Portsmouth to Cardiff bus with National Express

Thu, Nov 06
+ Add return
National Express
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff

Showing times and prices for Nov 06

Cheapest price

$36

Average price

$54

Fastest journey

5 h 30 m

Average duration

6 h 39 m

Buses per day

5

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 $54 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $36.

Fast buses

Of the 5 buses that leave Portsmouth for Cardiff on Thu, Nov 06, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Thu, Nov 06 the direct buses cover the 164 km distance in an average of 6 h 39 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 30 m .

On Thu, Nov 06 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.

National Express
06:50AM7h20
Portsmouth
02:10PMCardiff
$361One-way
0 transfers
National Express
10:05AM7h25
Portsmouth
05:30PMCardiff
$521One-way
0 transfers
National Express
01:55PM6h50
Portsmouth
08:45PMCardiff
$551One-way
0 transfers
National Express
05:45PM6h10
Portsmouth
11:55PMCardiff
$551One-way
0 transfers
National Express
07:10PM5h30
Portsmouth
12:40AMCardiff
$701One-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 €15. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 23m. 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 €15, and a train costs an average of €41.

Distance: 101 miles (164 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train

€31

Average price

Cheapest

€83

Average price

6h 28m

Average total duration

5h 58m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 53m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 23m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.2 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest
National Express

Most popular bus company

Great Western Rail

Most popular train company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

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
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$69
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
05:35AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$79
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:05AM
Arrival Time
12:05PM
Duration
6h00
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$79
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
6h50
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:40AM
Arrival Time
02:10PM
Duration
6h30
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$52
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:20AM
Arrival Time
02:45PM
Duration
6h25
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:30AM
Arrival Time
02:25PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$74
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:50AM
Arrival Time
05:00PM
Duration
6h10
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$61
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:35PM
Arrival Time
07:55PM
Duration
7h20
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
01:50PM
Arrival Time
08:05PM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$64
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:45PM
Arrival Time
10:40PM
Duration
5h55
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$60
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
04:55PM
Arrival Time
10:40PM
Duration
5h45
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$53
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
06:45PM
Arrival Time
01:00AM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$24
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:10PM
Arrival Time
01:40AM
Duration
5h30
Departure days
Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$52

Live departures

Portsmouth to Cardiff bus times

The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Thursday, November 6. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at 3:40 PM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
national_express6:50 AM Portsmouth
7h20
2:10 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
national_express10:05 AM Portsmouth
7h25
5:30 PM Cardiff0 transfersDirect
national_express1:55 PM Portsmouth
6h50
8:45 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.

Thu
Nov 06
Fri
Nov 07
Sat
Nov 08
Sun
Nov 09
Mon
Nov 10
Tue
Nov 11
Wed
Nov 12

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 8 times per day, taking around 5h 58m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) 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 (€15)
Buses per day
8
Fastest bus
5h 30m
First bus
03:05
Last bus
21:20
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 (€15). 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 (€15)
National Express frequency
8 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.

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 $19 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Cardiff is $43 (€35); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Portsmouth to Cardiff bus travel time is 6 h 10 min   for the 102 mile (164 km) long journey, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 5: 12AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner   from Omio.
The last bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 6: 45PM.
There are 9 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.
Take the Portsmouth to Cardiff bus with National Express. However, it's always good to check out all possible bus companies for the trip to Cardiff from Portsmouth as there might be differences in the amenities they offer.
The cheapest month to travel from Portsmouth to Cardiff by bus is March.
You have options as you can travel from Portsmouth to Cardiff 2 different ways: train or 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff depends on the bus company:
  • 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.

To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Portsmouth to Cardiff, follow these tips:

  • Book in advance: Tickets are often cheaper when booked early.
  • Be flexible with dates and times: Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money.
  • Use our search filters: Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options.
  • Look for special deals or discounts: Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
  • Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!

    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.

    popular bus stations

    Popular bus stations from Portsmouth to Cardiff

    Portsmouth
    Cardiff
    The major bus station for departures in Portsmouth is Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange for your trip from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
    Amenities at bus station
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 05:00-23:00
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    1 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    The Hard
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Café at The Hard (in the station)
    • Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the main entrance.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    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
    WifiWifi
    ParkingParking
    DiningDining
    ATMATM
    TaxisTaxis
    AccessibilityAccessibility
    WCWC
    Ticket OfficeTicket Office
    information
    ticketOfficeHours
    Ticket Office Hours
    • 06:00-22:00
    ticketOfficeHours
    Distance to city center
    1 km
    carConnection
    Car connection
    Wharf Road
    Wifi
    Wifi
    • Free Wi-Fi
    Dining
    Dining
    • Café in the terminal (in the station)
    • Fast-food outlet (in the station).
    Taxis
    Taxis
    • Available outside the main entrance.
    Accessibility
    Accessibility
    • Elevators, ramps
    WC
    WC
    • Available in the station.
    Public transit options for Portsmouth, International Port
    • Bus: 8, 20, 700 Train: Portsmouth Harbour
    Portsmouth, University
    information
    Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
    information

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