- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest trains from Chester to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct
Cheapest price on 13 Oct
£49
Average ticket price on 13 Oct
£59
Fastest journey on 13 Oct
2 h 41 m
Average journey duration on 13 Oct
3 h 10 m
Trains on 13 Oct
6
Distance
191 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Chester to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Cardiff will cost around £59 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £49.
Fast trains
On Tue 13 Oct, we found 6 trains from Chester to Cardiff, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 191 km distance in an average of 3 h 10 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 41 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 28 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.
W34251 · C01368+
G010956:244h01Chester station (CTR)10:25Cardiff Central (CDF)£491One-way2 changes
G38655_W45217 · G388687:253h24Chester station (CTR)10:49Cardiff Central (CDF)£501One-way1 change- G389076:192h59Chester station (CTR)9:18Cardiff Central (CDF)£501One-way0 changes
- G389117:162h41Chester station (CTR)9:57Cardiff Central (CDF)£501One-way0 changes
- W34251+G388666:243h28Chester station (CTR)9:52Cardiff Central (CDF)£561One-way1 change
- G389117:162h41Chester station (CTR)9:57Cardiff Central (CDF)£501One-way0 changes
- G389076:192h59Chester station (CTR)9:18Cardiff Central (CDF)£501One-way0 changes
- W34252+G388687:323h17Chester station (CTR)10:49Cardiff Central (CDF)£981One-way1 change
- G38655_W45217 · G388687:253h24Chester station (CTR)10:49Cardiff Central (CDF)£501One-way1 change
- W34251+G388666:243h28Chester station (CTR)9:52Cardiff Central (CDF)£561One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Train from Chester to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Chester to Cardiff run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 58m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £33 but you can travel from only £14 by coach.
There are 2 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 03:31, the last at 23:00. The fastest train covers the 191 km distance in 2h 41m.
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 £14
Distance 191 km |
Average train duration 2h 58m |
Cheapest ticket price £33 |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 2 |
Fastest train 2h 41m |
First train 3:31 |
Last train 23:00 |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Wed |
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Coach from £14
Live departures
Chester to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Tuesday 13 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| G38907 | 6:19 Chester station (CTR) | 2h59 | 9:18 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| W34251 · C01368+G01095 | 6:24 Chester station (CTR) | 4h01 | 10:25 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 2 changes | |
| W34251+G38866 | 6:24 Chester station (CTR) | 3h28 | 9:52 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| G38911 | 7:16 Chester station (CTR) | 2h41 | 9:57 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0 changesdirect | |
| G38655_W45217 · G38868 | 7:25 Chester station (CTR) | 3h24 | 10:49 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
| W34252+G38868 | 7:32 Chester station (CTR) | 3h17 | 10:49 Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 change | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Chester to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Transport for Wales as well as CrossCountry offer trains services from Chester to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Chester to Cardiff.
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 CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Chester 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 Transport for Wales with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Chester to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry to find the best option for your trip from Chester to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Chester to Cardiff.
Train companies: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry from Chester to Cardiff trainsTransport for Wales, CrossCountry trains will get you between Chester and Cardiff from £14. 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
2h 41m
Cheapest Transport for Wales Price
£33
Transport for Wales frequency
5 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
CrossCountry
About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average CrossCountry Duration
2h 54m
Cheapest CrossCountry Price
£74
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone
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
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.
- Must visit
Cardiff Arcades
Historic shopping arcades in the city centre, prized for Victorian and Edwardian architecture, independent shops and an easy walking atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central parkland behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, gardens, woodland paths and access to key civic sights.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with public art, broad promenades, modern landmarks and easy walks around the former dock basin.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A hearty Welsh broth of lamb or beef with leeks, potatoes and root vegetables. It is a classic national dish closely tied to Welsh home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Welsh rarebit
Traditional Welsh rarebit is toasted bread topped with a savoury cheese, ale and mustard sauce. It is a beloved pub and supper dish across Wales.
- Vegetarian
Bara brith
A sweet Welsh tea loaf made with dried fruit and mixed spice, usually sliced and spread with butter. It is a staple in cafés and homes.
Heaneys
Elegant dining room known for refined modern British cooking and polished service in central Cardiff.
Asador 44
Smart restaurant focused on local produce, seafood and modern British plates with a relaxed but polished atmosphere.
The Potted Pig
Stylish bistro and bar serving seasonal Welsh and British dishes, cocktails and brunch in a lively city-centre setting.
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.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.35
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Cardiff Central -> St Mary Street, Cardiff
- Distance
- 0.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless payment on board, including tap on and tap off for adult single and day tickets.
- Cardiff Central is within easy walking distance of the main city centre streets, so walking is often quickest for central destinations.
Flights from Cardiff to Paris: Journey Details
There are just two direct flights from Cardiff to Paris every day, with two more departing from Bristol Airport, on routes operated by Flybe, Easyjet and Condor. All are afternoon departures and have a journey time of around 5.5 hours.
Taking a Flight from Cardiff
Flights from Cardiff to Paris depart from either Cardiff or Bristol Airport. Cardiff Airport is 19 km West of the city centre, with shuttle buses linking it to Rhoose Cardiff International Airport Railway Station. From here Arriva Trains operates frequent services into Cardiff Central Station. Cardiff Airport Express and First Bus also provide regular routes between the airport and city centre. Bristol Airport is around 70 km from Cardiff, with the two airports linked by regular National Express coaches. Car rental and taxis are available at both airports.
Flying into Paris
Paris is a historic city of beautiful architecture, wide boulevards and world-famous museums, such as the Louvre and Pompidou Centre. The Eiffel Tower and cathedrals of Sacre-Coeur and Notre Dame are highlights of any visit, while a walk along the banks of the River Seine, or a boat trip, give different perspectives of the city. In the evenings visitors can enjoy fine dining in high-quality restaurants, or cabarets at the Moulin Rouge. Flights from Cardiff to Paris land at Paris Charles de Gaulle Airport, located 25 km to the North East of the city. Frequent trains depart every hour for the capital, taking around 40 minutes. The airport and city are also linked by the Roissybuss service. Car rental desks and taxi ranks are available at all terminals. Paris has an extensive and efficient transport network of Metro, bus and night buses.
FAQs: Chester to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
The cost of a train ticket from Chester to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £33, while the average price tends to be around £69.
The train journey from Chester to Cardiff covers a distance of 191 km and takes approximately 2h 41m. Trains run 7 per day.
The train distance from Chester to Cardiff is 191 km.
The first train from Chester to Cardiff leaves at 3:31.
The last train from Chester to Cardiff departs at 23:00.
Trains from Chester to Cardiff run approximately 7 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Chester to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train between Chester and Cardiff. The service operates 2 times per day, provided by Transport for Wales.
There is no night train service from Chester to Cardiff.
The train station in Chester that goes to Cardiff is Chester station (CTR), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
Booking trains from Chester to Cardiff in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
The train journey from Chester to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including views of the Welsh countryside, rolling hills, and picturesque towns, making it a visually appealing trip.
Yes, you can take the train from Chester to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Chester and Cardiff
Most Chester to Cardiff trains use the Chester to Cardiff Central station pair, with some services arriving at Cathays. Use this guide to compare Chester and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Chester
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Chester station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Chester to Cardiff leave from Chester. The station is 1 km from Chester city centre at Chester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS.
ChesterChester Station, City Road, Chester, Cheshire, CH1 3NS+44 3450507080
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester from Chester city centre
Chester is 1 km from Chester city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus100, 16 · 4m · £4 · every ~2 min
Chester train station facilities and services
Chester has practical services for this route, including Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Chester.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
ATMs are available at Chester.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Chester. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from information point, 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 Chester: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Chester: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Chester: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Category A. Step free access is available to all platforms via lifts, 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 toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes.
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 · £0.89 · 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.
More options for your journey from Chester to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Chester
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
