- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Ipswich to Southampton
Showing times and prices for Jul 16
Cheapest price
$72
Average price
$72
Fastest journey
7 h 25 m
Average duration
7 h 25 m
Buses per day
1
Distance
219 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Ipswich to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Ipswich to Southampton will cost around $72 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $72.
Fast buses
Of the 1 buses that leave Ipswich for Southampton on Thu, Jul 16, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Jul 16 the direct buses cover the 219 km distance in an average of 7 h 25 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 25 m .
On Thu, Jul 16 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.
5:05 PM7h25Ipswich12:30 AMSouthampton$721One-way0 transfers
- 5:05 PM7h25Ipswich12:30 AMSouthampton$721One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Ipswich to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Ipswich to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $38. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 3m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $38, and a bus costs an average of $47.
Distance: 136 miles (219 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$75 Average price | $65 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 38m Average total duration 6h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 33m Average total duration Fastest 3h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 13m 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 Ipswich to Southampton is a train with an average price of $65 (€54).
This is compared to other travel options from Ipswich to Southampton:
A train is $10 (€8) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Ipswich to Southampton costing on average $75 (€62).
The fastest way to travel from Ipswich to Southampton is by train with an average journey time of 3h 3m.
Other travel options to Southampton take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 8m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Southampton including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Ipswich to Southampton 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.
Ipswich to Southampton Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30AM | Arrival Time 12:50PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:15AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:30PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 09:50PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $87 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 12:30AM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $80 |
Live departures
Ipswich to Southampton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Ipswich to Southampton buses for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:05 PM Ipswich | 8h55 | 2:00 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:50 PM Ipswich | 8h10 | 3:00 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 Ipswich 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.
Thu
Jul 16
Jul 16
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Jul 22
Why should you book Ipswich to Southampton buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Ipswich to Southampton.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Ipswich to Southampton
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Ipswich to Southampton run on average 10 times per day, taking around 6h 8m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $47 (€39) but you can travel from only $38 (€31) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 21:00. The fastest bus covers the 136 miles (219 km) distance in 7h 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
Train from $38 (€31)
Distance 136 miles (219 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 8m |
Cheapest ticket price $47 (€39) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 7h 20m |
First bus 2:00 AM |
Last bus 9:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 4 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
Train from $38 (€31)
Bus providers: National Express from Ipswich to SouthamptonYou can travel by bus between Ipswich to Southampton with National Express for as low as $38 (€31). 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
7h 20m
Cheapest Price
$47 (€39)
National Express frequency
10 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.
Bluestar Buses
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Southampton Coach Station -> Southampton Central Station
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 12 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Bluestar and Unilink buses. You can also use mobile tickets in the official app.
- Southampton has no tram or metro. Most city travel is by bus, and exact fares can vary by operator and route.
FAQs: Bus from Ipswich to Southampton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton can start from as little as $47 (€39) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Ipswich to Southampton is $75 (€62) ; 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 Ipswich to Southampton is 7h 20m to travel the 136 miles (219 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 Ipswich to Southampton leaves at 2:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Ipswich to Southampton leaves at 9:00 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich and Southampton and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Southampton from Ipswich is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 20m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Ipswich to Southampton is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Ipswich and Southampton including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Ipswich to Southampton:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Ipswich to Southampton.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Ipswich to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Ipswich to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Ipswich to Southampton with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Ipswich 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 Ipswich 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 Ipswich to Southampton
Most Ipswich to Southampton buses use the Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema) to Southampton, Coach Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Ipswich and Southampton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Ipswich
Arrival bus stations in Southampton
Ipswich, Quadling Street (Cardinal Park Cinema)
Which Southampton station do buses from Ipswich arrive at?
Buses from Ipswich to Southampton arrive at Southampton, Coach Station. Southampton, Coach Station is from Southampton city centre.
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.
Most popular bus connections from Ipswich
More options for your journey from Ipswich to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Southampton and Ipswich
Most popular bus connections to Southampton
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