- 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.
Take a flight from Cardiff to Edinburgh and enjoy the approximately 308 miles (497 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.
There are 1 flights per day. The earliest flight runs at 07:20, the last at 20:45. February is the cheapest month to fly.
Distance 308 miles (497 km) |
Average flight duration 1h 21m |
Flights per day 1 |
Direct flights 1 |
First flight 7:20 AM |
Last flight 8:45 PM |
Cheapest Month Feb |
Cheapest Day Tue |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $73 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 6h 59m. If you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint, the train is your best option, with estimated CO2 emissions of 0.1 - 0.4kg. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $73, while a train costs an average of $122.
Distance: 308 miles (497 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$122 Average price | $73 Average price Cheapest | $180 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
6h 59m Average total duration Fastest 6h 29m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 38m Average total duration 13h 8m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 8m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus 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.
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff to Edinburgh:
A bus is $49 less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Edinburgh costing on average $122.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 29m.
Bus takes on average 13h 8m.
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.
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 Cardiff to Edinburgh by flight. 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 flight, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

Most Cardiff to Edinburgh flights use the Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh Airport airport pair. Use this guide to compare Cardiff and Edinburgh airports on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like airport facilities and services.
Cardiff Airport is 1 km from Cardiff city centre. Public transport options include:
Cardiff Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in the terminal building.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Cardiff Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Cardiff Airport: Assistance, toilets.
Edinburgh Airport has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower, Lounge, and Lost and Found Office.
Free Wi-Fi available throughout the airport. ATMs are located in the terminal, offering multiple currencies.
Lost and found is available at the station.
Available at Edinburgh Airport: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Airport: Ramps, assistance.
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need