- Must visit
Swansea Museum
Swansea's main museum covers local history, Egyptology, natural history and maritime displays in a historic waterfront building.
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Cardiff to Swansea is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Swansea will cost around £8 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £7.
On Mon 02 Nov, we found 54 buses from Cardiff to Swansea, including 54 direct services.
These direct buses cover the 55 km distance in an average of 54 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 50 m .
The slowest buses will take 55 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.
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Buses from Cardiff to Swansea run on average 43 times per day, taking around 1h 7m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £4 if you book in advance.
There are 43 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 55 km distance in 50m.
Distance 55 km |
Average bus duration 1h 7m |
Cheapest ticket price £4 |
Buses per day 43 |
Direct buses 43 |
Fastest bus 50m |
First bus 0:05 |
Last bus 23:55 |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 7 days |
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Swansea.
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Swansea coaches for today, Sunday 1 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus | 4:10 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 5:20 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 4:10 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h20 | 5:30 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 6:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 0h55 | 7:25 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 6:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h05 | 7:35 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 9:40 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h00 | 10:40 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 9:40 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 10:50 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
NX201 | 10:55 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h05 | 12:00 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 11:45 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 12:55 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 11:45 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h00 | 12:45 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX507 | 11:55 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h00 | 12:55 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 12:15 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h20 | 13:35 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 12:15 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 13:25 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX201 | 12:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h10 | 13:55 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX111 | 13:05 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h55 | 14:00 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 13:10 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h15 | 14:25 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 13:10 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h05 | 14:15 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX507 | 14:15 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h55 | 15:10 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 14:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h15 | 15:40 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 14:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h05 | 15:30 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX201 | 14:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h10 | 15:55 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 15:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h05 | 16:35 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 15:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h15 | 16:45 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
NX202 | 16:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h05 | 17:05 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX112 | 16:15 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h00 | 17:15 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX201 | 16:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h05 | 17:50 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX507 | 17:05 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h55 | 18:00 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX202 | 18:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h05 | 19:05 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX201 | 18:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h05 | 19:45 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 19:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 0h55 | 20:20 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 19:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h05 | 20:30 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
NX507 | 19:25 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h55 | 20:20 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 19:35 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h20 | 20:55 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 19:35 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 20:45 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX111 | 19:35 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h50 | 20:25 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 19:45 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h15 | 21:00 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 19:45 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h05 | 20:50 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX202 | 19:55 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h00 | 20:55 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 20:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h20 | 21:50 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 20:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 21:40 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX201 | 20:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1h00 | 21:40 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 21:05 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 22:15 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 21:05 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h00 | 22:05 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 21:15 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h05 | 22:20 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 21:15 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h15 | 22:30 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
NX507 | 21:20 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h58 | 22:18 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX202 | 22:05 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h55 | 23:00 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 22:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 23:40 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 22:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h00 | 23:30 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX201 | 22:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h55 | 23:40 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
NX507 | 23:10 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 0h58 | 0:08 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 23:20 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h20 | 0:40 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 23:20 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 0:30 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
| Monday 2 November | |||||
FlixBus | 0:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h20 | 1:50 Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station | 0 changesdirect | |
FlixBus | 0:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1h10 | 1:40 Swansea, University Bay Campus | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
Discover the best of Swansea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Swansea trip today.
Swansea's main museum covers local history, Egyptology, natural history and maritime displays in a historic waterfront building.
A modern museum in the Maritime Quarter exploring the city's copper, coal, industry and waterfront heritage with interactive exhibits.
A compact museum inside Dylan Thomas Square focusing on the writer's life, works and links to Swansea through exhibitions and events.
A broad sandy sweep along Swansea Bay, popular for walking, cycling and sea views, with easy access from the city centre.
A historic village area by the sea, known for its pier, independent shops, promenade and access to coastal walks.
A large city park with botanical displays, glasshouses, sports facilities and open lawns close to central Swansea.
Traditional Welsh cakes are small griddled currant cakes, served warm with sugar. They are a classic Welsh teatime treat long associated with home baking.
Laverbread is a Welsh speciality made from slow-cooked laver seaweed, often served at breakfast. It is deeply tied to the South Wales coast and local food culture.
A traditional Welsh breakfast in Swansea often includes laverbread and cockles alongside bacon and eggs. It showcases produce gathered from the nearby Gower coast.
Established Swansea seafood spot focused on simple fish, shellfish, and classic British sides in an easy-going atmosphere.
Well-known casual venue in Mumbles serving fresh seafood and fish dishes, with a modern feel and strong local reputation.
Smart waterfront restaurant at the marina serving modern British cooking, steaks, and seafood in a polished setting.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels, meals and local transport are often cheaper than in London, though summer stays and seafront dining can raise daily costs.
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if service is not included. Taxis: round up or add about 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Swansea University Bay Campus -> Swansea Bus Station
National Express offer multiple services from Cardiff Coach Station to Swansea Bus Station each day, with the first service departing from Swansea at 10:30 a.m. and the last service of the day departing from Cardiff Station at 23:20 p.m. The journey time will vary slightly depending on the time of travel, with the fastest journey taking 55 minutes and others in the region of one hour and 15 minutes.
Departure station: Cardiff Coach Station is situated at Sophia Gardens in central Cardiff. The train station is a 15-minute walk from the coach station, however, taxis are available at the bus station. Local bus services to the surrounding areas are also available from the coach station.
Arrival station: Swansea Bus Station is adjacent to the Quadrant Shopping Centre in Central Swansea and less than five minutes walk from Swansea's shops and markets. There is a taxi rank at the bus station which also services local bus routes to the surrounding areas.
Buses from Cardiff to Swansea generally set off from Cardiff Central bus station, or if travelling on a Megabus service, Cardiff, Kingsway. Cardiff Central is directly adjacent to Cardiff Central railway station. The Megabus stop is a little further to the north of Cardiff's main transport interchange, although it is still within easy reach of many of Cardiff's central attractions, including Cardiff Castle. Local buses travel to both bus stations regularly.
This bustling city in South Wales was home to the poet Dylan Thomas, and fans can visit the Dylan Thomas Centre, dedicated to the life and works of this Welsh icon. The National Waterfront Museum explores the impact of industry in Wales over the past 300 years, where guests can also see working machinery in action. The museum also holds a number of free events, such as 'The Science of Harry Potter Show', with something to interest everyone.
Buses from Cardiff to Swansea arrive at Swansea bus station, which is situated in Swansea city centre, next to the Quadrant shopping centre. Swansea railway station is about half a kilometre away. The bus station is also an important terminal for local buses, so onward travel is easy. No night buses are available, but in their place are numerous taxis.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Swansea 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 Swansea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cardiff to Swansea buses use the Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) to Swansea, University Bay Campus station pair, with some services arriving at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Swansea bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Food outlets available within the station.
Free WiFi available in the station premises. ATMs are aTMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station.
Available at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea, Quadrant Bus Station: The station is wheelchair accessible.
Swansea, University Bay Campus is 4 km from Swansea city centre. Public transport options include:
Swansea, University Bay Campus has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Several cafes and a restaurant on campus.
Free Wi-Fi available within campus buildings. ATMs are aTM located near the student union building.
Ticket office support is available at Swansea, University Bay Campus.
Available at Swansea, University Bay Campus: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea, University Bay Campus: Campus is accessible with ramps and elevators.
Check bus stations information for Cardiff and Swansea, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need