Edinburgh to Cardiff bus with National Express

Thu, Nov 20
+ Add return
National Express
FlixBus
Megabus
Scottish Citylink
AirCoach
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National Express
FlixBus
Megabus
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Nov 20

Cheapest price

€55

Average price

€63

Fastest journey

13 h 50 m

Average duration

15 h 13 m

Buses per day

4

Distance

497 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Edinburgh to Cardiff will cost around €63 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €55.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Cardiff without transferring at least once.

National ExpressNX591 · NX509
10:35AM16h35
Edinburgh, Bus Station
03:10AMCardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
€551One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX591 · NX509
10:35AM16h30
Edinburgh, Bus Station
03:05AMCardiff, University
€551One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX594 · NX507
10:00PM13h50
Edinburgh, Bus Station
11:50AMCardiff, University
€711One-way
1 transfer
National ExpressNX594 · NX507
10:00PM13h55
Edinburgh, Bus Station
11:55AMCardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
€711One-way
1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Edinburgh to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €35. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €35, and a train costs an average of €97.

Distance: 497 km

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight

€62

Average price

Cheapest

€207

Average price

€186

Average price

12h 54m

Average total duration

12h 24m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

7h 11m

Average total duration

6h 41m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 19m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 19m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

0.5 - 1.2kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

Azul

Most popular airline

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Edinburgh to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cardiff buses for today, Wednesday, November 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 9:37 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX594 · NX50710:00 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station
14h05
12:05 PM Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)1 transfer
national_expressNX594 · NX50710:00 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station
14h00
12:00 PM Cardiff, University1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus10:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station
15h35
2:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus11:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station
15h40
3:20 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
Thursday, November 20
national_expressNX591 · NX50910:35 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station
16h35
3:10 AM Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)1 transfer
national_expressNX591 · NX50910:35 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station
16h30
3:05 AM Cardiff, University1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Cardiff by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, bus, and flight prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Edinburgh to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 12h 24m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €35 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 02:45, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 497 km distance in 11h 55m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Distance
497 km
Average bus duration
12h 24m
Cheapest ticket price
€35
Buses per day
7
Fastest bus
11h 55m
First bus
02:45
Last bus
23:40
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Scottish Citylink from Edinburgh to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus, Scottish Citylink for as low as €35. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Learn more about FlixBus
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 15m
Cheapest Price
€48
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Learn more about National Express
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 55m
Cheapest Price
€32
National Express frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
12h 5m
Cheapest Price
€35
Megabus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

Scottish Citylink

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
11h 31m
Cheapest Price
€48
Scottish Citylink frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Cardiff by bus. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Edinburgh to Cardiff can start from as little as €27 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Edinburgh to Cardiff is €59; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The coach time from Edinburgh to Cardiff is on average 12 h   for the 497 km long journey, but the time it takes to go from Edinburgh to Cardiff by coach can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff leaves at 07: 00. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff leaves at 23: 40.
There are 5 coaches a day from Edinburgh to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus or Scottish Citylink. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
Take the Edinburgh to Cardiff coach with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus or Scottish Citylink. However, it's always good to check out all possible coach companies for the route between Edinburgh and Cardiff as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
The cheapest month for a coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff is October.
You have options as you can travel between Edinburgh and Cardiff 3 different ways: train, coach or flight.
No, the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Edinburgh to Cardiff, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.

    • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
    No, luggage for the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Edinburgh to Cardiff.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Edinburgh to Cardiff

    Edinburgh
    Cardiff
    The major bus station for departures in Edinburgh is Edinburgh, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh, Bus Station for your trip from Edinburgh to Cardiff.
    Edinburgh, Bus StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Elder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 06:00-23:00
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Elder Street
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Café at the Station (in the station)
    • Sandwich Shop (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the main entrance.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Edinburgh, Bus Station
    • Bus: 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 25, 26, 44 Trams: T50 Trains: Edinburgh Waverley Station

    More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Cardiff

    Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

    Return journeys for buses from Cardiff to Edinburgh
    Trains from Edinburgh to Cardiff
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    Tickets and more information for coaches to Cardiff

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    HomeBusesBus tickets to CardiffEdinburgh to Cardiff bus

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