Belfast to Edinburgh train

Thu, Aug 27
+ Add return
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
Frecciarossa
AVE
2,000+ travel companies
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Travel Information

Compare bus and flight for Belfast to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Belfast to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from €16. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of €16, and a bus costs an average of €59.

Distance: 143 miles (231 km)

Compare flight with

Most popular
Flight
Bus
Driving

€35

Average price

Cheapest

€61

Average price

€36

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

3h 55m

Average total duration

Fastest

55m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

7h 40m

Average total duration

7h 10m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

5h 53m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

easyJet

Most popular airline

National Express

Most popular bus company

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Belfast to Edinburgh is a flight with an average price of €35.

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

A flight is €26 less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Belfast to Edinburgh costing on average €61.

The fastest way to travel from Belfast to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 55m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Bus takes on average 7h 10m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Belfast and Edinburgh including taking a bus and flight.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Edinburgh among Omio's users.

Itineraries from Belfast to Edinburgh by train

Dublin

Ireland & Scotland Itinerary: A 7-Day Journey Through Historic Cities

Embark on a 7-day adventure across Ireland and Scotland, exploring the vibrant capitals of Dublin, Belfast, and Edinburgh, with a day trip to Glasgow. This itinerary combines rich history, cultural immersion, and scenic travel by bus and train.

  1. 1Dublin
  2. 2Belfast
  3. 3Edinburgh
Plan this train itinerary
Dublin

Ireland & Scotland in 9 Days: A Celtic Journey from Dublin to Edinburgh

Embark on a 9-day adventure through Ireland and Scotland, starting in Dublin and traveling through Galway and Belfast before concluding in Edinburgh. This itinerary combines vibrant city explorations with scenic intercity travel, offering a rich blend of history, culture, and stunning landscapes.

  1. 1Dublin
  2. 2Galway
  3. 3Belfast
  4. 4Edinburgh
Plan this train itinerary

Compare prices and tickets Belfast to Edinburgh by bus or flight

Compare 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.

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Journey information

Overview: Train from Belfast to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Take a train from Belfast to Edinburgh and enjoy the approximately 143 miles (231 km) long journey. Find schedules and pricing options for a convenient and affordable trip.

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 €16
Distance
143 miles (231 km)
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sun
Best time to book
21 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 €16

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: Trains from Belfast to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Belfast to Edinburgh by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The distance by train from Belfast to Edinburgh is 143 miles (231 km).
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Belfast to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Belfast to Edinburgh is by flight, with a cost of around €16.
The Belfast to Edinburgh journey involves a combination of train and ferry, offering scenic views, particularly on the ferry segment across the Irish Sea and the landscapes of Scotland.
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
No, you cannot take the train from Belfast to Edinburgh.
Since neither Belfast 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.
Popular day trips by train from Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Belfast to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Items not allowed on trains typically include hazardous materials such as explosives, flammable liquids, corrosive substances, and illegal drugs. Additionally, large or bulky items that may obstruct aisles or emergency exits, as well as pets without proper carriers, may be restricted. Specific prohibited items can vary by train operator and region, so please check the rules for your particular journey.
Yes, rail passes such as the BritRail Pass are valid on most trains within the United Kingdom, offering unlimited travel on participating train operators for a set period.
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.

Most popular train connections from Belfast

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