4.9
4.6
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Cairnryan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 50m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, and a flight costs an average of $51.
Distance: 98 miles (158 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$45 Average price Cheapest | $46 Average price | $102 Average price | $89 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 55m Average total duration 4h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 7m Average total duration 2h 37m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 3h 50m Average total duration Fastest 50m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Cairnryan:
A bus is $1 (€0.96) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan costing on average $46 (€37).
A bus is $57 (€45) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Cairnryan costing on average $102 (€81).
Other travel options to Cairnryan take longer:
Train takes on average 2h 37m.
Bus takes on average 4h 25m.
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.
Live departures
Edinburgh to Cairnryan bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cairnryan buses for today, Sunday, May 10. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 | 9:30 AM Edinburgh | 4h26 | 1:56 PM Cairnryan | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Cairnryan by train or flight
Compare 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.
May 11
May 12
May 13
May 14
May 15
May 16
May 17
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Cairnryan run on average 4 times per day, taking around 4h 25m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $40 (€32) but you can travel from only $40 (€32) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 06:19, the last at 20:58. The fastest bus covers the 98 miles (158 km) distance in 4h 23m.
Distance 98 miles (158 km) |
Average bus duration 4h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $40 (€32) |
Buses per day 4 |
Fastest bus 4h 23m |
First bus 6:19 AM |
Last bus 8:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Fri |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 7 days |
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
- Cairnryan Ferry Terminal, a key transport hub offering ferry services to Northern Ireland
- Loch Ryan, a scenic sea loch known for its natural beauty and opportunities for birdwatching
- Cairnryan Lighthouse, a historic lighthouse providing picturesque views of the surrounding coastline
- Glenapp Castle, a luxury hotel and historic castle set in beautiful gardens
- Castle of St. John, a historic tower house in nearby Stranraer offering insights into medieval life.
- Walk along Loch Ryan, a tranquil loch ideal for leisurely walks and birdwatching
- Discover Glenapp Castle, a luxury hotel and gardens offering afternoon tea and guided tours
- Visit Stranraer, a nearby town with attractions like the Stranraer Museum
- Explore the Galloway Forest Park, a vast area of natural beauty perfect for hiking and stargazing
- Enjoy a coastal walk along the Ayrshire Coastal Path, offering stunning views of the coastline.
popular bus stations
Popular bus stations from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cairnryan and Edinburgh
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