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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Liverpool
Showing times and prices for Jan 04
Cheapest price
€66
Average price
€103
Fastest journey
3 h 33 m
Average duration
3 h 54 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
215 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Liverpool will cost around €103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €66.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Liverpool without transferring at least once.
L64779 · L64268+
S1502908:42AM4h26
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:08PMLiverpool James Street (LVJ)
€661One-way
2 transfers
L64808+
W0526011:40AM3h38
Cardiff Central (CDF)03:18PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€731One-way
1 transfer
L64779+
W0266708:42AM3h36
Cardiff Central (CDF)12:18PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€1201One-way
1 transfer
L64804+W0266409:45AM3h33
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:18PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€1201One-way
1 transfer
L64806+W0265610:43AM4h22
Cardiff Central (CDF)03:05PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€1201One-way
1 transfer
L64804+W0266409:45AM3h33
Cardiff Central (CDF)01:18PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€1201One-way
1 transfer
L64779+W0266708:42AM3h36
Cardiff Central (CDF)12:18PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€1201One-way
1 transfer
L64808+W0526011:40AM3h38
Cardiff Central (CDF)03:18PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€731One-way
1 transfer
C74971+W01945 · W0265311:45AM4h19
Cardiff Central (CDF)04:04PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€1201One-way
2 transfers
L64806+W0265610:43AM4h22
Cardiff Central (CDF)03:05PMLiverpool Lime Street (LIV)
€1201One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Liverpool
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Liverpool among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 35m. 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 €16, and a train costs an average of €50.
Distance: 215 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€75 Average price | €33 Average price Cheapest |
4h 5m Average total duration Fastest 3h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 44m Average total duration 7h 14m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to Liverpool train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Liverpool trains for today, Saturday, January 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 1:13 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 3:17 PM Cardiff | 3h52 | 7:09 PM Liverpool | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, January 4 | |||||
| L64779+W02667 | On time 8:42 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h36 | 12:18 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
| L64779 · L64268+S15029 | On time 8:42 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h26 | 1:08 PM Liverpool James Street (LVJ) | 2 transfers | |
| L64804+W02664 | On time 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h33 | 1:18 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
| L64806+W02656 | On time 10:43 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h22 | 3:05 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
| L64808+W05260 | On time 11:40 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h38 | 3:18 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 1 transfer | |
| C74971+W01945 · W02653 | On time 11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 4h19 | 4:04 PM Liverpool Lime Street (LIV) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Liverpool 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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Jan 03
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Liverpool?
The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Liverpool is 3 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Liverpool route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Liverpool per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Trains
from €72Buses
from €16Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Liverpool
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool run on average 8 times per day, taking around 3h 35m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €50 but you can travel from only €16 by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 23:43. The fastest train covers the 215 km distance in 3h 37m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €16
Distance 215 km |
Average train duration 3h 35m |
Cheapest ticket price €50 |
Trains per day 8 |
Fastest train 3h 37m |
First train 04:08 |
Last train 23:43 |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from €16
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Liverpool trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Liverpool from €16. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
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 31m
Cheapest Price
€52
Transport for Wales frequency
5 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 train
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
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 38m
Cheapest Price
€58
CrossCountry frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
West Midlands Trains
About
West Midlands Trains is a train operator based in the United Kingdom, providing services across the West Midlands region. It operates a variety of train types, including the Class 350 Desiro, Class 323 Electrostar, Class 170 Turbostar, and Class 172 Turbostar. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and air conditioning. Passengers can purchase a range of tickets, including single, return, and season tickets. The most popular routes operated by West Midlands Trains include Birmingham to London Euston, Birmingham to Wolverhampton, and Birmingham to Coventry.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 55m
Cheapest Price
€122
West Midlands Trains frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, under seats, and designated luggage areas
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for an additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs require a ticket at 50% of adult fare. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone
Cross Country
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 57m
Cross Country frequency
8 a day
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 48m
first_great_western frequency
4 a day
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Liverpool
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Liverpool by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Liverpool, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff to Liverpool can start from as little as €29 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cardiff to Liverpool is €68; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Cardiff to Liverpool train time is 3 h 38 min covering the 215 km long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cardiff to Liverpool leaves at 02: 35. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Cardiff to Liverpool leaves at 21: 15.
There are 7 trains a day from Cardiff to Liverpool which require at least one change with Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains or first_great_western. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer trains.
For the route from Cardiff to Liverpool you can take a train with Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, West Midlands Trains or first_great_western. Be sure to check out all possible train companies that offer services between Cardiff and Liverpool on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 21: 15.
A trip to Liverpool from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3 h 38 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Cardiff to Liverpool by train is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel from Cardiff to Liverpool including taking a train or coach.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Liverpool
Cardiff
Liverpool
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Liverpool.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Cathays
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
Cardiff Queen Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Hotel
- Travelodge
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cardiff Queen Street
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
The major train station for arrivals in Liverpool is Liverpool Lime Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Liverpool Lime Street for your journey to Liverpool from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
LockersShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38
- Sun: 07:15 - 23:05
Wifi
- Free public Wi-Fi available.
Lockers
- The Excess Baggage Co. lockers and staffed luggage storage counter are located in the main concourse near the escalators across from Platform 6. Open daily 08:00 to 21:00.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Various retail establishments including Photo Booths to purchase items whilst in the station
Parking
- Car Park: Short stay car park located on Skelhorne Street & Long Stay Car Park located on Lord Nelson Street
Dining
- Caffè Nero
- Costa Coffee
- Upper Crust
- Starbucks
- JD Wetherspoon
Taxis
- Taxi: The station taxi rank is located at Skelhorne Street side of the station. There are two customer help points located for passengers requiring assistance.
- Accessible taxis: Accessible taxis at Liverpool Lime Street station can be provided at the taxi rank. If you require a private accessible taxi please locate a member of the station staff and they will provide you with a local taxi firm company number.
Accessibility
- Full wheelchair access throughout the station, with help points at the Skelhorne Street entrance and at customer information desk in the main concourse.
WC
- Toilets Location: Male and Female toilets located on the station concourse by Lord Nelson street entrance
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key (RADAR) toilet is located next to the Male and Female toilets by the Lord Nelson Street entrance. If you do not have a key please locate a member of staff and they will provide you with one.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Hotel
- Pembroke Studios
- Riley’s Rooms
- Holiday Inn Liverpool City Center
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Located on main concourse
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:38
- Sun: 07:15 - 23:05
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Alongside station entrance
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Located in the main concourse.
Public transit options for Liverpool Lime Street
- Suburban train lines: Wirral Line (green)
- Bus lines: 9, 10, 61, 82, 79, 86C, 500
- Train lines: Northern, West Midlands, TransPennine Express, East Midlands, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, London Northwestern
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Rail replacement services depart at the Bus stop on Skelhorne Street, near the Tesco Express. L3 5GA.
Liverpool James Street
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: News agent
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform”The Ticket Office is step free via James Street only and platforms can be accessed via lifts
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: N/A
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Liverpool James Street
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: James Street Station, James Street, Liverpool
Liverpool Central
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 05:25 - 00:16 Sunday 07:45 - 00:16 Station staffing times may vary, please visit Merseyrail.org for up-to-date times.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Shoe repairer Wide range of shops Convenience store Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A: “This station has step free access to all platforms / the platform” All platforms can be accessed via lift
- Accessible ticket machines: There are no accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Station Concourse. The National key toilets are located next to the public toilets on the Station Concourse; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Next to Mail entrance
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 0151 555 1111
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Liverpool Central
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: 32 Great Charlotte Street, Liverpool 1
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Liverpool
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Liverpool and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Liverpool
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