Cardiff to Portsmouth bus with National Express

Sun, Sep 20
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2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Portsmouth

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 20

Cheapest price on Sep 20

kr299

Average ticket price on Sep 20

kr398

Fastest journey on Sep 20

6 h 25 m

Average journey duration on Sep 20

6 h 59 m

Buses on Sep 20

4

Distance

164 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth will cost around kr398 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr299.

Fast buses

On Sun, Sep 20, we found 4 buses from Cardiff to Portsmouth, including 4 direct services.

On Sun, Sep 20 the direct buses cover the 164 km distance in an average of 6 h 59 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 25 m .

On Sun, Sep 20 the slowest buses will take 7 h 20 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • National Express
    6:00 AM6h25
    Cardiff
    12:25 PMPortsmouth
    kr2991One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    4:00 PM7h00
    Cardiff
    11:00 PMPortsmouth
    kr3851One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    6:45 AM7h10
    Cardiff
    1:55 PMPortsmouth
    kr4351One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    2:20 AM7h20
    Cardiff
    9:40 AMPortsmouth
    kr4721One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Portsmouth

Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Portsmouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of kr582 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 48m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.0 - 0.1kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of kr582, while a train costs an average of kr943.

Distance: 101 miles (164 km)

Compare bus with

Most popular
Bus
Train
Driving

kr582

Average price

Cheapest

kr943

Average price

kr464

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 14m

Average total duration

5h 44m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 48m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 18m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 52m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Railway

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 Cardiff to Portsmouth is a bus with an average price of kr582.

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Portsmouth:

A bus is kr361 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Portsmouth costing on average kr943.

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Portsmouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 18m.

Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 44m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Portsmouth including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff 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 kr582 compared to roughly kr464 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr-118.05. The journey takes 5h 44m versus 2h 52m 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.

Cardiff to Portsmouth Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:20AM
Arrival Time
09:40AM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
kr472
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:40AM
Arrival Time
11:00AM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
kr242
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45AM
Arrival Time
10:40AM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr472
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:20AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
kr346
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
10:50AM
Duration
5h25
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr684
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:55AM
Arrival Time
12:15PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr309
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:00AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
kr299
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:45AM
Arrival Time
01:10PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
kr259
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
kr435
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
02:20PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr822
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr543
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45AM
Arrival Time
02:55PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr309
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
03:00PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
kr380
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
04:00PM
Duration
7h30
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr509
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:40AM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr536
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:40AM
Arrival Time
06:30PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr822
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
11:45AM
Arrival Time
05:55PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
kr282
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
07:40PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr509
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:35PM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr543
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:50PM
Arrival Time
09:40PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
kr242
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:55PM
Arrival Time
09:25PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr726
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
kr501
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:15PM
Arrival Time
10:30PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr438
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
11:00PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
kr385
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
11:00PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
kr209
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
12:30AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
kr509
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:40PM
Arrival Time
11:25PM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
kr242
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
12:30AM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
kr209
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:15PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
kr607
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
kr537
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45PM
Arrival Time
02:15AM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
kr356

Live departures

Cardiff to Portsmouth bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Portsmouth buses for today, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX202 · NX0304:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h55
10:40 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX509 · NX0305:55 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
6h20
12:15 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · NX0307:30 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
6h25
1:55 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX507 · NX0307:45 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h10
2:55 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · NX03010:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h45
4:25 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · NX03012:35 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
6h15
6:50 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · NX0303:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
6h45
9:50 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX507 · NX0304:00 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h00
11:00 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX509 · NX0305:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h00
12:30 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX509 · NX0307:45 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
6h30
2:15 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Portsmouth by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Sun
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sat
Sep 26

Why should you book Cardiff to Portsmouth buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Portsmouth.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • 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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Portsmouth.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Portsmouth.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Cardiff to Portsmouth run on average 7 times per day, taking around 5h 44m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr207 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 21:00. The fastest bus covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 4h 45m.

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
101 miles (164 km)
Average bus duration
5h 44m
Cheapest ticket price
kr207
Buses per day
7
Fastest bus
4h 45m
First bus
3:05 AM
Last bus
9:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Oct - Dec
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
91 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 Cardiff to PortsmouthYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Portsmouth with National Express for as low as kr207. 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 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
kr207
National Express frequency
8 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

Mary Rose Museum

World-class museum housing Henry VIII's raised flagship. See the preserved Tudor warship and immersive galleries on life aboard.

  • 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.

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.

FAQs: Bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Cardiff to Portsmouth can start from as little as kr207 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Portsmouth is kr582 ; 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 Cardiff to Portsmouth is 4h 45m to travel the 101 miles (164 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 Cardiff to Portsmouth leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth leaves at 9:00 PM.
There are 7 buses a day from Cardiff to Portsmouth which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Portsmouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Cardiff and Portsmouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cardiff , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, University, Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent) . When arriving in Portsmouth , you can end your journey in bus stations like Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University), Portsmouth, International Port, Southsea, Clarence Esplanade, Portsmouth, University .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, located 1 away from the city centre.
A trip to Portsmouth from Cardiff is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 45m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Portsmouth including taking a train and bus.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
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 Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Cardiff 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Portsmouth

Most Cardiff to Portsmouth buses use the Cardiff, Sophia Gardens to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange station pair, with some services arriving at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University). Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Portsmouth bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Cardiff
Arrival bus stations in Portsmouth

Which Cardiff station do buses to Portsmouth leave from?

Buses from Cardiff to Portsmouth leave from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre

Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · kr23 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min

Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services

Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.

Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre

TRUE

Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services

Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.

Cardiff, University
City-centre transport

Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre

TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · kr12 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min

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