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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Swansea
Showing times and prices for Dec 19
Cheapest price
€8
Average price
€11
Fastest journey
51 m
Average duration
57 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
55 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Swansea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Swansea will cost around €11 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €8.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Cardiff for Swansea on Fri, Dec 19, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Dec 19 the direct trains cover the 55 km distance in an average of 57 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 51 m .
On Fri, Dec 19 the slowest trains will take 1 h 8 m 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.
L6411516:060h59
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:05Swansea station (SWA)
€81One-way
0 transfers
L6505916:511h08
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:59Swansea station (SWA)
€81One-way
0 transfers
L6473016:470h55
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:42Swansea station (SWA)
€81One-way
0 transfers
L6504915:431h15
Cardiff Central (CDF)16:58Swansea station (SWA)
€81One-way
0 transfers
P2263216:390h51
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:30Swansea station (SWA)
€171One-way
0 transfers
P2263216:390h51
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:30Swansea station (SWA)
€171One-way
0 transfers
P2263015:380h51
Cardiff Central (CDF)16:29Swansea station (SWA)
€171One-way
0 transfers
L6473016:470h55
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:42Swansea station (SWA)
€81One-way
0 transfers
L6411516:060h59
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:05Swansea station (SWA)
€81One-way
0 transfers
L6505916:511h08
Cardiff Central (CDF)17:59Swansea station (SWA)
€81One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Swansea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Swansea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €5, and a train costs an average of €3.
Distance: 55 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€8 Average price | €7 Average price Cheapest |
1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 45m Average total duration 1h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.1kg 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 Swansea train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Swansea trains for today, Thursday, December 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 12:24 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| P22651 | On time 8:08 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h54 | 9:02 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P22616 | On time 8:42 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 9:32 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L64714 | On time 8:47 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h54 | 9:41 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L65011 | On time 8:51 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h14 | 10:05 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| P22618 | On time 9:38 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 10:29 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L64103 | On time 10:06 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h56 | 11:02 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Swansea 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.
Fri
Dec 19
Dec 19
Sat
Dec 20
Dec 20
Sun
Dec 21
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Dec 25
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Swansea?
The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Swansea is 6 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Swansea route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Swansea 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 Swansea.
Trains
from €8Buses
from €5Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Swansea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Swansea run on average 7 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at €3 if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 51m.
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 55 km |
Average train duration 57m |
Cheapest ticket price €3 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 51m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
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
Train companies: Great Western Rail, Transport for Wales, first_great_western from Cardiff to Swansea trainsGreat Western Rail, Transport for Wales, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Swansea from €3. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
51m
Cheapest Price
€6
Great Western Rail frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
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
52m
Cheapest Price
€5
Transport for Wales frequency
4 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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
50m
Cheapest Price
€45
first_great_western frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Swansea
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Swansea 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 Swansea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Cardiff to Swansea can start from as little as €2 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Cardiff to Swansea is €6; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The train time between Cardiff and Swansea is on average 51 min for the 55 km long journey, but the time it takes to go between Cardiff and Swansea by train can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Cardiff to Swansea leaves at 00: 01. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Cardiff to Swansea leaves at 23: 58.
Yes, there are 8 direct trains a day from Cardiff to Swansea with Great Western Rail, Transport for Wales or first_great_western. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
Take the Cardiff to Swansea train with Great Western Rail, Transport for Wales or first_great_western. However, it's always good to check out all possible train companies for the trip between Cardiff and Swansea as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
No, there are no night trains, the latest train for this route is 23: 58.
Passengers board the train most frequently from Cardiff Central, which is located around 1.1 miles (1.8 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Swansea, located 1.4 miles (2.2 km) away from the city centre.
A day trip to Swansea from Cardiff is worth doing with a journey time of 51 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a train from Cardiff to Swansea is April.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Swansea including taking a train or coach.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Swansea
Cardiff
Swansea
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 Swansea.
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 Swansea is Swansea. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Swansea for your journey to Swansea from Cardiff.
Swansea
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 20:00 Saturday 06:15 - 20:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:00 Tickets requiring reservations: Mon-Sat 0910-1845
Parking
- Car Park: Mariners Road (until 30 April 2019). Thereafter please use the top level of Ivy Street (High Street) multistorey car park.
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A. Step free access to all platforms.
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided
- Accessible public telephones: on concourse
- Accessible ticket machines: There are 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 Platform 1. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: On Platform 1
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Swansea
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on High Street outside the station
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Swansea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Swansea and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Swansea
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