- 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.
Cheapest price
$45
Average price
$81
Fastest journey
7 h 5 m
Average duration
7 h 37 m
Buses per day
10
Distance
392 km
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Leicester to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Leicester to Edinburgh will cost around $81 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $45.
Of the 10 buses that leave Leicester for Edinburgh on Fri, Jul 31, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Fri, Jul 31 the direct buses cover the 392 km distance in an average of 7 h 37 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 5 m .
On Fri, Jul 31 the slowest buses will take 8 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.
NX183
NX180
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus
FlixBus · FlixBus
NX180Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Leicester to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 17m. 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 $29, and a train costs an average of $40.
Distance: 243 miles (392 km)
| Bus | Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$40 Average price Cheapest | $114 Average price | $62 Average price | $143 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 52m Average total duration 8h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 11m Average total duration 4h 41m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 17m Average total duration Fastest 1h 17m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 5h 40m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.4 - 1.0kg CO2 emissions | 0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.2 - 2.4kg 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Leicester to Edinburgh:
A bus is $21 (€17) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Leicester to Edinburgh costing on average $62 (€51).
A bus is $73 (€60) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Edinburgh costing on average $114 (€93).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 41m.
Bus takes on average 8h 22m.
Tickets start at around $40 (€33) compared to roughly $143 (€117) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $102 (€84). The journey takes 8h 22m versus 5h 40m 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 National Express, FlixBus.
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.
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 12:25AM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $29 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $34 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $45 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $36 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 10:21PM | Duration 8h36 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $52 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:35PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 10h10 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $44 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $70 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:20PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 8h25 | Departure days Mon, Tue | Cheapest price $76 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:45PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 8h00 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Edinburgh buses for today, Thursday, July 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
FlixBus · FlixBus | 10:05 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 9h04 | 7:09 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 10:05 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 7h30 | 5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 1:45 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 8h36 | 10:21 PM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 1:45 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 7h05 | 8:50 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 8h30 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:45 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 8h00 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
NX180 | 11:55 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 8h10 | 8:05 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
| Friday, July 31 | |||||
FlixBus · FlixBus | 12:25 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 11h16 | 11:41 AM Edinburgh, Drum Brae South | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 12:25 AM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 7h20 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX183 | 8:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 8h20 | 5:15 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
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.
Buses from Leicester to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 8h 22m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $29 (€24) but you can travel from only $22 (€18) by flight.
There are 4 buses per day. The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest bus covers the 243 miles (392 km) distance in 7h 20m.
Distance 243 miles (392 km) |
Average bus duration 8h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $29 (€24) |
Buses per day 6 |
Direct buses 4 |
Fastest bus 7h 20m |
First bus 12:25 AM |
Last bus 11:55 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Apr - Jun |
Busiest Day Fri |
Least Busy Day Mon |
Best time to book 14 days |
Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.
Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
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.
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
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.
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
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.
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.
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Leicester 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.

Most Leicester to Edinburgh buses use the Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair. Use this guide to compare Leicester and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like 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 options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.
Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.
Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need