York to Edinburgh bus with National Express

Mon, Aug 24
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The cheapest and fastest buses from York to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for Aug 24

Cheapest price

€39

Average price

€50

Fastest journey

6 h 40 m

Average duration

8 h 9 m

Buses per day

4

Distance

260 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from York to Edinburgh will cost around €50 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only €39.

Fast buses

It's difficult to get from York to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.

  • National ExpressYC843 · NX172 · NX598
    10:12 PM9h28
    York, Station Rd
    7:40 AMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    391One-way
    2 transfers
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    8:00 AM9h35
    York, Train Station
    5:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    401One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressYC843 · NX183
    10:21 AM6h54
    York, Station Rd
    5:15 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    581One-way
    1 transfer
  • National ExpressNX561 · NX591
    11:55 AM6h40
    York, Station Rd
    6:35 PMEdinburgh, Bus Station
    631One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for York to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from York to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €24. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 39m. 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 €24, and a train costs an average of €32.

Distance: 161 miles (260 km)

Compare bus with

Bus
Most popular
Train
Driving

€39

Average price

Cheapest

€55

Average price

€94

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

5h 34m

Average total duration

5h 4m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 9m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 39m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 11m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

0.3 - 0.6kg

CO2 emissions

0.1 - 0.2kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

-

CO2 emissions

National Express

Most popular bus company

London North Eastern Railway

Most popular train company

Your own car or car rental

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 York to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of €39.

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

A bus is €16 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from York to Edinburgh costing on average €55.

The fastest way to travel from York to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 2h 39m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Bus takes on average 5h 4m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between York and Edinburgh including taking a bus and train.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from York to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the bus. On this route, it's both cheaper and quicker than driving.

You'll arrive about {timeSavings} sooner ({durationInMinutes} by bus vs {drivingDurationInMinutes} by car) and save roughly {savingsAmount} compared to fuel and tolls ({cheapestPrice} vs {drivingPriceInCents}). You also skip the drive itself — no traffic stress, no parking, and you can use the time to work, nap, or catch up on a series with the onboard Wi-Fi.

Direct coaches are operated by {directProviders}.

Driving is still worth considering if you're travelling with bulky luggage, need flexibility on departure times, or plan to stop along the way.

York to Edinburgh Bus Timetables

OperatorDeparture TimeArrival TimeDurationDeparture daysCheapest price
Operator
FlixBus
Departure Time
08:00AM
Arrival Time
05:35PM
Duration
9h35
Departure days
Everyday
Cheapest price
38
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:11AM
Arrival Time
05:15PM
Duration
7h04
Departure days
Sun
Cheapest price
58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:21AM
Arrival Time
05:15PM
Duration
6h54
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:51AM
Arrival Time
06:50PM
Duration
6h59
Departure days
Fri
Cheapest price
58
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
11:55AM
Arrival Time
06:35PM
Duration
6h40
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Sat, Sun
Cheapest price
62
Operator
National Express
Departure Time
10:12PM
Arrival Time
07:40AM
Duration
9h28
Departure days
Mon, Tue, Wed, Thu, Fri, Sat
Cheapest price
36

Live departures

York to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for York to Edinburgh buses for today, Sunday, August 23. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated bus journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
National ExpressYC840 · NX18310:11 AM York, Station Rd
7h04
5:15 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
National ExpressNX561 · NX59111:55 AM York, Station Rd
6h40
6:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer
Monday, August 24
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:00 AM York, Train Station
9h35
5:35 PM Edinburgh, Bus Station1 transfer

This is the last bus of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets York to Edinburgh by bus or train

Compare bus and train 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 York to Edinburgh buses with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer buses services from York to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from York 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 York 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 and train to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from York 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 York to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus and train to find the ideal travel option from York to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Bus from York to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from York to Edinburgh run on average 5 times per day, taking around 5h 4m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at €24 if you book in advance.

The earliest bus runs at 00:25, the last at 23:28. The fastest bus covers the 161 miles (260 km) distance in 6h 39m.

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
161 miles (260 km)
Average bus duration
5h 4m
Cheapest ticket price
€24
Buses per day
5
Fastest bus
6h 39m
First bus
12:25 AM
Last bus
11:28 PM
Cheapest Month
Jul
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
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: National Express, FlixBus from York to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between York to Edinburgh with National Express, FlixBus for as low as €24. 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
9h 35m
Cheapest Price
€24
FlixBus frequency
1 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 Duration
6h 39m
Cheapest Price
€32
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.

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.

FAQs: Bus from York to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from York 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 York to Edinburgh can start from as little as €24 when you book in advance. The average bus ticket price for York to Edinburgh is €39 ; 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 York to Edinburgh is 6h 39m to travel the 161 miles (260 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 York to Edinburgh leaves at 12:25 AM. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest bus from York to Edinburgh leaves at 11:28 PM.
There are 5 buses a day from York to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer buses.
When taking a bus from York 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 York and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a bus ticket.
When departing from York , you have various bus station options to start your journey from including York, Station Rd, York, Rail Station, York, Train Station, Tadcaster, Commercial Street . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your journey in bus stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station, Edinburgh, St Andrew's House .Passengers board the bus most frequently from York, Station Rd, which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the bus at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
A trip to Edinburgh from York is worth doing but not as a day trip with a journey time of 6h 39m each way. Check with Omio app the best way to travel.
The cheapest month for a bus from York to Edinburgh is July.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between York and Edinburgh including taking a bus and train.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the bus from York to Edinburgh for bus company National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the bus from York to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
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 York 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 National Express, 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 York to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a bus ticket from York 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 York 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 York 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 York to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the bus from York to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the bus from York to Edinburgh with the following bus company: National Express, FlixBus.
Since neither York 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 York 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 York to Edinburgh

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

Departure bus stations in York
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh

Which York station do buses to Edinburgh leave from?

Buses from York to Edinburgh leave from York, Station Rd. The station is 0 miles (1 km) from York city centre at York (YRK), Station Rd, York YO24 1AB, UK.
York, Station RdYork (YRK), Station Rd, York YO24 1AB, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to York, Station Rd from York city centre

TRUE

York, Station Rd bus station facilities and services

York, Station Rd 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 York, Station Rd. ATMs are available at York, Station Rd.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at York, Station Rd.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at York, Station Rd: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at York, Station Rd: Accessible with ramps for wheelchairs.

York, Rail StationYork YO1 6JT, United KingdomWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to York, Rail Station from York city centre

TRUE

York, Rail Station bus station facilities and services

York, Rail Station 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 York, Rail Station. ATMs are available at York, Rail Station.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at York, Rail Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at York, Rail Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at York, Rail Station: Standard accessibility features available.

York, Train StationYork (YRK), Station Rd, York YO24 1AB, UKWifiParkingATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to York, Train Station from York city centre

TRUE

York, Train Station bus station facilities and services

York, Train Station has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, and Ticket Office.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Available in waiting areas. ATMs are located near the entrance.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at York, Train Station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at York, Train Station: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at York, Train Station: Wheelchair accessible entrances and exits.

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