Inverness to Edinburgh bus with Megabus

Mon, May 25
+ Add return
Megabus
FlixBus
Park's of Hamilton
Ember
Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd
2,000+ travel companies
Megabus
FlixBus
Park's of Hamilton
Ember
Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Inverness to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for May 25

Cheapest price

$19

Average price

$22

Fastest journey

4 h 5 m

Average duration

4 h 8 m

Buses per day

22

Distance

181 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh will cost around $22 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $19.

Fast buses

Of the 22 buses that leave Inverness for Edinburgh on Mon, May 25, 2 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Mon, May 25 the direct buses cover the 181 km distance in an average of 4 h 8 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 4 h 5 m .

On Mon, May 25 the slowest buses will take 4 h 10 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.

  • FlixBusFlixBus
    3:20 PM4h05
    Inverness, Bus Station
    7:25 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus
    9:15 AM4h05
    Inverness, Bus Station
    1:20 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $191One-way
    0 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    10:45 AM6h15
    Inverness, Bus Station
    5:00 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $201One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    12:50 PM6h05
    Inverness, Bus Station
    6:55 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $201One-way
    1 transfer
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    12:50 PM4h10
    Inverness, Bus Station
    5:00 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    $201One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Inverness to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Inverness to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $14. For those with little time consider booking a bus which can get you there in 3h 56m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $14, and a flight costs an average of $184.

Distance: 112 miles (181 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Flight
Driving

$21

Average price

Cheapest

$74

Average price

$461

Average price

$101

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

4h 26m

Average total duration

Fastest

3h 56m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 30m

Average total duration

4h 0m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

8h 46m

Average total duration

5h 46m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

3h 13m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.2 - 0.5kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

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 Inverness to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $21 (€17).

This is compared to other travel options from Inverness to Edinburgh:

A bus is $53 (€43) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Inverness to Edinburgh costing on average $74 (€60).

A bus is $439 (€356) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Inverness to Edinburgh costing on average $461 (€373).

The fastest way to travel from Inverness to Edinburgh is by bus with an average journey time of 3h 56m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Train takes on average 4h 0m.

Flight takes on average 5h 46m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Inverness and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Inverness 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 $21 (€17) compared to roughly $101 (€82) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $80 (€64). The journey takes 3h 56m versus 3h 13m 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 Megabus, FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember, Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd.

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.

Inverness to Edinburgh Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:20AM
Arrival Time
12:25PM
Duration
5h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:15AM
Arrival Time
01:20PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$17
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:45AM
Arrival Time
05:00PM
Duration
6h15
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$19
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:50PM
Arrival Time
06:55PM
Duration
6h05
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$20
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
03:20PM
Arrival Time
07:25PM
Duration
4h05
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$15
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
04:50PM
Arrival Time
09:00PM
Duration
4h10
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
$19

Live departures

Inverness to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Edinburgh buses for today, Sunday, May 24. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus9:15 AM Inverness, Bus Station
4h05
1:20 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus9:15 AM Inverness, Bus Station
4h56
2:11 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:45 AM Inverness, Bus Station
6h15
5:00 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:45 AM Inverness, Bus Station
4h15
3:00 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:45 AM Inverness, Bus Station
5h39
4:24 PM Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:45 AM Inverness, Bus Station
5h24
4:09 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus10:45 AM Inverness, Bus Station
5h33
4:18 PM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus3:20 PM Inverness, Bus Station
4h05
7:25 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station0 transfersDirect
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:20 PM Inverness, Bus Station
5h11
8:31 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:50 PM Inverness, Bus Station
4h10
9:00 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:50 PM Inverness, Bus Station
5h43
10:33 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus4:50 PM Inverness, Bus Station
5h51
10:41 PM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)1 transfer
Monday, May 25
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:20 AM Inverness, Bus Station
5h05
12:25 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:20 AM Inverness, Bus Station
4h10
11:30 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:20 AM Inverness, Bus Station
5h19
12:39 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:20 AM Inverness, Bus Station
5h28
12:48 PM Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)1 transfer
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus7:20 AM Inverness, Bus Station
5h34
12:54 PM Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Inverness 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.

Sun
May 24
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Why should you book Inverness to Edinburgh buses with Omio?

Megabus as well as FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember, Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd and more offer buses services from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Inverness to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs Megabus?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Megabus, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember or Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd to find the best option for your trip from Inverness to Edinburgh.
  • 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 Megabus with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Inverness to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember or Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd to find the best option for your trip from Inverness to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Inverness to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Inverness to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Inverness to Edinburgh run on average 24 times per day, taking around 3h 56m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $14 (€11) if you book in advance.

There are 6 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:02, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 112 miles (181 km) distance in 4h 5m.

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
Distance
112 miles (181 km)
Average bus duration
3h 56m
Cheapest ticket price
$14 (€11)
Buses per day
24
Direct buses
6
Fastest bus
4h 5m
First bus
12:02 AM
Last bus
11:55 PM
Cheapest Month
Sep
Cheapest Day
Wed
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
28 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

Bus providers: Megabus, FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember, Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd from Inverness to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Inverness to Edinburgh with Megabus, FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember, Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd for as low as $14 (€11). 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
4h 5m
Cheapest Price
$14 (€11)
FlixBus frequency
18 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.

Megabus

About
Megabus is a low-cost intercity bus service operating across the United States, Canada, and the United Kingdom. Known for its affordable fares, including promotional $1 tickets, Megabus offers routes connecting over 500 cities and university campuses in North America. The company provides amenities such as air conditioning, power outlets, free Wi-Fi, and onboard restrooms, with many routes utilizing double-decker buses for scenic views. Megabus aims to provide safe, convenient, and affordable express bus travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 49m
Cheapest Price
$38 (€31)
Megabus frequency
28 a day
Luggage included
One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled departure for a fee.
Refund
If Megabus fails to provide on-time reliable service for reasons wholly within their control, refunds or alternative travel arrangements may be offered.
Pregnant on board
Being pregnant on board is allowed, but no specific details or restrictions are provided.
Unaccompagned minor
Unaccompanied minors under the age of 17 are not permitted to travel on Megabus.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cold food and drinks, as well as hot drinks with a lid, are allowed on board, but hot food is not.
Seat reservation
Reserved seats can be purchased for an additional fee, starting from £2.
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.

Park's of Hamilton

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 52m
Park's of Hamilton frequency
2 a day

Ember

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 40m
Cheapest Price
$68 (€55)
Ember frequency
7 a day

Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 28m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd frequency
7 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

National Museum of Scotland

Scotland’s flagship museum covering science, design, world cultures, and Scottish history in one major city-centre complex.

  • Must visit

Scottish National Gallery

The national art collection in central Edinburgh, with major European paintings and an excellent Scottish art selection.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history, culture, and public life.

Pound Sterling

Moderate by UK standards. Attractions and pubs add up, but transport and casual dining are manageable.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a basic meal.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.

Tipping culture

Restaurants: 10-12.5% if not included. Pubs: not expected. Taxis: round up. Hotels: optional for helpful service.

FAQs: Bus from Inverness to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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.

FAQs
Cheap bus tickets from Inverness to Edinburgh can start from as little as $14 (€11) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Inverness to Edinburgh is $21 (€17) ; 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 Inverness to Edinburgh is 4h 5m to travel the 112 miles (181 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 Inverness to Edinburgh leaves at 12:02 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Inverness to Edinburgh leaves at 11:55 PM.
Yes, there are 6 direct buses a day from Inverness to Edinburgh with Megabus, FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember, Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer direct buses.
When taking a bus from Inverness to Edinburgh, you can count on Megabus, FlixBus, Park's of Hamilton, Ember, Scottish Citylink Coaches Ltd for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Inverness and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Edinburgh from Inverness is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 4h 5m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Inverness to Edinburgh is September.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Inverness and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Inverness to Edinburgh:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus is ADA-compliant and provides assistance to customers with disabilities, including those using wheelchairs or mobility scooters, and those with service animals.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Inverness to Edinburgh for bus company Megabus, FlixBus.
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.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh depends on the bus companies:
  • Megabus
    • Megabus reservations cannot be canceled or refunded, but they can be traded in for another journey up to 3 hours before your original scheduled 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.
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 Inverness to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh:
  • Megabus
    • One piece of luggage is included per passenger reservation. For guidance, a piece of luggage must not exceed 62 inches (length + width + height) and should not weigh more than 50 pounds (23kg).
  • 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 Inverness to Edinburgh:
  • Megabus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased by buying an additional travel ticket in advance or by adding up to two additional pieces when booking for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the bus from Inverness to Edinburgh. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Inverness to Edinburgh with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Inverness to Edinburgh with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Inverness to Edinburgh with the following bus company: Megabus, FlixBus.
Since neither Inverness 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 Inverness 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 Inverness to Edinburgh

Inverness
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Inverness is Inverness, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Inverness, Bus Station for your trip from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Inverness, Bus Station
information
Inverness
information

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