- Must visit
Mary Rose Museum
World-class museum housing Henry VIII's raised flagship. See the preserved Tudor warship and immersive galleries on life aboard.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 23
Cheapest price on Oct 23
$52
Average ticket price on Oct 23
$103
Fastest journey on Oct 23
3 h 17 m
Average journey duration on Oct 23
3 h 20 m
Trains on Oct 23
6
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth will cost around $103 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $52.
Fast trains
On Fri, Oct 23, we found 6 trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth, including 4 direct services.
On Fri, Oct 23 the direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 3 h 20 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 17 m .
On Fri, Oct 23 the slowest trains will take 3 h 24 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.
G150152:30 PM3h17Cardiff Central (CDF)5:47 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$521One-way0 transfers- G150131:30 PM3h20Cardiff Central (CDF)4:50 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$521One-way0 transfers
- G150173:30 PM3h19Cardiff Central (CDF)6:49 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$791One-way0 transfers
- G1501212:30 PM3h20Cardiff Central (CDF)3:50 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$791One-way0 transfers
- W35188+
G01022+
L844742:18 PM3h24Cardiff Central (CDF)5:42 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$1761One-way2 transfers
- G150152:30 PM3h17Cardiff Central (CDF)5:47 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$521One-way0 transfers
- G150173:30 PM3h19Cardiff Central (CDF)6:49 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$791One-way0 transfers
- G1501212:30 PM3h20Cardiff Central (CDF)3:50 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$791One-way0 transfers
- G150131:30 PM3h20Cardiff Central (CDF)4:50 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$521One-way0 transfers
- W35188+G01022+L844742:18 PM3h24Cardiff Central (CDF)5:42 PMPortsmouth & Southsea (PMS)$1761One-way2 transfers
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Portsmouth
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 18m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $41 (€34) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by bus.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 2h 55m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22 (€18)
Distance 101 miles (164 km) |
Average train duration 3h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $41 (€34) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 55m |
First train 4:40 AM |
Last train 9:20 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 21 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $22 (€18)
Frequently asked questions about your Cardiff to Portsmouth trip
Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Portsmouth can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $41 (€34), while the average price is around $98 (€82).
The train from Cardiff to Portsmouth takes 2h 55m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Portsmouth is 101 miles (164 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Portsmouth leaves at 4:40 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Portsmouth leaves at 9:20 PM.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Portsmouth. This service operates 4 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway.
Live departures
Cardiff to Portsmouth train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Portsmouth trains for today, Thursday, October 22. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:30 PM Cardiff | 3h18 | 11:48 PM Portsmouth | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, October 23 | |||||
| G15012 | 12:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 3:50 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G15047 · G15103+L79673 | 12:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h44 | 4:34 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 transfers | |
| G15013 | 1:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h20 | 4:50 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| W35188+G01022+L84474 | 2:18 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h24 | 5:42 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 2 transfers | |
| G15015 | 2:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h17 | 5:47 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
| G15017 | 3:30 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3h19 | 6:49 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Portsmouth trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway operates all trains services from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio vs Great Western Railway?
- 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 Great Western Railway with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Train companies: Great Western Railway from Cardiff to Portsmouth trainsGreat Western Railway trains will get you between Cardiff and Portsmouth from $22 (€18). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Great Western Railway
About
Great Western Railway is a train operating company in the United Kingdom. It operates services from London Paddington to the West of England, South Wales and the Cotswolds. It also operates services from London Paddington to Oxford, Reading and Bristol. It offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, Off-Peak and Super Off-Peak tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air conditioning and catering services. The most popular routes for Great Western Railway are London Paddington to Bristol, Reading and Oxford.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Great Western Railway Duration
2h 55m
Cheapest Great Western Railway Price
$41 (€34)
Great Western Railway frequency
6 a day
Luggage included
Two pieces of luggage and one piece of hand luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, dedicated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, sandwiches. First Class at-seat service on some routes
Seat reservation
Optional seat reservations available for a fee. Free in First Class
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone
Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Cardiff and Portsmouth
Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
Complete guide to Portsmouth
Things to do in Portsmouth
Discover the best of Portsmouth — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Portsmouth trip today.
- Must visit
HMS Victory
Museum dedicated to HMS Victory and Nelson's navy. Learn about the Battle of Trafalgar and life in the age of sail.
- Must visit
HMS Warrior 1860
Historic ironclad from 1860 that changed naval warfare. Explore decks, engine spaces and displays in the Historic Dockyard.
- Must visit
Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Historic harbourfront quarter with cobbled lanes, old pubs, sea walls and major naval attractions. Ideal for first-time visitors on foot.
- Must visit
Old Portsmouth
Atmospheric old quarter with narrow streets, Georgian houses and waterfront views. Great for history, churches and a quieter local feel.
- Must visit
Southsea Seafront
Lively seafront district known for beach walks, gardens, castle and independent venues. A classic area for promenade views and relaxation.
Fish And Chips
A Portsmouth classic of battered cod or haddock with chips, tied to the city’s long naval and seafaring tradition and best eaten fresh by the waterfront.
- Gluten-free
South Coast Crab
Fresh crab landed on the south coast, often served simply in sandwiches or salads. It reflects Portsmouth’s harbour access and strong seafood culture.
- Gluten-free
Oysters
Portsmouth sits by rich oyster waters, and oysters are a traditional local treat served raw or dressed, prized for their fresh, briny flavour.
Restaurant 27
Refined fine dining in Southsea known for modern British tasting menus, polished service, and a special-occasion atmosphere.
The Briny
Lively Southsea venue famous for fresh seafood and shellfish, offering a casual setting popular with locals and visitors.
The Still And West
Historic waterside pub in Old Portsmouth serving cask ales and classic British dishes with harbour views and traditional character.
British Pound Sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels often cost less than London, while dining and local transit are mid-range for a coastal city.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
- Mid-range
- £18-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £60+ per person for upscale dining.
- Coffee
- £2.80-4 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafes usually do not expect tips, but small change is appreciated.
First Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2
- Day pass
- £5
To the city center
Portsmouth Harbour -> Commercial Road, Portsmouth
- Distance
- 0.9 km
- Travel time
- 11 min
- Contactless payment is accepted on First Bus services in Portsmouth; tap your card or device when you board.
- Portsmouth Harbour, Portsmouth & Southsea, and Fratton stations connect rail and bus routes for easy cross-city travel.
Plan your visit to Portsmouth
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 Portsmouth.
The train journey from Cardiff to Portsmouth offers a mix of scenic views, including the picturesque countryside of South Wales, the Severn Estuary's coastal landscapes, and glimpses of the rolling hills and greenery across southern England.
Popular day trips by train from Portsmouth include Southampton, Bournemouth, Brighton, Cosham, Havant.
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 Portsmouth, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial street vendors selling counterfeit goods. It is advisable to use licensed taxis, keep personal belongings secure, and remain vigilant when approached by strangers offering unsolicited services or deals.
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: Trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff to Portsmouth by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Portsmouth, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Portsmouth
Most Cardiff to Portsmouth trains use the Cardiff Central to Portsmouth & Southsea station pair, with some services arriving at Portsmouth Harbour. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Portsmouth train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Portsmouth
Cardiff CentralCentral Square, Cardiff CF10 1EP, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff Central from Cardiff city centre
Bus24, 25, 27, 86, 62, 30, 35, 21, 136, 7, 23, 63, 64 · 3m · $3 · every ~47 min
C1 · 5m · every ~8 min
Cardiff Central train station facilities and services
Cardiff Central has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food options include: Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen, Pret a Manger, Tesco Express
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi in the station. ATMs are located outside of the main entrance.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30, Sat: 05:40 - 21:30, Sun: 07:30 - 21:30.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff Central: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Cardiff Central: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Central: There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Clayton Hotel Cardiff, Cardiff Marriott Hotel, Travelodge Cardiff Central.
Which Portsmouth station do trains from Cardiff arrive at?
Trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth most often arrive at Portsmouth & Southsea. Some services arrive at Portsmouth Harbour, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Portsmouth arrival station.
Portsmouth & SouthseaPortsmouth & Southsea station, Commercial Road, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 1EQ
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth & Southsea from Portsmouth city centre
Location for Rail Replacement ServicesStation Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.
Portsmouth & Southsea train station facilities and services
Portsmouth & Southsea has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Bike Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth & Southsea. ATMs are available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth & Southsea.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Bike Parking, Bike Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth & Southsea: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category A Station - This station has step-free access to all platforms. Please be aware that some platforms at this station have no or only partial tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Portsmouth HarbourPortsmouth Harbour station, The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth, Hampshire, PO1 3PA
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth Harbour from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth Harbour is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainLondon Victoria - Portsmouth Harbour, Brighton - Portsmouth Harbour, Littlehampton - Portsmouth Harbour, Three Bridges - Portsmouth Harbour, Barnham - Portsmouth Harbour, Gatwick Airport - Portsmouth Harbour, Havant - Portsmouth Harbour, Bognor Regis - Portsmouth Harbour · 3m · $2 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · $3 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth Harbour train station facilities and services
Portsmouth Harbour has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Bike Rental, and Car Rental.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Portsmouth Harbour. ATMs are available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth Harbour.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Portsmouth Harbour: Bike Parking, Bike Rental, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth Harbour: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: Step-free category B Station - Steps or 20m ramp (approx. 1:11 gradient) to main entrance, or steps to side entrance. 32m ramp (gradient up to 1:8) from Wightlink IoW ferry terminal. Level access to all platforms. Stepped footbridge between platforms is also available. Please be aware that this station has no tactile paving on the platform edge, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible ticket machines note: All South Western Railway ticket machines are able to sell tickets with Disabled Persons Railcard discounts. All machines are accessible, however the station may not be so please check the station access note for further details, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Train stations for Cardiff to Portsmouth
Check train stations information for Cardiff and Portsmouth, including where trains depart and arrive on this route.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Portsmouth is Cardiff Central, which connects to Portsmouth & Southsea.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Portsmouth
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Portsmouth and Cardiff
Most popular train connections to Portsmouth
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