Cardiff
Manchester

Cardiff to Manchester: Cheapest Travel Options

Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from Cardiff to Manchester starting at just £7.63. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 6h 30m trip.

Train: Speep and Confort. Opt for Great Western Railway (GWR) trains with fares beginning at €128. Travel time approximately 3h 41m.

Cardiff to Manchester bus times

Check out the cheapest buses departing from Cardiff to Manchester

CompanyDeparture time/Arrival timeDeparture Station/Arrival StationTransport TypePriceView schedule
Megabus
6h 30m
Megabus
£7.63
Megabus
6h 40m
Megabus
£8.48
Megabus
10h 20m
Megabus
£12.73
Megabus
5h 50m
Megabus
£14.99
Megabus
5h 55m
Megabus
£14.99

Over 24 schedules for your journey.

Bus Cardiff to Manchester

It takes an average of 8h 37m to travel from Cardiff to Manchester by bus, over a distance of around 231 km. There are normally 13 buses per day traveling from Cardiff to Manchester and tickets for this journey start from £7.63 when you book in advance.

Distance231 km
Price£7.63
Frequency13
Fastest5h 50m

Train Cardiff to Manchester

It takes an average of 3h 40m to travel from Cardiff to Manchester by train, over a distance of around 231 km. There are normally 11 trains per day traveling from Cardiff to Manchester and tickets for this journey start from €128 when you book in advance.

Distance231 km
Price€128
Frequency11
Fastest3h 36m

What companies travel from Cardiff to Manchester?

Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, affordability, or a blend of all, our detailed overview covers the key players in the industry. Get insights into schedules, booking tips, and amenities offered by each company, ensuring your journey between these iconic cities is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Bus vs Train

Travelers considering the Cardiff to Manchester route can weigh these distinctions:

Travel Duration: Trains whisk you to your destination in under 4 hours, whereas buses take a leisurely 5-6 hours.

Onboard Comfort: Trains offer dining options for on-the-go nourishment; both modes provide Wi-Fi and power outlets for a connected journey.

Eco-Friendly Choices: Buses and trains both promise a greener trip, but trains lead with a much smaller carbon footprint overall.

Bus vs Train

Best Travel Options

Traveling from Cardiff to Manchester offers distinct experiences depending on your choice of transport:

Travel Time: Trains whisk you to your destination in about 3 hours, suitable for time-sensitive journeys. Buses are slower, taking 5-6 hours, but give a richer ground-level vista.

Cost: Buses win on price, providing a wallet-friendly option, while train fares are higher but buy you speed and reduced travel time.

Experience: Train rides are ideal for comfort and atmosphere, with services like WiFi. Bus journeys, on the other hand, are perfect for scenic appreciation and a leisurely pace.

🧳 Covering a span of 170 miles (274 kilometers), this trip suits both short-term getaways and longer stays. Dive into the rest of our page to find out more!

Best Travel Options

Cheapest Travel Options

Explore Cardiff to Manchester affordably with National Express and Megabus, which connect these dynamic cities with fares starting from just £5. National Express offers the comfort of onboard amenities, while Megabus is praised for its wallet-friendly tickets.

Your journey preferences are unique, whether you’re a family, solo budget traveler, or on a business trip. Delve into tailored options that align with your priorities, offering value without sacrificing the travel experience. Make informed choices that match your budget and let the savings enhance your adventure.

Cheapest Travel Options
Save money

Cheap tickets from Cardiff to Manchester

The price of tickets from Cardiff to Manchester is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from Cardiff to Manchester by booking early.

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting transport

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

Seasonal Travel Pack Essentials Guide

Seasonal Travel Pack Essentials Guide

<p>Venture to Manchester with just the right essentials in your travel pack, no matter the season. Our concise guide simplifies your packing with versatile items suited for the city’s varied climes—from crisp springs and balmy summers to the golden hues of autumn and the cozy cloak of winter. Stay prepared for Manchester’s ever-changing weather, ensuring a seamless and enjoyable trip.</p>

Budget-Friendly Things To Do
Manchester - Uk

Budget-Friendly Things To Do

Embarking on a journey to Manchester? Dive into a treasure trove of activities that won’t break the bank. From strolling through the vibrant Northern Quarter to exploring the historic John Rylands Library, there’s an abundance of free experiences awaiting you. Delight in art, culture, and the great outdoors, all while keeping your spending to a minimum. Manchester is your playground for cost-effective and memorable escapades.
Continue reading
Things To Do
Manchester - Uk

Things To Do

Exploring Manchester? Navigate seamlessly with diverse transportation options. Find the best in trams, buses, trains, and more to meet all your travel needs in the city. Whether you’re a tourist or commuter, discover the convenience of Manchester’s public transport system.

Continue reading
Your First Arrival by Bus or Train
Manchester - Uk

Your First Arrival by Bus or Train

Welcome to Manchester, the city of progress and rich industrial heritage. Setting the stage for your visit starts with planning your journey, ensuring smooth travels by bus or train. Embrace the opportunity to immerse yourself in the local scene from the moment you arrive, with practical advice that streamlines your adventure.
Continue reading

Travel Tips

The best tips from our team for your next trip

"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."

"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."

"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."

"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."

"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."

"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."

"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."

"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."

"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."

"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."

"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."

Travel Hotspots

Discover the Top Transit Hubs

Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.