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The cheapest and fastest buses from Chester to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Jun 05
Cheapest price
$69
Average price
$84
Fastest journey
15 h 30 m
Average duration
16 h 53 m
Buses per day
6
Distance
308 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Chester to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Chester to Edinburgh will cost around $84 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $69.
Fast buses
Of the 6 buses that leave Chester for Edinburgh on Fri, Jun 05, 6 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jun 05 the direct buses cover the 308 km distance in an average of 16 h 53 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 15 h 30 m .
On Fri, Jun 05 the slowest buses will take 18 h 45 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.
12:30 AM17h05Chester5:35 PMEdinburgh$691One-way0 transfers- 11:40 AM18h45Chester6:25 AMEdinburgh$771One-way0 transfers
- 10:40 AM18h45Chester5:25 AMEdinburgh$811One-way0 transfers
- 11:30 PM17h05Chester4:35 PMEdinburgh$871One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 PM16h00Chester8:15 AMEdinburgh$881One-way0 transfers
- 3:15 PM15h30Chester6:45 AMEdinburgh$1001One-way0 transfers
- 4:15 PM16h00Chester8:15 AMEdinburgh$881One-way0 transfers
- 12:30 AM17h05Chester5:35 PMEdinburgh$691One-way0 transfers
- 11:30 PM17h05Chester4:35 PMEdinburgh$871One-way0 transfers
- 11:40 AM18h45Chester6:25 AMEdinburgh$771One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, bus, and flight for Chester to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Chester to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $43. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 6m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.3kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $43, and a flight costs an average of $33.
Distance: 191 miles (308 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$78 Average price Cheapest | $78 Average price | $82 Average price | $128 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
5h 23m Average total duration 4h 53m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 25m Average total duration 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 6m Average total duration Fastest 1h 6m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.3kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.9 - 1.8kg 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 Chester to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $78 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Edinburgh:
A bus is $0.78 (€0.63) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Edinburgh costing on average $78 (€63).
A bus is $4 (€4) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Chester to Edinburgh costing on average $82 (€66).
The fastest way to travel from Chester to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 6m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 3h 55m.
Bus takes on average 4h 53m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chester and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Chester to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.
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.
Chester to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:30AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 17h05 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 18h45 | Departure days Tue, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $81 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 18h45 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 08:15AM | Duration 16h00 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $43 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 17h05 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $69 |
Live departures
Chester to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Edinburgh buses for today, Thursday, June 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 | 4:15 PM Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) | 14h10 | 6:25 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| Friday, June 5 | |||||
| 12:30 AM Chester | 17h05 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Chester 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Chester to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Chester to Edinburgh run on average 3 times per day, taking around 4h 53m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $24 (€19) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 00:30, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 191 miles (308 km) distance in 5h 53m.
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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $24 (€19)
Distance 191 miles (308 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 5h 53m |
First bus 12:30 AM |
Last bus 11:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Thu |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 49 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Train from $24 (€19)
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
Scottish National Gallery
The national art gallery in central Edinburgh, known for European masters and Scottish art. Easy to combine with Princes Street Gardens and the Royal Mile.
- Recommended
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
A striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of people who shaped Scottish history and culture. Popular for both the collection and the architecture.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street, linking the castle and Holyroodhouse through closes, courtyards, shops, and major heritage sites.
- Must visit
Princes Street Gardens
A central public garden below the castle with iconic skyline views, floral displays, and easy access to both Old and New Town sights.
- Must visit
Calton Hill
One of the city’s classic viewpoints, known for panoramic views, monuments, and sunrise or sunset photography. Especially popular on social media.
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a savory pudding traditionally made with minced offal, oats, onion, and spices, served with mashed turnips and potatoes.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, closely associated with the northeast but widely loved in Edinburgh.
Scotch Broth
A hearty traditional soup made with barley, root vegetables, and usually lamb or mutton, valued as classic Scottish comfort food.
The Scran & Scallie
A popular gastropub by Tom Kitchin serving refined Scottish pub classics in a warm, stylish, and relaxed setting.
Howies Restaurant
A long-established local favorite serving traditional Scottish dishes with local ingredients in a comfortable, accessible city-center setting.
The Sheep Heid Inn
One of Scotland’s oldest pubs, offering classic Scottish food and a historic tavern atmosphere slightly outside the city center.
Pound sterling
Expensive by UK standards. Hotels peak in summer and festival season, while pubs and casual dining are more manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple cafe meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
About 10-12.5% in restaurants if service is not already included. Round up for taxis. Tips are optional in pubs and cafes.
Transport for Edinburgh
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh -> Edinburgh Waverley Station, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- TapTapCap lets you pay by contactless card on Lothian buses and trams, with daily caps applied automatically.
- Single bus fares are exact and do not give change if you pay cash, so contactless payment is usually easiest.
FAQs: Bus from Chester to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Chester 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 Chester to Edinburgh can start from as little as $43 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chester to Edinburgh is $78 (€63) ; 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 Chester to Edinburgh is 5h 53m to travel the 191 miles (308 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 Chester to Edinburgh leaves at 12:30 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Chester to Edinburgh leaves at 11:45 PM.
When departing from Chester , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange), Liverpool, Liverpool One, Liverpool, Wavertree Shopping Centre . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your journey in bus stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station .Passengers board the bus most frequently from Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange), which is located around 0 away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Edinburgh from Chester is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 5h 53m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Chester to Edinburgh is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Chester and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
No, the bus from Chester to Edinburgh has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
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.
No, bikes are not allowed on board the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
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.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
No, luggage for the bus from Chester to Edinburgh needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
Since neither Chester 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Chester 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 Chester to Edinburgh
Chester
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Chester is Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange). Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) for your trip from Chester to Edinburgh.
Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)
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 Chester.
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
Most popular bus connections from Chester
More options for your journey from Chester to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Chester
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