- Must visit
Inverness Museum and Art Gallery
Main local museum covering Highland history, archaeology, Jacobite stories and natural heritage. A strong introduction to Inverness and the region.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Cardiff to Inverness
Showing times and prices for 24 Aug
Cheapest price
£69
Average price
£71
Fastest journey
19 h 55 m
Average duration
20 h 13 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
670 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Cardiff to Inverness is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Inverness will cost around £71 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £69.
Fast coaches
To travel from Cardiff to Inverness you need to make at least 2 changes.
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus18:4020h30Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)15:10Inverness, Bus Station£691One-way2 changes- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus17:2519h55Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)13:20Inverness, Bus Station£741One-way2 changes
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus17:2519h55Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)13:20Inverness, Bus Station£741One-way2 changes
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus18:4020h30Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)15:10Inverness, Bus Station£691One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Cardiff to Inverness
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Inverness among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £54. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 10h 16m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £54, and a train costs an average of £80.
Distance: 670 km
Compare bus with
| Coach | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
£81 Average Price Cheapest | £170 Average Price |
18h 0m Average total duration 17h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 46m Average total duration Fastest 10h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cardiff to Inverness bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Inverness coaches for tomorrow, Monday 24 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 17:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 19h55 | 13:20 Inverness, Bus Station | 2 changes | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 18:40 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 20h30 | 15:10 Inverness, Bus Station | 2 changes | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Inverness 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.
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Why should you book Cardiff to Inverness coaches with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer coaches services from Cardiff to Inverness.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Inverness.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Inverness.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Inverness.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Inverness.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Inverness.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Inverness
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Inverness run on average 2 times per day, taking around 17h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £54 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 04:15, the last at 18:20. The fastest coach covers the 670 km distance in 18h 40m.
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 670 km |
Average bus duration 17h 30m |
Cheapest ticket price £54 |
Buses per day 2 |
Fastest bus 18h 40m |
First bus 4:15 |
Last bus 18:20 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 1 day |
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: FlixBus, National Express from Cardiff to InvernessYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Inverness with FlixBus, National Express for as low as £54. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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
18h 40m
Cheapest Price
£54
FlixBus frequency
2 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.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
17h 0m
Cheapest Price
£94
National Express frequency
1 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.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Inverness
Things to do in Inverness
Discover the best of Inverness — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Inverness trip today.
- Recommended
The Highlanders' Museum
Small military museum at Fort George with regimental collections, uniforms and medals. Best for visitors interested in Highland army history.
Highland Archive Centre
Community museum in a former church telling the story of Highland life through local artefacts, archives and changing displays near central Inverness.
- Must visit
Ness Islands
Tree-lined riverside walk linking islands, bridges and paths on the River Ness. Popular for gentle walks, views and a peaceful break near the centre.
- Recommended
Ness Walk
Attractive promenade along the River Ness with mature trees, historic buildings and access to the cathedral, theatre and city centre walks.
- Recommended
Muirtown Locks
Canal-side walking area south-west of the city where boats pass through locks. It offers easy waterside views and a different side of Inverness.
- Vegetarian
Scottish Porridge
Classic Highland porridge made with oats, water or milk, and salt. A staple breakfast in the Highlands, prized for warmth and simplicity.
- Gluten-free
Black Isle Smoked Salmon
Cured salmon from the nearby Black Isle, often lightly smoked. It showcases the region’s excellent fish and traditional smoking methods.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet and spice, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s most famous traditional dish.
MacGregor's Bar
Well-known traditional venue for haggis, pies and Scottish comfort food, with a lively, informal feel in the city centre.
The Mustard Seed
Popular modern bistro serving Scottish seafood, steaks and classics in a relaxed central setting by the River Ness.
Rocpool Restaurant
Stylish restaurant focused on local Highland produce, including venison, beef and seafood, with a smart but welcoming atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: accommodation can rise in peak season, but dining and local buses are similar to other regional tourist cities.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-30 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £3-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafés do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £4.90
To the city centre
Inverness Bus Station -> Inverness Railway Station
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Single bus fares in participating Highland routes are capped at £2 from 23 March 2026. Buy before boarding in the Stagecoach Bus app if you want mobile tickets.
- Inverness city centre is compact, and the bus and rail stations are within easy walking distance of central sights. Check live bus times in the Stagecoach Bus app before travel.
FAQs: Cardiff to Inverness coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Inverness by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Inverness, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Cardiff to Inverness can start from as little as £54 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Cardiff to Inverness is £81; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Cardiff to Inverness is 18h 40m to travel the 670 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 4:15. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Cardiff to Inverness leaves at 18:20.
There are 2 coaches a day from Cardiff to Inverness which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Cardiff to Inverness, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Inverness. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Inverness and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Cardiff , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Newport, Queensway . When arriving in Inverness , you can end your route in coach stations like Inverness, Bus Station.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Inverness, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Inverness from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 18h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a coach from Cardiff to Inverness is March.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Inverness including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Cardiff to Inverness:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Cardiff to Inverness for coach company FlixBus, National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Cardiff to Inverness depends on the coach companies:
- National Express
- 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.
- FlixBus
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company FlixBus, National Express.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Cardiff to Inverness.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Cardiff to Inverness:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Cardiff to Inverness:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Cardiff to Inverness. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Cardiff to Inverness with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Cardiff to Inverness with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Cardiff to Inverness with the following coach company: FlixBus, National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Inverness
Most Cardiff to Inverness buses use the Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) to Inverness, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Inverness bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cardiff
Arrival bus stations in Inverness
Which Cardiff station do buses to Inverness leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Inverness leave from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). The station is from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
TRUE
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Which Inverness station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Inverness arrive at Inverness, Bus Station. Inverness, Bus Station is from Inverness city centre.
Inverness, Bus StationInverness Bus Station, Margaret St, Inverness IV1 1LT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness, Bus Station from Inverness city centre
TRUE
Inverness, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Inverness, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness, Bus Station. ATMs are available at Inverness, Bus Station.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Inverness, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness, Bus Station: Wheelchair access provided.
Most popular bus connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Inverness
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Inverness and Cardiff
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