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Southampton to Portsmouth from $1.87: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Southampton, United Kingdom
to
Portsmouth, United Kingdom

How to Get from Southampton to Portsmouth: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$1.87 - OtherBest price
32 kmDistance
29m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Southampton to Portsmouth with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
First Great Western Service / South Western Railway
Train
Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$13.41-39.55
Recommended
Company
various
Rideshare
Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
$1.87-1.87
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 32 km
Duration: 29m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
$5.63-9.5
Company
National Express
Bus
Average Duration
1h 
Estimated price
$9.03-1.93
Company
various
Taxi
Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
$61.17-81.12

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $12 $12 $10 $13 $11 $12 $13
Train $17 $17 $17 $17 $15 $17 $13

Traveling From Southampton to Portsmouth

The route from Southampton to Portsmouth offers you a chance to experience the bustling vibe of Southampton’s port life while enjoying the historic charm and coastal beauty of Portsmouth.

Best Neighbourhoods in Portsmouth

Portsmouth's neighborhoods each offer distinct features and experiences for visitors.

Southsea
• Vibrant beachfront with a lively atmosphere
• Home to art galleries and quirky shops
Old Portsmouth
• Charming cobbled streets brimming with history
• Scenic harbor views and cozy pubs
Gunwharf Quays
• Shopping outlet with designer brands and restaurants
• Iconic Spinnaker Tower enhances the skyline

Best Times To Visit Portsmouth's Attractions

Maximize your enjoyment of Portsmouth’s highlights with these handy tips on timing.

Portsmouth Historic Dockyard
Visit early in the morning on weekdays to enjoy a quieter experience.
Spinnaker Tower
Opt for late afternoon visits for stunning sunset views and fewer crowds.
Southsea Common
Early mornings in the summer provide a peaceful spot for a stroll.

Portsmouth Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Portsmouth experiences a temperate maritime climate, marked by mild winters and warm summers, with the best times to visit typically from late spring to early autumn. Understanding the weather patterns helps you pack appropriately and plan activities, ensuring a more enjoyable trip.

Dining Recommendation

For a distinct culinary experience, try the fresh seafood platters at The Fish Market, where you can savor the local catch in a lively atmosphere that contrasts with Southampton’s more traditional dining scenes. The vibrant flavors and emphasis on local ingredients truly set Portsmouth apart, making each meal a celebration of the coastal region.

Southampton - Portsmouth operators

Explore transport companies operating between Southampton and Portsmouth, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Southampton Central to Portsmouth & Southsea

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
11-30
Contact phone
0345 6000 650
Website
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/

Train from Southampton Central to Portsmouth & Southsea

Average Duration
58m
Estimated price
11-26
Bus
Contact phone
08717 81 81 81
Website
https://www.nationalexpress.com/en

Bus from Southampton Coach Station Harbour Parade to Portsmouth, The Hard

Average Duration
1h
Estimated price
1.53-12
Contact phone
+44 345 602 0121
Website
https://www.firstbus.co.uk/

Bus from Terminus Terrace to Victoria Park

Average Duration
1h 38m
Estimated price
0-0
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Solent University to The Hard Interchange

Average Duration
40m
Estimated price
7.5-110
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com/

Other from Southampton to Portsmouth

Average Duration
42m
Estimated price
1.5-1.5
Contact phone
+447393848381

Other from Southampton to Portsmouth

Average Duration
29m
Estimated price
49-64

Southampton to Portsmouth: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Southampton and Portsmouth offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Embark on a picturesque journey from Southampton to Portsmouth, covering a scenic driving distance of 20 miles in just 29 minutes. 💸 Explore cost-efficient travel options ranging from £5 to £8 for a convenient and budget-friendly trip between these charming UK destinations by car.
Average price
£5 - £8
🚆 Hop on a direct train at Southampton Central heading to Portsmouth & Southsea, departing every 30 minutes and operating daily. Enjoy a quick 42-minute journey through the scenic English countryside. 💰 Prices for the train trip from Southampton to Portsmouth range from £11 to £32, offering affordable and convenient transportation options for travelers.
Departure Point
Southampton Central station
Arrival Point
Portsmouth & Southsea station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On this route, South Western Railway operates the service, offering onboard catering with light refreshments and snacks available for purchase. Items typically include sandwiches, pastries, and beverages, ensuring you have something to enjoy during your journey.
• The train from Southampton to Portsmouth generally features Standard Class and First Class seating options. Standard Class offers comfortable seating with plenty of legroom and power sockets available at certain seats. First Class provides a more spacious environment, complimentary snacks and drinks in some cases, and quieter carriages for a more relaxed journey.
• While there are multiple operators on this route including South Western Railway (southwesternrailway.com) and Avanti West Coast (avantipartners.com), South Western Railway is the primary service provider. For local transport schedules and station maps, visit Portsmouth City Council’s transport page (portsmouth.gov.uk). Upon arriving at Portsmouth, you can leave your luggage at the luggage storage facility located at the station, and clean restrooms are available, although showers are not.
🛣️ Enjoy a smooth 1-hour ride through picturesque English landscapes while traveling from Southampton to Portsmouth by bus. With comfortable seating and amenities onboard, the journey is both relaxing and enjoyable. 💰 Ticket prices for the bus from Southampton to Portsmouth range from £8 to £18, making this affordable transportation option a great choice for budget-conscious travelers looking to explore the south of England. Sit back, relax, and let the bus take you on a hassle-free trip between these charming cities.
Departure Point
Southampton Coach Station Harbour Parade
Arrival Point
Portsmouth, The Hard station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• To ensure the best price for your bus from Southampton to Portsmouth, book your tickets in advance through the National Express website, as prices can range from £7.50 to £17 depending on when you book: nationalexpress.com
• While waiting for your bus at Southampton Coach Station, grab a coffee or snack from the nearby café to enjoy during your journey; the station has convenient amenities to keep you comfortable.
• Upon arriving at Portsmouth, The Hard, be prepared to navigate the area by checking the station map in advance; the station is well-connected with public transport and walking routes to key attractions like the Historic Dockyard and Gunwharf Quays: portsmouth.gov.uk

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Southampton to Portsmouth.

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The distance between Southampton and Portsmouth is 16 miles, with a road distance of 19.7 miles. Traveling by train, it takes approximately 30 minutes to reach Portsmouth from Southampton. By car, the journey from Portsmouth to Southampton takes around 30 minutes, and by bus, it takes about 1 hour to travel from Southampton to Portsmouth. These travel times may vary depending on traffic conditions and the specific route taken.
The most cost-effective way to travel from Southampton to Portsmouth is to rideshare, which costs £2 and takes about 42 minutes. However, if you're looking for the quickest option, taking a taxi would be the best choice, as it only takes 29 minutes but costs between £51 to £67. Both options provide efficient means of transportation between the two cities, so it ultimately depends on your budget and time constraints.
When traveling from Southampton to Portsmouth, the prices for a train ticket can range from £11 to £32, depending on the time and class of travel. On the other hand, taking the bus from Portsmouth to Southampton typically costs between £8 and £18. The prices may fluctuate based on factors such as booking in advance, time of travel, and any ongoing promotions or discounts available. Travelers should check the current rates and offerings from transportation providers to plan their journey efficiently.
To travel from Southampton to Portsmouth without using public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare options. The driving distance between Southampton and Portsmouth is about 20 miles, and it typically takes around 29 minutes to drive. Prices for carpooling or rideshares between the two cities range from £5 to £8, providing an affordable and convenient alternative to public transport.
The most convenient way to travel from Southampton to Portsmouth without a car is by train, which takes approximately 42 minutes and costs between £11 and £32. Trains provide a quick and efficient mode of transport between the two cities, allowing you to relax and enjoy the journey. You can easily book your train tickets in advance online or at the station to ensure a smooth travel experience. The train route offers scenic views of the English countryside, making it a pleasant way to travel between these two cities.
Yes, there is a direct link between Southampton and Portsmouth. You can take a direct train operated by First Great Western Service from Southampton Central to Portsmouth & Southsea, with services running every 30 minutes and a journey time of approximately 42 minutes. Additionally, there is a direct bus operated by National Express departing from Southampton Coach Station Harbour Parade to Portsmouth with hourly services available and a travel time of around 1 hour. Both train and bus options provide convenient and efficient transportation between the two cities for travelers.
There are over 2269 hotels available in Portsmouth offering a range of accommodation options for visitors. Prices start at £30 per night, making it possible to find a suitable stay within various budget ranges. From luxury hotels to cozy bed and breakfasts, there are plenty of choices for travelers looking to stay near Portsmouth. It is recommended to explore different booking platforms and read reviews to find the best accommodation that fits your preferences and budget.
Yes, you can travel by bicycle from Southampton to Portsmouth, as the distance is approximately 16 miles. It will take you around 2 hours to reach Portsmouth from Southampton by bike, depending on your speed and route. Cycling between these two cities is a scenic and eco-friendly option, allowing you to enjoy the coastal views along the way. Just ensure you have a comfortable bike, safety gear, and consider weather conditions before setting out on your journey.

Trips from Southampton

Trips to Portsmouth