Cardiff to Portsmouth from $45: 2 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$45 by carBest price

145.7 milesDistance

2h 36m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Cardiff 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.

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Type	Mo 20/01	Tu 21/01	We 22/01	Th 23/01	Fr 24/01	Sa 25/01	Su 26/01
Bus	$20	$16	$18	$42	$32	$21	$26
Train	$35	$23	$35	$35	$35	$35	$35

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Traveling From Cardiff to Portsmouth

Embarking on the journey from Cardiff to Portsmouth presents a fascinating contrast between Cardiff's vibrant urban culture and the historic maritime charm of Portsmouth.

Best Neighbourhoods in Portsmouth

Portsmouth offers diverse neighborhoods, each with its own distinct character.

Gunwharf Quays

• Vibrant shopping and dining experiences on the waterfront.

• Home to the iconic Spinnaker Tower.

Southsea

• Charming pebble beach with scenic views.

• Lively promenade filled with cafes and boutiques.

Old Portsmouth

• Rich maritime history visible in cobbled streets.

• Quaint pubs and restaurants overlooking the harbor.

Best Times To Visit Portsmouth's Attractions

Timing your visit can significantly enhance your experience in Portsmouth.

The Historic Dockyard

Visit early on a weekday morning to avoid crowds and enjoy peaceful exploration.

Portsmouth Museum

Late afternoons on weekdays tend to be quieter, allowing for a relaxed visit.

Southsea Common

Morning visits during weekdays offer a serene atmosphere for leisurely strolls.

Portsmouth Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Portsmouth enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild winters and warm summers, making it a pleasant destination any time of year. Late spring and early autumn offer the best weather for outdoor activities, while understanding the seasonal changes can greatly enhance your travel experience.

Dining Recommendation in Portsmouth

While Cardiff takes pride in its hearty Welsh dishes, Portsmouth invites you to savor the fresh seafood at The Fishmarket, where you can enjoy daily catches in a vibrant, nautical-themed setting. The briny flavors and relaxed atmosphere offer a refreshing contrast to the bustling culinary scene in Cardiff, making it a memorable dining experience.

Cardiff - Portsmouth operators

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

Train Show train routes

Contact phone

+44 3457 000 125

Website

https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Cardiff Central to Portsmouth & Southsea

Average Duration

3h 17m

Estimated price

$80-180

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

Traveling between Cardiff 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 scenic road trip from Cardiff to Portsmouth covering a distance of 235.0 km, taking roughly 2 hours and 36 minutes to reach your destination. 💰 Explore the flexible price range of £36 to £55 for the drive from Cardiff to Portsmouth by car, offering you the freedom to choose the travel option that best suits your budget.

Average price

£35 - £54

🚆 The journey from Cardiff to Portsmouth by train takes approximately 3 hours and 17 minutes. 🚆 With a distance of 218 km, the train ride offers a scenic route from Cardiff Central to Portsmouth & Southsea. Prices for tickets can vary between £63 and £142, providing flexibility for budget-conscious travelers.

Departure Point

Cardiff Central station

Arrival Point

Portsmouth & Southsea station

Useful tips for train travellers

• On your train journey from Cardiff to Portsmouth, you can expect onboard catering services provided by Great Western Railway (GWR). They offer a selection of snacks, sandwiches, and beverages, including alcohol, available for purchase at your seat. In First Class, expect a complimentary light meal service and a wider selection of drinks.

• Great Western Railway (GWR) provides seating options including First Class, Standard Class, and Business Select. First Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and quieter areas. Standard Class has comfortable seating but is busier, while Business Select provides extra legroom and amenities tailored for work. Check GWR's seating class options at their website: gwr.com

• Upon arrival at Portsmouth & Southsea station, note that there are luggage storage facilities operated by "Excess Baggage Company," where you can leave your bags securely. The station has restrooms available, but shower facilities are not provided. To quickly navigate to Portsmouth city center, take the number 20 bus from the bus stop outside the station, which runs frequently and takes about 15 minutes.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Cardiff to Portsmouth.

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The distance between Cardiff and Portsmouth is 165.8 km by air and approximately 234.5 km by road. The typical travel time by train from Cardiff to Portsmouth is 3 hours and 16 minutes. On the other hand, it takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes to reach Cardiff from Portsmouth by car.

The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Cardiff to Portsmouth is driving. It takes approximately 2 hours and 36 minutes to drive the 234.5 km road distance, and the cost ranges from £36 to £56. There are no direct flight options between the two cities, and taking a train would take 3 hours and 16 minutes.

The prices for a train ticket from Cardiff to Portsmouth can vary between £64 and £135, depending on factors such as the type of ticket, class of service, and availability.

To travel from Cardiff to Portsmouth without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 235.0 km. The journey typically takes around 2 hours and 36 minutes by car. The prices for this trip can vary between £36 to £56, depending on factors such as fuel efficiency and tolls along the route.

The best option to travel from Cardiff to Portsmouth without a car is by train. It takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes and the ticket prices range from £64 to £135.

Yes, there is a direct train link between Cardiff and Portsmouth. The train services, operated by First Great Western Service, depart from Cardiff Central station and arrive at Portsmouth & Southsea station. The journey takes approximately 3 hours and 16 minutes.

There are plenty of accommodation options near Portsmouth. With over 2016 hotels available, you have a wide variety to choose from. Prices for hotels start at £37 and can vary depending on location, amenities, and the time of year you plan to visit.