1,000+ travel companies
1,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Manchester to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for 12 Dec
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$116
Fastest journey
3 h 7 m
Average duration
3 h 20 m
Trains per day
6
Distance
231 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Manchester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Cardiff will cost around $116 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only $94.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Manchester for Cardiff every day 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 231 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 7 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 33 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.
G5595606:27AM3h24
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)09:51AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$941One-way
0 changes
G5595807:30AM3h19
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)10:49AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1031One-way
0 changes
G5596008:30AM3h07
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:37AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1031One-way
0 changes
C23559 · C2370109:25AM4h00
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)01:25PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1091One-way
1 change
G5596209:30AM3h15
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:45PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1321One-way
0 changes
G5596008:30AM3h07
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)11:37AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1031One-way
0 changes
G5596209:30AM3h15
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:45PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1321One-way
0 changes
G5595807:30AM3h19
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)10:49AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1031One-way
0 changes
G5595606:27AM3h24
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)09:51AMCardiff Central (CDF)
$941One-way
0 changes
C23747+
P0824109:03AM3h33
Manchester Piccadilly (MAN)12:36PMCardiff Central (CDF)
$1561One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare train and coach 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 coach with prices starting from $19. 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 coach costs an average of $19, and a train costs an average of $49.
Distance: 231 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
$92 Average Price | $36 Average Price Cheapest |
3h 57m Average total duration Fastest 3h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 7m Average total duration 5h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.6kg 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
Manchester to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday, 12 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 11:18 pm
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G55956 | On time 6:27 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h24 | 9:51 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G55958 | On time 7:30 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h19 | 10:49 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G55960 | On time 8:30 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h07 | 11:37 am Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| C23747+P08241 | On time 9:03 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h33 | 12:36 pm Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| C23559 · C23701 | On time 9:25 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 4h00 | 1:25 pm Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| G55962 | On time 9:30 am Manchester Piccadilly (MAN) | 3h15 | 12:45 pm Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Manchester to Cardiff by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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
12 Dec
12 Dec
Sat
13 Dec
13 Dec
Sun
14 Dec
14 Dec
Mon
15 Dec
15 Dec
Tue
16 Dec
16 Dec
Wed
17 Dec
17 Dec
Thu
18 Dec
18 Dec
Fri
19 Dec
19 Dec
Sat
20 Dec
20 Dec
Sun
21 Dec
21 Dec
Mon
22 Dec
22 Dec
Tue
23 Dec
23 Dec
Wed
24 Dec
24 Dec
Thu
25 Dec
25 Dec
Fri
26 Dec
26 Dec
Sat
27 Dec
27 Dec
Sun
28 Dec
28 Dec
Mon
29 Dec
29 Dec
Tue
30 Dec
30 Dec
Wed
31 Dec
31 Dec
Thu
01 Jan
01 Jan
How far in advance should I book train tickets from Manchester to Cardiff?
The best time to book your train from Manchester to Cardiff is 7 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Manchester to Cardiff route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Manchester to Cardiff 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 Manchester to Cardiff.
Trains
from $89Coaches
from $17Journey information
Overview: Train from Manchester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Manchester to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 3h 27m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $49 but you can travel from only $19 by coach.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:26, the last at 23:51. The fastest train covers the 231 km distance in 3h 3m.
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
Coach from $19
Distance 231 km |
Average train duration 3h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $49 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 3h 3m |
First train 00:26 |
Last train 23:51 |
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
Coach from $19
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Manchester to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Manchester and Cardiff from $19. 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 3m
Cheapest Price
$59
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
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 56m
Cheapest Price
$53
CrossCountry frequency
3 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
FAQs: Manchester to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap train tickets from Manchester to Cardiff can start from as little as $42 when you book in advance. The average train ticket price for Manchester to Cardiff is $95; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Manchester to Cardiff train time is 3 h 5 min covering the 231 km long route, but the journey time can vary depending on specific dates or if traveling on weekends and holidays.
The first train from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 5: 11am. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last train from Manchester to Cardiff leaves at 8: 30pm.
Yes, there are 3 direct trains a day from Manchester to Cardiff with Transport for Wales. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct trains.
For the best Manchester to Cardiff train to buy, you can travel safely and comfortably with Transport for Wales or CrossCountry. However, it's always good to check all possible train companies with services between Manchester and Cardiff to compare what amenities they may offer.
Passengers board the train most frequently from Manchester Piccadilly, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the train at Cardiff Central, located away from the city centre.
A trip to Cardiff from Manchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3 h 5 min each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month to travel from Manchester to Cardiff by train is January.
You have options as you can travel between Manchester and Cardiff 2 different ways: train or coach.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Manchester and Cardiff
Manchester
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Manchester is Deansgate. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Deansgate for your trip from Manchester to Cardiff.
Deansgate
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:20 - 23:40 Sunday 08:10 - 23:30
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category A station, please note there are no tactile pavings at this station From Whitworth Street, up a ramp (43 paces, 1:25 slope) and level access through the entrance into the foyer. Or from the junction of Chester Road, Whitworth Street and Deansgate, level access through the entrance, along the corridor and up 21 steps into the foyer. Then, to Manchester: Past the ticket office, via the lift in the foyer. Or up a ramp (34 paces), up 17 steps onto the platform. To Bolton, Warrington and Wigan : Via the lift in the foyer or along the subway (26 paces), up a ramp (32 paces) and up 18 steps onto the platform. Level access to Manchester platform also via overbridge from Metrolink G-Mex Metrolink stop. Lift available first to last train, currently 06:20 - 23:40 Monday to Saturday. 08:10 - 23:30 Sunday.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Deansgate
- Onward travel information: Free Metro shuttle bus link from station front serving Manchester City centre including Victoria Station On both sides of Whitworth Street, Deansgate and Chester Road for buses to Piccadilly Gardens, Altrincham or Sale. Contact Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Pick Up / Drop Off at bus stops on Whitworth St.
- Metro: Metrolink G-Mex tram stop linked by footbridge from Manchester platform. 0161 228 7811
East Didsbury
Amenities at train station
WifiLockersParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityWCHotelTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation DeskLuggage Cartsinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 6:00 AM - 8:00 PM Monday - Friday
- 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM Saturday
- 9:00 AM - 5:00 PM Sunday
Distance to city center
8 km
Number of platforms
2Wifi
- Free
Parking
- The car park is open 24/7, accessible via Wilmslow Road.
Dining
- The Didsbury
- The Gateway
Taxis
- Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Ramps.
WC
- £0.30
Hotel
- Travelodge Manchester Didsbury
- Premier Inn Manchester Didsbury
- Eleven Didsbury Park Hotel
Information Desk
- Located near the ticket office
Luggage Carts
- Free
Station Plan
- Hall 1: entrance and ticket office
- Hall 2: access to platforms
Public transport options for East Didsbury
- Tram: Metrolink East Didsbury Line
- Bus: Several lines available including 42, 142, 50
Levenshulme
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parkinginformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 06:20 - 19:35 Sunday 09:00 - 16:30
Distance to city center
5 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category C station, From Albert Road up 20 steps to reach the ticket office, then for services to Manchester up a further 26 steps onto the platform. For Services towards Stockport from ticket office go through the underpass (29 paces) and up 26 steps onto the platform.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Ramp for train access: No
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Levenshulme
- Onward travel information: On both sides of Albert Road for buses to Manchester, Reddish, Stockport or Droylsden. Busline 0871 200 2233
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: the bus stop for Manchester Pic is located on the station side of Stockport Road. The bus stop for Stockport is located on the opposite side of Stockport Road.
- Metro: GMPTE 0161 228 7811
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your journey to Cardiff from Manchester.
Birchgrove
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transport options for Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Cardiff Bay
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityHotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- 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.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transport options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
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 transport 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
More options for your journey from Manchester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Manchester
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
