- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
Major national museum with art, natural history, and geology collections in central Cardiff.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$51
Average price
$70
Fastest journey
5 h 30 m
Average duration
5 h 45 m
Buses per day
10
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 $70 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $51.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Portsmouth to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
NX030 · NX5096:45 PM6h15Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1:00 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$511One-way1 transfer- NX030 · NX50912:35 PM6h40Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange7:15 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$511One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5077:40 AM6h30Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange2:10 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$611One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX2013:20 AM7h40Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange11:00 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX2021:50 PM6h00Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange7:50 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX2018:10 PM5h30Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1:40 AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX20110:50 AM5h35Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange4:25 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$761One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX2014:55 PM5h45Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange10:40 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX2018:30 AM5h55Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange2:25 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$951One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX2021:50 PM6h00Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange7:50 PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens$731One-way1 transfer
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 |
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 Cardiff is a bus with an average price of $41 (€34).
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Cardiff:
A bus is $53 (€43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Cardiff costing on average $94 (€77).
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
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $78 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:20AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 02:25PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $95 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 07:15PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $18 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
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 Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 11:55PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 12:55AM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, 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, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX030 · NX201 | Delayed 6:40 AM 3:20 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h40 | 11:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX202 | Delayed 6:40 AM 6:05 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h00 | 12:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX507 | On time 7:40 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h30 | 2:10 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX201 | On time 8:30 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h55 | 2:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX201 | On time 10:50 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h35 | 4:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX509 | On time 12:35 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h40 | 7:15 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX202 | On time 1:50 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h00 | 7:50 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX201 | On time 4:55 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h45 | 10:40 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX509 | On time 6:45 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h15 | 1:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX201 | On time 8:10 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h30 | 1:40 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
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.
Sat
Jun 20
Jun 20
Sun
Jun 21
Jun 21
Mon
Jun 22
Jun 22
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Jun 23
Jun 23
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Jun 26
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
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 (€14) 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 (€14) |
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 (€14). 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 (€14)
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
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum showcasing Welsh historic buildings, traditions, and everyday life on a large heritage site.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
City museum covering Cardiff’s social history, industry, communities, and urban development.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalized waterfront district with promenades, public buildings, and popular photo-friendly views.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park ideal for riverside walks, greenery, and easy access from the castle.
- Must visit
Cardiff Market Arcade Quarter
Network of historic Victorian and Edwardian arcades prized for architecture and local independent shops.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
Traditional Welsh soup or stew, usually made with lamb or beef, leeks, potatoes, and root vegetables. It is one of Wales’s best-known comfort dishes.
- Vegetarian
Welsh Rarebit
A classic Welsh dish of toasted bread topped with a savory cheese sauce, often seasoned with mustard or ale. It is a staple in pubs and cafes across Cardiff.
- Vegetarian
Glamorgan Sausage
A traditional Welsh vegetarian sausage made with cheese, leeks, and breadcrumbs. It is especially associated with South Wales.
Pasture Cardiff
Well-known steakhouse in central Cardiff, praised for quality Welsh beef, polished service, and a lively modern atmosphere.
The Clink Restaurant Cardiff
Highly regarded fine-dining venue serving well-presented British dishes in a unique and memorable setting.
Madeira Restaurante
Long-running Portuguese restaurant popular for grilled meat, seafood, and generous portions in a warm, traditional setting.
Pound Sterling
Generally cheaper than London. Hotels can rise on event days, but food, transport, and pubs are usually moderate for UK city travel.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a standard restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service charge is not always included. Tip about 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service, round up taxis, and tipping in pubs or cafes is optional.
Transport for Wales
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 4.70
To the city center
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff -> Cardiff Central Station, Cardiff
- Distance
- 1.5 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is widely accepted on Cardiff buses, making it easy to buy tickets onboard.
- Use the Transport for Wales app for live journey planning and rail tickets across Cardiff and South Wales.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Portsmouth to Cardiff can start from as little as $18 (€14) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Cardiff is $41 (€34) ; 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
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
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
Portsmouth, University
information
Southsea, Clarence Esplanade
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip to Cardiff from Portsmouth.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Portsmouth
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