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National Museum of Scotland
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Galashiels to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for May 31
Cheapest price
$20
Average price
$29
Fastest journey
1 h 55 m
Average duration
2 h 31 m
Buses per day
4
Distance
45 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Galashiels to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Galashiels to Edinburgh will cost around $29 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $20.
Fast buses
Of the 4 buses that leave Galashiels for Edinburgh on Sun, May 31, 4 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 31 the direct buses cover the 45 km distance in an average of 2 h 31 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 1 h 55 m .
On Sun, May 31 the slowest buses will take 3 h 6 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.
5:50 PM1h55Galashiels7:45 PMEdinburgh$201One-way0 transfers- 12:50 PM1h55Galashiels2:45 PMEdinburgh$201One-way0 transfers
8:00 AM3h06Galashiels11:06 AMEdinburgh$381One-way0 transfers- 9:00 AM3h06Galashiels12:06 PMEdinburgh$391One-way0 transfers
- 5:50 PM1h55Galashiels7:45 PMEdinburgh$201One-way0 transfers
- 12:50 PM1h55Galashiels2:45 PMEdinburgh$201One-way0 transfers
- 9:00 AM3h06Galashiels12:06 PMEdinburgh$391One-way0 transfers
- 8:00 AM3h06Galashiels11:06 AMEdinburgh$381One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Galashiels to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Galashiels to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $20. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 54m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $20, and a bus costs an average of $20.
Distance: 27 miles (45 km)
Compare bus with
| Bus | Most popular Train | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$35 Average price | $20 Average price Cheapest | $55 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 45m Average total duration 3h 15m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 24m Average total duration Fastest 54m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 1h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Galashiels to Edinburgh is a train with an average price of $20 (€16).
This is compared to other travel options from Galashiels to Edinburgh:
A train is $15 (€12) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh costing on average $35 (€28).
The fastest way to travel from Galashiels to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 54m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Bus takes on average 3h 15m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Galashiels and Edinburgh including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Galashiels to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the bus. It's the cheapest way to make this trip, and the price gap is usually bigger than people expect.
Tickets start at around $35 (€28) compared to roughly $55 (€45) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $20 (€16). The journey takes 3h 15m versus 1h 8m 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.
Direct services are operated by Borders Buses.
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.
Galashiels to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator CrossCountry | Departure Time 08:00AM | Arrival Time 11:06AM | Duration 3h06 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator CrossCountry | Departure Time 08:43AM | Arrival Time 12:14PM | Duration 3h31 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator CrossCountry | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 12:06PM | Duration 3h06 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $39 |
Operator CrossCountry | Departure Time 09:43AM | Arrival Time 01:10PM | Duration 3h27 | Departure days Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator CrossCountry | Departure Time 10:43AM | Arrival Time 02:10PM | Duration 3h27 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $38 |
Operator CrossCountry | Departure Time 12:43PM | Arrival Time 04:27PM | Duration 3h44 | Departure days Fri | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator Scotrail | Departure Time 12:50PM | Arrival Time 02:45PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Operator CrossCountry | Departure Time 05:13PM | Arrival Time 08:31PM | Duration 3h18 | Departure days Mon, Sat | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator Scotrail | Departure Time 05:50PM | Arrival Time 07:45PM | Duration 1h55 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $20 |
Live departures
Galashiels to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Galashiels to Edinburgh buses for today, Saturday, May 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:43 AM Galashiels | 3h31 | 12:14 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:13 PM Galashiels | 3h18 | 8:31 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 Galashiels to Edinburgh by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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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May 31
May 31
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Jun 01
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Jun 06
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Journey information
Overview: Bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Galashiels to Edinburgh run on average 3 times per day, taking around 3h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $20 (€16) but you can travel from only $20 (€16) by train.
The earliest bus runs at 04:48, the last at 23:43. The fastest bus covers the 27 miles (45 km) distance in 1h 55m.
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 $20 (€16)
Distance 27 miles (45 km) |
Average bus duration 3h 15m |
Cheapest ticket price $20 (€16) |
Buses per day 3 |
Fastest bus 1h 55m |
First bus 4:48 AM |
Last bus 11:43 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Apr - Jun |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Wed |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 21 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 $20 (€16)
Bus providers: Borders Buses from Galashiels to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Galashiels to Edinburgh with Borders Buses for as low as $20 (€16). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
Borders Buses
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
1h 23m
Cheapest Price
$7 (€6)
Borders Buses frequency
25 a day
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 Galashiels to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Galashiels 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 Galashiels to Edinburgh can start from as little as $20 (€16) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Galashiels to Edinburgh is $35 (€28) ; 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 Galashiels to Edinburgh is 1h 55m to travel the 27 miles (45 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 Galashiels to Edinburgh leaves at 4:48 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh leaves at 11:43 PM.
There are 3 buses a day from Galashiels to Edinburgh which require at least one change with Borders Buses. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh, you can count on Borders Buses for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Galashiels and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A day trip to Edinburgh from Galashiels is worth doing with a journey time of 1h 55m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh is February.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Galashiels and Edinburgh including taking a train and bus.
No, the bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh has no accessibility options.
No, there are no bathrooms on board the bus from Galashiels 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 Galashiels 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 Galashiels to Edinburgh.
No, luggage for the bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh needs to be booked in addition.
No, there are no additional luggage options for the bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh.
No, there are no USB plugs on board the bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh.
No, there is no WiFi on board the bus from Galashiels to Edinburgh.
Since neither Galashiels 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 Galashiels 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.
More options for your journey from Galashiels to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Galashiels
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