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The cheapest and fastest buses from Cardiff to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Nov 26
Cheapest price
$55
Average price
$75
Fastest journey
12 h 10 m
Average duration
14 h 8 m
Buses per day
8
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 $75 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $55.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
NX111 · NX18308:20AM12h10
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens08:30PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$551One-way
1 transfer
NX111 · NX18005:10PM14h55
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens08:05AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$591One-way
1 transfer
NX509 · NX59103:15AM15h40
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens06:55PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$691One-way
1 transfer
NX216 · NX100 · NX18310:10PM19h10
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens05:20PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$741One-way
2 transfers
NX507 · NX59403:45PM15h05
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens06:50AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$751One-way
1 transfer
NX111 · NX18308:20AM12h10
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens08:30PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$551One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus04:15PM14h10
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)06:25AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$771One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus07:10AM14h25
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)09:35PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$1061One-way
1 transfer
NX111 · NX18005:10PM14h55
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens08:05AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$591One-way
1 transfer
FlixBus · FlixBus05:15PM15h00
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)08:15AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
$851One-way
1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Cardiff to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of €37, and a train costs an average of €87.
Distance: 308 miles (497 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€58 Average price Cheapest | €215 Average price | €190 Average price |
13h 48m Average total duration 13h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 55m Average total duration 6h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Most popular bus company |  Most popular train company |  Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Cardiff to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:15AM | Arrival Time 06:55PM | Duration 15h40 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $61 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25AM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 14h20 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $77 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:40AM | Arrival Time 08:15PM | Duration 13h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $73 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:10AM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 14h25 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $88 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:20AM | Arrival Time 08:30PM | Duration 12h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:45PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 15h05 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $72 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:45PM | Arrival Time 06:50AM | Duration 14h05 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $74 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $60 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 15h00 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:30PM | Arrival Time 07:40AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:10PM | Arrival Time 05:20PM | Duration 19h10 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $68 |
Live departures
Cardiff to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Edinburgh buses for today, Tuesday, November 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at 3:27 AM
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:10 AM Cardiff | 14h25 | 8:35 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:15 AM Cardiff | 12h15 | 7:30 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:20 AM Cardiff | 12h10 | 7:30 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 4:10 PM Cardiff | 14h55 | 7:05 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:10 PM Cardiff | 19h10 | 4:20 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| NX509 · NX591 | 3:15 AM Cardiff, Sophia Gardens | 15h40 | 6:55 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Edinburgh by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Cardiff to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 13h 18m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $46 (€37) if you book in advance.
The earliest bus runs at 02:45, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 308 miles (497 km) distance in 11h 50m.
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 18m |
Cheapest ticket price $46 (€37) |
Buses per day 6 |
Fastest bus 11h 50m |
First bus 02:45 |
Last bus 23:40 |
Key Takeaways
Train Ticket Prices
- Budget Options: Train tickets from Cardiff to Edinburgh start from as low as $46 (€37) if booked well in advance.
- Standard Fares: Typically, trains cost $72 (€58) depending on the train type and class.
Journey Duration & Frequency
- On average there are 6 daily trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh with 0 direct service.
- The fastest trains can take as little as 11h 50m but the average duration is 13h 18m
Train Operators
- Travel from Cardiff to Edinburgh with National Express, FlixBus, and Megabus
- The most booked train company for this route on Omio is National Express.
Stations & Schedule
- Most trains depart from Cardiff, Sophia Gardens and arrive in Edinburgh, Bus Station
- First train typically departs at 02:45 AM and the last at 11:40 PM
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: National Express, FlixBus, Megabus from Cardiff to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Cardiff to Edinburgh with National Express, FlixBus, Megabus for as low as $46 (€37). 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 Duration
14h 10m
Cheapest Price
$53 (€43)
FlixBus frequency
2 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 Duration
11h 50m
Cheapest Price
$46 (€37)
National Express frequency
4 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.
Megabus
About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
14h 45m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
Megabus frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
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 $43 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Cardiff to Edinburgh is $70 (€57); 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 13 h 15 min to travel the 308 mile (497 km) long route, with around there are 4 buses per day. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays.
The first bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh leaves at 3: 15AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The last bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh leaves at 10: 10PM.
There are 4 buses a day from Cardiff to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus or Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
For the journey from Cardiff to Edinburgh you can take a bus with National Express, FlixBus or Megabus. Be sure to check out all possible bus providers that offer services to Edinburgh from Cardiff on Omio to compare what amenities they may have.
The cheapest month to travel from Cardiff to Edinburgh by bus is March.
You have options as you can travel from Cardiff to Edinburgh 3 different ways: bus, train or flight.
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 providers National Express and 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus providers National Express and 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.
To find the cheapest bus tickets for your trip from Cardiff to Edinburgh, follow these tips:
Start your search now and compare ticket prices to find the best deal!
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 companies: National Express and FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh with the following bus providers: National Express and FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Cardiff to Edinburgh with the following bus companies: National Express and FlixBus.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Cardiff to Edinburgh
Cardiff
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff, Sophia Gardens. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff, Sophia Gardens for your trip from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
Cardiff, Sophia Gardens
information
Cardiff, Millennium Stadium
information
Cardiff, University
information
Cardiff, North Road (Friary Gardens)
information
Cardiff, North Road (St Josephs Convent)
information
The major bus station for arrivals in Edinburgh is Edinburgh, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh, Bus Station for your trip to Edinburgh from Cardiff.
Edinburgh, Bus Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Car connection
Elder StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Edinburgh, Bus Station
- Bus: 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 25, 26, 44 Trams: T50 Trains: Edinburgh Waverley Station
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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