Manchester Airport to Edinburgh bus with National Express

Sat, Oct 31
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The cheapest and fastest buses from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Oct 31
Cheapest price on Oct 31
$41
Average ticket price on Oct 31
$52
Fastest journey on Oct 31
8 h 40 m
Average journey duration on Oct 31
10 h 35 m
Buses on Oct 31
7
Distance
294 km
Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh will cost around $52 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $41.

Fast buses

On Sat, Oct 31, we found 7 buses from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh, including 7 direct services.

On Sat, Oct 31 the direct buses cover the 294 km distance in an average of 10 h 35 m but if you time it right, some buses will get you there in just 8 h 40 m .

On Sat, Oct 31 the slowest buses will take 16 h 5 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.

  • FlixBus
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    0 transfers
  • FlixBus
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    0 transfers
  • National Express
    0 transfers

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 7h 15m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 06:35, the last at 23:45. The fastest bus covers the 182 miles (294 km) distance in 6h 20m.

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

Plan this route

Journey facts

  • Distance182 miles (294 km)
  • Average bus duration7h 15m
  • Cheapest ticket price$22 (€18)
  • Buses per day6
  • Fastest bus6h 20m
  • First bus6:35 AM
  • Last bus11:45 PM
  • Cheapest MonthJul
  • Cheapest DaySun
  • High SeasonOct - Dec
  • Low SeasonJan - Mar
  • Busiest DayMon
  • Least Busy DayFri
  • Best time to book14 days

Understand & plan this route

Explore this journey

Book with confidence

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

Frequently asked questions about your Manchester Airport to Edinburgh trip

Use these quick route answers to check fares, travel time, departure options, and direct services before booking from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh.

Cheap bus tickets from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh can start from as little as $22 (€18) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Manchester Airport to Edinburgh is $59 (€50) ; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The earliest bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh leaves at 6:35 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh leaves at 11:45 PM.
There are 6 buses a day from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.

Manchester Airport to Edinburgh Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
12:45AM
Arrival Time
05:35PM
Duration
16h50
Departure days
Wed
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
12:45AM
Arrival Time
10:25AM
Duration
9h40
Departure days
Tue, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$38
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
06:35AM
Arrival Time
04:35PM
Duration
10h00
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
Transpennine Express
Departure Time
07:29AM
Arrival Time
01:20PM
Duration
5h51
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$40
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
07:35AM
Arrival Time
05:35PM
Duration
10h00
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
09:05AM
Arrival Time
05:15PM
Duration
8h10
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$54
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:00AM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
7h35
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$78
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:00PM
Arrival Time
05:25AM
Duration
16h25
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$41
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
01:20PM
Arrival Time
05:25AM
Duration
16h05
Departure days
Mon
Cheapest price
$35
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:00PM
Arrival Time
06:25AM
Duration
16h25
Departure days
Mon, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$28
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
02:20PM
Arrival Time
06:25AM
Duration
16h05
Departure days
Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
$42
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
07:25PM
Arrival Time
06:40AM
Duration
11h15
Departure days
Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$55
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:25PM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
11h15
Departure days
Mon, Wed, Thu
Cheapest price
$51
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
08:35PM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
11h05
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$39
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:15PM
Arrival Time
06:45AM
Duration
9h30
Departure days
Wed, Sun
Cheapest price
$29
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
09:55PM
Arrival Time
06:45AM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Mon, Sat
Cheapest price
$61
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:25PM
Arrival Time
07:05AM
Duration
8h40
Departure days
Thu, Fri
Cheapest price
$49
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:40PM
Arrival Time
07:05AM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
$46
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
10:55PM
Arrival Time
07:45AM
Duration
8h50
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$37
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:25PM
Arrival Time
08:05AM
Duration
8h40
Departure days
Sat
Cheapest price
$47
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:40PM
Arrival Time
08:05AM
Duration
8h25
Departure days
Tue
Cheapest price
$45
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:45PM
Arrival Time
09:25AM
Duration
9h40
Departure days
Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
$36

Live departures

Manchester Airport to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for Manchester Airport to Edinburgh buses for today, Friday, October 30. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
FlixBus6:35 AM Manchester Airport
10h00
4:35 PM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
FlixBus2:00 PM Manchester Airport
16h25
6:25 AM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
FlixBus2:20 PM Manchester Airport
16h05
6:25 AM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
National Express10:25 PM Manchester Airport
8h40
7:05 AM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
National Express10:40 PM Manchester Airport
8h25
7:05 AM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
National Express11:45 PM Manchester Airport
9h40
9:25 AM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect
Saturday, October 31
National Express12:45 AM Manchester Airport
9h40
10:25 AM Edinburgh0 transfersDirect

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Manchester Airport to Edinburgh buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport 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 National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Manchester Airport 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 to find the best option for your trip from Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport to Edinburgh.

Bus companies

Bus companies from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh

Buses from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh with National Express and FlixBus. Overnight buses available on this route with National Express and FlixBus. Use the details below to compare onboard facilities.

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 FlixBus Duration
6h 20m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
$22 (€18)
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 National Express Duration
6h 40m
Cheapest National Express Price
$36 (€30)
National Express frequency
4 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.

Companies, tickets, and onboard amenities between Manchester Airport and Edinburgh

Review the details behind your booking, from operators and ticket rules to luggage, onboard amenities, accessibility, and route-specific travel policies.

When taking a bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Manchester Airport and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your bus ticket from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh 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 {providersWithBike}.
Yes, there is food available to purchase on board the bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh:
  • 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 Manchester Airport to Edinburgh:
  • 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 Manchester Airport 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 Manchester Airport to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.

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 covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.

  • Must visit

National Gallery of Scotland

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.

British pound sterling (£)

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.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for coffee.

Tipping culture

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.

Plan your visit to Edinburgh

Get destination-focused answers for the end of your trip, including what to do, when to go, practical entry details, and tips for making the most of your time in Edinburgh.

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.

FAQs: Bus from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Manchester Airport 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
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Manchester Airport and Edinburgh including taking a train, bus, and flight.
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.

popular bus stations

Popular bus stations from Manchester Airport to Edinburgh

Most Manchester Airport to Edinburgh buses use the Manchester, Coach Station to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Manchester Airport and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Manchester
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Edinburgh, Bus StationElder Street, Edinburgh EH1 3DX, United KingdomWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh, Bus Station from Edinburgh city centre

Bus10, 11 · 2m · $3 · every ~30 min
Uk090 · 5m · $2 · every ~32 min
TramEdinburgh York Place - Edinburgh Airport, T50 · 3m · $5 · every ~38 min

Edinburgh, Bus Station 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 and drink

Food options include: Café at the Station (in the station), Sandwich Shop (in the station).

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Free Wi-Fi. ATMs are located near the main entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Bus Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Bus Station: Elevators, ramps.

Edinburgh, St Andrew's HouseEdinburgh EH7 5BN, UKAccessibility
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh, St Andrew's House from Edinburgh city centre

BusX19, 43, X18, X27, X28 · 6m · $3 · every ~36 min
15, 26, 44, X26 · 7m · $2 · every ~40 min
Uk090 · 8m · $2 · every ~1 min
Uk090 · 8m · $2 · every ~15 min

Edinburgh, St Andrew's House bus station facilities and services

Edinburgh, St Andrew's House has practical services for this route, including Accessibility.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House: The place has an entrance that is wheelchair-accessible.

Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1)Edinburgh Zoo, 134 Corstorphine Rd, Corstorphine, Edinburgh EH12 6TS, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) from Edinburgh city centre

Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) is 4 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:

TRUE

Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) bus station facilities and services

Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1) has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1). ATMs are available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1).

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1).

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1): Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh, Zoo North (Stop 1): Bus stop is accessible with a curbside stop.

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