- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- €26
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- €35
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 5 h 30 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 5 h 59 m
- Buses on Nov 02
- 4
- 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 €35 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €26.
Fast buses
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 4 buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff, including 4 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct buses cover the 164 km distance in an average of 5 h 59 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 30 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest buses will take 6 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.
5:45 PM 6h15 Portsmouth 12:00 AM Cardiff €26 1 One-way 0 transfers6:45 PM 6h15 Portsmouth 1:00 AM Cardiff €29 1 One-way 0 transfers9:50 AM 5h55 Portsmouth 3:45 PM Cardiff €39 1 One-way 0 transfers8:10 PM 5h30 Portsmouth 1:40 AM Cardiff €44 1 One-way 0 transfers
8:10 PM 5h30 Portsmouth 1:40 AM Cardiff €44 1 One-way 0 transfers9:50 AM 5h55 Portsmouth 3:45 PM Cardiff €39 1 One-way 0 transfers6:45 PM 6h15 Portsmouth 1:00 AM Cardiff €29 1 One-way 0 transfers5:45 PM 6h15 Portsmouth 12:00 AM Cardiff €26 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 30m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €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 4h 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 30m |
Cheapest ticket price €15 |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 4h 30m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 9:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
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
Frequently asked questions about your Portsmouth to Cardiff trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Cheap bus tickets from Portsmouth to Cardiff can start from as little as €15 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Cardiff is €47 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
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 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.
Portsmouth to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 10:50AM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 11:55AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:50AM | Arrival Time 03:20PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price €27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:19AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 6h51 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30AM | Arrival Time 02:40PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 04:30PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 03:45PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 04:40PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 06:30PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:35PM | Arrival Time 07:20PM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:55PM | Arrival Time 06:40PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:50PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €39 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:55PM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price €32 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:55PM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:10PM | Arrival Time 10:25PM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 10:45PM | Duration 7h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 6h30 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price €45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:55PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h45 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 12:00AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price €23 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 01:00AM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price €19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:10PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €39 |
Live departures
Portsmouth to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cardiff buses for tomorrow, Monday, November 2. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 9:50 AM Portsmouth | 5h55 | 3:45 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:45 PM Portsmouth | 6h15 | 12:00 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:45 PM Portsmouth | 6h15 | 1:00 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:10 PM Portsmouth | 5h30 | 1:40 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Cardiff with National Express for as low as €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 National Express Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest National Express Price
€15
National Express frequency
9 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.
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Portsmouth and Cardiff
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
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.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
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 {providersWithBike}.
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.
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 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.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with basin views, modern landmarks, trails, and easy access to culture, public art, and waterside walks.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central park behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, arboretum views, sculptures, and quick escapes from the busy centre.
- Recommended
Royal Arcade
Victorian shopping arcade packed with independent boutiques and period detail, representing Cardiff’s famous arcade culture at its best.
- Vegetarian
- Vegan
- Gluten-free
Laverbread
A Welsh breakfast staple of seaweed cooked into a savoury puree, often served with oats or alongside bacon and cockles. It is a classic taste of Welsh coastal cooking.
- Gluten-free
Welsh Cockles
Cockles gathered from the Welsh coast, commonly eaten with laverbread. They are a long-standing local delicacy linked to South Wales seaside food culture.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A traditional Welsh broth made with lamb or beef, root vegetables, and leeks. It is hearty, homely, and closely associated with Welsh family cooking.
Heaneys
Refined modern British dining with tasting menus in an elegant city-centre setting. It is one of Cardiff’s most acclaimed fine dining restaurants.
Asador 44
A stylish venue known for seasonal Welsh ingredients, creative small plates, and a relaxed but polished atmosphere near the city centre.
Cardiff Market
Historic indoor market ideal for casual local food, Welsh cakes, fresh produce, and traditional snacks. It offers a lively everyday taste of Cardiff.
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.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.00
- Day pass
- £4.80
To the city center
Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens) -> Cardiff Central Station
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- Contactless card payment is accepted on Cardiff Bus services. Buying in the official app can speed up boarding.
- Transport for Wales rail services also accept contactless and card payments at many stations, but fares and products vary by route.
Plan your visit to Cardiff
Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Cardiff.
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.
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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Cardiff including taking a train and bus.
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.
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, University. 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, UK
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 EsplanadeClarence Esplanade, Southsea, Portsmouth, Southsea, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Southsea, Clarence Esplanade from Portsmouth city centre
Southsea, Clarence Esplanade is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
Bus23 · 23m · €2 · every ~27 min
Southsea, Clarence Esplanade bus station facilities and services
Southsea, Clarence Esplanade has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Southsea, Clarence Esplanade. ATMs are available at Southsea, Clarence Esplanade.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southsea, Clarence Esplanade.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southsea, Clarence Esplanade: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southsea, Clarence Esplanade: Bus station is accessible for persons with reduced mobility.
Which Cardiff station do buses from Portsmouth arrive at?
Buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff most often arrive at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Some services arrive at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · €2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
TRUE
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · €1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Bus stations for Portsmouth to Cardiff
Check bus stations information for Portsmouth and Cardiff, including where buses depart and arrive on this route.
When departing from Portsmouth , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, University, Southsea, Clarence Esplanade, Portsmouth, International Port . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your journey in bus stations like Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, University, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB) .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, which is located around 0 miles (1 km) away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, located 1 away from the city centre.
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
Most popular bus connections to Cardiff
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