- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Cheapest price
$30
Average price
$40
Fastest journey
7 h 20 m
Average duration
8 h 35 m
Buses per day
5
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 $40 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $30.
Of the 5 buses that leave Leicester for Edinburgh on Tue, Jun 16, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Tue, Jun 16 the direct buses cover the 392 km distance in an average of 8 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 7 h 20 m .
On Tue, Jun 16 the slowest buses will take 10 h 35 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.










Omio 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 |
|---|---|---|---|
$41 Average price Cheapest | $115 Average price | $62 Average price | $145 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 $74 (€60) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Leicester to Edinburgh costing on average $115 (€93).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 41m.
Bus takes on average 8h 22m.
Tickets start at around $41 (€33) compared to roughly $145 (€117) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $104 (€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 Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 07:55AM | Arrival Time 04:15PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $42 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:50AM | Arrival Time 07:25PM | Duration 10h35 | Departure days Tue, Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 08:55AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 8h20 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Fri | Cheapest price $26 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:00AM | Arrival Time 05:15PM | Duration 8h15 | Departure days Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:05AM | Arrival Time 04:35PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Wed | Cheapest price $41 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 09:50AM | Arrival Time 08:10PM | Duration 10h20 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $51 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:05AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 7h30 | Departure days Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $35 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 01:45PM | Arrival Time 08:50PM | Duration 7h05 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat | Cheapest price $33 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 09:55PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $40 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 10:55PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 8h50 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $30 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:15PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 8h30 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 11:25PM | Arrival Time 06:45AM | Duration 7h20 | Departure days Mon, Tue, Wed | Cheapest price $37 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 11:55PM | Arrival Time 08:05AM | Duration 8h10 | Departure days Mon, Fri, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $46 |
The table below shows live departures for Leicester to Edinburgh buses for today, Monday, June 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
NX183 | 8:55 AM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 8h20 | 5:15 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 0 transfersDirect | |
NX150 · NX183 | Delayed 12:00 PM 9:50 AMLeicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 10h35 | 8:25 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus | 1:45 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 7h05 | 8:50 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 · FlixBus | 10:55 PM Leicester, Fosse Park Avenue (Asda) | 8h50 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
FlixBus · FlixBus | 11:15 PM Leicester, St.Margaret's Bus Station | 8h30 | 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 | |
| Tuesday, June 16 | |||||
![]() | 12:25 AM Leicester | 7h20 | 7:45 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last bus of the day. | |||||
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 $23 (€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 covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
Ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park with the city’s most famous hike and outstanding panoramic views. A classic outdoor Edinburgh experience.
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a peppery savoury pudding traditionally made with oats and offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns supps
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Though from Cullen, it is a classic on Edinburgh menus and a comforting local staple
A traditional hearty soup of barley, root vegetables and usually lamb or mutton. It is a long-standing Scottish comfort food commonly found in pubs and cafes
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Edinburgh Bus Station, Edinburgh -> Edinburgh Waverley Station, Edinburgh
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.

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need