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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jan 29
Cheapest price
€21
Average price
€32
Fastest journey
6 h 10 m
Average duration
6 h 26 m
Buses per day
19
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Cardiff will cost around €32 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €21.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus01:10PM7h10
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange08:20PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
€211One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus12:05PM7h40
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East07:45PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
€211One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus03:25PM6h50
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East10:15PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
€211One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus06:35PM7h30
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East02:05AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
€211One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus03:00PM7h15
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange10:15PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
€211One-way
1 transfer
NX120 · NX11208:30AM6h10
Manchester, Coach Station02:40PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
€331One-way
1 transfer
NX590 · NX11102:00PM6h10
Manchester, Coach Station08:10PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
€491One-way
1 transfer
NX121 · NX11111:30AM6h30
Manchester, Coach Station06:00PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
€361One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus08:55AM6h35
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East03:30PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
€221One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus01:35PM6h45
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East08:20PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
€211One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Manchester to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 27m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €15, and a train costs an average of €39.
Distance: 231 km
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€29 Average price Cheapest | €74 Average price |
6h 7m Average total duration 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.6kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
 Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Manchester to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cardiff buses for today, Wednesday, January 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 3:45 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX120 · NX100 · NX216 | 9:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h00 | 5:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| Thursday, January 29 | |||||
| NX181 · NX101 · NX202 | 4:15 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h50 | 12:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:30 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 7h00 | 3:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX120 · NX112 | Delayed 11:15 AM 8:30 AMManchester, Coach Station | 6h10 | 2:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:55 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 6h35 | 3:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX121 · NX111 | Delayed 2:30 PM 11:30 AMManchester, Coach Station | 6h30 | 6:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:40 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 8h05 | 7:45 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:05 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 7h40 | 7:45 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 7h10 | 8:20 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:35 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 6h45 | 8:20 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX590 · NX111 | 2:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 6h10 | 8:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 7h15 | 10:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:25 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East | 6h50 | 10:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX120 · NX100 · NX202 | On time 3:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h05 | 12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| NX120 · NX100 · NX202 | On time 3:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h05 | 12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
| NX540 · NX509 | On time 5:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h30 | 3:15 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX120 · NX100 · NX216 | On time 9:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h00 | 5:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Cardiff by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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 Manchester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Manchester to Cardiff run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 37m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €15 if you book in advance.
There are 2 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 231 km distance in 6h 0m.
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 231 km |
Average bus duration 5h 37m |
Cheapest ticket price €15 |
Buses per day 16 |
Direct buses 2 |
Fastest bus 6h 0m |
First bus 00:05 |
Last bus 23:55 |
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: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales from Manchester to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Manchester to Cardiff with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales for as low as €15. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Transport for Wales
About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 3m
Cheapest Price
€48
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
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.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 0m
Cheapest Price
€16
FlixBus frequency
5 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.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
5h 50m
Cheapest Price
€22
Megabus frequency
6 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.
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.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
5h 35m
Cheapest Price
€24
National Express frequency
10 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.
FAQs: Bus from Manchester to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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.
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Cardiff can start from as little as €15 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Cardiff is €29; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Manchester to Cardiff is 6h 0m to travel the 231 km long trip. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 12:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 2 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Cardiff with Megabus, Transport for Wales. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
When taking a coach from Manchester to Cardiff, you can count on Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Manchester and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 0m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Manchester to Cardiff is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Manchester and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Manchester to Cardiff:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff for coach company Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Manchester to Cardiff depends on the coach companies:
- Megabus
- 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.
- National Express
- 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.
- FlixBus
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Cardiff:
- Megabus
- 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).
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Manchester to Cardiff:
- Megabus
- 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.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Manchester to Cardiff. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
- Transport for Wales
- Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Manchester to Cardiff with the following coach company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff with the following coach company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff with the following coach company: Megabus, National Express, FlixBus, Transport for Wales.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Manchester to Cardiff
Manchester
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Coach Station for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff.
Manchester, Coach Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Chorlton StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Fast Food Express (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps, assistance
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Coach Station
- Bus: 50, 192, 201, 203, 205, 219, 255, 256 Train: Manchester Piccadilly Metro: Piccadilly Gardens
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:30
Car connection
ShudehillWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Taxis
- Available outside the interchange.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
- Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip to Cardiff from Manchester.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, University
information
More options for your journey from Manchester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Manchester
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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