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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Swansea
Showing times and prices for Dec 15
Cheapest price
$10
Average price
$16
Fastest journey
50 m
Average duration
53 m
Trains per day
6
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 traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Swansea will cost around $16 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $10.
Fast trains
Of the 6 trains that leave Cardiff for Swansea on Mon, Dec 15, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Mon, Dec 15 the direct trains cover the 55 km distance in an average of 53 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 50 m .
On Mon, Dec 15 the slowest trains will take 56 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.
L6410310:060h56
Cardiff Central (CDF)11:02Swansea station (SWA)
$101One-way
0 transfers
L6471408:470h54
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:41Swansea station (SWA)
$101One-way
0 transfers
L6501108:511h14
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:05Swansea station (SWA)
$101One-way
0 transfers
P2265108:080h54
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:02Swansea station (SWA)
$221One-way
0 transfers
P2261608:420h50
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:32Swansea station (SWA)
$221One-way
0 transfers
P2261608:420h50
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:32Swansea station (SWA)
$221One-way
0 transfers
P2261809:380h51
Cardiff Central (CDF)10:29Swansea station (SWA)
$221One-way
0 transfers
L6471408:470h54
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:41Swansea station (SWA)
$101One-way
0 transfers
P2265108:080h54
Cardiff Central (CDF)09:02Swansea station (SWA)
$221One-way
0 transfers
L6410310:060h56
Cardiff Central (CDF)11:02Swansea station (SWA)
$101One-way
0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Swansea
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Swansea among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €5. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 57m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.0kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €5, and a train costs an average of €3.
Distance: 34 miles (55 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
€8 Average price | €7 Average price Cheapest |
1h 27m Average total duration Fastest 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 45m Average total duration 1h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.0kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.1 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to Swansea train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Swansea trains for today, Sunday, December 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 7:00 PM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| L64108 | On time 8:04 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h58 | 9:02 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L16759 | On time 9:44 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 10:35 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L64091 | On time 9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1h06 | 10:59 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L16760 | On time 10:31 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 11:22 AM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L64092 | On time 11:13 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h55 | 12:08 PM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| L16761 | On time 11:30 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 0h51 | 12:21 PM Swansea station (SWA) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Swansea by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Mon
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Swansea?
The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Swansea is 6 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Swansea route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Swansea per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Swansea.
Trains
from $10Buses
from $7Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Swansea
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Swansea run on average 7 times per day, taking around 57m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $4 (€3) if you book in advance.
There are 7 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 00:01, the last at 23:58. The fastest train covers the 34 miles (55 km) distance in 51m.
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 34 miles (55 km) |
Average train duration 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $4 (€3) |
Trains per day 7 |
Direct trains 7 |
Fastest train 51m |
First train 00:01 |
Last train 23:58 |
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: Great Western Rail, Transport for Wales, first_great_western from Cardiff to Swansea trainsGreat Western Rail, Transport for Wales, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Swansea from $4 (€3). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Rail
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 Duration
51m
Cheapest Price
$8 (€6)
Great Western Rail frequency
4 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
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
52m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€5)
Transport for Wales frequency
4 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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
50m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€45)
first_great_western frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Swansea
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.
For a fulfilling experience in Swansea, a stay of 2 to 3 days is recommended to explore its main attractions like the Swansea Bay, National Waterfront Museum, and nearby Gower Peninsula.
The train journey from Cardiff to Swansea offers scenic views of the South Wales countryside, including glimpses of rolling hills, coastal landscapes, and charming villages along the route.
The train from Cardiff to Swansea takes 51m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Swansea is 34 miles (55 km).
The last train from Cardiff to Swansea leaves at 11:58 PM.
Yes, you can do a day trip from Cardiff to Swansea. The journey takes 51m, with a distance of 34 miles (55 km), and trains run 7 times per day.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Swansea is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Swansea station (SWA).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Swansea.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Swansea.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Swansea can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $4 (€3), while the average price is around $9 (€8).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Swansea is by train, with a cost of around $4 (€3).
The first train from Cardiff to Swansea leaves at 12:01 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Swansea.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Swansea. This service operates 7 times per day, provided by Great Western Rail, Transport for Wales, first_great_western, Transport for Wales.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Swansea
Cardiff
Swansea
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Birchgrove. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Birchgrove for your trip from Cardiff to Swansea.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
Lost and Found Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. Step free access is available from Waun y Groes Avenue.
- 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
Public transit options for Birchgrove
- Onward travel information: Available from Caerphilly Road (main road next to station)
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on A469 Caerphilly Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingDining
TaxisAccessibility
HotelLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- 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.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Bay
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityHotelLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Hotel
- Travelodge
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
Public transit options for Cathays
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
The major train station for arrivals in Swansea is Swansea. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Swansea for your journey to Swansea from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
ShoppingParkingDining
ATMAccessibility
WCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:15 - 20:00 Saturday 06:15 - 20:00 Sunday 08:00 - 20:00 Tickets requiring reservations: Mon-Sat 0910-1845
Parking
- Car Park: Mariners Road (until 30 April 2019). Thereafter please use the top level of Ivy Street (High Street) multistorey car park.
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: On Platform 1
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Swansea
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stops on High Street outside the station
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
Most popular train connections to Swansea
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