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The cheapest and fastest buses from Portsmouth to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for May 28
Cheapest price
$81
Average price
$108
Fastest journey
12 h 35 m
Average duration
14 h 29 m
Buses per day
5
Distance
590 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap bus ticket from Portsmouth to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Portsmouth to Edinburgh will cost around $108 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $81.
Fast buses
It's difficult to get from Portsmouth to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
NX030 · NX5913:05 AM15h30Portsmouth, University6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$811One-way1 transfer- NX030 · NX5913:20 AM15h15Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$831One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5946:29 PM12h51Portsmouth, University7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1171One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5943:05 PM16h15Portsmouth, International Port7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1261One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5946:45 PM12h35Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1321One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5946:45 PM12h35Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1321One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5946:29 PM12h51Portsmouth, University7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1171One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5913:20 AM15h15Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$831One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5913:05 AM15h30Portsmouth, University6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station$811One-way1 transfer
- NX030 · NX5943:05 PM16h15Portsmouth, International Port7:20 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station$1261One-way1 transfer
Travel Information
Compare bus, train, and flight for Portsmouth to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the bus as it is the most popular option from Portsmouth to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $21. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 23m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.2 - 0.5kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $21, and a train costs an average of $58.
Distance: 366 miles (590 km)
Compare bus with
Most popular Bus | Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$88 Average price | $151 Average price | $65 Average price Cheapest | $202 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
13h 31m Average total duration 13h 1m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 49m Average total duration 7h 19m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 23m Average total duration Fastest 1h 23m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 8h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.6 - 1.5kg CO2 emissions | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 1.8 - 3.5kg 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.
The cheapest way to travel from Portsmouth to Edinburgh is a flight with an average price of $65 (€53).
This is compared to other travel options from Portsmouth to Edinburgh:
A flight is $22 (€18) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh costing on average $88 (€71).
A flight is $86 (€70) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Portsmouth to Edinburgh costing on average $151 (€122).
The fastest way to travel from Portsmouth to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 23m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 7h 19m.
Bus takes on average 13h 1m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth 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 $88 (€71) compared to roughly $202 (€163) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $115 (€93). The journey takes 13h 1m versus 8h 14m 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.
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.
Portsmouth to Edinburgh Bus Timetables
| Operator | Departure Time | Arrival Time | Duration | Departure days | Cheapest price |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
Operator National Express | Departure Time 02:05AM | Arrival Time 05:35PM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Tue, Sat, Sun | Cheapest price $71 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 15h30 | Departure days Everyday | Cheapest price $55 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:20AM | Arrival Time 06:35PM | Duration 15h15 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $83 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:05PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 16h15 | Departure days Wed, Thu | Cheapest price $98 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 03:35PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 15h45 | Departure days Mon, Fri | Cheapest price $89 |
Operator FlixBus | Departure Time 05:15PM | Arrival Time 07:45AM | Duration 14h30 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $64 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:29PM | Arrival Time 06:20AM | Duration 12h51 | Departure days Sun | Cheapest price $166 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 05:45PM | Arrival Time 06:20AM | Duration 12h35 | Departure days Sat | Cheapest price $50 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:25PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 12h55 | Departure days Tue | Cheapest price $79 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:29PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 12h51 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sun | Cheapest price $84 |
Operator National Express | Departure Time 06:45PM | Arrival Time 07:20AM | Duration 12h35 | Departure days Mon, Wed, Thu, Fri | Cheapest price $84 |
Live departures
Portsmouth to Edinburgh bus times
The table below shows live departures for Portsmouth to Edinburgh buses for tomorrow, Thursday, May 28. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| NX030 · NX591 | Delayed 9:49 AM 3:05 AMPortsmouth, University | 15h30 | 6:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX591 | Delayed 10:05 AM 3:20 AMPortsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 15h15 | 6:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX594 | On time 3:05 PM Portsmouth, International Port | 16h15 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX594 | On time 6:29 PM Portsmouth, University | 12h51 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer | |
| NX030 · NX594 | On time 6:45 PM Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange | 12h35 | 7:20 AM Edinburgh, Bus Station | 1 transfer |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Portsmouth to Edinburgh by bus, train, or flight
Compare bus, train, 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.
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Why should you book Portsmouth to Edinburgh buses with Omio?
National Express as well as Megabus offer buses services from Portsmouth to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Portsmouth 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 Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Portsmouth to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Megabus to find the best option for your trip from Portsmouth to Edinburgh.
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Portsmouth to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Buses from Portsmouth to Edinburgh run on average 5 times per day, taking around 13h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at $43 (€35) but you can travel from only $21 (€17) by flight.
The earliest bus runs at 03:05, the last at 23:40. The fastest bus covers the 366 miles (590 km) distance in 12h 35m.
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
Flight from $21 (€17)
Distance 366 miles (590 km) |
Average bus duration 13h 1m |
Cheapest ticket price $43 (€35) |
Buses per day 5 |
Fastest bus 12h 35m |
First bus 3:05 AM |
Last bus 11:40 PM |
Cheapest Month May |
Cheapest Day Thu |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 77 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
Flight from $21 (€17)
Bus providers: National Express, Megabus from Portsmouth to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Portsmouth to Edinburgh with National Express, Megabus for as low as $21 (€17). When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey
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 Duration
12h 35m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€38)
National Express frequency
5 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.
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
14h 10m
Cheapest Price
$48 (€39)
Megabus frequency
1 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.
FAQs: Bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Edinburgh can start from as little as $43 (€35) when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for Portsmouth to Edinburgh is $88 (€71) ; 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 Portsmouth to Edinburgh is 12h 35m to travel the 366 miles (590 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 Portsmouth to Edinburgh leaves at 3:05 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh leaves at 11:40 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from Portsmouth to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, Megabus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express, Megabus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible bus companies who offer a service between Portsmouth and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
A trip to Edinburgh from Portsmouth is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 12h 35m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh is May.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Portsmouth and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from Portsmouth 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.
- National Express
- Assistance
- Priority seating
- Accessible toilets.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh for bus company National Express, Megabus.
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 Portsmouth 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.
- 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.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the bus with bus company National Express.
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 Portsmouth to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from Portsmouth 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).
- National Express
- Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a bus ticket from Portsmouth 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.
- National Express
- 10€ per additional bag.
Unfortunately, pets are not allowed on the bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh.
You can reserve your seat on the bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from Portsmouth to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, Megabus.
Since neither Portsmouth 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 bus as it is the most popular way to get from Portsmouth 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 Portsmouth to Edinburgh
Portsmouth
Edinburgh
The major bus station for departures in Portsmouth is Portsmouth, University. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Portsmouth, University for your trip from Portsmouth to Edinburgh.
Portsmouth, University
information
Amenities at bus station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Ticket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 05:00-23:00
Distance to city center
1 km
Car connection
The HardWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at The Hard (in the station)
- Fast Food Outlet (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available near the waiting area.
Public transit options for Portsmouth, The Hard Interchange
- Bus: 1, 2, 3, 7, 8, 13, 14 Train: South Western Railway, Southern, Great Western Railway
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-22:00
Distance to city center
1 kmCar connection
Wharf RoadWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café in the terminal (in the station)
- Fast-food outlet (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Portsmouth, International Port
- Bus: 8, 20, 700 Train: Portsmouth Harbour
The major bus station for arrivals in Edinburgh is Edinburgh, Bus Station. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh, Bus Station for your trip to Edinburgh from Portsmouth.
Edinburgh, Bus Station
Amenities at bus station
WifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCTicket Officeinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- 06:00-23:00
Car connection
Elder StreetWifi
- Free Wi-Fi
Dining
- Café at the Station (in the station)
- Sandwich Shop (in the station).
Taxis
- Available outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
- Elevators, ramps
WC
- Available in the station.
Public transit options for Edinburgh, Bus Station
- Bus: 10, 11, 12, 16, 22, 25, 26, 44 Trams: T50 Trains: Edinburgh Waverley Station
Most popular bus connections from Portsmouth
More options for your journey from Portsmouth to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular buses to and from Edinburgh and Portsmouth
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