- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Inverness to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 04 Sept
Cheapest price on 04 Sept
£320
Average ticket price on 04 Sept
£327
Fastest journey on 04 Sept
10 h 1 m
Average journey duration on 04 Sept
11 h 48 m
Trains on 04 Sept
5
Distance
670 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Inverness to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Inverness to Cardiff will cost around £327 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £320.
Fast trains
To travel from Inverness to Cardiff you need to make at least 2 changes.
6:3810h06Inverness16:44Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes- 10:5010h01Inverness20:51Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes
- 12:4810h11Inverness22:59Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes
- 18:5217h52Inverness12:44Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes
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7:5510h50Inverness18:45Cardiff£3541One-way2 changes
- 10:5010h01Inverness20:51Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes
- 6:3810h06Inverness16:44Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes
- 12:4810h11Inverness22:59Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes
- 7:5510h50Inverness18:45Cardiff£3541One-way2 changes
- 18:5217h52Inverness12:44Cardiff£3201One-way2 changes
Travel Information
Compare train and coach for Inverness to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Inverness to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the coach, with an average ticket price of £76 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 9h 59m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £76, while a train costs an average of £198.
Distance: 670 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach | Driving |
|---|---|---|
£198 Average Price | £76 Average Price Cheapest | £141 Average Price (fuel + tolls) |
9h 59m Average total duration Fastest 9h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 14h 16m Average total duration 13h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 10h 28m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
 Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Inverness to Cardiff is a coach with an average price of £76.
This is compared to other travel options from Inverness to Cardiff:
A coach is £122 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Inverness to Cardiff costing on average £198.
The fastest way to travel from Inverness to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 9h 29m.
Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:
Coach takes on average 13h 46m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Inverness and Cardiff including taking a train and coach.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 59m sooner (9h 29m by train vs 10h 28m by car). Tickets start at around £198 compared to roughly £141 in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Inverness to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Cardiff trains for tomorrow, Friday 4 September. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:38 Inverness | 10h06 | 16:44 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 7:55 Inverness | 10h50 | 18:45 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 10:50 Inverness | 10h01 | 20:51 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 12:48 Inverness | 10h11 | 22:59 Cardiff | 2 changes | |
| 18:52 Inverness | 17h52 | 12:44 Cardiff | 2 changes |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Inverness to Cardiff by train or coach
Compare train and coach 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.
Fri
04 Sept
04 Sept
Sat
05 Sept
05 Sept
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06 Sept
06 Sept
Mon
07 Sept
07 Sept
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08 Sept
08 Sept
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09 Sept
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10 Sept
10 Sept
Why should you book Inverness to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), ScotRail and more offer trains services from Inverness to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Inverness to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio vs Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Inverness 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 Avanti West Coast with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Inverness to Cardiff.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu, Raileurope or Rome2rio?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) or ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Inverness to Cardiff.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Inverness to Cardiff.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Inverness to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Inverness to Cardiff run on average 3 times per day, taking around 9h 29m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £127 but you can travel from only £60 by coach.
The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 13:26. The fastest train covers the 670 km distance in 9h 48m.
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 £60
Distance 670 km |
Average train duration 9h 29m |
Cheapest ticket price £127 |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 9h 48m |
First train 4:08 |
Last train 13:26 |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 28 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 £60
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), ScotRail from Inverness to Cardiff trainsAvanti West Coast, Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER), ScotRail trains will get you between Inverness and Cardiff from £60. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Avanti West Coast Duration
9h 48m
Cheapest Avanti West Coast Price
£127
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Scotrail Duration
10h 4m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
£136
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) Duration
10h 50m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) Price
£354
London North Eastern Railway Limited (LNER) frequency
1 a day
ScotRail
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average ScotRail Duration
9h 25m
Cheapest ScotRail Price
£320
ScotRail frequency
3 a day
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.
FAQs: Inverness to Cardiff train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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 Inverness to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £127, while the average price tends to be around £198.
The train journey from Inverness to Cardiff covers a distance of 670 km and takes approximately 9h 48m. Trains run 3 per day.
The train distance from Inverness to Cardiff is 670 km.
The first train from Inverness to Cardiff leaves at 4:08.
The last train from Inverness to Cardiff departs at 13:26.
Trains from Inverness to Cardiff run approximately 3 times per day.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Inverness to Cardiff.
Unfortunately, there is no direct train service currently available from Inverness to Cardiff.
To get from Inverness to Cardiff, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
There is no night train service from Inverness to Cardiff.
The train station in Inverness that goes to Cardiff is Inverness station (INV), and it arrives at Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Inverness to Cardiff is by coach, costing approximately £60.
Booking trains from Inverness 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 Inverness to Cardiff offers scenic views, especially in the Highlands, showcasing rolling hills, picturesque lochs, and charming villages, providing a visually appealing travel experience.
A day trip from Inverness to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey takes 9h 48m. The distance is 670 km, and there are 3 trains per day.
In Cardiff, you can enjoy performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city centre, take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay, and have an adventurous day at Cardiff International White Water. Visit Cardiff Market for shopping and dining, discover Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore Cardiff Bay's attractions, enjoy the National Museum Cardiff's collections, and relax in Bute Park.
Two to three days are ideal to explore Cardiff's main attractions, including Cardiff Castle, the National Museum Cardiff, and the revitalised Cardiff Bay area.
Yes, you can take the train from Inverness to Cardiff.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Inverness and Cardiff
Most Inverness to Cardiff trains use the Inverness to Cardiff Central station pair. Use this guide to compare Inverness and Cardiff train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Inverness
Arrival train stations in Cardiff
Which Inverness station do trains to Cardiff leave from?
Trains from Inverness to Cardiff leave from Inverness. The station is from Inverness city centre at Inverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY
City-centre transport
Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
Inverness train station facilities and services
Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Inverness.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), 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 Inverness: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 3, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.
Most popular train connections from Inverness
More options for your journey from Inverness to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cardiff and Inverness
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