- Must visit
HMS Victory
A major naval museum where visitors can board Nelson’s flagship and explore life at sea through preserved decks and displays.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 04 Nov
- Cheapest price on 04 Nov
- £77
- Average ticket price on 04 Nov
- £77
- Fastest journey on 04 Nov
- 3 h 17 m
- Average journey duration on 04 Nov
- 3 h 32 m
- Trains on 04 Nov
- 2
- 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 travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth will cost around £77 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £77.
Fast trains
On Wed 04 Nov, we found 2 trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth, including 2 direct services.
These direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 3 h 32 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 17 m .
The slowest trains will take 3 h 46 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.
8:28 3h46 Cardiff 12:14 Portsmouth £77 1 One-way 0 changes9:30 3h17 Cardiff 12:47 Portsmouth £77 1 One-way 0 changes
9:30 3h17 Cardiff 12:47 Portsmouth £77 1 One-way 0 changes8:28 3h46 Cardiff 12:14 Portsmouth £77 1 One-way 0 changes
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 £30 but you can travel from only £16 by coach.
There are 4 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:40, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 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
Coach from £16
Distance 164 km |
Average train duration 3h 18m |
Cheapest ticket price £30 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 4 |
Fastest train 2h 55m |
First train 4:40 |
Last train 21:20 |
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
Coach from £16
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.
The cost of a train ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £30, while the average price tends to be around £72.
The train journey from Cardiff to Portsmouth covers a distance of 164 km and takes approximately 2h 55m. Trains run 6 per day.
The train distance from Cardiff to Portsmouth is 164 km.
The first train from Cardiff to Portsmouth leaves at 4:40.
The last train from Cardiff to Portsmouth departs at 21:20.
Trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth run approximately 6 times per day.
Yes, there is a direct train between Cardiff and Portsmouth. The 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, Tuesday 3 November. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:28 Cardiff | 3h19 | 11:47 Portsmouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 9:28 Cardiff | 3h19 | 12:47 Portsmouth | 0 changesdirect | |
| 10:30 Cardiff | 3h17 | 13:47 Portsmouth | 0 changesdirect | |
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 £16. 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
£30
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.
Yes, there is a high-speed train service from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
Yes, there is a night train from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
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.
- Recommended
HMS Alliance
This working museum ship reveals cramped Victorian submarine life and the engineering behind one of Britain’s earliest submarines.
- Recommended
Portsmouth Museum and Art Gallery
Portsmouth’s city museum covers local history, football heritage and art, with exhibits spanning the city’s people and places.
- Must visit
Old Portsmouth
A historic waterfront district with cobbled lanes, pubs, sea walls and several key heritage sites within easy walking distance.
- Must visit
Southsea Seafront
A long pebble beach promenade with piers, gardens and open sea views, well suited to relaxed walks along the Southsea seafront.
- Recommended
Southsea Common
A broad common by the Solent, popular for walks, picnics and views of passing ships, the Isle of Wight and seafront landmarks.
- Vegetarian
Hampshire hog cake
A rich fruit cake packed with dried fruit, spice and treacle, long associated with Hampshire baking and often enjoyed at Christmas and local celebrations.
- Gluten-free
South Coast crab
Fresh crab landed on the South Coast, usually served simply in sandwiches, salads or dressed shells, prized for sweet meat and Portsmouth’s seaside setting.
- Gluten-free
Fisherman’s pie
A classic Portsmouth and Hampshire pub dish of smoked haddock, potato and onion in a creamy sauce, baked until golden and comforting in coastal weather.
The Fisherman's Kitchen
Popular Southsea spot for classic fish and chips and fresh seafood, with a casual atmosphere close to the seafront.
The Briny
Smart waterfront restaurant in Old Portsmouth serving modern British dishes with strong seafood options in an elegant, relaxed setting.
Still and West
Historic pub in Old Portsmouth known for traditional British cooking, cask ales and harbour views in a characterful setting.
Pound sterling (£)
Moderate for the UK. Hotels can be pricey in summer, but dining and local buses remain manageable for most city-break budgets.
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
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if not already added. Taxis: round up or 10%. Cafés and pubs: tipping is optional, though small change is appreciated for table service.
Book a Journey
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £3.00
- Day pass
- £5.00
To the city centre
Portsmouth Harbour -> Guildhall Square, Portsmouth
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Contactless payment is available on Stagecoach buses in Portsmouth. Buy before boarding only if your chosen operator or ticket type requires it.
- Guildhall Square and the Commercial Road bus hub are central for onward travel. Portsmouth Harbour is about 1 mile from the city centre, so walking is practical in good weather.
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 urban and rural scenery, including views of the picturesque South Wales countryside, the rolling hills of the Cotswolds, and glimpses of the South Coast as you approach Portsmouth.
FAQs: Cardiff to Portsmouth train
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.
Booking trains from Cardiff to Portsmouth in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Portsmouth.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Cardiff and 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 · £2 · 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 · £1 · every ~4 min
Bus1, 2, 8, 3, 7, X4, H1, X5, Pr1 · 6m · £2 · 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, and it arrives at 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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