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The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Colchester
Showing times and prices for Jun 10
Cheapest price
$75
Average price
$83
Fastest journey
6 h 40 m
Average duration
6 h 48 m
Buses per day
19
Distance
184 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester will cost around $83 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Portsmouth to Colchester without transferring at least 2 times.
NX030 · NXA8 · NX71711:05 AM8h45Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange7:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$751One-way2 transfers- NX030 · NXA8 · NX7176:45 PM7h00Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$751One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NXA8 · NX7179:00 AM7h55Portsmouth, University4:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$751One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NXA8 · NX7179:20 AM7h35Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange4:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$751One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NXA8 · NX7176:29 PM7h16Portsmouth, University1:45 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$751One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NXA8 · NX7173:20 AM6h40Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange10:00 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$851One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NX727 · NX7174:10 PM6h40Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange10:50 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$1001One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NX728 · NX7175:35 AM6h50Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange12:25 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$1141One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NXA8 · NX7173:05 AM6h55Portsmouth, University10:00 AMColchester, East Hill / High Street$841One-way2 transfers
- NX030 · NXA8 · NX7178:00 AM6h55Portsmouth, International Port2:55 PMColchester, East Hill / High Street$811One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Portsmouth to Colchester
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Colchester among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $44. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 36m. 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 $44, and a train costs an average of $47.
Distance: 114 miles (184 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$66 Average price Cheapest | $88 Average price | $48 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 33m Average total duration 5h 3m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 3h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 2h 46m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
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 Colchester is a bus with an average price of $66 (€53).
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Colchester:
A bus is $22 (€18) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Colchester costing on average $88 (€71).
The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Colchester is by train with an average journey time of 3h 36m.
Other travel options to Colchester take longer:
Bus takes on average 5h 3m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Colchester 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 Colchester Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05AM | Arrival Time 09:00AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Tue, Sat | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $111 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 6h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $114 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:35AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 02:55PM | Duration 6h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:49AM | Arrival Time 03:55PM | Duration 7h06 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:20AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:49AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 9h01 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 8h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:19AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 7h31 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:54PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 6h56 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $99 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:10PM | Arrival Time 10:50PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $100 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:29PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 7h16 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:29PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h16 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55PM | Arrival Time 05:50AM | Duration 9h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri | Cheapest price $68 |
Live departures
Portsmouth to Colchester bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Colchester buses for tomorrow, Wednesday, June 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 3:05 AM Portsmouth, University | 6h55 | 10:00 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | On time 3:20 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h40 | 10:00 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NX728 · NX717 | 5:20 AM Portsmouth, University | 7h05 | 12:25 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NX728 · NX717 | On time 5:35 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h50 | 12:25 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 7:35 AM Portsmouth, University | 7h20 | 2:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | On time 7:50 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h05 | 2:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 8:00 AM Portsmouth, International Port | 6h55 | 2:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 9:00 AM Portsmouth, University | 7h55 | 4:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | On time 9:20 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h35 | 4:55 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 10:49 AM Portsmouth, University | 9h01 | 7:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | On time 11:05 AM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 8h45 | 7:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 3:05 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 7h45 | 10:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 3:05 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 7h45 | 10:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NX727 · NX717 | 3:54 PM Portsmouth, University | 6h56 | 10:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NX727 · NX717 | On time 4:10 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h40 | 10:50 PM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 6:29 PM Portsmouth, University | 7h16 | 1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | 6:29 PM Portsmouth, University | 7h16 | 1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | On time 6:45 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h00 | 1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
| NX030 · NXA8 · NX717 | On time 6:45 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h00 | 1:45 AM Colchester, East Hill / High Street | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Colchester 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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Why should you book Portsmouth to Colchester buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Portsmouth to Colchester.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Colchester.
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 Colchester.
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 Colchester.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Colchester
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Colchester run on average 20 times per day, taking around 5h 3m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $44 (€35) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:35, the last at 20:20. The fastest bus covers the 114 miles (184 km) distance in 6h 55m.
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 114 miles (184 km) |
Average bus duration 5h 3m |
Cheapest ticket price $44 (€35) |
Buses per day 20 |
Fastest bus 6h 55m |
First bus 2:35 AM |
Last bus 8:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jul |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Best time to book 14 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 ColchesterYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Colchester with National Express for as low as $44 (€35). 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
6h 55m
Cheapest Price
$44 (€35)
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 Colchester
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Colchester 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 Colchester, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Portsmouth to Colchester can start from as little as $44 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Colchester is $66 (€53) ; 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 Colchester is 6h 55m to travel the 114 miles (184 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 Colchester leaves at 2:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Portsmouth to Colchester leaves at 8:20 PM.
There are 20 buses a day from Portsmouth to Colchester 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 Colchester, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Colchester. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Colchester and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Colchester from Portsmouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Portsmouth to Colchester is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Colchester including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Portsmouth to Colchester for bus company National Express.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Portsmouth to Colchester:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester 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 Colchester.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Portsmouth to Colchester:
- 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 Colchester:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Portsmouth to Colchester.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Portsmouth to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Portsmouth to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Portsmouth to Colchester with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Portsmouth nor Colchester 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Colchester 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 Colchester, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in busy areas like the town center and near popular attractions. Common scams include overcharging by taxis that are not licensed and fraudulent street vendors. It's advisable to use official transportation services and remain vigilant in crowded places to avoid these issues.
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 Colchester
Portsmouth
Colchester
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 Colchester.
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
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 Colchester is Colchester, East Hill / High Street. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Colchester, East Hill / High Street for your trip to Colchester from Portsmouth.
Colchester, East Hill / High Street
information
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Colchester
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Colchester and Portsmouth
Most popular bus connections to Colchester
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