Cardiff to Portsmouth bus with National Express

Wed, Aug 05
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Portsmouth

Showing times and prices for Aug 05

Cheapest price

$52

Average price

$64

Fastest journey

5 h 25 m

Average duration

6 h 33 m

Buses per day

8

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 $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Portsmouth without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressNX509 · NX030
    12:30 PM7h10
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    7:40 PMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange
    $521One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX509 · NX030
    7:15 PM7h00
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    2:15 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange
    $521One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX509 · NX030
    9:00 AM7h00
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    4:00 PMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange
    $581One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX201 · NX030
    4:30 PM8h00
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    12:30 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange
    $601One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX202 · NX030
    2:55 PM6h30
    Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
    9:25 PMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange
    $651One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Cardiff to Portsmouth

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Portsmouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $19. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $19, and a train costs an average of $42.

Distance: 101 miles (164 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$40

Average price

Cheapest

$96

Average price

$49

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 46m

Average total duration

6h 16m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 50m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 20m

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 $40.

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

A bus is $56 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Portsmouth costing on average $96.

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Portsmouth is by train with an average journey time of 3h 20m.

Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:

Bus takes on average 6h 16m.

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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Portsmouth among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

Cardiff to Portsmouth Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45AM
Arrival Time
10:40AM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$50
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:15AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:20AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
7h05
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:25AM
Arrival Time
10:50AM
Duration
5h25
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$63
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:55AM
Arrival Time
12:15PM
Duration
6h20
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
02:20PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$81
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:30AM
Arrival Time
01:55PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45AM
Arrival Time
02:55PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:00AM
Arrival Time
03:50PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:40AM
Arrival Time
04:25PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$77
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:40AM
Arrival Time
06:30PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$73
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:30PM
Arrival Time
07:30PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$36
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:35PM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:55PM
Arrival Time
09:25PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$63
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:05PM
Arrival Time
09:50PM
Duration
6h45
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:45PM
Arrival Time
11:00PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:00PM
Arrival Time
11:00PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:30PM
Arrival Time
12:30AM
Duration
8h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:30PM
Arrival Time
12:30AM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45PM
Arrival Time
01:15AM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:15PM
Arrival Time
02:15AM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:45PM
Arrival Time
02:15AM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Mon, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$42

Live departures

Cardiff to Portsmouth bus times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Portsmouth buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, August 5. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX201 · NX0305:25 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
5h25
10:50 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · NX0307:20 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h00
2:20 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX509 · NX0309:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h00
4:00 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · NX03011:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
6h50
6:30 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX509 · NX03012:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h10
7:40 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX202 · NX0302:55 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
6h30
9:25 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX201 · NX0304:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
8h00
12:30 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer
National ExpressNX509 · NX0307:15 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
7h00
2:15 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

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.

Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10
Tue
Aug 11

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 9 times per day, taking around 6h 16m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $19 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 21:00. The fastest bus covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 6h 25m.

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
6h 16m
Cheapest ticket price
$19
Buses per day
9
Fastest bus
6h 25m
First bus
3:05 AM
Last bus
9:00 PM
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
Least Busy Day
Sun
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 $19. 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 Duration
6h 25m
Cheapest Price
$19
National Express frequency
9 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 $19 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Portsmouth is $40 ; 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 6h 25m 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 9 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 6h 25m 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, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Cardiff to Portsmouth for bus company National Express.
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 train 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 · $2 · 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 · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min

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