- Must visit
Mary Rose Museum
Purpose-built museum displaying Henry VIII’s flagship and thousands of Tudor artefacts, making it one of Portsmouth’s most important heritage attractions.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Portsmouth
Showing times and prices for Jun 22
Cheapest price
$98
Average price
$100
Fastest journey
13 h 25 m
Average duration
13 h 46 m
Buses per day
7
Distance
590 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Portsmouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Portsmouth will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $98.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Portsmouth without transferring at least once.
NX594 · NX0309:25 PM13h25Edinburgh, Bus Station10:50 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$981One-way1 transfer- NX598 · NX03010:05 PM14h10Edinburgh, Bus Station12:15 PMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$981One-way1 transfer
- NX598 · NX03010:05 PM14h15Edinburgh, Bus Station12:20 PMPortsmouth, University$981One-way1 transfer
- NX594 · NX0309:25 PM13h30Edinburgh, Bus Station10:55 AMPortsmouth, University$981One-way1 transfer
- NX591 · NX03010:35 AM13h55Edinburgh, Bus Station12:30 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$1031One-way1 transfer
- NX594 · NX0309:25 PM13h25Edinburgh, Bus Station10:50 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$981One-way1 transfer
- NX594 · NX0309:25 PM13h30Edinburgh, Bus Station10:55 AMPortsmouth, University$981One-way1 transfer
- NX591 · NX03010:35 AM13h55Edinburgh, Bus Station12:30 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange$1031One-way1 transfer
- NX591 · NX03010:35 AM13h58Edinburgh, Bus Station12:33 AMPortsmouth, University$1031One-way1 transfer
- NX598 · NX03010:05 PM14h00Edinburgh, Bus Station12:05 PMPortsmouth, International Port$1031One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Edinburgh to Portsmouth
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Portsmouth among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $23. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 22m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $23, and a train costs an average of $98.
Distance: 366 miles (590 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$78 Average price | $144 Average price | $61 Average price Cheapest | $216 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 36m Average total duration 13h 6m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 30m Average total duration 7h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration Fastest 1h 22m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 7m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.8 - 3.5kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 Edinburgh to Portsmouth is a flight with an average price of $61 (€50).
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Portsmouth:
A flight is $17 (€14) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth costing on average $78 (€64).
A flight is $82 (€67) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Portsmouth costing on average $144 (€117).
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Portsmouth is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 22m.
Other travel options to Portsmouth take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 0m.
Bus takes on average 13h 6m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Portsmouth including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh 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 $78 (€64) compared to roughly $216 (€176) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $138 (€113). The journey takes 13h 6m versus 8h 7m 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.
Direct services are operated by Megabus.
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.
Edinburgh to Portsmouth Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 11:30PM | Duration 13h55 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:35AM | Arrival Time 12:33AM | Duration 13h58 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $49 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 14h15 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:25PM | Arrival Time 10:45AM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 14h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $70 |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Portsmouth bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Portsmouth buses for today, Sunday, June 21. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX591 · NX030 | On time 10:35 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 13h58 | 12:33 AM Portsmouth, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX591 · NX030 | On time 10:35 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 13h55 | 12:30 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX598 · NX030 | On time 10:05 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 14h15 | 12:20 PM Portsmouth, University | 1 transfer | |
| NX598 · NX030 | On time 10:05 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 14h10 | 12:15 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 1 transfer | |
| NX598 · NX030 | On time 10:05 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 14h00 | 12:05 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Portsmouth by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, and flight 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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Why should you book Edinburgh to Portsmouth buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Edinburgh to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh 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 Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh 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, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Portsmouth.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Portsmouth.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Portsmouth run on average 5 times per day, taking around 13h 6m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $23 (€19) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 366 miles (590 km) distance in 13h 20m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $23 (€19)
Distance 366 miles (590 km) |
Average bus duration 13h 6m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 13h 20m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Thu |
Best time to book 35 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from $23 (€19)
Bus providers: National Express, Megabus from Edinburgh to PortsmouthYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Portsmouth with National Express, Megabus for as low as $23 (€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
13h 20m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
National Express frequency
5 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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 5m
Cheapest Price
$43 (€35)
Megabus frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
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
National Museum of the Royal Navy
Major naval museum at Portsmouth Historic Dockyard covering Royal Navy history through ships, galleries and interactive displays.
- Recommended
Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery
City museum and gallery with local history, art, Conan Doyle connections and changing exhibitions, popular for understanding Portsmouth beyond the dockyard.
- Must visit
Old Portsmouth
Historic waterfront quarter with cobbled lanes, pubs, sea views and easy access to the cathedral, fortifications and harbour mouth.
- Must visit
Southsea Seafront
Long promenade and coastal walking area popular for sea views, gardens, piers and classic Portsmouth seaside atmosphere.
- Recommended
Gunwharf Quays
Harbourfront area known for the Spinnaker Tower, marina views and lively modern atmosphere, frequently featured in visitor photos and social media.
Fish And Chips
Fresh battered fish with chips is a classic Portsmouth seaside staple, often enjoyed on the waterfront.
Portsmouth Seafood Chowder
A creamy soup made with local fish and shellfish, reflecting Portsmouth’s strong naval and fishing heritage.
Crab Sandwich
Sweet dressed crab in bread or a roll is popular on the South Coast and highlights local coastal produce.
Abarbistro
Established independent bistro in Old Portsmouth serving creative British and European dishes in a relaxed setting.
The Canteen
Popular Southsea venue for seasonal small plates, brunch, and modern British food with a casual neighborhood feel.
The Briny
Well-known Southsea restaurant specializing in seafood and modern British cooking in a stylish seafront setting.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Pubs and casual dining are reasonable, while seafront hotels and fine dining cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 50+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service charge may be added in restaurants. If not, tip 10-12.5% for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange -> Portsmouth Harbour Station
- Distance
- 0.2 km
- Travel time
- 3 min
- Tap on and tap off with contactless on First Bus services; daily fares are capped automatically.
- Portsmouth Harbour and The Hard are next to each other, so walking is often faster than taking a bus in the center.
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Portsmouth can start from as little as $43 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Portsmouth is $78 (€64) ; 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 Edinburgh to Portsmouth is 13h 20m to travel the 366 miles (590 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 Edinburgh to Portsmouth leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Edinburgh to Portsmouth which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Portsmouth. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Portsmouth and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Portsmouth from Edinburgh is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 13h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth is January.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Portsmouth including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth:
- Megabus
- Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth for bus company National Express, Megabus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh to Portsmouth depends on the bus companies:
- Megabus
- Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
- 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 Edinburgh to Portsmouth.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh to Portsmouth:
- Megabus
- One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
- 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 Edinburgh to Portsmouth:
- Megabus
- Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Portsmouth with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh to Portsmouth
Edinburgh
Portsmouth
The major bus station for departures in Edinburgh is Edinburgh, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh, Bus Station for your trip from Edinburgh to Portsmouth.
Edinburgh, Bus Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Car connection
Elder StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station
Public transit options for Edinburgh, Bus Station
- Bus: 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 25, 26, 44 Trams: T50 Trains: Edinburgh Waverley Station
The major bus station for arrivals in Portsmouth is Portsmouth, University. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Portsmouth, University for your trip to Portsmouth from Edinburgh.
Portsmouth, University
information
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
The HardWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at The Hard (in the station)
- Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available near the waiting area
Public transit options for Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
- Bus: 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 13, 14 Train: South Western Railway, Southern, Great Western Railway
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Wharf RoadWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café in the terminal (in the station)
- Fast-food outlet (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station
Public transit options for Portsmouth, International Port
- Bus: 8, 20, 700 Train: Portsmouth Harbour
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Portsmouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Portsmouth and Edinburgh
Most popular bus connections to Portsmouth
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