snacks, beverages, and meals available for purchase at your seat. Avanti West Coast offers an onboard dining service with a menu that includes alcoholic beverages, while Transport for Wales may provide light snacks and drinks via a trolley service. Check their official websites for the latest offerings before your trip.
• You have several seating options on this route: First Class, Business Class, and Standard Class. Avanti West Coast provides a more premium experience in First Class with spacious seats, complimentary refreshments, and power sockets. In contrast, Transport for Wales has Standard Class that allows you to choose between standard seats and more spacious options depending on the train you take. Booking ahead for First Class can enhance your travel experience, especially during peak times.
• For your journey from Cardiff to Birmingham, the main train operators are Transport for Wales (tfw.wales) and Avanti West Coast (avantiwestcoast.co.uk). Make sure to check both websites for real-time schedules, seating availability, and any potential discounts. Additionally, for navigating Birmingham, explore local resources at (birmingham.gov.uk) for transport alternatives upon arrival.
🚌 The direct bus journey from Cardiff to Birmingham takes approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. Services depart twice daily, providing a convenient option for travelers looking to explore both cities. 🚌 Travelers can expect to enjoy a scenic journey through the English countryside while heading from Cardiff to Birmingham. With affordable ticket prices ranging from £13 to £18, taking the bus is a budget-friendly way to travel between these two vibrant destinations.
Departure Point
Cardiff University Park Place station
Arrival Point
Birmingham Brunel Street station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cardiff to Birmingham.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Cardiff and Birmingham is 89 miles or 108.2 miles by road. If you choose to travel by train, it takes approximately 2 hours to reach Birmingham from Cardiff. By car, the typical travel time is about 1 hour and 55 minutes from Birmingham to Cardiff, while the bus journey takes around 3 hours and 10 minutes to reach Birmingham from Cardiff. These are approximate times and travel durations may vary depending on traffic conditions and other factors.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Cardiff to Birmingham is to rideshare, which costs between £6-£13 and takes approximately 2 hours and 26 minutes. This option allows you to share a ride with other passengers, reducing the overall cost. However, if time efficiency is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking 1 hour and 55 minutes. Although it may be more expensive, driving provides the convenience of direct travel and flexibility along the way.
The prices of a train ticket between Cardiff and Birmingham can range from £51 to £141, depending on factors such as the class of service and availability. On the other hand, the prices of a bus ticket between Birmingham and Cardiff typically range from £15 to £21. It is recommended to book in advance and compare prices to get the best deal for your preferred mode of transportation.
To get from Cardiff to Birmingham without using public transportation, you can consider using BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This is a great option if you don't have a driver's license or want to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Cardiff and Birmingham is 108 miles, and it takes approximately 1 hour and 55 minutes to drive. The prices for carpooling services from Cardiff to Birmingham can vary from £27 to £43.
The best way to travel from Cardiff to Birmingham without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and the ticket price ranges from £51 to £141. There are regular train services between the two cities, making it a convenient and efficient mode of transportation.
Yes, there is a direct link between Cardiff and Birmingham. You can take a train from Cardiff Central to Birmingham New Street, which operates hourly and takes approximately 2 hours. Alternatively, there is a bus service available from Cardiff University Park Place to Birmingham Brunel Street, which departs four times a day and takes approximately 3 hours and 10 minutes. Both options provide direct and convenient transportation between the two cities.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Birmingham. With over 1554 hotels to choose from, you can find something to suit every budget and preference. Prices start at £31 per night, offering affordable options for travelers. Whether you prefer luxury hotels, budget-friendly hostels, or cozy bed and breakfasts, you'll be able to find a suitable place to stay near Birmingham.

Trips to Birmingham