- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The University of Cambridge’s flagship museum, known for major collections of art, antiquities, and manuscripts. A top cultural stop with free permanent galleries.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$34
Average price
$47
Fastest journey
6 h 5 m
Average duration
6 h 16 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
177 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Cambridge will cost around $47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $34.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Portsmouth for Cambridge on Sat, Jun 20, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sat, Jun 20 the direct buses cover the 177 km distance in an average of 6 h 16 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 5 m .
On Sat, Jun 20 the slowest buses will take 6 h 21 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.
10:34 AM6h21Portsmouth4:55 PMCambridge$341One-way0 transfers- 9:50 AM6h05Portsmouth3:55 PMCambridge$481One-way0 transfers
- 9:34 AM6h21Portsmouth3:55 PMCambridge$611One-way0 transfers
- 9:50 AM6h05Portsmouth3:55 PMCambridge$481One-way0 transfers
- 10:34 AM6h21Portsmouth4:55 PMCambridge$341One-way0 transfers
- 9:34 AM6h21Portsmouth3:55 PMCambridge$611One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Portsmouth to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $33. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 21m. 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 bus costs an average of $33, and a train costs an average of $29.
Distance: 109 miles (177 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $48 Average price | $47 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 57m Average total duration 5h 27m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 51m Average total duration Fastest 3h 21m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 44m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.4kg 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $47 (€38).
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Cambridge:
A bus is $2 (€1) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Cambridge costing on average $48 (€40).
The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Cambridge is by train with an average journey time of 3h 21m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 27m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Cambridge 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.
Portsmouth to Cambridge Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $86 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 5h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 5h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 4h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:34AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 6h21 | Departure days Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $53 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:49AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 6h16 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:34AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h31 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:49AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h16 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 03:25PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:34PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 6h26 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 07:35PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:54PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 5h41 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:29PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 5h06 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 4h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:15PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $89 |
Live departures
Portsmouth to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cambridge buses for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX030 · NX727 | On time 8:15 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 5h30 | 1:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Cambridge 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.
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Jun 26
Jun 26
Why should you book Portsmouth to Cambridge buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
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 Portsmouth to Cambridge.
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 Portsmouth to Cambridge.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Cambridge run on average 16 times per day, taking around 5h 27m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $33 (€27) but you can travel from only $29 (€23) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 21:42. The fastest bus covers the 109 miles (177 km) distance in 5h 41m.
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 $29 (€23)
Distance 109 miles (177 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 27m |
Cheapest ticket price $33 (€27) |
Buses per day 16 |
Fastest bus 5h 41m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 9:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Aug |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 6 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 $29 (€23)
Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Cambridge with National Express for as low as $29 (€23). 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
5h 41m
Cheapest Price
$33 (€27)
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.
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Must visit
Kettle’s Yard
A renowned modern and contemporary art house museum with intimate displays and a distinctive domestic setting. One of Cambridge’s most characterful art venues.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
University museum with important world archaeology and anthropology collections, including Pacific, African, and British material. Excellent for a deeper academic side of Cambridge.
- Must visit
King’s Parade
The city’s most famous street, lined with historic college architecture and classic views of King’s College Chapel. Essential for first-time visitors.
- Must visit
The Backs
A celebrated walking area with riverside paths and some of the city’s most iconic college views. Especially beautiful in spring and autumn.
- Recommended
Market Square
The busy historic center of Cambridge, surrounded by major sights and a long-running market tradition. Good for atmosphere and people-watching.
- Vegetarian
Chelsea Bun
A sticky spiced currant bun strongly associated with Cambridge through Fitzbillies, a long-standing local bakery and tea room.
Cambridgeshire Pork Sausage
Traditional local pork sausages, often served with mash or in breakfast plates, reflecting the county’s farming heritage.
Roast Beef And Yorkshire Pudding
A classic English Sunday roast commonly enjoyed in Cambridge pubs, with roasted beef, gravy, vegetables, and Yorkshire pudding.
Midsummer House
A celebrated fine dining restaurant on the River Cam, known for refined modern British tasting menus and polished service.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
A well-regarded independent restaurant serving seasonal modern British cuisine in an intimate, elegant townhouse setting.
The Eagle
A historic Cambridge pub famous for classic British food, ales, and its longstanding connection to the city’s academic history.
Pound sterling
Costs are high by UK standards, especially for hotels and dining in the centre, though markets and pubs offer cheaper options.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway, street food, or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant or pub.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or flat white.
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, though small change is appreciated.
MyTrip Cambridge
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) -> Cambridge Railway Station
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on most local buses in Cambridge, and capped fares may apply on some operators.
- If you use buses frequently in one day, check operator day tickets in advance as they can cost less than buying single fares.
FAQs: Bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Portsmouth to Cambridge can start from as little as $33 (€27) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Cambridge is $47 (€38) ; 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge is 5h 41m to travel the 109 miles (177 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge leaves at 9:42 PM.
There are 16 buses a day from Portsmouth to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cambridge from Portsmouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 41m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cambridge are:
- King's College Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture known for its impressive fan vault and beautiful stained glass windows
- The Fitzwilliam Museum, a renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world
- The Backs, a picturesque area along the River Cam offering scenic views of the colleges and lush gardens
- Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge, famous for its historic Great Court and library
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
The best things to do in Cambridge include:
- Punting on the River Cam, a traditional Cambridge activity offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges
- Visit the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and science enthusiasts
- Explore the historic Market Square, where you can find local produce, crafts, and street food
- Attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, featuring a variety of shows from drama to comedy
- Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and hidden gems of Cambridge.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Portsmouth to Cambridge 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Portsmouth to Cambridge:
- 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Portsmouth to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Portsmouth nor Cambridge 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert 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 Portsmouth to Cambridge
Portsmouth
Cambridge
The major bus station for departures in Portsmouth is Portsmouth, University. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Portsmouth, University for your trip from Portsmouth to Cambridge.
Portsmouth, University
information
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car 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
The major bus station for arrivals in Cambridge is Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) for your trip to Cambridge from Portsmouth.
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
information
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Portsmouth
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