Manchester to Cardiff bus with Megabus

Sat, Dec 13
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Megabus
National Express
FlixBus
Transport for Wales
Alsa
1,000+ travel companies
Megabus
National Express
FlixBus
Transport for Wales
Alsa
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Dec 15

Cheapest price

€27

Average price

€30

Fastest journey

6 h

Average duration

7 h

Buses per day

5

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 €30 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €27.

Fast buses

Of the 5 buses that leave Manchester for Cardiff on Mon, Dec 15, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, Dec 15 the direct buses cover the 231 km distance in an average of 7 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h .

On Mon, Dec 15 the slowest buses will take 8 h and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

FlixBus
14:007h15
Manchester
21:15Cardiff
€271One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus
07:507h25
Manchester
15:15Cardiff
€281One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus
17:206h00
Manchester
23:20Cardiff
€291One-way
0 transfers
FlixBus
17:006h20
Manchester
23:20Cardiff
€311One-way
0 transfers
National Express
16:459h10
Manchester
01:55Cardiff
€321One-way
0 transfers

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
Megabus

Most popular bus company

Transport for Wales

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, Sunday, December 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 9:05 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_expressNX540 · NX509
Delayed
7:15 PM 5:40 AMManchester, Coach Station
9h30
3:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus8:50 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h40
3:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus9:10 AM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
6h20
3:30 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
national_expressNX120 · NX112
On time
10:00 AM Manchester, Coach Station
6h05
4:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
national_expressNX121 · NX111
On time
11:30 AM Manchester, Coach Station
6h05
5:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus11:40 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h55
6:35 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus12:00 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
6h35
6:35 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
national_expressNX120 · NX111
On time
1:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station
5h40
7:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
national_expressNX121 · NX111
On time
2:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station
5h40
8:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus3:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
7h15
10:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus3:20 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
6h55
10:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
national_expressNX120 · NX100 · NX202
On time
4:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h50
12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		2 transfers
national_expressNX120 · NX100 · NX202
On time
4:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h50
12:50 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		2 transfers
national_expressNX540 · NX509
Delayed
7:15 PM 4:45 PMManchester, Coach Station
9h10
1:55 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
national_expressNX540 · NX509
Delayed
7:15 PM 5:45 PMManchester, Coach Station
9h10
2:55 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus6:00 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
6h20
12:20 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
meinfernbus_flixbusFlixBus · FlixBus6:20 PM Manchester, Princess Road / Moss Lane East
6h00
12:20 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 transfer
national_expressNX540 · NX509
On time
7:15 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h30
3:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		1 transfer
national_expressNX120 · NX100 · NX216
On time
9:45 PM Manchester, Coach Station
8h00
5:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		2 transfers
national_expressNX424 · NX100 · NX201
On time
11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station
11h05
11:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens		2 transfers

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.

Mon
Dec 15
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Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

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.
Learn more about FlixBus

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.
Learn more about National Express

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.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Manchester to Cardiff can start from as little as €13 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Manchester to Cardiff is €30; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The coach time between Manchester and Cardiff is on average 5 h 15 min   for the 231 km long journey, but the time it takes to go from Manchester to Cardiff by coach can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first coach from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 08: 30. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last coach from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 23: 40.
Yes, there are 8 direct coaches a day from Manchester to Cardiff with Megabus or Transport for Wales. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct coaches.
Take the Manchester to Cardiff coach with Megabus, National Express, FlixBus or Transport for Wales. However, it's always good to check out all possible coach companies for the journey from Manchester to Cardiff as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.

When departing from Manchester, you have various coach station options to start your journey from including Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, Manchester, Airport and Manchester, Shudehill / Bradshaw Street. When arriving in Cardiff, you can end your route in coach stations like Cardiff, University and Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).

Passengers board the coach most frequently from Manchester, Shudehill Interchange, which is located around 0.5 miles (833 m) away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Cardiff, University, located 1.1 miles (1.8 km) away from the city centre.

The cheapest month for a coach from Manchester to Cardiff is September.
You have options as you can travel from Manchester to Cardiff 2 different ways: train or coach.
No, the coach from Manchester to Cardiff has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Manchester 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 Manchester to Cardiff.
    No, luggage for the coach from Manchester to Cardiff needs to be booked in addition.
    No, there are no additional luggage options for the coach from Manchester to Cardiff.
    Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Manchester to Cardiff.
    No, there are no USB plugs on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff.
    No, there is no WiFi on board the coach from Manchester to Cardiff.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Manchester to Cardiff

    Manchester
    Cardiff
    The major bus station for departures in Manchester is Manchester, Shudehill Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff.
    Manchester, Shudehill InterchangeWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Shudehill Interchange, Manchester M4 2AF, United Kingdom
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 05:00-23:30
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Shudehill
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the interchange.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Manchester, Shudehill Interchange
    • Bus: 42, 43, 135 Tram: Metrolink
    Manchester, Coach StationWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Chorlton St, Manchester M1 3JF, United Kingdom
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 06:00-22:00
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Chorlton Street
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Café at the Station (in the station)
    • Fast Food Express (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the main entrance.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Ramps, assistance
    WC
    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, AirportWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    ShowerShower
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    address
    Address
    Manchester Airport, Manchester M90 3RR, United Kingdom
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 00:00-23:59
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    2 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Terminal Road North
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Burger King (in the station)
    • Giraffe (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the terminal, with several companies offering services.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps, assistance
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Manchester, Airport
    • Bus: 43, 103 Train: Manchester Airport

    More options for your journey from Manchester to Cardiff

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

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    HomeBusesBus tickets to CardiffManchester to Cardiff bus

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