- Must visit
Swansea Museum
Swansea's main museum covers local history, Egyptology, natural history and maritime displays in a historic waterfront building.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Swansea
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£9
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£13
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
50 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
51 m
Trains on 13 Oct
27
Distance
55 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train 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 £13 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £9.
Fast trains
On Tue 13 Oct, we found 27 trains from Cardiff to Swansea, including 25 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 55 km distance in an average of 51 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 50 m .
The slowest trains will take 51 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.
G39225 · G3921912:542h23Cardiff Central (CDF)15:17Swansea station (SWA)£91One-way1 change- G39236 · G3895914:512h03Cardiff Central (CDF)16:54Swansea station (SWA)£91One-way1 change
- G392018:541h12Cardiff Central (CDF)10:06Swansea station (SWA)£91One-way0 changes
- G388648:500h52Cardiff Central (CDF)9:42Swansea station (SWA)£91One-way0 changes
W346638:080h54Cardiff Central (CDF)9:02Swansea station (SWA)£91One-way0 changes
- W354158:420h50Cardiff Central (CDF)9:32Swansea station (SWA)£161One-way0 changes
- W3461812:390h51Cardiff Central (CDF)13:30Swansea station (SWA)£161One-way0 changes
- W3541713:380h51Cardiff Central (CDF)14:29Swansea station (SWA)£161One-way0 changes
- W3462414:390h51Cardiff Central (CDF)15:30Swansea station (SWA)£161One-way0 changes
- W3541815:380h51Cardiff Central (CDF)16:29Swansea station (SWA)£161One-way0 changes
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Swansea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Swansea run on average 8 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £4 but you can travel from only £4 by coach.
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:05, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 50m.
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 £4
Distance 55 km |
Average train duration 57m |
Cheapest ticket price £4 |
Trains per day 8 |
Direct trains 8 |
Fastest train 50m |
First train 0:05 |
Last train 23:58 |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Mon |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £4
Live departures
Cardiff to Swansea train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Swansea trains for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| W34634 | On time 17:39 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h55 | 18:34 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y62400 | On time 17:45 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h56 | 18:41 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G39266 | On time 17:51 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h10 | 19:01 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W35419 | On time 18:09 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h54 | 19:03 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W34637 | On time 18:39 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 19:30 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38885 | On time 18:48 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h53 | 19:41 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Tuesday 13 October | |||||
| W34663 | 8:08 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h54 | 9:02 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W35415 | 8:42 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h50 | 9:32 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38864 | 8:50 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h52 | 9:42 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G39201 | 8:54 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h12 | 10:06 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G14934 | 9:39 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 10:30 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y62429 | 10:06 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h56 | 11:02 Swansea station (SWA) | 0 changesdirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Swansea trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as Transport for Wales offer trains services from Cardiff to Swansea.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Swansea.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Swansea.
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Swansea.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Transport for Wales to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff to Swansea.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Swansea.
Train companies: Transport for Wales, Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Swansea trainsTransport for Wales, Great Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Swansea from £4. 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 Transport for Wales Duration
52m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£4
Transport for Wales frequency
3 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
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
50m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
£5
Great Western Railway frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Complete guide to Swansea
Things to do in Swansea
Discover the best of Swansea — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Swansea trip today.
- Must visit
National Waterfront Museum
A modern museum in the Maritime Quarter exploring the city's copper, coal, industry and waterfront heritage with interactive exhibits.
- Recommended
Dylan Thomas Centre
A compact museum inside Dylan Thomas Square focusing on the writer's life, works and links to Swansea through exhibitions and events.
- Must visit
Swansea Bay Promenade
A broad sandy sweep along Swansea Bay, popular for walking, cycling and sea views, with easy access from the city centre.
- Must visit
Mumbles
A historic village area by the sea, known for its pier, independent shops, promenade and access to coastal walks.
- Recommended
Cwmdonkin Park
A large city park with botanical displays, glasshouses, sports facilities and open lawns close to central Swansea.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Cakes
Traditional Welsh cakes are small griddled currant cakes, served warm with sugar. They are a classic Welsh teatime treat long associated with home baking.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
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.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Breakfast With Laverbread And Cockles
A traditional Welsh breakfast in Swansea often includes laverbread and cockles alongside bacon and eggs. It showcases produce gathered from the nearby Gower coast.
The Swigg
Established Swansea seafood spot focused on simple fish, shellfish, and classic British sides in an easy-going atmosphere.
Oyster House
Well-known casual venue in Mumbles serving fresh seafood and fish dishes, with a modern feel and strong local reputation.
The Shed
Smart waterfront restaurant at the marina serving modern British cooking, steaks, and seafood in a polished setting.
Pound sterling (£)
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.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-12 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £15-25 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £45+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
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.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £7.30
To the city centre
Swansea railway station -> Swansea City Centre
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Tap On, Tap Off works across First Cymru services and caps adult contactless bus fares at the day ticket price.
- Contactless payment is accepted on First Cymru buses, including Visa, Mastercard, Apple Pay and Google Pay.
Best day trips from Swansea by train
The most popular day trips by train from Swansea are Cardiff, Bristol, Newport, Carmarthen and Llanelli. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your train from Swansea on Omio.
Day trip from Swansea to Cardiff by train
Why visit Cardiff for the day?
Cardiff is a compact capital known for Welsh culture, Cardiff Castle and the energy of the Principality Stadium. Victorian arcades, civic landmarks and Cardiff Bay give it a character that feels both historic and modern.
How to get from Swansea to Cardiff by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 55 km distance in 50m.
Day trip from Swansea to Bristol by train
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 Swansea to Bristol by train?
The earliest train runs at 03:38, the last at 23:40. The fastest train covers the 95 km distance in 1h 37m.
Day trip from Swansea to Newport by train
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 Swansea to Newport by train?
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:56. The fastest train covers the 65 km distance in 1h 3m.
Day trip from Swansea to Carmarthen by train
Why visit Carmarthen for the day?
Carmarthen is a historic market town in south-west Wales, known for its Roman roots, castle and links with Merlin. On the River Tywi, it has a compact centre, strong Welsh character and an everyday local feel.
How to get from Swansea to Carmarthen by train?
There are 8 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:06, the last at 23:48. The fastest train covers the 36 km distance in 38m.
Day trip from Swansea to Llanelli by train
Why visit Llanelli for the day?
Llanelli is a coastal town in Carmarthenshire known for rugby, Welsh language culture and its tinplate heritage. Beside the Loughor Estuary, it has a practical, down-to-earth feel with access to the Millennium Coastal Park.
How to get from Swansea to Llanelli by train?
There are 11 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:12, the last at 23:49. The fastest train covers the 17 km distance in 15m.
Trains from Cardiff to Swansea
Great Western Railway operates direct trains from Cardiff to Swansea. The first departure is at approximately 5:30 a.m. with trains running two to three times an hour until just after 11:00 p.m. The journey takes around 1 hour. There is a reduced service on Sundays.
What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Cardiff to Swansea?
Departure Station:Trains from Cardiff to Swansea depart from Cardiff Central Station. This is located in the city centre and is a major transport hub. Station facilities include taxi ranks, a car park and bicycle storage. It is adjacent to Cardiff Central Bus Station from where local and national buses depart as well as shuttle services to Cardiff Airport.
Arrival Station:Swansea Station is located right on the city's High Street and has both bicycle storage facilities and car parking. The station has a taxi rank and is served by several local bus routes.
FAQs: Cardiff to Swansea train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Swansea 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 Swansea, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Swansea can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £4, while the average price tends to be around £12.
The train journey from Cardiff to Swansea covers a distance of 55 km and takes approximately 50m. Trains run 8 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Swansea is 55 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Swansea leaves at 0:05.
The last train from Cardiff to Swansea departs at 23:58.
Trains from Cardiff to Swansea run approximately 8 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Cardiff to Swansea.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Swansea. The service operates 8 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, Transport for Wales.
There is no night train service from Cardiff to Swansea.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Swansea is Cardiff Central (CDF), and it arrives at Swansea station (SWA).
Booking trains from Cardiff to Swansea in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Cardiff to Swansea offers scenic views, including glimpses of the South Wales countryside, coastline, and rolling hills, providing a pleasant and picturesque experience for travellers.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Swansea.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and Swansea
Most Cardiff to Swansea trains use the Cardiff Central to Swansea station pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Swansea 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 Swansea
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.
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 · £0.89 · 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.
Ninian ParkNinian Park station, Leckwith Road, Ninian Park, Cardiff, CF11 8AH
City-centre transport
Getting to Ninian Park from Cardiff city centre
Ninian Park is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainCardiff Central - Milford Haven, Cardiff Central - Carmarthen, Cardiff Central - Aberdare, Merthyr Tydfil - Aberdare, Cardiff Central - Pembroke Dock, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 3m · £0.89 · every ~4 min
Bus4, 611, 95 · 5m · £2 · every ~9 min
Ninian Park train station facilities and services
Ninian Park has practical services for this route, including Parking, Dining, Taxis, Accessibility, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Ninian Park.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Ninian Park: Parking, Taxis.
Bike and car services
Available at Ninian Park: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Ninian Park: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient, 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.
Which Swansea station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Swansea arrive at Swansea. Swansea is 1 km from Swansea city centre.
SwanseaSwansea station, High Street, Swansea, City & County of Swansea, SA1 1NU+44 8450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Swansea from Swansea city centre
Bus49, 30, 54 · 3m · £4 · every ~3 min
Swansea train station facilities and services
Swansea has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Swansea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Swansea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Swansea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Swansea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Swansea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Swansea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access to all platforms, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users can use car park equipment at this station unaided, Accessible public telephones: on concourse, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Swansea
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Swansea and Cardiff
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