- 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 Chester to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Jul 25
Cheapest price
$82
Average price
$86
Fastest journey
14 h 10 m
Average duration
15 h 38 m
Buses per day
2
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 $86 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $82.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Chester to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus4:15 PM14h10Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)6:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$821One-way1 transfer- FlixBus · FlixBus12:30 AM17h05Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)5:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$911One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus4:15 PM14h10Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)6:25 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$821One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus12:30 AM17h05Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)5:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$911One-way1 transfer
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 $35. 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 $35, and a flight costs an average of $27.
Distance: 191 miles (308 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$63 Average price Cheapest | $63 Average price | $66 Average price | $103 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 $63 (€63).
This is compared to other travel options from Chester to Edinburgh:
A bus is $0.63 (€0.63) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Chester to Edinburgh costing on average $63 (€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 $66 (€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 Mon, Tue, Wed, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40AM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 18h45 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $69 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:40AM | Arrival Time 06:25AM | Duration 18h45 | Departure days Tue, Thu | Cheapest price $54 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 03:15PM | Arrival Time 05:25AM | Duration 14h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $68 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 04:15PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $62 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:30PM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 17h05 | Departure days Mon, Wed | Cheapest price $58 |
Live departures
Chester to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Chester to Edinburgh buses for tomorrow, Saturday, July 25. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:30 AM Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) | 17h05 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 4:15 PM Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) | 14h10 | 6:25 AM 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 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 $35 (€35) but you can travel from only $19 (€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 $19 (€19)
Distance 191 miles (308 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 53m |
Cheapest ticket price $35 (€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 $19 (€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
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 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 $35 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Chester to Edinburgh is $63 (€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 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, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Chester to Edinburgh.
No, the bus from Chester to Edinburgh has no accessibility options.
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
Most Chester to Edinburgh buses use the Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Chester and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.
Departure bus stations in Chester
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange)Chester Interchange station, George Street 26, CH1 3EA
City-centre transport
Getting to Chester, Gorse Stacks (Bus Interchange) from Chester city centre
Bus11, 11A · 4m · $2 · every ~8 min
61, 16, 62 · 8m · $4 · every ~9 min
Which Edinburgh station do buses from Chester arrive at?
Buses from Chester to Edinburgh arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Edinburgh, Bus Station is from Edinburgh city centre.
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 · $4 · 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.
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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