- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Bournemouth to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 05
Cheapest price on Sep 05
$90
Average ticket price on Sep 05
$100
Fastest journey on Sep 05
13 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Sep 05
15 h 7 m
Buses on Sep 05
5
Distance
588 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bournemouth to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bournemouth to Edinburgh will cost around $100 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $90.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Bournemouth to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus3:45 PM14h40Bournemouth, Coach Station6:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$901One-way1 transfer
NX035 · NX5914:40 AM13h55Bournemouth, Coach Station6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$921One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus5:20 AM15h30Bournemouth, Coach Station8:50 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$981One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus3:45 PM18h24Bournemouth, Coach Station10:09 AMEdinburgh, Drum Brae South$1051One-way2 transfers
- NX035 · NX5946:15 PM13h05Bournemouth, Coach Station7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1141One-way1 transfer
- NX035 · NX5946:15 PM13h05Bournemouth, Coach Station7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1141One-way1 transfer
- NX035 · NX5914:40 AM13h55Bournemouth, Coach Station6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$921One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus3:45 PM14h40Bournemouth, Coach Station6:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$901One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus5:20 AM15h30Bournemouth, Coach Station8:50 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$981One-way2 transfers
- FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus3:45 PM18h24Bournemouth, Coach Station10:09 AMEdinburgh, Drum Brae South$1051One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Bournemouth to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Bournemouth to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $102 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 7h 22m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.2 - 0.5kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $102, while a train costs an average of $205.
Distance: 365 miles (588 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$102 Average price Cheapest | $205 Average price | $219 Average price (fuel + tolls) | |
13h 18m Average total duration 12h 48m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 22m Average total duration Fastest 6h 52m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 19m Average total duration (door-to-door) | |
0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Bournemouth to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $102.
This is compared to other travel options from Bournemouth to Edinburgh:
A bus is $103 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bournemouth to Edinburgh costing on average $205.
The fastest way to travel from Bournemouth to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 6h 52m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Bus takes on average 12h 48m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $102 compared to roughly $219 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $117. The journey takes 12h 48m versus 8h 19m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can use the time productively rather than spending it behind the wheel. No parking to sort, no fuel stops, and most coaches have Wi-Fi and power outlets.
Driving is worth considering if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), or want the flexibility to stop along the way.
Bournemouth to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:40AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 13h55 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:20AM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 10:09AM | Duration 18h24 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $63 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $91 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $91 |
Live departures
Bournemouth to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Bournemouth to Edinburgh buses for today, Friday, September 4. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:45 PM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 18h24 | 10:09 AM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 2 transfers | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:45 PM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 14h40 | 6:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX035 · NX594 | 6:15 PM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 13h05 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, September 5 | |||||
| NX035 · NX591 | 4:40 AM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 13h55 | 6:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:20 AM Bournemouth, Coach Station | 15h30 | 8:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Bournemouth to Edinburgh by train, bus, or flight
Compare train, bus, and flight 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.
Fri
Sep 04
Sep 04
Sat
Sep 05
Sep 05
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Sep 06
Sep 06
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Sep 07
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Sep 08
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Sep 10
Why should you book Bournemouth to Edinburgh buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Bournemouth to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bournemouth to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs National Express?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Edinburgh.
- 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bournemouth to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Bournemouth to Edinburgh.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bournemouth to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Bournemouth to Edinburgh run on average 5 times per day, taking around 12h 48m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $42 if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 04:00, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 365 miles (588 km) distance in 10h 40m.
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
Distance 365 miles (588 km) |
Average bus duration 12h 48m |
Cheapest ticket price $42 |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 10h 40m |
First bus 4:00 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 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
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Bournemouth to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Bournemouth to Edinburgh with FlixBus, National Express. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
FlixBus
About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
11h 30m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$55
FlixBus frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.
National Express
About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
10h 40m
Cheapest National Express Price
$42
National Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.
Complete guide to Edinburgh
Things to do in Edinburgh
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
- Must visit
National Gallery of Scotland
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
- Recommended
Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
British pound sterling (£)
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- £8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
- Mid-range
- £20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
- Fine dining
- £70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- £3-4.50 for coffee.
Tipping culture
Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.
FAQs: Bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bournemouth to Edinburgh by bus. 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 bus, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Bournemouth to Edinburgh can start from as little as $42 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Bournemouth to Edinburgh is $102 ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh is 10h 40m to travel the 365 miles (588 km) long journey. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh leaves at 4:00 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Bournemouth to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Bournemouth and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Edinburgh from Bournemouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 10h 40m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh is December.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bournemouth and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Edinburgh are:
- Edinburgh Castle, a historic fortress offering panoramic views of the city and housing the Crown Jewels
- Arthur's Seat, an ancient volcano providing hiking trails and a vantage point over Edinburgh
- The Royal Mile, a historic street connecting Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace, lined with shops and landmarks
- Holyrood Palace, the official residence of the British monarch in Scotland, featuring beautiful gardens and historic architecture
- The National Museum of Scotland, a museum showcasing Scottish history, culture, and natural history through diverse exhibits.
The best things to do in Edinburgh include:
- Explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, a historic marketplace with pubs, shops, and street performances
- Enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults of Edinburgh
- Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, known for its diverse range of shows
- Visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, offering beautiful landscapes and plant collections
- Discover the hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Bournemouth to Edinburgh depends on the bus companies:
- National Express
- You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
- FlixBus
- You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Bournemouth to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
- FlixBus
- One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Bournemouth to Edinburgh:
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
- FlixBus
- Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Bournemouth to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither Bournemouth nor Edinburgh 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.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Bournemouth to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
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 Edinburgh, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas like the Royal Mile and public transport. Common scams include fake charity collectors and overcharging by taxi drivers who don’t use the meter. It’s advisable to use licensed taxis and keep belongings secure in busy spots. Avoid unlicensed ticket sellers near popular attractions to prevent fraud.
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 bus stations
Popular bus stations from Bournemouth to Edinburgh
Most Bournemouth to Edinburgh buses use the Bournemouth, Coach Station to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Bournemouth and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Bournemouth
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Bournemouth, Coach Station
City-centre transport
Getting to Bournemouth, Coach Station from Bournemouth city centre
Bus13, 5, 6, 50, m1, 12, 13A, N5, N1, 11, 21 · 6m · $2 · every ~74 min
m1, 5, 6, 50, 13, 12, 13A, 21, 11, N5, N1 · 7m · $2 · every ~74 min
Which Edinburgh station do buses from Bournemouth arrive at?
Buses from Bournemouth to Edinburgh most often arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Some services arrive at {secondaryArrivalStation}, so check your ticket before travel to confirm your Edinburgh arrival station.
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United Kingdom
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre
Bus10, 11 · 2m · $2 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · $1 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · $5 · every ~38 min
Edinburgh, Bus Station bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food and drink
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Edinburgh, St Andrew's HouseEdinburgh EH7 5BN, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh, St Andrew's House from Edinburgh city centre
BusX19, 43, X18, X27, X28 · 6m · $2 · every ~36 min
15, 26, 44, X26 · 7m · $1 · every ~40 min
Uk090 · 8m · $1 · every ~1 min
Uk090 · 8m · $1 · every ~15 min
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House bus station facilities and services
Edinburgh, St Andrew's House has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.
Most popular bus connections from Bournemouth
More options for your journey from Bournemouth to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Bournemouth
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