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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Dec 21
Cheapest price
$45
Average price
$75
Fastest journey
5 h 10 m
Average duration
5 h 30 m
Buses per day
20
Distance
139 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Cardiff will cost around $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Southampton to Cardiff without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus05:00PM7h20
Southampton Central (SOU)12:20AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$451One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus05:15PM7h05
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University)12:20AMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$451One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus07:15AM7h00
Southampton Central (SOU)02:15PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$481One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus09:30AM7h05
Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University)04:35PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$551One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus09:15AM7h20
Southampton Central (SOU)04:35PMCardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
$571One-way
1 transfer
NX032 · NX20105:30PM5h10
Southampton, Coach Station10:40PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$821One-way
1 transfer
NX032 · NX20108:30PM5h10
Southampton, Coach Station01:40AMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$851One-way
1 transfer
NX032 · NX20110:45AM5h40
Southampton, Coach Station04:25PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$891One-way
1 transfer
NX032 · NX20106:45AM5h40
Southampton, Coach Station12:25PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$901One-way
1 transfer
NX032 · NX20102:45PM5h50
Southampton, Coach Station08:35PMCardiff, Sophia Gardens
$821One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Southampton to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €16. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 41m. 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 bus costs an average of €16, and a train costs an average of €26.
Distance: 86 miles (139 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
€29 Average price Cheapest | €50 Average price |
6h 50m Average total duration 6h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 11m Average total duration Fastest 2h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.3kg 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.
Southampton to Cardiff Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:15AM | Arrival Time 11:00AM | Duration 6h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 12:05PM | Duration 6h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45AM | Arrival Time 12:25PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $90 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15AM | Arrival Time 02:15PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 02:05PM | Duration 6h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $57 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:15AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 7h00 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:30AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:45AM | Arrival Time 04:25PM | Duration 5h40 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:50AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 7h45 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:10AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 06:25PM | Duration 6h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:15PM | Arrival Time 07:50PM | Duration 6h35 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:45PM | Arrival Time 08:35PM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 10:00PM | Duration 6h15 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 12:20AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 10:40PM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $82 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 12:50AM | Duration 5h50 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $92 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:30PM | Arrival Time 01:40AM | Duration 5h10 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $85 |
Live departures
Southampton to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Cardiff buses for today, Saturday, December 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 9:07 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 4:00 PM Southampton | 7h20 | 11:20 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:15 PM Southampton | 7h05 | 11:20 PM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Sunday, December 21 | |||||
| NX032 · NX201 | 4:15 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 6h45 | 11:00 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX202 | 5:25 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 6h40 | 12:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX201 | 6:45 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 5h40 | 12:25 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 AM Southampton Central (SOU) | 7h00 | 2:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 1 transfer | |
| NX032 · NX202 | 7:45 AM Southampton, Coach Station | 6h20 | 2:05 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Cardiff 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.
Sun
Dec 21
Dec 21
Mon
Dec 22
Dec 22
Tue
Dec 23
Dec 23
Wed
Dec 24
Dec 24
Thu
Dec 25
Dec 25
Fri
Dec 26
Dec 26
Sat
Dec 27
Dec 27
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Cardiff run on average 15 times per day, taking around 6h 20m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:30, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 86 miles (139 km) distance in 5h 10m.
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 86 miles (139 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Buses per day 15 |
Fastest bus 5h 10m |
First bus 02:30 |
Last bus 23:40 |
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 Southampton to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Cardiff with National Express for as low as $20 (€16). 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
5h 10m
Cheapest Price
$21 (€17)
National Express frequency
13 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.
FAQs: Bus from Southampton to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton 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.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Cardiff can start from as little as $22 (€17) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Cardiff is $37 (€30); however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
On average the Southampton to Cardiff bus travel time is 6 h 20 min for the 86 mile (139 km) long trip, but the duration can vary if you travel on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Southampton to Cardiff leaves at 4: 45AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Southampton to Cardiff leaves at 8: 30PM.
There are 13 buses a day from Southampton to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
For the best Southampton to Cardiff bus to book, you can travel safely and comfortably with National Express. However, it's always good to check all possible bus companies with services to Cardiff from Southampton to compare what amenities they may offer.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Cardiff is March.
You have options as you can travel to Cardiff from Southampton 2 different ways: train or bus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Cardiff for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cardiff are:
- Cardiff Castle, a historic fortress with Roman and Norman roots offering guided tours and events
- St Fagans National Museum of History, an open-air museum showcasing Welsh life and culture through reconstructed buildings and exhibits
- Cardiff Bay, a vibrant waterfront area with dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions
- National Museum Cardiff, featuring art, archaeology, and natural history collections
- Bute Park, a large green space perfect for leisurely walks and picnics.
The best things to do in Cardiff include:
- Millennium Centre, a renowned arts venue hosting opera, ballet, and theater performances
- Explore the vibrant nightlife in Cardiff's city center with its array of pubs and clubs
- Take a boat tour around Cardiff Bay for scenic views and historical insights
- Visit the Cardiff International White Water for an adventurous day of rafting and kayaking
- Enjoy shopping and dining at the bustling Cardiff Market, offering local produce and unique finds.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Cardiff depends on the bus company:
- 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 Southampton to Cardiff, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Southampton to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton 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 Southampton to Cardiff:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Cardiff with the following bus company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Southampton to Cardiff
Southampton
Cardiff
The major bus station for departures in Southampton is Southampton, Coach Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Southampton, Coach Station for your trip from Southampton to Cardiff.
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Car connection
Harbour ParadeWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café Express (in the station)
- Sandwich Bar (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the station.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available near the entrance.
Public transit options for Southampton, Coach Station
- Bus: U1, U2, U6, X4 Train: South Western Railway
Southampton, Burgess Rd (Library)
information
Southampton, University
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip to Cardiff from Southampton.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB)
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Most popular bus connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Southampton
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