- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
Major university museum with masterpieces, antiquities and decorative arts in a grand building. A leading cultural highlight in Cambridge.
2,000+ travel companies
2,000+ travel companies
Scan to get our free app
Use our app to get live travel updates and book mobile tickets for trains, buses, flights, and ferries.
App Store
4.942K ratings
Google Play
4.6136K reviews
The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for Aug 04
Cheapest price
$29
Average price
$68
Fastest journey
5 h 10 m
Average duration
6 h 18 m
Buses per day
4
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 $68 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $29.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Southampton for Cambridge on Tue, Aug 04, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Aug 04 the direct buses cover the 178 km distance in an average of 6 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 5 h 10 m .
On Tue, Aug 04 the slowest buses will take 7 h 40 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 AM7h05Southampton12:10 PMCambridge$291One-way0 transfers
4:30 PM5h10Southampton9:40 PMCambridge$711One-way0 transfers- 2:05 AM7h40Southampton9:45 AMCambridge$811One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM5h15Southampton1:45 AMCambridge$891One-way0 transfers
- 4:30 PM5h10Southampton9:40 PMCambridge$711One-way0 transfers
- 8:30 PM5h15Southampton1:45 AMCambridge$891One-way0 transfers
- 5:05 AM7h05Southampton12:10 PMCambridge$291One-way0 transfers
- 2:05 AM7h40Southampton9:45 AMCambridge$811One-way0 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Cambridge run on average 10 times per day, taking around 4h 43m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $21 (€17) 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 4h 35m.
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 110 miles (178 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 43m |
Cheapest ticket price $21 (€17) |
Buses per day 10 |
Fastest bus 4h 35m |
First bus 1:35 AM |
Last bus 10:51 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
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 $52 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05AM | Arrival Time 09:45AM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 10:00AM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 09:55AM | Duration 4h50 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $56 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 12:10PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Tue, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 11:35AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 01:25PM | Duration 5h55 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 03:30PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:45AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 05:05PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:30PM | Arrival Time 08:00PM | Duration 5h30 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 5h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 08:20PM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:05PM | Arrival Time 10:15PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Wed, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 09:40PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h45 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:05PM | Arrival Time 09:30PM | Duration 4h25 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 11:35PM | Duration 4h35 | Departure days Mon | Cheapest price $47 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 5h15 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $47 |
Live departures
Southampton to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cambridge buses for today, Monday, August 3. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX032 · NXA8 · NX777 | 2:05 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 7h40 | 9:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| NX032 · NXA8 · NX777 | 2:05 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 7h40 | 9:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:05 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 5h55 | 10:00 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:20 AM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 5h40 | 10:00 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX728 | 5:05 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 4h50 | 9:55 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:05 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 5h55 | 12:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:25 AM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 5h35 | 12:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX728 | 6:25 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 5h10 | 11:35 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX727 | 7:30 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 5h55 | 1:25 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX727 | 9:15 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 6h15 | 3:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX491 | 10:45 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 6h20 | 5:05 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX727 | 2:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 5h30 | 8:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 2:45 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 5h35 | 8:20 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:05 PM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 5h15 | 8:20 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX727 | 3:20 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 6h15 | 9:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:45 PM Southampton Central (SOU) | 4h45 | 9:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:05 PM Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University) | 4h25 | 9:30 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX727 | 7:00 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 4h35 | 11:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX727 | 8:30 PM Southampton, Coach Station | 5h15 | 1:45 AM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
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 operates all 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?
- 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?
- 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 providers: National Express from Southampton to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Cambridge with National Express for as low as $21 (€17). 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
4h 35m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
National Express frequency
10 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.
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.
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.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Cambridge can start from as little as $21 (€17) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Cambridge is $53 (€43) ; 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 Southampton to Cambridge is 4h 35m to travel the 110 miles (178 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 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 10 buses a day from Southampton to Cambridge which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Southampton to Cambridge, you can count on National Express 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.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Cambridge including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge for bus company National Express.
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.
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 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.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Cambridge:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Cambridge.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Cambridge with the following bus company: National Express.
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.
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, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, University from Southampton city centre
BusU2b, U2 · 11m · $2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 25m · $2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 29m · $2 · every ~37 min
Southampton, Burgess Rd (Library)
City-centre transport
Getting to Southampton, Burgess Rd (Library) from Southampton city centre
BusU2b, U2 · 13m · $2 · every ~6 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 24m · $2 · every ~37 min
U1a, U1n, U1e · 28m · $2 · every ~37 min
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
More options for your journey from Southampton to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Southampton
The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy
We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.
