- Recommended
Dover Museum
Local museum covering Dover’s history, including the internationally important Bronze Age Boat gallery.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Southampton to Dover
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$31
Average price
$36
Fastest journey
7 h 5 m
Average duration
7 h 12 m
Buses per day
3
Distance
191 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Southampton to Dover is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Southampton to Dover will cost around $36 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.
Fast buses
Of the 3 buses that leave Southampton for Dover on Thu, May 28, 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, May 28 the direct buses cover the 191 km distance in an average of 7 h 12 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 5 m .
On Thu, May 28 the slowest buses will take 7 h 15 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.
6:30 PM7h15Southampton1:45 AMDover$311One-way0 transfers- 6:00 PM7h05Southampton1:05 AMDover$381One-way0 transfers
- 5:30 PM7h15Southampton12:45 AMDover$381One-way0 transfers
- 6:00 PM7h05Southampton1:05 AMDover$381One-way0 transfers
- 6:30 PM7h15Southampton1:45 AMDover$311One-way0 transfers
- 5:30 PM7h15Southampton12:45 AMDover$381One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Southampton to Dover
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Southampton to Dover among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $18. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 37m. 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 $18, and a train costs an average of $43.
Distance: 118 miles (191 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train |
|---|---|
$31 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price |
6h 40m Average total duration 6h 10m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 7m Average total duration Fastest 3h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.2kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Southampton to Dover is a bus with an average price of $31 (€25).
This is compared to other travel options from Southampton to Dover:
A bus is $24 (€20) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Southampton to Dover costing on average $55 (€45).
The fastest way to travel from Southampton to Dover is by train with an average journey time of 3h 37m.
Other travel options to Dover take longer:
Bus takes on average 6h 10m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Dover including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Dover among Omio's users.
Southampton to Dover Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:05AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $48 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 7h35 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:35AM | Arrival Time 01:00PM | Duration 7h25 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $19 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:30AM | Arrival Time 04:20PM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:45AM | Arrival Time 04:05PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 12:15PM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 7h55 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $28 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:30PM | Arrival Time 10:10PM | Duration 8h40 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $21 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 8h05 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $24 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 11:25PM | Duration 7h40 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $25 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 12:45AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 01:05AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Thu | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:30PM | Arrival Time 01:45AM | Duration 7h15 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $31 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:00PM | Arrival Time 02:05AM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $22 |
Live departures
Southampton to Dover bus times
The table below shows live departures for Southampton to Dover buses for today, Wednesday, May 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 5:30 PM Southampton | 7h15 | 12:45 AM Dover | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Southampton to Dover 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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May 28
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Why should you book Southampton to Dover buses with Omio?
National Express operates all buses services from Southampton to Dover.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Southampton to Dover.
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 Dover.
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 Dover.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Southampton to Dover
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Southampton to Dover run on average 5 times per day, taking around 6h 10m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $18 (€15) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:35, the last at 22:48. The fastest bus covers the 118 miles (191 km) distance in 7h 5m.
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 118 miles (191 km) |
Average bus duration 6h 10m |
Cheapest ticket price $18 (€15) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 7h 5m |
First bus 4:35 AM |
Last bus 10:48 PM |
Cheapest Month Sep |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 1 day |
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 DoverYou can travel by bus between Southampton to Dover with National Express for as low as $18 (€15). 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
7h 5m
Cheapest Price
$18 (€15)
National Express frequency
4 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 Dover
Things to do in Dover
Discover the best of Dover — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Dover trip today.
- Recommended
Maison Dieu
Historic civic building with heritage interpretation and exhibitions, notable for its restored medieval and Victorian interiors.
- Recommended
The Bronze Age Boat Gallery
Signature gallery within Dover Museum displaying one of the world’s oldest known seagoing boats.
- Must visit
The White Cliffs of Dover Visitor Centre Area
Popular starting point for cliff walks, sea views, and photography, especially at sunrise and sunset.
- Recommended
Dover Seafront
Pleasant waterfront stretch for walking, beach views, and watching ferries move through the busy port.
- Recommended
Samphire Hoe
Landscaped coastal reserve below the cliffs, loved for walking, wildlife, and dramatic shoreline views.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Huffkins
Traditional Kent bread rolls, usually slightly sweet and often served filled or with butter. They are a classic regional bake from Kent.
- Vegetarian
Kentish Rarebit
A Kent variation of cheese on toast, typically enriched with local ale or mustard. It is a hearty pub staple in the county.
- Gluten-free
Fresh Dover Sole
A prized flatfish long associated with the Channel coast. Usually grilled or pan-fried, it is one of Dover's most famous seafood specialties.
Il Rustico
Established Italian restaurant in Dover known for reliable pasta, pizza, and friendly service in a casual setting.
Cullins Yard
Well-known harbourside seafood restaurant and bar with views over Dover Marina. Popular for fish dishes and a relaxed coastal atmosphere.
The White Cliffs Hotel Restaurant
Smart dining room in nearby St Margarets-at-Cliffe, known for polished modern British meals and a quieter upscale atmosphere.
Pound Sterling
Generally moderate by UK standards. Pubs and cafes are reasonable, while hotels and ferry-area dining can cost more.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-12 for takeaway or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 15-30 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 45+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 2.50-4 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Service is often included only at some restaurants. If not included, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping in pubs and cafes is optional, not expected.
Stagecoach Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- None
To the city center
Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre) -> Dover Priory Railway Station
- Distance
- 1 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Single bus fares in England are capped at GBP 2.00 on many local routes, but check the operator before travel.
- You can usually pay by contactless card on local buses, which is often the easiest option for short trips.
FAQs: Bus from Southampton to Dover
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Southampton to Dover 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 Dover, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Southampton to Dover can start from as little as $18 (€15) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Southampton to Dover is $31 (€25) ; 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 Dover is 7h 5m to travel the 118 miles (191 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 Dover leaves at 4:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Southampton to Dover leaves at 10:48 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Southampton to Dover 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 Dover, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Dover. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Southampton and Dover and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Dover from Southampton is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 7h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Southampton to Dover is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Southampton and Dover including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Southampton to Dover:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Southampton to Dover for bus company National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Dover are:
- Dover Castle, a historic fortress with medieval tunnels and panoramic views of the English Channel
- White Cliffs of Dover, iconic chalk cliffs offering scenic walking trails and stunning coastal vistas
- Dover Museum, a local museum featuring exhibits on the town's history and the Bronze Age boat
- Samphire Hoe, a nature reserve created from Channel Tunnel excavations, ideal for walking and wildlife spotting
- Roman Painted House, an ancient Roman building with preserved wall paintings and archaeological displays.
The best things to do in Dover include:
- Explore the Dover Western Heights, a series of fortifications with impressive views and historical significance
- Take a boat tour to see the White Cliffs from the sea and enjoy the coastal scenery
- Visit the Dover Transport Museum, showcasing vintage vehicles and transport history
- Enjoy a day at Kearsney Abbey Gardens, a picturesque park with lakes and walking paths
- Discover the South Foreland Lighthouse, offering guided tours and stunning views of the coastline.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Southampton to Dover 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 Dover.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Southampton to Dover:
- 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 Dover:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Southampton to Dover.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Southampton to Dover with the following bus company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Southampton to Dover with the following bus company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Southampton to Dover with the following bus company: National Express.
Since neither Southampton nor Dover 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Southampton to Dover 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 Dover, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially around busy areas like the ferry terminals and tourist attractions. Be wary of unofficial taxi services and always use licensed operators to avoid overcharging. Scams involving overpriced souvenirs or unauthorized tour guides can occur near popular sites. Staying vigilant in crowded places and using official services helps 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 Dover
Southampton
Dover
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 Dover.
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, University
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Dover is Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre) for your trip to Dover from Southampton.
Dover, Pencester Road (Town Centre)
information
Most popular bus connections from Southampton
More options for your journey from Southampton to Dover
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Dover and Southampton
Most popular bus connections to Dover
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