- 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.
Cheapest price
$63
Average price
$81
Fastest journey
11 h 55 m
Average duration
12 h 28 m
Buses per day
19
Distance
502 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Bristol to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Bristol to Edinburgh will cost around $81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $63.
It's difficult to get from Bristol to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBusOmio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Bristol to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $36. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 16m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $36, and a train costs an average of $72.
Distance: 311 miles (502 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$55 Average price Cheapest | $171 Average price | $105 Average price | $188 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
12h 27m Average total duration 11h 57m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration 6h 5m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 16m Average total duration Fastest 1h 16m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 7h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.3kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.5 - 3.0kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
This is compared to other travel options from Bristol to Edinburgh:
A bus is $49 (€41) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Bristol to Edinburgh costing on average $105 (€86).
A bus is $116 (€95) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Bristol to Edinburgh costing on average $171 (€140).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 5m.
Bus takes on average 11h 57m.
You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.
Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.
Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 14h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $85 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 13h50 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 11h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35AM | Arrival Time 11:41PM | Duration 14h06 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:00AM | Arrival Time 11:53PM | Duration 12h53 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45AM | Arrival Time 11:16PM | Duration 11h31 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:35PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 16h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:50PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 16h30 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $110 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:40PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 12h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $80 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $65 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:15PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 13h25 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $67 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:15PM | Arrival Time 09:02AM | Duration 13h47 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:35PM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 12h40 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:40PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 12h25 | Departure days Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $47 |
The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Edinburgh buses for today, Wednesday, July 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:55 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 11h55 | 8:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 8:55 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 13h26 | 10:21 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:00 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 12h41 | 11:41 PM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:00 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 12h46 | 11:46 PM Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:00 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 12h33 | 11:33 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:00 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 12h53 | 11:53 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 5:40 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 12h45 | 6:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX040 · NX594 | 6:00 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 13h20 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 13h47 | 9:02 AM Edinburgh, St Andrew's House | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 12h30 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 13h38 | 8:53 AM Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 13h31 | 8:46 AM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:15 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 13h19 | 8:34 AM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:35 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 16h43 | 12:18 PM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:35 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 16h06 | 11:41 AM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:35 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 16h49 | 12:24 PM Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF) | 2 transfers | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 7:35 PM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 12h40 | 8:15 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Thursday, July 16 | |||||
FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:05 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 14h30 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus | 3:05 AM Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) | 16h04 | 7:09 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 2 transfers | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Bristol to Edinburgh run on average 21 times per day, taking around 11h 57m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $36 (€30) but you can travel from only $33 (€27) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 311 miles (502 km) distance in 11h 5m.
Distance 311 miles (502 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 57m |
Cheapest ticket price $36 (€30) |
Buses per day 21 |
Fastest bus 11h 5m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 35 days |
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
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.
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
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.
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
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.
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.
The average journey from the historic port of Bristol to Scotland's picturesque capital city usually lasts around 12 hours. During the working week, the choice is mainly between morning or mid-evening departures, but there are slightly more options on Sundays.
Right now, National Express is the sole provider of buses between Bristol and Edinburgh. It offers a range of direct and indirect services throughout the week.
The trip between Bristol and Edinburgh can take from 11 to 13 hours by coach. The vast majority of buses call for passengers to transfer once or twice, but more changes doesn't necessarily equate to a longer journey time.
There are generally around six buses going from Bristol to Edinburgh on weekdays. However, most of these leave at the same time (around 8:30 a.m.). Another departure in mid-morning and an overnighter at 8:00 p.m. or thereabouts complete the schedule. It's the same on Saturdays, but on Sundays there can be as many as nine coaches, with a couple of additional departures in the late afternoon.
Departure Station: The Marlborough Street bus and bus station is a five minute stroll from the Cabot Circus and Galleries Shopping Centres and St James' Park, with several hotels in close proximity. Open 24 hours a day, it has a newsagents, coffee shop, diner and payphones. It's easily accessible by bus from the airport and other parts of the city. Motorists meanwhile can use the nearby St James Barton car park or a drop off point on Cannon Street.
Arrival Station: Well located for day trippers, Edinburgh's Elder Street Bus Station is just a few minutes on foot from the Scottish National Portrait Gallery and city center retail destinations like Harvey Nichols. It's closed from midnight to 4:30 a.m., but otherwise open seven days a week. It has a newsagents, cafeteria, cash machine, baby changing facilities, baggage lockers, lavatories, a WH Smith, bike rack and charging points. There's a cab rank close by on St Andrews Street, and the station serves as a hub for buses to Glasgow, Aberdeen and other cities.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol 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.

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