Portsmouth to Cardiff bus with National Express

Tue, Aug 04
+ Add return
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
National Express
FlixBus
Alsa
BlaBlaCar Bus
Rede Expressos
2,000+ travel companies
QR-Code
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
rate4.9
42K ratings
Google Play
rate4.6
136K reviews

The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Aug 04

Cheapest price

$18

Average price

$41

Fastest journey

6 h 10 m

Average duration

6 h 35 m

Buses per day

7

Distance

164 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff will cost around $41 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $18.

Fast buses

Of the 7 buses that leave Portsmouth for Cardiff on Tue, Aug 04, 7 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Aug 04 the direct buses cover the 164 km distance in an average of 6 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 6 h 10 m .

On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest buses will take 7 h 15 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.

  • National Express
    1:55 PM6h50
    Portsmouth
    8:45 PMCardiff
    $181One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    7:50 AM8h30
    Portsmouth
    4:20 PMCardiff
    $301One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    6:50 AM8h30
    Portsmouth
    3:20 PMCardiff
    $351One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    6:45 PM6h10
    Portsmouth
    12:55 AMCardiff
    $361One-way
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    5:45 PM6h10
    Portsmouth
    11:55 PMCardiff
    $471One-way
    0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train and bus for Portsmouth to Cardiff

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. 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 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $18, and a train costs an average of $42.

Distance: 101 miles (164 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

$41

Average price

Cheapest

$94

Average price

$49

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

6h 28m

Average total duration

5h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 51m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 21m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

2h 52m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Railway

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 Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $41.

This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Cardiff:

A bus is $53 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Cardiff costing on average $94.

The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Cardiff is by train with an average journey time of 3h 21m.

Other travel options to Cardiff take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 58m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Cardiff 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 Cardiff Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:20AM
Arrival Time
11:00AM
Duration
7h40
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Mon, Thu
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:50AM
Arrival Time
03:20PM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$65
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:40AM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:50AM
Arrival Time
04:20PM
Duration
8h30
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
02:25PM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$81
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
02:25PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$96
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:20AM
Arrival Time
04:30PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:50AM
Arrival Time
04:45PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:05AM
Arrival Time
06:30PM
Duration
7h25
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:35PM
Arrival Time
07:35PM
Duration
7h00
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$33
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:55PM
Arrival Time
06:40PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Thu
Cheapest price
$48
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:50PM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$68
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:55PM
Arrival Time
08:45PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Tue, Wed
Cheapest price
$18
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
02:55PM
Arrival Time
09:45PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$27
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:10PM
Arrival Time
10:25PM
Duration
7h15
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
03:35PM
Arrival Time
10:45PM
Duration
7h10
Departure days
Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:10PM
Arrival Time
10:40PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Tue, Thu
Cheapest price
$57
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
10:40PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$56
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:55PM
Arrival Time
10:40PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:45PM
Arrival Time
11:55PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Tue, Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$25
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:25PM
Arrival Time
12:50AM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Wed, Fri, Sun
Cheapest price
$32
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45PM
Arrival Time
01:00AM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$22
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:10PM
Arrival Time
01:40AM
Duration
5h30
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Sat
Cheapest price
$48

Live departures

Portsmouth to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cardiff buses for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressNX030 · NX5096:45 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
6h15
1:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
National ExpressNX030 · NX2018:10 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
5h30
1:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens1 transfer
Tuesday, August 4
National Express6:50 AM Portsmouth
8h30
3:20 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
National Express7:50 AM Portsmouth
8h30
4:20 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
National Express1:55 PM Portsmouth
6h50
8:45 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
National Express3:10 PM Portsmouth
7h15
10:25 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Cardiff by train or bus

Compare train and bus 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.

Tue
Aug 04
Wed
Aug 05
Thu
Aug 06
Fri
Aug 07
Sat
Aug 08
Sun
Aug 09
Mon
Aug 10

Why should you book Portsmouth to Cardiff buses with Omio?

National Express operates all buses services from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu?

  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Cardiff.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff run on average 10 times per day, taking around 5h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 21:20. The fastest bus covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 5h 30m.

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
101 miles (164 km)
Average bus duration
5h 58m
Cheapest ticket price
$18
Buses per day
10
Fastest bus
5h 30m
First bus
3:05 AM
Last bus
9:20 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sat
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Fri
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

Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Cardiff with National Express for as low as $18. 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 30m
Cheapest Price
$18
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 Cardiff

Things to do in Cardiff

Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum Cardiff

Wales’s national art and natural history museum, with Impressionist paintings, geology, and major collections in an elegant civic building.

  • Must visit

St Fagans National Museum of History

Open-air history museum with rescued Welsh buildings, crafts, and exhibitions that bring everyday life from different eras vividly to life.

  • Recommended

Museum of Cardiff

Compact city-centre museum telling Cardiff’s story through local archaeology, industry, and community displays inside the Old Library.

British pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transit and casual meals are manageable for most visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a casual lunch.
Mid-range
£18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£60+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Restaurants often add a 10-12.5% service charge; if not, tip around 10%. Taxi tips are optional, often rounded up. Cafes usually do not require tipping, but small tips are appreciated.

FAQs: Bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Portsmouth to Cardiff can start from as little as $18 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Cardiff is $41 ; 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 Cardiff is 5h 30m to travel the 101 miles (164 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 Cardiff leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 9:20 PM.
There are 10 buses a day from Portsmouth to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cardiff from Portsmouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 30m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff is August.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cardiff are:
  • Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress with Roman and Norman roots offering guided tours and events
  • St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life and culture through reconstructed buildings and exhibits
  • Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions
  • National Museum Cardiff, featuring art, archaeology, and natural history collections
  • Bute Park, a large green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The best things to do in Cardiff include:
  • Millennium Centre, a renowned arts venue hosting opera, ballet, and theater performances
  • Explore the vibrant nightlife in Cardiff's city center with its array of pubs and clubs
  • Take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for scenic views and historical insights
  • Visit the Cardiff International White Water for an adventurous day of rafting and kayaking
  • Enjoy shopping and dining at the bustling Cardiff Market, offering local produce and unique finds.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff 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 Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff:
  • 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 Cardiff:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Portsmouth nor Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps 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 Cardiff

Most Portsmouth to Cardiff buses use the Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB). Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Portsmouth
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff

Which Portsmouth station do buses to Cardiff leave from?

Buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff leave from Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from Portsmouth city centre at The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK.
Portsmouth, The Hard InterchangeThe Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange from Portsmouth city centre

Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:

TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · $1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · $2 · every ~214 min

Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange bus station facilities and services

Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Café at The Hard (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Elevators, ramps.

Portsmouth, University
Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
City-centre transport

Getting to Southsea, Clarence Esplanade from Portsmouth city centre

Bus23 · 23m · $2 · every ~27 min

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.

ios-badge
android-badge
Hand With Phone