- Must visit
National Museum Cardiff
National museum with art, natural history and geology collections, plus Impressionist works and changing exhibitions in Cathays Park.
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 09 Oct
Cheapest price on 09 Oct
£22
Average ticket price on 09 Oct
£41
Fastest journey on 09 Oct
5 h 30 m
Average journey duration on 09 Oct
6 h 3 m
Buses on 09 Oct
14
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff will cost around £41 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £22.
Fast coaches
To travel from Portsmouth to Cardiff you need to make at least one change.
NX030 · NX50712:157h35Southsea, Clarence Esplanade19:50Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£221One-way1 change- NX030 · NX50918:257h30Southsea, Clarence Esplanade1:55Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£241One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX5079:458h10Southsea, Clarence Esplanade17:55Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£251One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX50915:057h40Southsea, Clarence Esplanade22:45Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£321One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX20120:105h30Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1:40Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£371One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX20120:105h30Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange1:40Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£371One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX20116:455h55Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange22:40Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£411One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX20110:506h10Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange17:00Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£471One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX20213:506h15Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange20:05Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£541One-way1 change
- NX030 · NX2018:206h25Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange14:45Cardiff, Sophia Gardens£571One-way1 change
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff run on average 9 times per day, taking around 5h 26m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £13 if you book in advance.
The earliest coach runs at 03:05, the last at 21:20. The fastest coach covers the 164 km distance in 4h 30m.
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 164 km |
Average bus duration 5h 26m |
Cheapest ticket price £13 |
Buses per day 9 |
Fastest bus 4h 30m |
First bus 3:05 |
Last bus 21:20 |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sept |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 35 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
Live departures
Portsmouth to Cardiff bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cardiff coaches for today, Thursday 8 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX030 · NX201 | 3:20 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h40 | 11:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX202 | 5:35 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h30 | 12:05 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX202 | 9:20 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h10 | 16:30 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX507 | 11:05 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h55 | 18:00 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX201 | 12:55 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h45 | 18:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX507 | 14:55 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 7h20 | 22:15 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX201 | 16:10 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h30 | 22:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX509 | 18:45 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 6h10 | 0:55 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
| NX030 · NX201 | 20:10 Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 5h30 | 1:40 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 1 change | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Portsmouth to Cardiff coaches with Omio?
National Express operates all coaches services from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
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 train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
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 Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Bus providers: National Express from Portsmouth to CardiffYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Cardiff with National Express for as low as £13. 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 National Express Duration
4h 30m
Cheapest National Express Price
£13
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 Cardiff
Things to do in Cardiff
Discover the best of Cardiff — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cardiff trip today.
- Must visit
St Fagans National Museum of History
Open-air museum of Welsh life with historic buildings, crafts, gardens and rural traditions relocated to spacious grounds west of the city.
- Recommended
Museum of Cardiff
Museum in a Victorian library celebrating Cardiff’s story through interactive displays, local history and a well-presented city timeline.
- Must visit
Cardiff Arcades
Historic shopping arcades in the city centre, prized for Victorian and Edwardian architecture, independent shops and an easy walking atmosphere.
- Must visit
Bute Park
Large central parkland behind the castle, ideal for riverside walks, gardens, woodland paths and access to key civic sights.
- Must visit
Cardiff Bay
Revitalised waterfront district with public art, broad promenades, modern landmarks and easy walks around the former dock basin.
- Gluten-free
Cawl
A hearty Welsh broth of lamb or beef with leeks, potatoes and root vegetables. It is a classic national dish closely tied to Welsh home cooking.
- Vegetarian
Welsh rarebit
Traditional Welsh rarebit is toasted bread topped with a savoury cheese, ale and mustard sauce. It is a beloved pub and supper dish across Wales.
- Vegetarian
Bara brith
A sweet Welsh tea loaf made with dried fruit and mixed spice, usually sliced and spread with butter. It is a staple in cafés and homes.
Heaneys
Elegant dining room known for refined modern British cooking and polished service in central Cardiff.
Asador 44
Smart restaurant focused on local produce, seafood and modern British plates with a relaxed but polished atmosphere.
The Potted Pig
Stylish bistro and bar serving seasonal Welsh and British dishes, cocktails and brunch in a lively city-centre setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for a UK city. Hotels and dining are usually cheaper than London, while local transport and casual meals stay fairly manageable for most visitors.
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
- £3-4.50 for a cappuccino.
Tipping culture
Service may be included in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is usual for good service. Round up taxi fares. Tipping in cafés is optional, usually small change or rounding up.
Cardiff Bus
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £2.40
- Day pass
- £5.20
To the city centre
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) -> Cardiff Bus Interchange
- Distance
- 1.2 km
- Travel time
- 15 min
- Cardiff Bus accepts contactless payment for adult single and day tickets, including Tap On, Tap Off on bus services.
- For travel from North Road into the centre, Cardiff Bus service 24 runs via North Road to Cardiff Bus Interchange.
Best day trips from Cardiff by bus
The most popular day trips by bus from Cardiff are Bristol, Bath, Swansea, Newport and Chepstow. Find out what you can do in these day trip destinations and how to book your bus from Cardiff on Omio.
Day trip from Cardiff to Bristol by bus
Why visit Bristol for the day?
Bristol is known for its maritime past, inventive culture and distinctive street art. Around the harbourside and Clifton, historic landmarks and a strong independent scene give the city an energetic but relaxed feel.
How to get from Cardiff to Bristol by bus?
There are 30 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 41 km distance in 1h 0m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Bath by bus
Why visit Bath for the day?
Bath is known for its Roman Baths, graceful Georgian architecture and links to Jane Austen. Its compact centre feels elegant yet lively, with historic streets, independent shops and a long-standing spa culture.
How to get from Cardiff to Bath by bus?
The earliest coach runs at 01:55, the last at 23:10. The fastest coach covers the 58 km distance in 1h 51m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Swansea by bus
Why visit Swansea for the day?
Swansea is known for its sweeping bay, maritime past and connection to Dylan Thomas. The city mixes a practical urban centre with a waterfront feel and quick access to the Gower coast.
How to get from Cardiff to Swansea by bus?
There are 44 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:05, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 55 km distance in 50m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Newport by bus
Why visit Newport for the day?
Newport is a South Wales city known for its industrial past, the Transporter Bridge and riverside setting on the Usk. Regenerated shopping areas and historic sites give it a practical mix of modern city life and local heritage.
How to get from Cardiff to Newport by bus?
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 00:10, the last at 23:54. The fastest coach covers the 17 km distance in 25m.
Day trip from Cardiff to Chepstow by bus
Why visit Chepstow for the day?
Chepstow is a historic town on the River Wye, best known for its Norman castle and border setting. Its compact centre, medieval streets and access to the Wye Valley give it a strong sense of place.
How to get from Cardiff to Chepstow by bus?
There are 3 coaches per day. The earliest coach runs at 05:15, the last at 23:43. The fastest coach covers the 39 km distance in 45m.
FAQs: Portsmouth to Cardiff coach
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Cardiff by coach. 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 coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap coach tickets from Portsmouth to Cardiff can start from as little as £13 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Portsmouth to Cardiff is £40; 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 coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff is 4h 30m to travel the 164 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 3:05. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 21:20.
There are 9 coaches a day from Portsmouth to Cardiff which require at least one change with National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff, you can count on National Express for the best way to get you to Cardiff. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Cardiff and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Portsmouth , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, Southampton, Burgess Rd / Broadlands Rd (Southampton University), Portsmouth, University, Portsmouth, International Port, Southsea, Clarence Esplanade . When arriving in Cardiff , you can end your route in coach stations like Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, University, Cardiff, Kingsway (Stop GB).Passengers board the coach most frequently from Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange, which is located around 1 km away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Cardiff including taking a train and coach.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff for coach company National Express.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff depends on the coach 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 coach with coach 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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Portsmouth 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 coach ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Portsmouth to Cardiff with the following coach company: National Express.
popular bus stations
Important Stations and Airports in Portsmouth and Cardiff
Most Portsmouth to Cardiff buses use the Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens station pair, with some services arriving at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). Use this guide to compare Portsmouth and Cardiff bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Portsmouth
Arrival bus stations in Cardiff
Which Portsmouth station do buses to Cardiff leave from?
Buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff leave from Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange. The station is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre at The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK.
Portsmouth, The Hard InterchangeThe Hard Interchange, Portsmouth PO1 3DT, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange 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 · £0.89 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · £2 · every ~214 min
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange bus station facilities and services
Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at The Hard (in the station), Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange: Elevators, ramps.
Portsmouth, University
Portsmouth, International PortWharf Road, Portsmouth PO2 8RU, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Portsmouth, International Port from Portsmouth city centre
Portsmouth, International Port is 1 km from Portsmouth city centre. Public transport options include:
BusX4, X5, Pr1 · 3m · every ~55 min
8, 3, 7, X4, X5 · 6m · £2 · every ~113 min
725 · 15m · £2
Portsmouth, International Port bus station facilities and services
Portsmouth, International Port has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café in the terminal (in the station), Fast-food outlet (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance of the terminal.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Portsmouth, International Port.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Portsmouth, International Port: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Portsmouth, International Port: Elevators, ramps.
Which Cardiff station do buses from Portsmouth arrive at?
Buses from Portsmouth to Cardiff most often arrive at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Some services arrive at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Cardiff arrival station.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · £2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens 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 Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
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Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) 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 Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · £0.89 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cardiff and Portsmouth
Most popular bus connections
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