If you’re heading from Cardiff Central to Swansea, why not take the train? You’ll save time and effort - plus, it’s probably cheaper than you’d expect. Avoid sitting in traffic while making the journey across South Wales.

 

Key details

  • Journey duration: Average of 53 minutes
  • Direct trains: Yes
  • Frequency: Up to 50+ trains per day
  • First train: Approximately 05:42 from Cardiff Central (Sundays may differ)
  • Last train: Approximately 01:00 from Cardiff Central (weekends may differ)
  • Key stops: Bridgend, Port Talbot Parkway, Neath
  • Departure station: Cardiff Central
  • Arrival station: Swansea
  • Amenities: Spacious seating, charging points, free onboard Wi-Fi
  • Ticket savings: Buy early, use a Railcard or travel Off Peak for the best value.

 

  • Free Wi-Fi
    Free Wi-Fi
  • Charging points
    Charging points
  • Direct
    Direct
Live departures and arrivals

 

Trains from Cardiff to Swansea

One of the most popular routes in Wales is the train from Cardiff to Swansea. With trains running several times an hour and affordable ticket prices, travelling by train is a breeze – whether for work or leisure

Don’t sit in traffic. Get stuck into a new book, listen to your favourite podcast or enjoy time with friends and family. The journey usually takes less than an hour, so you’ll be there before you know it. Most trains are direct too, so there’s no hassle changing.

Discover how the train could be best for your trip from Cardiff Central to Swansea today.

 

Why travel by train from Cardiff to Swansea?

Swansea is one of Wales’ go-to cities, set on the beautiful South Wales coastline in Swansea Bay.

  • Discover the beaches - Swansea is surrounded by striking beaches, from the Gower Peninsula to Thee Cliffs Bay.
  • Head to Swansea Market - head to the incredible indoor market to pick up some local products.
  • Enjoy Swansea prom - take a walk, or ride, down Swansea prom to enjoy the city’s seaside feel.
  • Cheer on the Ospreys - Swansea is home to The Ospreys - one of the UK’s most popular rugby teams.

Find out more in our guide to visiting Swansea for travel tips and advice.

 

Top tips for buying your Cardiff to Swansea train ticket

Save money on your journey with the following options:

  • Advance tickets* - Buy early for the lowest fares
  • Railcards - Save up to a third on your next trip
  • Anytime tickets - Flexible travel any time of day
  • Season tickets - Great value for frequent travellers

Why not use our app? It lets you see all our budget-friendly travel deals in one place.

*Advance tickets are our best value fares and Railcard discounts can be used when buying them. We cannot guarantee the availability of Advance tickets as they are limited in number and only on sale up to 18:00 before the day you travel. We recommend buying early to avoid disappointment.

 

FAQs

How long is the Cardiff to Swansea train?

Trains are usually under an hour from Cardiff to Swansea.

How often is the train from Cardiff to Swansea?

There are several trains an hour, so you’ll never be waiting too long.

How early can I buy train tickets from Cardiff to Swansea?

Typically, trains are available from around 12 weeks before the date of travel.

When’s the first train from Cardiff to Swansea?

Trains start at around 05:00 in the morning, depending on the day.

When’s the last train from Cardiff to Swansea?

Depending on the day, trains typically run until around 01:00 in the morning.