Luton to Cardiff bus with National Express

Tue 13 Oct
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National Express
FlixBus
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Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
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Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Luton to Cardiff

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct

Cheapest price on 13 Oct

£16

Average ticket price on 13 Oct

£44

Fastest journey on 13 Oct

4 h 30 m

Average journey duration on 13 Oct

4 h 52 m

Buses on 13 Oct

27

Distance

196 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Luton to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Luton to Cardiff will cost around £44 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £16.

Fast coaches

To travel from Luton to Cardiff you need to make at least one change.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    20:155h10
    Luton
    1:25Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £161One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    22:255h00
    Luton
    3:25Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £161One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    7:455h55
    Luton
    13:40Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £161One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    16:205h55
    Luton
    22:15Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £161One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    5:155h30
    Luton
    10:45Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
    £161One-way
    1 change

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Luton to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Luton to Cardiff run on average 25 times per day, taking around 4h 35m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £11 if you book in advance.

The earliest coach runs at 00:45, the last at 23:50. The fastest coach covers the 196 km distance in 3h 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
196 km
Average bus duration
4h 35m
Cheapest ticket price
£11
Buses per day
25
Fastest bus
3h 40m
First bus
0:45
Last bus
23:50
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Wed
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
14 days
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

Live departures

Luton to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Luton to Cardiff coaches for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
National ExpressNX230 · NX2019:40 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
4h45
14:25 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNXA31 · NX5099:45 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
6h35
16:20 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNX707 · NX11210:15 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
6h25
16:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNX230 · NX20111:25 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h20
16:45 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus11:35 Luton
7h00
18:35 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNXA31 · NX50711:45 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
6h15
18:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNX240 · NX20212:15 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
6h00
18:15 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNX230 · NX20113:30 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h10
18:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNXA31 · NX50713:45 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
6h55
20:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus14:15 Luton
5h15
19:30 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus14:25 Luton
6h00
20:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX230 · NX20116:05 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
4h55
21:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus16:20 Luton
5h55
22:15 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX230 · NX20117:20 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h20
22:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus18:30 Luton
5h55
0:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX230 · NX20219:00 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h50
0:50 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus20:15 Luton
5h10
1:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus21:10 Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney)
6h15
3:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX231 · NX20121:10 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
4h30
1:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNX231 · NX20122:10 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h50
4:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus22:25 Luton
5h00
3:25 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
Tuesday 13 October
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus5:15 Luton
5h30
10:45 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX240 · NX2015:35 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h25
11:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNXA1 · NX5076:05 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h45
11:50 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
National ExpressNXA31 · NX5097:30 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
6h10
13:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:45 Luton
5h55
13:40 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)1 change
National ExpressNX230 · NX2028:10 Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station
5h55
14:05 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 change

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Luton to Cardiff coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Luton to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Luton to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Cardiff.
  • 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Luton to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Luton to Cardiff.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Luton to Cardiff.

Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Luton to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Luton to Cardiff with National Express, FlixBus for as low as £11. 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 FlixBus Duration
4h 0m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£11
FlixBus frequency
9 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 National Express Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest National Express Price
£15
National Express frequency
18 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 Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air museum of Welsh life with historic buildings, crafts, gardens and rural traditions relocated to spacious grounds west of the city.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Museum in a Victorian library celebrating Cardiff’s story through interactive displays, local history and a well-presented city timeline.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transport and casual meals stay fairly manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually small change or rounding up.

Best day trips from Cardiff by bus

The most popular day trips by bus from Cardiff are Bristol, Bath, Swansea, Newport and Chepstow. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Cardiff on Omio.

A view of Bristol

Day trip from Cardiff to Bristol by bus

Why visit Bristol for the day?

Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.

How to get from Cardiff to Bristol by bus?

There are 30 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 41 km distance in 1h 0m.

A view of Bath

Day trip from Cardiff to Bath by bus

Why visit Bath for the day?

Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.

How to get from Cardiff to Bath by bus?

The earliest coach runs at 01:55, the last at 23:10. The fastest coach covers the 58 km distance in 1h 51m.

A view of Swansea

Day trip from Cardiff to Swansea by bus

Why visit Swansea for the day?

Swansea is known for its sweeping bay, maritime past and connection to Dylan Thomas. The city mixes a practical urban centre with a waterfront feel and quick access to the Gower coast.

How to get from Cardiff to Swansea by bus?

There are 44 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.

A view of Newport

Day trip from Cardiff to Newport by bus

Why visit Newport for the day?

Newport is a South Wales city known for its industrial past, the Transporter Bridge and riverside setting on the Usk. Regenerated shopping areas and historic sites give it a practical mix of modern city life and local heritage.

How to get from Cardiff to Newport by bus?

There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:54. The fastest coach covers the 17 km distance in 25m.

A view of Chepstow

Day trip from Cardiff to Chepstow by bus

Why visit Chepstow for the day?

Chepstow is a historic town on the River Wye, best known for its Norman castle and border setting. Its compact centre, medieval streets and access to the Wye Valley give it a strong sense of place.

How to get from Cardiff to Chepstow by bus?

There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 05:15, the last at 23:43. The fastest coach covers the 39 km distance in 45m.

FAQs: Luton to Cardiff coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Luton to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Luton to Cardiff can start from as little as £11 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Luton to Cardiff is £39; 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 Luton to Cardiff is 3h 40m to travel the 196 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 Luton to Cardiff leaves at 0:45. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Luton to Cardiff leaves at 23:50.
There are 25 coaches a day from Luton to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Luton to Cardiff, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Luton and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Luton , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station, Luton, Dunstable Road (Challney), Luton, Station Interchange . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your route in coach stations like Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, University, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB), Newport, Queensway.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station, which is located around 2 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Luton and Cardiff including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Luton to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Luton to Cardiff for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Luton to Cardiff 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 National Express, FlixBus.
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 Luton to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Luton to Cardiff:
  • 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 Luton to Cardiff:
  • 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 Luton to Cardiff. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Luton to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Luton to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Luton to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Luton and Cardiff

Most Luton to Cardiff buses use the Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, University. Use this guide to compare Luton and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Luton
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff

Which Luton station do buses to Cardiff leave from?

Buses from Luton to Cardiff leave from Luton, London Luton Airport Bus Station. The station is 3 km from Luton city centre at Luton Airport, Airport Way, Luton LU2 9LU, UK.
Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney)Dunstable Rd, Luton, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) from Luton city centre

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) is 3 km from Luton city centre. Public transport options include:

BusZ · 11m · £2 · every ~15 min
A · 1h 5m · £2 · every ~13 min

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) bus station facilities and services

Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney) 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 Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney). ATMs are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Halfway Avenue/Dunstable Road (Challney): Limited accessibility.

Luton, Station InterchangeLuton Station Interchange, Luton LU1 2WG, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Luton, Station Interchange from Luton city centre

Bus17 · 7m · £2 · every ~2 min

Luton, Station Interchange bus station facilities and services

Luton, Station Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafes and fast food options nearby.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

WiFi is available at nearby facilities. ATMs are aTM available within short walking distance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Luton, Station Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Luton, Station Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Luton, Station Interchange: Ramps and accessible routes available for wheelchairs.

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