- 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 on Sep 08
kr295
Average ticket price on Sep 08
kr496
Fastest journey on Sep 08
10 h 15 m
Average journey duration on Sep 08
13 h 18 m
Buses on Sep 08
3
Distance
456 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cheltenham to Edinburgh will cost around kr496 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only kr295.
On Tue, Sep 08, we found 3 buses from Cheltenham to Edinburgh, including 3 direct services.
On Tue, Sep 08 the direct buses cover the 456 km distance in an average of 13 h 18 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 10 h 15 m .
On Tue, Sep 08 the slowest buses will take 14 h 55 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.






Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cheltenham to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the flight, with an average ticket price of kr249 For those with little time, consider booking a flight, which has an average total journey time of 3h 8m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of kr249, while a train costs an average of kr603.
Distance: 283 miles (456 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
kr361 Average price | kr603 Average price | kr249 Average price Cheapest | kr1070 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 29m Average total duration 10h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 46m Average total duration 5h 16m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 8m Average total duration Fastest 1h 8m Onboard + 2h 0m Additional time* | 6h 15m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
![]() 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 |
This is compared to other travel options from Cheltenham to Edinburgh:
A flight is kr112 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Cheltenham to Edinburgh costing on average kr361.
A flight is kr354 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cheltenham to Edinburgh costing on average kr603.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 5h 16m.
Bus takes on average 10h 59m.
Tickets start at around kr361 compared to roughly kr1070 in fuel and tolls — a saving of about kr708. The journey takes 10h 59m versus 6h 15m 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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 01:20AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr324 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 15h10 | Departure days Thu | Cheapest price kr274 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:20AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 14h55 | Departure days Tue, Thu, Sun | Cheapest price kr298 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:00AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 15h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price kr482 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:20AM | Arrival Time 08:45PM | Duration 16h25 | Departure days Thu, Sun | Cheapest price kr366 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:50AM | Arrival Time 06:50PM | Duration 14h00 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price kr600 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:25AM | Arrival Time 09:45PM | Duration 16h20 | Departure days Thu, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr284 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:10AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 10h15 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr295 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 02:40PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 14h45 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price kr828 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:55PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 14h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price kr430 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 04:30PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 14h50 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price kr558 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:10PM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 13h15 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price kr418 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:00PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price kr502 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 07:45PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 11h00 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price kr385 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 10h40 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price kr358 |
The table below shows live departures for Cheltenham to Edinburgh buses for today, Monday, September 7. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 9:05 PM Cheltenham, Arle Court Transport Hub | 10h40 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Tuesday, September 8 | |||||
![]() | 2:20 AM Cheltenham | 14h55 | 5:15 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 9:10 AM Cheltenham | 10h15 | 7:25 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
![]() | 2:40 PM Cheltenham | 14h45 | 5:25 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
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 Cheltenham to Edinburgh run on average 5 times per day, taking around 10h 59m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at kr251 but you can travel from only kr162 by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 02:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 283 miles (456 km) distance in 10h 40m.
Distance 283 miles (456 km) |
Average bus duration 10h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price kr251 |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 10h 40m |
First bus 2:05 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 1 day |
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cheltenham 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.

Most Cheltenham to Edinburgh buses use the Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Cheltenham and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Cafeteria Royal Well (in the station), The Coffee House (0.2 km), The Brewery Quarter (0.5 km).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station.
Available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham, Royal Well Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Cheltenham has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.
Free WiFi available in the waiting area. ATMs are available at Cheltenham.
Ticket office support is available at Cheltenham.
Available at Cheltenham: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cheltenham: Wheelchair accessible with ramps.
Edinburgh, Bus Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, and Ticket Office.
Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need