- Must visit
Cyfarthfa Castle Museum and Art Gallery
Museum in Cyfarthfa Park covering ironmaking, local art and social history inside a grand 19th-century mansion.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil
Showing times and prices for 25 Aug
Cheapest price
£6
Average price
£6
Fastest journey
1 h 5 m
Average duration
1 h 5 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
33 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil will cost around £6 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £6.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Cardiff for Merthyr Tydfil every day 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 33 km distance in an average of 1 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 1 h 5 m .
The slowest trains will take 1 h 5 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.
8:001h05Cardiff9:05Merthyr Tydfil£61One-way0 changes
- 8:001h05Cardiff9:05Merthyr Tydfil£61One-way0 changes
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from £6. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 1h 4m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of £6, and a coach costs an average of £6.
Distance: 33 km
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Coach |
|---|---|
£6 Average Price Cheapest | £6 Average Price |
1h 34m Average total duration Fastest 1h 4m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 47m Average total duration 1h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Live departures
Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil trains for today, Monday 24 August. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G38724 | On time 7:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h05 | 8:05 Merthyr Tydfil station (MER) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38726 | On time 7:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h05 | 8:35 Merthyr Tydfil station (MER) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38728 | On time 8:00 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h05 | 9:05 Merthyr Tydfil station (MER) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38730 | On time 8:30 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h05 | 9:35 Merthyr Tydfil station (MER) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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.
Tue
25 Aug
25 Aug
Wed
26 Aug
26 Aug
Thu
27 Aug
27 Aug
Fri
28 Aug
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Sat
29 Aug
29 Aug
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30 Aug
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31 Aug
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Why should you book Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
Why book with Omio vs Transport for Wales?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Transport for Wales, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
- 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil run on average 8 times per day, taking around 1h 4m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £6 if you book in advance.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 23:26. The fastest train covers the 33 km distance in 1h 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
Distance 33 km |
Average train duration 1h 4m |
Cheapest ticket price £6 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 1h 3m |
First train 5:30 |
Last train 23:26 |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 2 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
Train companies: Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil trainsTransport for Wales trains will get you between Cardiff and Merthyr Tydfil from £6. 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
1h 3m
Cheapest Price
£6
Transport for Wales frequency
8 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
Complete guide to Merthyr Tydfil
Things to do in Merthyr Tydfil
Discover the best of Merthyr Tydfil — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Merthyr Tydfil trip today.
- Recommended
Joseph Parry's Cottage
Small museum in composer Joseph Parry's birthplace, showing domestic life, music and the town's industrial past.
- Recommended
Old Furnace Visitor Centre
Visitor centre exhibits explain the former ironworks, furnace remains and the industrial landscape around Merthyr.
- Must visit
Cyfarthfa Park
Large public park with woodland walks, a lake, play areas and the castle museum, ideal for a relaxed half-day visit.
- Recommended
Garwnant
Popular reservoir and country park with level lakeside paths, picnic spots and access to mountain scenery near the town.
- Recommended
Pontsticill Reservoir
Scenic reservoir area with waterside walking, birdlife and easy access to the surrounding Brecon Beacons landscape.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh broth with lamb or beef, root vegetables and leeks. A classic valley comfort dish long linked to home cooking across South Wales.
- Vegetarian
Welsh rarebit
Welsh rarebit is toasted bread topped with a hot savoury cheese and mustard sauce. A pub staple across Wales, often enjoyed as a light meal.
- Vegetarian
Bara brith
Bara brith is a spiced Welsh tea loaf packed with dried fruit. It is a traditional teatime bake served sliced, often with butter.
Sultan Restaurant
Friendly town-centre restaurant known for Turkish and Mediterranean grills, meze and generous portions in a relaxed modern setting.
The Cafe at BikePark Wales
Smart brasserie-style venue at BikePark Wales, known for hearty breakfasts, burgers and coffee with scenic hillside views.
Red Fort
Popular Indian restaurant serving classic curries, tandoori dishes and takeaway favourites in a casual, dependable setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels and meals are usually cheaper than in Cardiff or London, while local transport is limited but reasonably priced for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a basic café meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £35-60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.50-4 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is usual for good service if not already added. Round up taxi fares. Café tipping is not expected, but small change is appreciated.
FAQs: Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil 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 Merthyr Tydfil, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £6, while the average price tends to be around £6.
The train journey from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil covers a distance of 33 km and takes approximately 1h 3m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil is 33 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil leaves at 5:30.
The last train from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil departs at 23:26.
Trains from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Merthyr Tydfil. The service operates 8 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
To get from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Merthyr Tydfil is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Merthyr Tydfil station (MER).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil is by train, costing approximately £6.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil is considered scenic as it passes through the picturesque landscapes of the South Wales Valleys, offering views of rolling hills, lush greenery, and charming villages along the way.
Yes, a day trip from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil is feasible. The journey takes 1h 3m and covers a distance of 33 km. Trains run 6 times per day.
To fully explore Merthyr Tydfil's key attractions, including Cyfarthfa Castle, Brecon Mountain Railway, and the nearby Brecon Beacons National Park, a stay of two to three days is ideal.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Merthyr Tydfil
Most Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil trains use the Cardiff Central to Merthyr Tydfil station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Merthyr Tydfil train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Merthyr Tydfil
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · £2 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Cardiff Queen StreetCardiff Queen Street station, Station Terrace, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 4EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Queen Street from Cardiff city centre
Bus52, 57, 58 · 13m · £2 · every ~25 min
C1 · 21m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Queen Street train station facilities and services
Cardiff Queen Street has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cardiff Queen Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff Queen Street. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Queen Street: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Queen Street: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
CathaysCathays station, Plas-y-Parc, Cardiff, Cardiff, CF10 3LU
City-centre transport
Getting to Cathays from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · £0.90 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cathays train station facilities and services
Cathays has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Cathays.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cathays. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cathays: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Cathays: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cathays: 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.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Travelodge.
Which Merthyr Tydfil station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil arrive at Merthyr Tydfil. Merthyr Tydfil is from Merthyr Tydfil city centre.
Merthyr TydfilMerthyr Tydfil station, Tramroad Side, Merthyr Tydfil, Merthyr, CF47 0AG+44 3333211202
City-centre transport
Getting to Merthyr Tydfil from Merthyr Tydfil city centre
Bus24 · 4m
Merthyr Tydfil train station facilities and services
Merthyr Tydfil has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Merthyr Tydfil.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Merthyr Tydfil. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: 03333 211202, Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Merthyr Tydfil: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Merthyr Tydfil: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Merthyr Tydfil: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B. Step free access to the platform from the car park, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, 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.
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Merthyr Tydfil
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Merthyr Tydfil and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Merthyr Tydfil
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