- Must visit
SeaCity Museum
Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Colchester to Southampton
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 19
Cheapest price on Sep 19
$65
Average ticket price on Sep 19
$68
Fastest journey on Sep 19
6 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 19
7 h 8 m
Buses on Sep 19
2
Distance
194 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Colchester to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Colchester to Southampton will cost around $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $65.
Fast buses
On Sat, Sep 19, we found 2 buses from Colchester to Southampton, including 2 direct services.
On Sat, Sep 19 the direct buses cover the 194 km distance in an average of 7 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 50 m .
On Sat, Sep 19 the slowest buses will take 7 h 25 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.
6:05 AM7h25Colchester1:30 PMSouthampton$651One-way0 transfers- 5:40 PM6h50Colchester12:30 AMSouthampton$711One-way0 transfers
- 5:40 PM6h50Colchester12:30 AMSouthampton$711One-way0 transfers
- 6:05 AM7h25Colchester1:30 PMSouthampton$651One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Colchester to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Colchester to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $103 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 3h 35m. 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 $103, while a train costs an average of $126.
Distance: 120 miles (194 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$103 Average price Cheapest | $126 Average price | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 50m Average total duration 5h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 35m Average total duration Fastest 3h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg 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 Colchester to Southampton is a bus with an average price of $103.
This is compared to other travel options from Colchester to Southampton:
A bus is $22 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Colchester to Southampton costing on average $126.
The fastest way to travel from Colchester to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 5m.
Other travel options to Southampton take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 20m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Southampton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Colchester to Southampton 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 $103 compared to roughly $55 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-48.21. The journey takes 5h 20m versus 2h 53m 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.
Colchester to Southampton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35AM | Arrival Time 09:50AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:35AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 01:30PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 04:00PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:10PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40PM | Arrival Time 11:50PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 02:00AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $67 |
Live departures
Colchester to Southampton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Colchester to Southampton buses for tomorrow, Saturday, September 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:05 AM Colchester | 7h25 | 1:30 PM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:40 PM Colchester | 6h50 | 12:30 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Colchester to Southampton 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.
Sat
Sep 19
Sep 19
Sun
Sep 20
Sep 20
Mon
Sep 21
Sep 21
Tue
Sep 22
Sep 22
Wed
Sep 23
Sep 23
Thu
Sep 24
Sep 24
Fri
Sep 25
Sep 25
Why should you book Colchester to Southampton buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Colchester to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Colchester to Southampton.
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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Colchester to Southampton.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Colchester to Southampton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Colchester to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Colchester to Southampton run on average 22 times per day, taking around 5h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $80 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 21:35. The fastest bus covers the 120 miles (194 km) distance in 3h 50m.
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 120 miles (194 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $80 |
Buses per day 22 |
Fastest bus 3h 50m |
First bus 2:05 AM |
Last bus 9:35 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Best time to book 28 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 Colchester to SouthamptonYou can travel by bus between Colchester to Southampton with National Express for as low as $126. 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
3h 50m
Cheapest National Express Price
$80
National Express frequency
22 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 Southampton
Things to do in Southampton
Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.
- Must visit
Tudor House and Garden
Restored Tudor home and remains of a Norman house reveal centuries of domestic and maritime history in Southampton's atmospheric Old Town.
- Recommended
Southampton City Art Gallery
Art gallery with a respected collection spanning old masters to contemporary works, plus changing exhibitions in the Cultural Quarter.
- Must visit
Old Town
Historic quarter enclosed by medieval walls, packed with lanes, pubs, museums, and merchant houses that showcase Southampton's oldest character.
- Must visit
Southampton Common
Large central park popular for walks, events, and city views, linking major cultural venues with green space in the heart of Southampton.
- Recommended
East Park
Leafy Victorian park with formal gardens, memorials, and broad lawns. It is ideal for a break between museums and shopping streets.
- Gluten-free
Solent Oysters
A fresh oyster from nearby Hampshire waters, long linked to the Solent coast and traditionally eaten raw with lemon.
Fish And Chips
White fish coated in beer batter and fried, then served with chips. A classic British seaside meal popular in Southampton pubs and takeaways.
Hampshire Sausages
Hampshire pork sausages, often made with local meat and served with mash. A hearty pub staple across Southampton and the wider county.
Dancing Man Brewery
Well-regarded craft brewery and taproom pouring local beers in a casual industrial space with a strong local following.
The Jetty
Refined modern British dining in a smart, intimate setting. Best known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service.
The Duke Of Wellington
Historic pub in the old town serving cask ales and classic British dishes in a traditional, atmospheric setting.
British pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transport are typical for a mid-sized English 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
- £2.80-4.20 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Tipping is modest. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not require tips, but small change is appreciated.
FAQs: Bus from Colchester to Southampton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Colchester to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Colchester to Southampton can start from as little as $80 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Colchester to Southampton is $103 ; 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 Colchester to Southampton is 3h 50m to travel the 120 miles (194 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 Colchester to Southampton leaves at 2:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Colchester to Southampton leaves at 9:35 PM.
There are 22 buses a day from Colchester to Southampton which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Colchester to Southampton, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Southampton. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Colchester and Southampton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Colchester , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Colchester, East Hill / High Street . When arriving in Southampton , you can end your journey in bus stations like Southampton, Coach Station, Southampton, University .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Colchester, East Hill / High Street, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Southampton, Coach Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Southampton from Colchester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 3h 50m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Colchester to Southampton is October.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Colchester and Southampton including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Colchester to Southampton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Colchester to Southampton for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Southampton are:
- Tudor House and Garden, a historic museum offering insights into Southampton's past with exhibits and a restored garden
- SeaCity Museum, an interactive museum focusing on Southampton's maritime history and the Titanic
- Southampton City Art Gallery, featuring an extensive collection of art from the Renaissance to contemporary works
- Solent Sky Museum, showcasing aviation history with a focus on the region's contributions to aircraft development
- Mayflower Theatre, a prominent venue hosting a variety of performances including musicals, opera, and ballet.
The best things to do in Southampton include:
- New Forest National Park, a nearby natural reserve ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting
- Hythe Ferry, offering a scenic boat trip across Southampton Water to the charming village of Hythe
- Westquay Shopping Centre, a major retail destination with a wide range of shops and dining options
- Ocean Village Marina, a vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and leisure activities
- Southampton Common, a large public park perfect for picnics, walks, and outdoor events.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Colchester to Southampton 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 Colchester to Southampton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Colchester to Southampton:
- 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 Colchester to Southampton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Colchester to Southampton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Colchester to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Colchester to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Colchester to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Colchester nor Southampton 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 Colchester to Southampton 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 Southampton, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the city center and near the port. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour operators offering poor services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official ticket vendors for transportation. Staying vigilant in crowded places and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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 Colchester to Southampton
Most Colchester to Southampton buses use the Colchester, East Hill / High Street to Southampton, University station pair, with some services arriving at Southampton, Coach Station. Use this guide to compare Colchester and Southampton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Colchester
Arrival bus stations in Southampton
Which Colchester station do buses to Southampton leave from?
Buses from Colchester to Southampton leave from Colchester, East Hill / High Street. The station is from Colchester city centre at Colchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK.
Colchester, East Hill / High StreetColchester Bus Station, Colchester CO2 7DP, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Colchester, East Hill / High Street from Colchester city centre
Bus1, 2, 3 · 1m · $4 · every ~17 min
107, 105 · 7m · $1 · every ~3 min
Colchester, East Hill / High Street bus station facilities and services
Colchester, East Hill / High Street 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 Colchester, East Hill / High Street. ATMs are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Colchester, East Hill / High Street: Limited accessibility features.
Which Southampton station do buses from Colchester arrive at?
Buses from Colchester to Southampton most often arrive at Southampton, Coach Station. Some services arrive at Southampton, University, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Southampton arrival station.
Southampton, Coach StationHarbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, Coach Station from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · $2 · every ~20 min
Southampton, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Southampton, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Express (in the station), Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Southampton, UniversityUniversity Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, University from Southampton city centre
Southampton, University is 3 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU2b, U2 · 11m · $2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 25m · $2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 29m · $2 · every ~37 min
Southampton, University bus station facilities and services
Southampton, University 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 Southampton, University. ATMs are available at Southampton, University.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, University.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, University: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, University: Basic accessibility features are available for passengers.
Most popular bus connections from Colchester
More options for your journey from Colchester to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Southampton and Colchester
Most popular bus connections to Southampton
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
