- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Cambridge
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Nov 02
- Cheapest price on Nov 02
- €25
- Average ticket price on Nov 02
- €50
- Fastest journey on Nov 02
- 4 h 35 m
- Average journey duration on Nov 02
- 6 h
- Buses on Nov 02
- 3
- Distance
- 178 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Cambridge will cost around €50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €25.
Fast buses
On Mon, Nov 02, we found 3 buses from Southampton to Cambridge, including 3 direct services.
On Mon, Nov 02 the direct buses cover the 178 km distance in an average of 6 h but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 35 m .
On Mon, Nov 02 the slowest buses will take 7 h 5 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.
5:05 AM 7h05 Southampton 12:10 PM Cambridge €25 1 One-way 0 transfers
10:45 AM 6h20 Southampton 5:05 PM Cambridge €37 1 One-way 0 transfers7:00 PM 4h35 Southampton 11:35 PM Cambridge €89 1 One-way 0 transfers
7:00 PM 4h35 Southampton 11:35 PM Cambridge €89 1 One-way 0 transfers10:45 AM 6h20 Southampton 5:05 PM Cambridge €37 1 One-way 0 transfers5:05 AM 7h05 Southampton 12:10 PM Cambridge €25 1 One-way 0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Cambridge run on average 19 times per day, taking around 4h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €16 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:35, the last at 22:51. The fastest bus covers the 110 miles (178 km) distance in 3h 45m.
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
Plan this route
Journey facts
- Distance110 miles (178 km)
- Average bus duration4h 19m
- Cheapest ticket price€16
- Buses per day19
- Fastest bus3h 45m
- First bus1:35 AM
- Last bus10:51 PM
- Cheapest MonthAug
- Cheapest DayTue
- High SeasonJan - Mar
- Low SeasonApr - Jun
- Busiest DayThu
- Least Busy DayWed
- Best time to book63 days
Understand & plan this route
Explore this journey
Book with confidence
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 Southampton to Cambridge trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Southampton to Cambridge.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Cambridge can start from as little as €16 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Cambridge is €50 ; 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 Southampton to Cambridge leaves at 1:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Cambridge leaves at 10:51 PM.
There are 19 buses a day from Southampton to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
Southampton to Cambridge Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:05AM | Arrival Time 08:45AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €43 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €51 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €51 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Sun | Cheapest price €24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €22 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:50AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:05AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 6h00 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €17 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:35PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 6h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:40PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price €24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price €42 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €27 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 4h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Tue, Fri | Cheapest price €38 |
Live departures
Southampton to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cambridge buses for today, Sunday, November 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:05 PM Southampton | 6h10 | 10:15 PM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Monday, November 2 | |||||
| 5:05 AM Southampton | 7h05 | 12:10 PM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 10:45 AM Southampton | 6h20 | 5:05 PM Cambridge | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Southampton to Cambridge buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Southampton to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Cambridge.
- 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 Southampton to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Southampton to Cambridge.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Southampton to Cambridge.
Bus companies
Bus companies from Southampton to Cambridge
Buses from Southampton to Cambridge with National Express and FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with National Express and FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
3h 45m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
€16
FlixBus frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
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
3h 45m
Cheapest National Express Price
€16
National Express frequency
15 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 Southampton and Cambridge
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 Southampton to Cambridge, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge 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.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Southampton to Cambridge. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Recommended
Scott Polar Research Institute Museum
Compact museum of polar exploration with artifacts, sledges and expedition stories. Excellent for understanding Arctic and Antarctic history.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
Acclaimed anthropology museum displaying world cultures through remarkable objects and thoughtful interpretation. Rich, memorable and family friendly.
- Must visit
The Backs
The city's most famous riverside walking area, lined with college gardens and views. Classic place for strolling, punting and photography.
- Recommended
Market Square
Historic central square with market stalls, buskers and everyday city life. A practical and lively base for sightseeing and shopping.
- Recommended
Jesus Green
Leafy riverside common ideal for walking, picnics and broad views of the college skyline. Popular with locals and visitors year-round.
- Vegetarian
Cambridge Burnt Cream
A creamy dessert of whipped cream, meringue and raspberry coulis, created at Cambridge’s Trinity College and named after the River Cam.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Trinity Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, linked to Trinity College. It has a rich custard base with a hard caramelised sugar top.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridgeshire Asparagus
Tender local asparagus from the Cambridgeshire fens, prized in spring for its sweetness and freshness, often served simply with butter or eggs.
Midsummer House
Elegant riverside fine dining restaurant known for refined British tasting menus and polished service in a historic setting.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
Historic city-centre restaurant serving modern British cooking with seasonal ingredients in a smart, intimate atmosphere.
The Eagle
Well-known Cambridge pub and dining room offering classic British dishes, cask ales and a lively, traditional atmosphere.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK: hotels often cost more in peak season, but dining and local buses are manageable for most tourists.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a casual meal.
- 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
Service may be included; if not, 10-12.5% in restaurants is common. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5.50
To the city center
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) -> Cambridge City Centre
- Distance
- 0.4 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on Stagecoach buses in Cambridge; tap your card or device when you board.
- Parkside is already very central, so many city centre destinations are reachable on foot in about 5 min.
Plan your visit to Cambridge
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 Cambridge.
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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help 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 Southampton to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
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 Southampton to Cambridge
Most Southampton to Cambridge buses use the Southampton, Coach Station to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) station pair. Use this guide to compare Southampton and Cambridge bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Southampton
Arrival bus stations in Cambridge
Which Southampton station do buses to Cambridge leave from?
Buses from Southampton to Cambridge leave from Southampton, Coach Station. The station is from Southampton city centre at Harbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom.
Southampton, Coach StationHarbour Parade, Southampton SO15 1BA, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, Coach Station from Southampton city centre
BusX4, X5 · 5m · €2 · every ~20 min
Southampton, Coach Station bus station facilities and services
Southampton, Coach Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café Express (in the station), Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance for cash withdrawals.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Coach Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, Coach Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Coach Station: Elevators, ramps.
Southampton, UniversityUniversity Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, University from Southampton city centre
Southampton, University is 3 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU2b, U2 · 11m · €2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 25m · €2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 29m · €2 · every ~37 min
Southampton, University bus station facilities and services
Southampton, University 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 Southampton, University. ATMs are available at Southampton, University.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, University.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, University: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, University: Basic accessibility features are available for passengers.
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University)University Rd, Southampton SO17 1BJ, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) from Southampton city centre
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) is 3 km from Southampton city centre. Public transport options include:
BusU2b, U2 · 13m · €2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 24m · €2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 28m · €2 · every ~37 min
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) bus station facilities and services
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) 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 Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University). ATMs are available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University): Bus stop is accessible for individuals with disabilities.
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)
City-centre transport
Getting to Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) from Cambridge city centre
BusTour · 31m · €2 · every ~6 min
Most popular bus connections from Southampton
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Southampton
Most popular bus connections to Cambridge
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