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Transport

Bristol Airport to Cardiff

The fastest route to Cardiff from Bristol Airport is not what you'd expect

Bristol Airport to Cardiff
Photo: Gilmar Santos / Pexels

The fastest way to get to Cardiff from Bristol Airport is to head back into Bristol and catch the train from Temple Meads. There is no direct rail link from the airport, and the direct coach service barely runs. For two or more people, a fixed-fare car can be a cost-effective option, especially since the Severn crossing tolls no longer exist.

getting to cardiff from bristol airport

To get to Cardiff from Bristol Airport, you have a few options. The most common ones are:

  • Backtracking into Bristol and catching the train from Temple Meads
  • Taking a coach or bus
  • Booking a fixed-fare car or taxi
  • Driving yourself

comparison of options

OptionPriceTimeNotes
Train from Temple MeadsVariable, depending on time and classAbout 1 hour from Temple MeadsFrequent services, but need to get to Temple Meads first
Coach or busVariable, depending on operator and timeAbout 1.5 to 2 hoursLimited services, especially at off-peak times
Fixed-fare car or taxiAbout £60 to £100, depending on traffic and timeAbout 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on trafficDoor-to-door service, but need to factor in fuel and parking costs
Drive yourselfFuel and parking costs, variable depending on route and timeAbout 1 to 1.5 hours, depending on trafficNeed to factor in fuel, parking, and tolls (although Severn crossing tolls no longer exist)

For more information on getting to Bristol Airport, see our guide to getting to Bristol Airport. If you're looking for a taxi or private hire, our guide to Uber in Bristol and guide to wheelchair-accessible taxis in Bristol may be helpful.

fixed-fare car or taxi

A fixed-fare car or taxi can be a good option, especially for two or more people. With the Severn crossing tolls no longer in existence, the cost of a fixed-fare car or taxi is closer to the train price than you might expect. For example, a pre-booked taxi with Tick Taxi, which is the group that publishes this site (disclosed), costs a fixed price, which can be competitive with the train, especially for groups.

FAQs

What is the fastest way to get to Cardiff from Bristol Airport?

The fastest way is to head back into Bristol and catch the train from Temple Meads.

No, there is no direct rail link.

How much does a fixed-fare car or taxi cost from Bristol Airport to Cardiff?

The cost varies depending on traffic and time, but can be around £60 to £100.

Do I need to factor in tolls if I drive myself?

No, the Severn crossing tolls no longer exist.

What is the best option for two or more people?

A fixed-fare car or taxi can be a cost-effective option, especially since the Severn crossing tolls no longer exist.

Questions people ask

What is the fastest way to get to Cardiff from Bristol Airport?

The fastest way is to head back into Bristol and catch the train from Temple Meads.

Is there a direct rail link from Bristol Airport to Cardiff?

No, there is no direct rail link.

How much does a fixed-fare car or taxi cost from Bristol Airport to Cardiff?

The cost varies depending on traffic and time, but can be around £60 to £100.

Do I need to factor in tolls if I drive myself?

No, the Severn crossing tolls no longer exist.

What is the best option for two or more people?

A fixed-fare car or taxi can be a cost-effective option, especially since the Severn crossing tolls no longer exist.

Prices and times checked August 2026.

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