Portsmouth to Cardiff from $45: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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

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$45 - DriveBest price

147.9 milesDistance

2h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Portsmouth to Cardiff 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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Traveling From Portsmouth to Cardiff

Your journey from Portsmouth, with its historic coastal charm, to Cardiff, where vibrant culture meets modern architecture, offers a fascinating contrast in experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cardiff

Cardiff’s neighborhoods each offer distinct charms and experiences for visitors.

Cardiff Bay

• Home to stunning waterfront views.

• Vibrant dining and entertainment options available.

Roath

• Picturesque Roath Park features beautiful gardens.

• A diverse range of cafes and shops to explore.

City Centre

• Bustling area for shopping and nightlife.

• Historical attractions within walking distance.

Best Times To Visit Cardiff's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your Cardiff experience and avoid the crowds.

Cardiff Castle

Weekday mornings are the best time for a quieter tour of this historic landmark.

National Museum Cardiff

Visit on weekdays to enjoy the exhibits with fewer visitors.

Cardiff Bay

Early morning or late afternoon offers a peaceful atmosphere and stunning views.

Cardiff Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cardiff enjoys a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, making it a year-round destination. The best times to visit are spring and early autumn when you can enjoy pleasant weather, though be prepared for rain at any time, which can affect outdoor plans.

Dining in Cardiff: A Culinary Contrast

For an unforgettable dining experience, try the traditional Welsh dish, cawl, at The Potted Pig, a restaurant known for its vibrant atmosphere and innovative use of local ingredients. Unlike the seafood-centric offerings in Portsmouth, Cardiff’s culinary scene celebrates robust flavors and hearty fare that reflects its rich cultural heritage.

Portsmouth - Cardiff operators

Explore transport companies operating between Portsmouth and Cardiff, 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 Portsmouth & Southsea to Cardiff Central

Average Duration

3h 19m

Estimated price

$80-180

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

Traveling between Portsmouth and Cardiff 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 an exciting road trip from Portsmouth to Cardiff, spanning a picturesque driving distance of 238.2 km. Prepare for a journey of approximately 2 hours and 37 minutes filled with scenic views and exploration. 💸 Enjoy flexible pricing options ranging from £36 to £55 for your road trip adventure from Portsmouth to Cardiff by car.

Average price

£35 - £54

⭐️ The direct train from Portsmouth & Southsea to Cardiff Central departs hourly and takes approximately 3 hours and 19 minutes. 🚆 For a shorter journey with fewer transfers, consider taking a route that involves three transfers and takes around 5 hours to reach Cardiff from Portsmouth. 🌟 Alternatively, there are longer routes with more transfers that can take up to 5 and a half hours to reach Cardiff, offering different travel experiences along the way.

Departure Point

Portsmouth & Southsea station

Arrival Point

Cardiff Central station

Useful tips for train travellers

• Onboard services for your train journey from Portsmouth to Cardiff are typically provided by operators like GWR (Great Western Railway). They offer catering services that include a variety of snacks, and beverages such as coffee, tea, and soft drinks, as well as a selection of light meals. Keep an eye out for the trolley service which operates in First Class and select Economy trains. For more specific menu options, visit GWR's website.

• The train services running from Portsmouth to Cardiff might offer both Standard (Economy) and First Class seating. First Class provides more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and access to quieter carriages. Standard Class seats, while comfortable, come with less legroom and fewer amenities. Be sure to check the train amenities on the GWR website to select the seating that best fits your needs: gwr.com

• The primary train operators for this route include Great Western Railway (GWR) and CrossCountry. For schedule details, operator-specific information, and purchasing tickets, you can visit their respective websites: GWR (gwr.com) and CrossCountry (crosscountrytrains.co.uk). Additionally, for local transport options in Cardiff, check Transport for Wales for links to bus and train schedules.