- 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 10
Cheapest price on Oct 10
$75
Average ticket price on Oct 10
$95
Fastest journey on Oct 10
13 h 5 m
Average journey duration on Oct 10
14 h 20 m
Buses on Oct 10
6
Distance
497 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cardiff to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Edinburgh will cost around $95 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $75.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
NX509 · NX5945:00 PM14h20Cardiff, Sophia Gardens7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$751One-way1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus6:10 PM13h05Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)7:15 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$831One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus4:15 PM14h10Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)6:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$921One-way1 transfer
- NX509 · NX5913:15 AM15h20Cardiff, Sophia Gardens6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$941One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus1:40 AM15h55Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)5:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1071One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:10 PM13h05Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)7:15 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$831One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:15 PM14h10Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)6:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$921One-way1 transfer
- NX509 · NX5945:00 PM14h20Cardiff, Sophia Gardens7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$751One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus6:05 AM14h45Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)8:50 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1191One-way1 transfer
- NX509 · NX5913:15 AM15h20Cardiff, Sophia Gardens6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$941One-way1 transfer
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Edinburgh run on average 8 times per day, taking around 13h 5m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $28 (€23) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 01:40, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 308 miles (497 km) distance in 11h 5m.
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 308 miles (497 km) |
Average bus duration 13h 5m |
Cheapest ticket price $28 (€23) |
Buses per day 8 |
Fastest bus 11h 5m |
First bus 1:40 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 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
Cardiff to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:40AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 15h55 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 15h20 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 15h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 14h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:05AM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 15h35 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:53PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 15h27 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 14h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $58 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:00PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 14h20 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 14h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $101 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 06:10PM | Arrival Time 07:15AM | Duration 13h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $44 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Edinburgh buses for today, Friday, October 9. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX509 · NX591 | 3:15 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 15h35 | 6:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:05 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 14h45 | 8:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:15 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 14h10 | 6:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NX594 | 4:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 14h50 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX509 · NX598 | 5:30 PM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 14h10 | 7:40 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 6:10 PM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 13h05 | 7:15 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Saturday, October 10 | |||||
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:40 AM Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) | 15h55 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Why should you book Cardiff to Edinburgh buses with Omio?
National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 bus and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
Bus providers: National Express, FlixBus from Cardiff to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Edinburgh with National Express, FlixBus for as low as $28 (€23). 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
12h 6m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$28 (€23)
FlixBus frequency
5 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
11h 5m
Cheapest National Express Price
$37 (€31)
National Express frequency
3 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh can start from as little as $28 (€23) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Edinburgh is $74 (€62) ; 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh is 11h 5m to travel the 308 miles (497 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh leaves at 1:40 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 8 buses a day from Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from Cardiff , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff, Sophia Gardens, Cardiff, University, Newport, Queensway . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your journey in bus stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station, Edinburgh, St Andrew's House .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff and Edinburgh including taking a bus and train.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Cardiff 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.
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 Cardiff to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff 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 Cardiff to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
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 Cardiff to Edinburgh
Most Cardiff to Edinburgh buses use the Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Cardiff
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Which Cardiff station do buses to Edinburgh leave from?
Buses from Cardiff to Edinburgh leave from Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). The station is from Cardiff city centre at Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK.
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)Cardiff North Road (Friary Gardens), Cardiff CF10 3AF, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) from Cardiff city centre
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Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens). ATMs are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens).
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens): Accessible for passengers with reduced mobility.
Cardiff, Sophia GardensCardiff Coach Station, Sophia Gardens, 2 Sophia Cl, Pontcanna, Cardiff CF11 9HW, UK
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, Sophia Gardens from Cardiff city centre
Bus25, 62, 63, 25A, 64 · 3m · $2 · every ~14 min
C1 · 16m · every ~8 min
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens bus station facilities and services
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. ATMs are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens: Basic accessibility features available.
Cardiff, University
City-centre transport
Getting to Cardiff, University from Cardiff city centre
TrainCardiff Central - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Treherbert, Cardiff Central - Pontypridd, Aberdare - Merthyr Tydfil, Cardiff Central - Radyr, Radyr - Radyr · 6m · $1 · every ~8 min
BusC1 · 18m · every ~8 min
Which Edinburgh station do buses from Cardiff arrive at?
Buses from Cardiff to Edinburgh most often arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Some services arrive at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House, 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 Cardiff
More options for your journey from Cardiff to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Cardiff
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