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National Museum of Scotland
Scotland's flagship museum covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh
Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 09
Cheapest price on Sep 09
$370
Average ticket price on Sep 09
$370
Fastest journey on Sep 09
7 h 36 m
Average journey duration on Sep 09
7 h 36 m
Trains on Sep 09
1
Distance
506 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff 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 Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh will cost around $370 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $370.
Fast trains
On Wed, Sep 09, we found 1 trains from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh, including 1 direct services.
On Wed, Sep 09 the direct trains cover the 506 km distance in an average of 7 h 36 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 36 m .
On Wed, Sep 09 the slowest trains will take 7 h 36 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.
9:04 AM7h36Cardiff Airport4:40 PMEdinburgh$3701One-way0 transfers
- 9:04 AM7h36Cardiff Airport4:40 PMEdinburgh$3701One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare bus and train for Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price, take the bus, with an average ticket price of $34 For those with little time, consider booking a train, which has an average total journey time of 7h 50m. Average ticket prices depend on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $34, while a train costs an average of $370.
Distance: 314 miles (506 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$370 Average price | $34 Average price Cheapest | $141 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 50m Average total duration Fastest 7h 20m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 15h 5m Average total duration 14h 35m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 33m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $34 (€27).
This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh:
A bus is $336 (€271) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh costing on average $370 (€299).
The fastest way to travel from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 7h 20m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Bus takes on average 14h 35m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Cardiff Airport and Edinburgh including taking a bus and train.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.
You'll arrive about 13m sooner (7h 20m by train vs 7h 33m by car). Tickets start at around $370 (€299) compared to roughly $141 (€114) in fuel and tolls — so you're paying a bit more, but getting hours of your day back, a city-centre arrival, and the freedom to work or relax instead of drive.
Driving makes more sense if you're travelling as a group (where fuel costs split several ways), want to stop along the way, or need a car once you arrive.
Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Airport 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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Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh run on average 4 times per day, taking around 7h 20m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $370 (€299) but you can travel from only $34 (€27) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 12:04, the last at 12:04. The fastest train covers the 314 miles (506 km) distance in 7h 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
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Bus from $34 (€27)
Distance 314 miles (506 km) |
Average train duration 7h 20m |
Cheapest ticket price $370 (€299) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 7h 20m |
First train 12:04 PM |
Last train 12:04 PM |
Cheapest Month Jan |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Oct - Dec |
Low Season Jul - Sep |
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
Bus from $34 (€27)
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 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.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
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.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
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.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
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 Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff Airport 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.
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $370 (€299), while the average price is around $370 (€299).
The train from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh takes 7h 20m and runs 4 per day.
The first train from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh leaves at 12:04 PM.
The distance by train from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh is 314 miles (506 km).
The last train from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh leaves at 12:04 PM.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh is by bus, with a cost of around $34 (€27).
The train journey from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh offers a mix of urban and rural scenery, featuring rolling hills, picturesque towns, and stretches of countryside, especially as the route progresses into Scotland.
A day trip from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh is not feasible, as the journey duration is 7h 20m. With a frequency of 5 trips per day for trains, it is not practical for a same-day return.
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 Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh.
Since neither Cardiff Airport 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.
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.
popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh
Most Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh trains use the Cardiff Central to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Cardiff Airport and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.
Departure train stations in Cardiff
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh
Edinburgh WaverleyPrinces St, Edinburgh EH1 1BB, United Kingdom+44 3457114141
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Waverley from Edinburgh city centre
BusUk090 · 12m · $1 · every ~32 min
Edinburgh Waverley train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Waverley has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Lockers, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food options include: Bagel Factory, Burger King, Caffè Nero, Costa Coffee, JD Wetherspoon, The Pasty Shop, The Beer House, M&S, Pret a Manger
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Free public Wi-Fi available. ATMs are there are a few ATM machines around the station.
Tickets and information
The ticket office is open Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59, Sun: 07:00 - 23:59. Information desks are information booths are located on the concourse. .
Luggage and lost property
Luggage storage is you can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2. . Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Parking, Taxis, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Waverley: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Waverley: Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
Shops, hotels and contact
Nearby hotels include Old Waverley Hotel, Jurys Inn Edinburgh, The Scotsman Hotel.
HaymarketHaymarket station, Haymarket Terrace, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH12 5EY
City-centre transport
Getting to Haymarket from Edinburgh city centre
Haymarket is 1 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
Train3m · $1
BusN44, N25, 26, 31, 33, 44, 25, 3, 4 · 6m · $1 · every ~114 min
N107, N113 · 7m · $1
TramT50 · 6m · $5 · every ~30 min
Haymarket train station facilities and services
Haymarket has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Shopping, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Haymarket.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Haymarket. ATMs are available at Haymarket.
Tickets and information
Ticket office support is available at Haymarket. Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Haymarket: Parking, WC.
Bike and car services
Available at Haymarket: Bike Parking.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Haymarket: Staff help available: Yes, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Accessible toilets: Yes, Ramp for train access: Yes, Wheelchairs available: Yes, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Edinburgh ParkEdinburgh Park station, Cultins Road, Edinburgh, City of Edinburgh, EH11 4DF
City-centre transport
Getting to Edinburgh Park from Edinburgh city centre
Edinburgh Park is 7 km from Edinburgh city centre. Public transport options include:
TrainEdinburgh - Dunblane, Edinburgh - Helensburgh Central, Edinburgh - Bathgate, Edinburgh - Milngavie, Edinburgh - Garscadden, Edinburgh - Stirling, Edinburgh - Airdrie, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dalmuir · 4m · $2 · every ~9 min
Edinburgh - Dunblane, Edinburgh - Helensburgh Central, Edinburgh - Bathgate, Edinburgh - Milngavie, Edinburgh - Garscadden, Edinburgh - Stirling, Edinburgh - Airdrie, Edinburgh - Perth, Edinburgh - Dalmuir · 8m · $4 · every ~9 min
Bus2 · 24m · $2 · every ~10 min
TramT50 · 18m · $5 · every ~30 min
Edinburgh Park train station facilities and services
Edinburgh Park has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, Accessibility, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.
Food and drink
Food and drink options are available at Edinburgh Park.
Wi-Fi and ATMs
Wi-Fi is available at Edinburgh Park.
Tickets and information
Information desks are information available from staff: Yes - from help point, Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing), Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements.
Luggage and lost property
Lost and found is available at the station.
Parking, taxis and toilets
Available at Edinburgh Park: Parking.
Bike and car services
Available at Edinburgh Park: Bike Parking, Car Rental.
Accessibility
Accessibility facilities are available at Edinburgh Park: Staff help available: No, Step free access coverage: Yes, Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms, Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station, Ramp for train access: No, Wheelchairs available: No, Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No.
Most popular train connections from Cardiff Airport
More options for your journey from Cardiff Airport to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Cardiff Airport
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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