- 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.
Cheapest price on Sep 18
€33
Average ticket price on Sep 18
€44
Fastest journey on Sep 18
6 h 50 m
Average journey duration on Sep 18
7 h 36 m
Buses on Sep 18
14
Distance
292 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Manchester to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Manchester to Southampton will cost around €44 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €33.
It's difficult to get from Manchester to Southampton without transferring at least once.
NX540 · NX032
NX540 · NX032
NX540 · NX032
NX540 · NX032
FlixBus · FlixBus
NX590 · NX160
NX540 · NX032
NX541 · NX160
NX541 · NX160
FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Manchester to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of €39 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 45m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.3kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €39, while a flight costs an average of €307.
Distance: 181 miles (292 km)
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
€39 Average price Cheapest | €121 Average price | €307 Average price | €78 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 45m Average total duration 7h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 33m Average total duration 4h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 45m Average total duration Fastest 1h 45m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 4h 26m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.3 - 0.7kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Manchester to Southampton:
A bus is €82 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Manchester to Southampton costing on average €121.
A bus is €268 less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Manchester to Southampton costing on average €307.
Other travel options to Southampton take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 3m.
Bus takes on average 7h 15m.
Tickets start at around €39 compared to roughly €78 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about €39. The journey takes 7h 15m versus 4h 26m 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €50 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:15AM | Arrival Time 12:40PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45AM | Arrival Time 03:00PM | Duration 9h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 02:50PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:05AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 10h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €36 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 9h00 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €37 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 05:55PM | Duration 9h25 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 05:50PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:00AM | Arrival Time 05:45PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:20AM | Arrival Time 05:30PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:55AM | Arrival Time 07:40PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 07:10PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:30AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:25PM | Arrival Time 10:20PM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:00PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 8h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:50PM | Arrival Time 12:05AM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 8h35 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 01:30AM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €20 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30PM | Arrival Time 03:00AM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 11:20AM | Duration 11h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €21 |
The table below shows live departures for Manchester to Southampton buses for tomorrow, Friday, September 18. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX541 · NX160 | 4:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h55 | 12:40 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:50 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 8h20 | 1:10 PM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 1 transfer | |
NX540 · NX032 | 5:45 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 9h15 | 3:00 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
NX540 · NX032 | 7:05 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 10h00 | 5:05 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:30 AM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 9h25 | 5:55 PM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 1 transfer | |
NX541 · NX160 | 10:00 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h45 | 5:45 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
NX540 · NX032 | 10:55 AM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h45 | 7:40 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:40 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 8h00 | 9:40 PM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 1 transfer | |
NX590 · NX160 | 2:00 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 6h50 | 8:50 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:10 PM Manchester, Shudehill Interchange | 8h15 | 11:25 PM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 1 transfer | |
NX540 · NX032 | 3:35 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h30 | 12:05 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
NX540 · NX032 | 4:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 8h35 | 1:30 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
NX540 · NX032 | 7:30 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 7h30 | 3:00 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
NX424 · NX032 | 11:55 PM Manchester, Coach Station | 11h25 | 11:20 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare train, bus, 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.
Buses from Manchester to Southampton run on average 13 times per day, taking around 7h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €16 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 181 miles (292 km) distance in 5h 40m.
Distance 181 miles (292 km) |
Average bus duration 7h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price €16 |
Buses per day 13 |
Fastest bus 5h 40m |
First bus 12:05 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Southampton — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Southampton trip today.
Southampton's flagship museum tells the city's story from Roman origins to Titanic and aviation, with strong local collections and family displays.
Restored Tudor home and remains of a Norman house reveal centuries of domestic and maritime history in Southampton's atmospheric Old Town.
Art gallery with a respected collection spanning old masters to contemporary works, plus changing exhibitions in the Cultural Quarter.
Historic quarter enclosed by medieval walls, packed with lanes, pubs, museums, and merchant houses that showcase Southampton's oldest character.
Large central park popular for walks, events, and city views, linking major cultural venues with green space in the heart of Southampton.
Leafy Victorian park with formal gardens, memorials, and broad lawns. It is ideal for a break between museums and shopping streets.
A fresh oyster from nearby Hampshire waters, long linked to the Solent coast and traditionally eaten raw with lemon.
White fish coated in beer batter and fried, then served with chips. A classic British seaside meal popular in Southampton pubs and takeaways.
Hampshire pork sausages, often made with local meat and served with mash. A hearty pub staple across Southampton and the wider county.
Well-regarded craft brewery and taproom pouring local beers in a casual industrial space with a strong local following.
Refined modern British dining in a smart, intimate setting. Best known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service.
Historic pub in the old town serving cask ales and classic British dishes in a traditional, atmospheric setting.
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transport are typical for a mid-sized English city.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester 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.

Most Manchester to Southampton buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Southampton, Coach Station station pair, with some services arriving at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University). Use this guide to compare Manchester and Southampton bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Manchester, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Fast Food Express (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located within the station for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Coach Station.
Available at Manchester, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Coach Station: Ramps, assistance.
Manchester, Shudehill Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange.
Available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Shudehill Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Manchester, Airport is 2 km from Manchester city centre. Public transport options include:
Manchester, Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Burger King (in the station), Giraffe (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located throughout the airport, offering multiple currency options.
Ticket office support is available at Manchester, Airport.
Available at Manchester, Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Manchester, Airport: Elevators, ramps, assistance.
Southampton, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café Express (in the station), Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Coach Station.
Available at Southampton, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) is 3 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University). ATMs are available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University).
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University).
Available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University): Bus stop is accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Southampton, University is 3 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
Southampton, University has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi is available at Southampton, University. ATMs are available at Southampton, University.
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, University.
Available at Southampton, University: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, University: Basic accessibility features are available for passengers.
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