- Must visit
Mary Rose Museum
World-class museum housing Henry VIII's raised flagship. See the preserved Tudor warship and immersive galleries on life aboard.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cambridge to Portsmouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 18
Cheapest price on Sep 18
$21
Average ticket price on Sep 18
$50
Fastest journey on Sep 18
5 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
5 h 23 m
Buses on Sep 18
15
Distance
177 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth will cost around $50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $21.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cambridge to Portsmouth without transferring at least once.
NX491 · NX03011:50 AM5h55Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)5:45 PMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$211One-way1 transfer- NX491 · NX03011:50 AM6h00Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)5:50 PMPortsmouth, University$231One-way1 transfer
- NX491 · NX03011:50 AM5h45Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)5:35 PMPortsmouth, International Port$341One-way1 transfer
- NX728 · NX0304:00 PM5h55Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)9:55 PMPortsmouth, University$461One-way1 transfer
- NX728 · NX0304:00 PM5h50Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)9:50 PMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$491One-way1 transfer
- NX727 · NX0305:45 AM5h05Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)10:50 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$521One-way1 transfer
- NX727 · NX0305:45 AM5h10Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)10:55 AMPortsmouth, University$511One-way1 transfer
- NX727 · NX0301:55 PM5h25Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)7:20 PMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$671One-way1 transfer
- NX727 · NX0301:55 PM5h30Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)7:25 PMPortsmouth, University$651One-way1 transfer
- NX491 · NX03011:50 AM5h45Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)5:35 PMPortsmouth, International Port$341One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cambridge to Portsmouth
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cambridge to Portsmouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $63 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 47m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.2kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $63, while a train costs an average of $65.
Distance: 109 miles (177 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$63 Average price Cheapest | $65 Average price | $48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 57m Average total duration 4h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 47m Average total duration Fastest 3h 17m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 42m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Cambridge to Portsmouth is a bus with an average price of $63.
This is compared to other travel options from Cambridge to Portsmouth:
A bus is $2 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cambridge to Portsmouth costing on average $65.
The fastest way to travel from Cambridge to Portsmouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 17m.
Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:
Bus takes on average 4h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Portsmouth including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Portsmouth among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $63 compared to roughly $48 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.91. The journey takes 4h 27m versus 2h 42m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Cambridge to Portsmouth Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 02:00PM | Duration 6h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $59 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:15AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:50AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:00PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $50 |
Live departures
Cambridge to Portsmouth bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cambridge to Portsmouth buses for today, Thursday, September 17. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:15 PM Cambridge | 6h15 | 12:30 AM Portsmouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, September 18 | |||||
| NX727 · NX030 | 5:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 5h05 | 10:50 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX727 · NX030 | 5:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 5h10 | 10:55 AM Portsmouth, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX727 · NX030 | 7:55 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 6h05 | 2:00 PM Portsmouth, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX727 · NX030 | 7:55 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 6h00 | 1:55 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX727 · NX030 | 9:20 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 7h35 | 4:55 PM Portsmouth, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX727 · NX030 | 9:20 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 7h30 | 4:50 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX491 · NX030 | 11:50 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 6h00 | 5:50 PM Portsmouth, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX491 · NX030 | 11:50 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 5h45 | 5:35 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 1 transfer | |
| NX491 · NX030 | 11:50 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 5h55 | 5:45 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX727 · NX030 | 1:55 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 5h25 | 7:20 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX727 · NX030 | 1:55 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 5h30 | 7:25 PM Portsmouth, University | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cambridge to Portsmouth by bus or train
Compare bus and train 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.
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Sep 18
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Why should you book Cambridge to Portsmouth buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cambridge to Portsmouth run on average 13 times per day, taking around 4h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 21:42. The fastest bus covers the 109 miles (177 km) distance in 4h 10m.
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 109 miles (177 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $19 |
Buses per day 13 |
Fastest bus 4h 10m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 9:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 7 days |
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
Bus providers: National Express from Cambridge to PortsmouthYou can travel by bus between Cambridge to Portsmouth with National Express for as low as $25. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
4h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
$19
National Express frequency
15 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Portsmouth
Things to do in Portsmouth
Discover the best of Portsmouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portsmouth trip today.
- Must visit
HMS Victory
Museum dedicated to HMS Victory and Nelson's navy. Learn about the Battle of Trafalgar and life in the age of sail.
- Must visit
HMS Warrior 1860
Historic ironclad from 1860 that changed naval warfare. Explore decks, engine spaces and displays in the Historic Dockyard.
- Must visit
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Historic harbourfront quarter with cobbled lanes, old pubs, sea walls and major naval attractions. Ideal for first-time visitors on foot.
- Must visit
Old Portsmouth
Atmospheric old quarter with narrow streets, Georgian houses and waterfront views. Great for history, churches and a quieter local feel.
- Must visit
Southsea Seafront
Lively seafront district known for beach walks, gardens, castle and independent venues. A classic area for promenade views and relaxation.
Fish And Chips
A Portsmouth classic of battered cod or haddock with chips, tied to the city’s long naval and seafaring tradition and best eaten fresh by the waterfront.
- Gluten-free
South Coast Crab
Fresh crab landed on the south coast, often served simply in sandwiches or salads. It reflects Portsmouth’s harbour access and strong seafood culture.
- Gluten-free
Oysters
Portsmouth sits by rich oyster waters, and oysters are a traditional local treat served raw or dressed, prized for their fresh, briny flavour.
Restaurant 27
Refined fine dining in Southsea known for modern British tasting menus, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
The Briny
Lively Southsea venue famous for fresh seafood and shellfish, offering a casual setting popular with locals and visitors.
The Still And West
Historic waterside pub in Old Portsmouth serving cask ales and classic British dishes with harbour views and traditional character.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transit are mid-range for a coastal city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
The Hard Interchange -> Commercial Road, Portsmouth
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 13 min
- Contactless card and mobile payments are accepted on Stagecoach buses in Portsmouth. Ask the driver for the best value ticket if you are making multiple trips.
- Portsmouth Harbour and The Hard Interchange are the main hubs for trains, buses, and ferries. Use them for easy transfers across the city.
FAQs: Bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cambridge to Portsmouth by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Portsmouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Cambridge to Portsmouth can start from as little as $19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cambridge to Portsmouth is $63 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth is 4h 10m to travel the 109 miles (177 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth leaves at 9:42 PM.
There are 13 buses a day from Cambridge to Portsmouth which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Portsmouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cambridge and Portsmouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Portsmouth from Cambridge is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 10m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cambridge and Portsmouth including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cambridge to Portsmouth:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cambridge to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Cambridge nor Portsmouth are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cambridge to Portsmouth among Omio's users.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Portsmouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use licensed taxis, keep personal belongings secure, and remain vigilant when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cambridge to Portsmouth
Most Cambridge to Portsmouth buses use the Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth, University. Use this guide to compare Cambridge and Portsmouth bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cambridge
Arrival bus stations in Portsmouth
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) from Cambridge city centre
BusTour · 31m · $2 · every ~6 min
Which Portsmouth station do buses from Cambridge arrive at?
Buses from Cambridge to Portsmouth most often arrive at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange. Some services arrive at Portsmouth, University, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Portsmouth arrival station.
Portsmouth, The Hard InterchangeThe Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · $2 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange bus station facilities and services
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at The Hard (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Portsmouth, University
Portsmouth, International PortWharf Road, Portsmouth PO2 8RU, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth, International Port from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth, International Port is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX4, X5, Pr1 · 3m · every ~55 min
8, 3, 7, X4, X5 · 6m · $2 · every ~113 min
725 · 15m · $2
Portsmouth, International Port bus station facilities and services
Portsmouth, International Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café in the terminal (in the station), Fast-food outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, International Port.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth, International Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, International Port: Elevators, ramps.
More options for your journey from Cambridge to Portsmouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Portsmouth and Cambridge
Most popular bus connections to Portsmouth
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