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The cheapest and fastest trains from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Showing times and prices for Apr 02
Cheapest price
$94
Average price
$100
Fastest journey
3 h 19 m
Average duration
3 h 30 m
Trains per day
2
Distance
164 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Cardiff will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $94.
Fast trains
Of the 2 trains that leave Portsmouth for Cardiff on Thu, Apr 02, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Thu, Apr 02 the direct trains cover the 164 km distance in an average of 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 19 m .
On Thu, Apr 02 the slowest trains will take 3 h 40 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.
06:05AM3h40Portsmouth09:45AMCardiff$941One-way0 transfers- 08:27AM3h19Portsmouth11:46AMCardiff$1051One-way0 transfers
- 08:27AM3h19Portsmouth11:46AMCardiff$1051One-way0 transfers
- 06:05AM3h40Portsmouth09:45AMCardiff$941One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Portsmouth to Cardiff
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Cardiff among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $17. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 22m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $17, and a train costs an average of $42.
Distance: 101 miles (164 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus |
|---|---|
$99 Average price | $42 Average price Cheapest |
3h 52m Average total duration Fastest 3h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 32m Average total duration 6h 2m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.0 - 0.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Portsmouth to Cardiff train times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Cardiff trains for today, Wednesday, April 1. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 SW038300 · P61361+P32244 · P22630 | On time 10:37 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h59 | 2:36 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| GW538200 · P22732 | On time 10:55 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h51 | 2:46 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| GW538100 · P22734 | On time 11:55 AM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h55 | 3:50 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| SW038100 · P61364+P32264 · P22634 | On time 12:37 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 4h00 | 4:37 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 3 transfers | |
| GW538000 · P22736 | On time 12:55 PM Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS) | 3h54 | 4:49 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 1 transfer | |
| 6:05 AM Portsmouth | 3h40 | 9:45 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:27 AM Portsmouth | 3h19 | 11:46 AM Cardiff | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Cardiff by train or bus
Compare train and bus prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.
Thu
Apr 02
Apr 02
Fri
Apr 03
Apr 03
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Apr 04
Apr 04
Sun
Apr 05
Apr 05
Mon
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Apr 06
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Apr 08
Apr 08
Why should you book Portsmouth to Cardiff trains with Omio?
Great Western Railway as well as first_great_western offer trains 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 Great Western Railway?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Great Western Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of first_great_western to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
- 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 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.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Portsmouth to Cardiff
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Portsmouth to Cardiff run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $42 (€34) but you can travel from only $17 (€14) by bus.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:37, the last at 21:20. The fastest train covers the 101 miles (164 km) distance in 3h 17m.
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
Bus from $17 (€14)
Distance 101 miles (164 km) |
Average train duration 3h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 (€34) |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 17m |
First train 04:37 |
Last train 21:20 |
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
Bus from $17 (€14)
Train companies: Great Western Railway, first_great_western from Portsmouth to Cardiff trainsGreat Western Railway, first_great_western trains will get you between Portsmouth and Cardiff from $17 (€14). 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 Duration
3h 17m
Cheapest Price
$42 (€34)
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
first_great_western
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 15m
Cheapest Price
$144 (€117)
first_great_western frequency
12 a day
FAQs: Trains from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth to Cardiff 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 Cardiff, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Portsmouth to Cardiff can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $42 (€34), while the average price is around $99 (€80).
The train from Portsmouth to Cardiff takes 3h 17m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 4:37 AM.
The distance by train from Portsmouth to Cardiff is 101 miles (164 km).
The last train from Portsmouth to Cardiff leaves at 9:20 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Yes, there is a direct train from Portsmouth to Cardiff. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by Great Western Railway, first_great_western.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
The train station in Portsmouth that goes to Cardiff is Portsmouth & Southsea (PMS), which connects to Cardiff Central (CDF).
The cheapest way to get from Portsmouth to Cardiff is by bus, with a cost of around $17 (€14).
The train journey from Portsmouth to Cardiff offers varied scenery, including views of the South Downs, picturesque countryside, and glimpses of the Severn Estuary, making it a pleasant and scenic experience.
A day trip from Portsmouth to Cardiff is not feasible as the journey duration is 3h 17m. Trains run 5 times per day.
In Cardiff, you can enjoy a variety of activities and sights. Attend performances at the Millennium Centre, explore the vibrant nightlife in the city center, or take a scenic boat tour around Cardiff Bay. For adventure, visit Cardiff International White Water for rafting and kayaking. Shop and dine at Cardiff Market. Discover history at Cardiff Castle and St Fagans National Museum of History, explore art and culture at the National Museum Cardiff, and relax in Bute Park. Cardiff Bay also offers dining, entertainment, and cultural attractions.
A visit of 2 to 3 days is typically sufficient to explore Cardiff's main attractions, such as Cardiff Castle, the National Museum, and Cardiff Bay, while allowing time for leisure and dining experiences.
Yes, you can take the train from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Since neither Portsmouth nor Cardiff are in the Schengen Area, passport requirements depend on the specific immigration rules of United Kingdom and United Kingdom. Entry and visa requirements can be subject to change. For the latest information, check with your destination's embassy or consulate.
Popular day trips by train from Cardiff include Swansea, Bristol, Bath, Newport, Gloucester.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth to Cardiff among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
The currency used in the United Kingdom is the British Pound Sterling (GBP). For travelers, using a card is generally more convenient and widely accepted, especially in cities and for transportation tickets, though carrying some cash can be useful for small purchases or in rural areas.
In Cardiff, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like Cardiff Central Station and popular tourist spots. Taxi scams can occur, so it’s advisable to use licensed taxis or reputable ride-hailing apps. Additionally, travelers should be aware of occasional street distractions designed to divert attention while accomplices attempt theft. Staying vigilant and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
Pack lightweight, versatile clothing suitable for the destination's climate, and use secure, lockable luggage to protect belongings. Keep essential items like travel documents, medication, and valuables in a carry-on bag for easy access. Use packing organizers or cubes to maximize space and maintain order. Lastly, include a small first aid kit and personal hygiene items for added comfort during travel.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Portsmouth to Cardiff
Portsmouth
Cardiff
The major train station for departures in Portsmouth is Portsmouth & Southsea. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Portsmouth & Southsea for your trip from Portsmouth to Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Bike Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:40 - 20:30 Saturday 05:40 - 20:30 Sunday 06:40 - 20:40
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Lower Concourse, next to the gateline. The National key toilets are located in the Lower Concourse; these toilets are operated by a radar key. A radar key is available from station staff upon request. A 'National Key Scheme' key [RADAR] can be purchased by contacting the following. Address: 12 City Forum, 250 City Road, London, EC1V 8AF. Tel: 020 7250 3222. Minicom: 020 7250 4119. Fax: 020 7250 0212. Email: [email protected]
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Concourse and car park
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Portsmouth & Southsea
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Station Street bus stop at side of Railway Station near Matalan car park.
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike Rental
Car Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:50 - 19:00 Saturday 06:30 - 19:00 Sunday 08:00 - 19:00
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National key toilets are located on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: Platform 1 and outside booking hall
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Portsmouth Harbour
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Hard Interchange Stands G, H or J
Amenities at train station
Wifi
ShoppingParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 05:55 - 19:40 Saturday 05:55 - 19:40 Sunday 09:10 - 18:40
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- 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
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Booking Hall on Platform 1. The National key toilets are located in the Booking Hall on Platform 1; these toilets are operated by a radar key.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Platform 1
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
- Helpline Contact: 0800 5282100
Public transit options for Fratton
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Goldsmith Avenue (for buses in both directions). Goldsmith Avenue is located on the opposite side of the footbridge from the main entrance/taxi rank/Railway club.
The major train station for arrivals in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your journey to Cardiff from Portsmouth.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCHotel
LoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingBike RentalCar Rentalinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
Taxis
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
Ticket Office
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station.
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
- Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
- Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. The station is not suitable for wheelchair or powered mobility scooter users. Platform 1 (to Rhymney) has a long, steep access ramp. Platform 2 (to Cardiff) is only accessible via 41 steps. Customers travelling from the Rhymney Valley are advised to alight at Cardiff Queen Street and return to Heath Low Level.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Public transit options for Heath High Level
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait outside station on Heath Halt Road
Amenities at train station
ParkingDiningTaxisAccessibilityLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingBike Rentalinformation
Distance to city center
1 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
Public transit options for Ninian Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
Most popular train 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 trains to and from Cardiff and Portsmouth
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