Trains to Cardiff
Explore a city with a vivid past and energetic present
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Grab a train to Cardiff - this lively city has got it all. A port town on the south coast of Wales, Cardiff offers spectacular scenery and architecture, as well as awesome shopping and a great nightlife. A dynamic city with infectious energy, Cardiff isn’t just the capital of Wales, it’s been known as Europe’s youngest capital city. Book a train to Cardiff and explore its unique character - whether you visit on a day trip, weekend away or longer city break.
Popular train journeys to Cardiff
Cardiff has so much more to offer than just being the capital of Wales, and as a result we provide many routes to Cardiff from all over the UK. Below are some of our most popular ones.
Newport to Cardiff
Bristol to Cardiff
Birmingham to Cardiff
FAQs
There are two train stations in Cardiff city centre:
Both of Cardiff’s stations are located in the city centre and are a short walk from various attractions and amenities . Cardiff Central sits at the south end of the city, closer to the River Taff, whilst Queen Street is in close proximity to The Capitol Shopping Centre.
Cardiff Airport is around 17-miles from the city centre, and can be reached via public transport. A train from Cardiff Central goes directly to Rhoose Cardiff International Airport, and from there you can grab a bus straight to the terminal (or walk if you’d like to get your steps in!). There are also direct bus routes from Cardiff to the airport, as well as the option of private taxi or black cab.
There are ways to get cheap tickets to Cardiff, you just need to know how. Being flexible and travelling during off-peak times can help avoid heavier fees, and if you do the same journey to Cardiff regularly, a season ticket could be an option. Check out our cheap tickets page to see more ways to save on travel with CrossCountry.
For further information about stations in Cardiff, check out our station guide.
Shopping
Big brands or independent boutiques? New or vintage? Ultra-modern mall or quaint arcade? Wherever you like to shop, Cardiff will serve you well. A capital for shopping, Cardiff is home to a mix of designer brands and high street favourites, as well as more quirky independents. The great thing about shopping in Cardiff city centre is that it’s largely pedestrianised, so you can leisurely explore the city’s shops on foot. St David’s Shopping Centre is one of the UK’s newest and largest indoor malls, full of your favourite shops and chain restaurants. For something a little different, head to some of the city’s Victorian arcades where you will find little trinkets and things you never knew you wanted. If you’re a bit of a bargain hunter, Cardiff’s got plenty of great markets, so you’re bound to bag yourself a deal.
Food & Drink
Cardiff is a city that loves to entertain, so you’re guaranteed a great night out, with hundreds of places to eat and drink. From street food sensations to Michelin starred establishments, local favourites and far flung flavours, Cardiff’s got the cuisine to please your palate. Head to Whitchurch Road for food from across the globe or if you’d prefer local produce, Cardiff has a handful of fantastic food markets. Support local businesses at the Riverside Market or visit Cardiff Central to experience the market that has been trading for over 100 years - from fishmongers to spice stalls, the market is a treat on the eyes and the nose. You can’t leave Cardiff without sampling some traditional Welsh food - so head to Fabulous Welshcakes for, well, fabulous welsh cakes. These tasty treats are served warm off the bakestone at this friendly shop on Mermaid Quay down in the Bay.
Culture
Cardiff’s compact nature means it’s easy to explore most of the city’s top attractions by foot! You can visit the free National Museum and Cardiff Castle all within the city centre. For top class entertainment, head to Cardiff Bay where you can dine in one of the many restaurants that enjoy a waterside view and finish your evening with a play or musical at the Wales Millennium Centre. Sports fans may want to take in some world-class action at the Principality Stadium and thrill seekers will be excited by the Olympic standard Cardiff International White Water Centre. With trendy watering holes, international art exhibitions, a renowned music scene and pumping nightlife, you won’t get bored in Cardiff.
Catching a train to Cardiff
We want to help you travel cheaply, so as long as you buy your ticket 15 minutes before departure via our website or app, you can still enjoy great savings! To get the very best out of your train travel, read our top tips to find cheap train tickets and about our exclusive benefits offered to registered customers.
If you want to explore Cardiff and all it has to offer, you’ll want to stay longer than a day! So, make sure you book a great value hotel in Cardiff before you arrive.
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