- Must visit
The Fitzwilliam Museum
The University of Cambridge’s principal museum, known for Egyptian antiquities, paintings, manuscripts, and decorative arts. A major cultural highlight and one of the city’s best indoor visits.
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Edinburgh to Cambridge
Showing times and prices for Jul 13
Cheapest price
$70
Average price
$78
Fastest journey
13 h 20 m
Average duration
16 h 10 m
Buses per day
2
Distance
470 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Edinburgh to Cambridge is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Cambridge will cost around $78 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $70.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Cambridge without transferring at least once.
FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 PM13h20Edinburgh, Bus Station12:00 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$701One-way1 transfer
NX598 · NX49110:05 PM19h00Edinburgh, Bus Station5:05 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$851One-way1 transfer
- FlixBus · FlixBus10:40 PM13h20Edinburgh, Bus Station12:00 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$701One-way1 transfer
- NX598 · NX49110:05 PM19h00Edinburgh, Bus Station5:05 PMCambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece)$851One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Edinburgh to Cambridge
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Cambridge among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $34. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 40m. 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 $34, and a train costs an average of $62.
Distance: 292 miles (470 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$63 Average price Cheapest | $130 Average price | $69 Average price | $161 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
11h 49m Average total duration 11h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 13m Average total duration 4h 43m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 40m Average total duration Fastest 1h 40m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 6h 35m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
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 |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Cambridge is a bus with an average price of $63 (€52).
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Cambridge:
A bus is $6 (€5) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Cambridge costing on average $69 (€57).
A bus is $67 (€55) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Edinburgh to Cambridge costing on average $130 (€107).
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Cambridge is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 40m.
Other travel options to Cambridge take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 43m.
Bus takes on average 11h 19m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Cambridge including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Cambridge 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.
Edinburgh to Cambridge Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:45AM | Arrival Time 09:35PM | Duration 12h50 | Departure days Wed, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 10:05PM | Arrival Time 04:55PM | Duration 18h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Sat | Cheapest price $75 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:40PM | Arrival Time 12:00PM | Duration 13h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $57 |
Live departures
Edinburgh to Cambridge bus times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cambridge buses for today, Sunday, July 12. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX183 · NX777 | 8:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 12h50 | 9:35 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
| FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:40 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 13h20 | 12:00 PM Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Cambridge 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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Why should you book Edinburgh to Cambridge buses with Omio?
FlixBus as well as National Express offer buses services from Edinburgh to Cambridge.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio vs FlixBus?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for FlixBus, but also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Cambridge.
- Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
- Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare FlixBus with all available travel options, which are bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Cambridge.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of National Express to find the best option for your trip from Edinburgh to Cambridge.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Cambridge.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Edinburgh to Cambridge run on average 3 times per day, taking around 11h 19m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $34 (€28) but you can travel from only $25 (€20) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 01:50, the last at 23:42. The fastest bus covers the 292 miles (470 km) distance in 12h 35m.
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
Flight from $25 (€20)
Distance 292 miles (470 km) |
Average bus duration 11h 19m |
Cheapest ticket price $34 (€28) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 12h 35m |
First bus 1:50 AM |
Last bus 11:42 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 35 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
Flight from $25 (€20)
Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Edinburgh to CambridgeYou can travel by bus between Edinburgh to Cambridge with FlixBus, National Express for as low as $25 (€20). 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
12h 35m
Cheapest Price
$34 (€28)
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
12h 50m
Cheapest Price
$52 (€43)
National Express frequency
1 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.
Complete guide to Cambridge
Things to do in Cambridge
Discover the best of Cambridge — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Cambridge trip today.
- Must visit
Kettle's Yard
A distinctive house-museum and modern art gallery combining contemporary exhibitions with an atmospheric domestic setting. One of Cambridge’s most stylish and locally loved cultural spaces.
- Recommended
Museum of Archaeology and Anthropology
University museum with important world cultures and archaeology collections, including Pacific artifacts, anthropology displays, and material on human history and Cambridge research.
- Must visit
The Backs
The famous riverside area behind several colleges offers classic Cambridge views of lawns, bridges, and historic buildings. Ideal for walking, photography, and punting scenery.
- Must visit
King's Parade
The city’s most iconic central street, lined with historic university buildings and constant visitor activity. It is the classic place to absorb Cambridge’s academic atmosphere.
- Must visit
Cambridge University Botanic Garden
A beautifully maintained botanical garden with diverse plant collections, glasshouses, and seasonal color. Popular for quiet visits, photography, and a break from the busy historic core.
- Vegetarian
Chelsea Bun
A sticky currant-filled bun strongly associated with Cambridge through Fitzbillies, where it has been a local favorite for decades.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Cambridge Burnt Cream
The Cambridge version of crème brûlée, a rich baked custard with a caramelized sugar top linked to Trinity College traditions.
- Vegetarian
Afternoon Tea
A classic English ritual of tea served with sandwiches, scones, and cakes, widely enjoyed in Cambridge tearooms and colleges.
Midsummer House
A celebrated fine-dining restaurant on the River Cam, known for refined modern British cooking and an elegant special-occasion atmosphere.
Restaurant Twenty-Two
A respected neighborhood restaurant serving seasonal British cuisine in a polished but relaxed setting near the city center.
The Eagle
A historic Cambridge pub famous for classic British dishes, ales, and its long connection to the city’s academic and wartime history.
Pound sterling
Prices are above the UK average for hotels and dining, especially in central areas, but supermarkets, pubs, and buses help keep daily costs manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway, cafe lunch, or pub deal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 18-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.
Tipping culture
Service charge may be added in restaurants; if not, 10-12.5% is standard for good service. No tip needed for pubs at the bar. Round up or add a little for taxis. Not expected for takeaway coffee.
MyBusTrip
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Cambridge, Parkside (Parker's Piece), Cambridge -> Cambridge Railway Station, Cambridge
- Distance
- 1.6 km
- Travel time
- 20 min
- Most local buses in Cambridge accept contactless card payment onboard, but cash policies can vary by operator.
- For bus times and tickets, check the operator before travel because services in Cambridge are run by multiple companies.
FAQs: Bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Cheap bus tickets from Edinburgh to Cambridge can start from as little as $34 (€28) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Edinburgh to Cambridge is $63 (€52) ; 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 Edinburgh to Cambridge is 12h 35m to travel the 292 miles (470 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 Edinburgh to Cambridge leaves at 1:50 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge leaves at 11:42 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Edinburgh to Cambridge which require at least one change with FlixBus, National Express. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge, you can count on FlixBus, National Express for the best way to get you to Cambridge. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Edinburgh and Cambridge and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Cambridge from Edinburgh is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 12h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Cambridge including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge:
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
- FlixBus
- Assistance
- Priority boarding
- Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge for bus company FlixBus, National Express.
Some of the most interesting sights to explore in Cambridge are:
- King's College Chapel, a stunning example of Gothic architecture known for its impressive fan vault and beautiful stained glass windows
- The Fitzwilliam Museum, a renowned museum housing a vast collection of art and antiquities from around the world
- The Backs, a picturesque area along the River Cam offering scenic views of the colleges and lush gardens
- Trinity College, one of the largest and wealthiest colleges in Cambridge, famous for its historic Great Court and library
- Cambridge University Botanic Garden, a 40-acre garden showcasing a diverse range of plant species and offering a tranquil escape from the city.
The best things to do in Cambridge include:
- Punting on the River Cam, a traditional Cambridge activity offering scenic views of the colleges and bridges
- Visit the Cambridge Science Centre, an interactive museum perfect for families and science enthusiasts
- Explore the historic Market Square, where you can find local produce, crafts, and street food
- Attend a performance at the Cambridge Arts Theatre, featuring a variety of shows from drama to comedy
- Take a guided walking tour to discover the rich history and hidden gems of Cambridge.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Edinburgh to Cambridge 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company FlixBus, National Express.
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.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Edinburgh to Cambridge:
- 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 Edinburgh to Cambridge:
- 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 Edinburgh to Cambridge. The following conditions apply:
- FlixBus
- Small pets in carriers allowed
- guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Edinburgh to Cambridge with the following bus company: FlixBus, National Express.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Cambridge 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 Edinburgh to Cambridge 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 Cambridge, travelers should be cautious of pickpocketing, especially in crowded areas such as market squares and public transport. Common scams include overcharging by taxi drivers and unofficial tour guides offering services at inflated prices. It's advisable to use licensed taxis and official tour operators. Additionally, travelers should be wary of distraction scams near popular landmarks. Staying alert and securing personal belongings can help ensure a safe visit.
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.
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Cambridge
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Cambridge and Edinburgh
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