The cheapest and fastest buses from Reading to Southampton
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$64
Fastest journey
3 h 27 m
Average duration
3 h 42 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
68 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Reading to Southampton is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Reading to Southampton will cost around $64 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
Of the 2 buses that leave Reading for Southampton on Sun, Dec 21, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, Dec 21 the direct buses cover the 68 km distance in an average of 3 h 42 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 3 h 27 m .
On Sun, Dec 21 the slowest buses will take 3 h 57 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.




Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Reading to Southampton
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Reading to Southampton among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from €7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 56m. 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 train costs an average of €7, and a bus costs an average of €47.
Distance: 42 miles (68 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€56 Average price | €22 Average price Cheapest |
3h 20m Average total duration 2h 50m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 26m Average total duration Fastest 56m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Reading to Southampton bus times
The table below shows live departures for Reading to Southampton buses for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
![]() | 11:23 AM Reading | 3h07 | 2:30 PM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 1:23 PM Reading | 3h37 | 5:00 PM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 5:50 PM Reading | 3h00 | 8:50 PM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 8:03 PM Reading | 3h27 | 11:30 PM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 10:03 PM Reading | 3h57 | 2:00 AM Southampton | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Reading to Southampton 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.
Dec 21
Dec 22
Dec 23
Dec 24
Dec 25
Dec 26
Dec 27
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Reading to Southampton
Buses from Reading to Southampton run on average 14 times per day, taking around 2h 50m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $59 (€47) but you can travel from only $9 (€7) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 02:00, the last at 23:37. The fastest bus covers the 42 miles (68 km) distance in 2h 49m.
Distance 42 miles (68 km) |
Average bus duration 2h 50m |
Cheapest ticket price $59 (€47) |
Buses per day 14 |
Fastest bus 2h 49m |
First bus 02:00 |
Last bus 23:37 |
Bus providers: National Express from Reading to SouthamptonYou can travel by bus between Reading to Southampton with National Express for as low as $9 (€7). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
National Express
FAQs: Bus from Reading to Southampton
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Reading to Southampton 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 Southampton, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- Tudor House and Garden, a historic museum offering insights into Southampton's past with exhibits and a restored garden
- SeaCity Museum, an interactive museum focusing on Southampton's maritime history and the Titanic
- Southampton City Art Gallery, featuring an extensive collection of art from the Renaissance to contemporary works
- Solent Sky Museum, showcasing aviation history with a focus on the region's contributions to aircraft development
- Mayflower Theatre, a prominent venue hosting a variety of performances including musicals, opera, and ballet.
- New Forest National Park, a nearby natural reserve ideal for hiking, cycling, and wildlife spotting
- Hythe Ferry, offering a scenic boat trip across Southampton Water to the charming village of Hythe
- Westquay Shopping Centre, a major retail destination with a wide range of shops and dining options
- Ocean Village Marina, a vibrant waterfront area with restaurants, bars, and leisure activities
- Southampton Common, a large public park perfect for picnics, walks, and outdoor events.
- 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 Reading to Southampton, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Reading to Southampton
- The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible
- 06:00-22:00
- Free Wi-Fi
- Café Express (in the station)
- Sandwich Bar (in the station).
- Available outside the station.
- Elevators, ramps
- Available near the entrance.
- Bus: U1, U2, U6, X4 Train: South Western Railway
Most popular bus connections from Reading
More options for your journey from Reading to Southampton
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

