Is there a train from Caernarfon to Bangor?

No, the railway line is no longer operational.

How long is the bus ride?

The bus ride takes about 30 minutes.

Can I cycle to Bangor?

Yes, the Lon Las Menai path is a dedicated cycle route.

Is parking expensive in Bangor?

It is reasonably priced compared to larger UK cities.

Are there taxis available?

Yes, there are several local taxi firms in Caernarfon.

Caernarfon

Bangor

Bus Driving

Caernarfon to Bangor

Updated: 28 May 2026

The journey from the historic town of Caernarfon to the university city of Bangor is a short 15 km trip along the A487. You can easily travel by bus, with the Arriva 5 service running frequently throughout the day. Driving takes approximately 20-25 minutes depending on traffic near the Menai Bridge. This route offers beautiful views of the Snowdonia mountains and the Menai Strait. It is a primary commuter route for the region.

Total Distance: 15 km driving distance, 13 km straight-line air distance.

Fastest Way

Driving, taking approximately 20 minutes.

Cheapest Way

Bus, costing around 5 GBP for a single ticket.

Compare Caernarfon to Bangor Routes

	Bus Direct	Driving Direct
Duration	30 mins	20 mins
Avg Price	4-6 GBP	3-5 GBP fuel
Operator	Arriva Buses Wales	Personal Vehicle
Route	A487 via Felinheli.	A487.
Tip	Use the Arriva app to track your bus in real-time.	Parking in Bangor city centre can be limited; use the multi-storey car parks.

Travel Tips

Bus Frequency
Buses run every 15-20 minutes during peak hours.
Student Discounts
If you are a student, carry your ID to get discounts on local bus fares.
Traffic
The A487 can get busy during school drop-off times.
Walking
The Lon Las Menai cycle path is a scenic alternative for cyclists.
Tickets
You can pay for your bus ticket using contactless payment on board.