Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) train with CrossCountry

Sun, Jun 21
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CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
Cross Country
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Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)

Showing times and prices for Jun 21

Cheapest price

$358

Average price

$358

Fastest journey

6 h 45 m

Average duration

7 h 22 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

498 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) will cost around $358 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $358.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) without transferring at least once.

  • Great Western RailwayC00123+CrossCountryG01071
    10:20 AM7h39
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    5:59 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $3581One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayW35438+CrossCountryG00871 · G01077
    12:20 PM7h50
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    8:10 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $3581One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayW35220+CrossCountryG00884 · W29792
    2:20 PM7h50
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    10:10 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $3581One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC00165+CrossCountryW29776+Avanti West CoastW33373
    9:35 AM6h45
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    4:20 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $3581One-way
    2 transfers
  • Great Western RailwayC00123+CrossCountryG01071+Avanti West CoastW33378+Transpennine ExpressW85192
    10:20 AM7h23
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    5:43 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $3581One-way
    3 transfers

Travel Information

Compare train, bus, and flight for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $29. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 20m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $29, and a flight costs an average of $231.

Distance: 309 miles (498 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus
Flight
Driving

$191

Average price

$57

Average price

Cheapest

$259

Average price

$176

Average price

(fuel + tolls)

8h 21m

Average total duration

7h 51m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

12h 6m

Average total duration

11h 36m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

4h 20m

Average total duration

Fastest

1h 20m

Onboard

+

3h 0m

Additional time*

7h 6m

Average total duration

(door-to-door)

CrossCountry

Most popular train company

National Express

Most popular bus company

Loganair

Most popular airline

Your own car or car rental

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

Direct Options

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) is a bus with an average price of $57 (€47).

This is compared to other travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB):

A bus is $133 (€109) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) costing on average $191 (€156).

A bus is $202 (€165) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) costing on average $259 (€212).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 20m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) take longer:

Train takes on average 7h 51m.

Bus takes on average 11h 36m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) including taking a train, bus, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.

Tickets start at around $191 (€156) compared to roughly $176 (€144) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-14.62 (€-11.96). The journey takes 7h 51m versus 7h 6m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.

Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.

Live departures

Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) train times

The table below shows live departures for Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) trains for today, Saturday, June 20. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG00937+Avanti West CoastW33753
On time
7:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h35
2:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42288+CrossCountryG01061+Avanti West CoastW33753
On time
7:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h30
2:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2 transfers
CrossCountryG66713 · G01065
On time
8:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h22
4:07 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35174+CrossCountryG01065+Avanti West CoastC01371+Transpennine ExpressW85183
On time
8:51 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h48
3:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3 transfers
CrossCountryG00892+Avanti West CoastW33799
On time
9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h34
4:19 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayC42290+CrossCountryG66736+Avanti West CoastC01373+Transpennine ExpressW85193
On time
10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h17
5:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3 transfers
CrossCountryG00942 · G01070
On time
10:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h24
6:09 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00899+Avanti West CoastW33797
On time
11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h36
6:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35184+CrossCountryG00870+Avanti West CoastW33795+Transpennine ExpressW85202
On time
12:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h18
7:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3 transfers
CrossCountryG00949 · G01076
On time
12:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h21
8:06 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
CrossCountryG00904+Avanti West CoastW33798
On time
1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h38
8:23 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
Great Western RailwayW35191+CrossCountryG01081+Avanti West CoastW33796+Transpennine ExpressW85207
On time
2:41 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h00
9:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
3 transfers
CrossCountryG00944 · G01081
On time
2:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h28
10:13 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) by train, bus, or flight

Compare train, 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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Jun 21
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Tue
Jun 23
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Jun 24
Thu
Jun 25
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Jun 26
Sat
Jun 27

Why should you book Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) trains with Omio?

CrossCountry as well as Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, Cross Country and more offer trains services from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).

Why book with Omio vs CrossCountry?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for CrossCountry, but also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
  • 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 CrossCountry with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Raileurope?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express or Cross Country to find the best option for your trip from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).

Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) run on average 7 times per day, taking around 7h 51m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $73 (€60) but you can travel from only $29 (€24) by bus.

The earliest train runs at 04:49, the last at 15:16. The fastest train covers the 309 miles (498 km) distance in 6h 5m.

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 $29 (€24)
Distance
309 miles (498 km)
Average train duration
7h 51m
Cheapest ticket price
$73 (€60)
Trains per day
7
Fastest train
6h 5m
First train
4:49 AM
Last train
3:16 PM
Cheapest Month
Jun
Cheapest Day
Thu
High Season
Apr - Jun
Low Season
Oct - Dec
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Mon
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 $29 (€24)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, Cross Country from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff Central (CDF) and Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) from $29 (€24). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 16m
Cheapest Price
$73 (€60)
CrossCountry frequency
3 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Avanti West Coast

About
Avanti West Coast is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates high-speed trains between London and major cities in the UK, including Birmingham, Manchester, Liverpool, Glasgow and Edinburgh. The company offers a range of ticket types, including Standard, First Class and Advance tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drinks. The most popular routes for Avanti West Coast are London to Birmingham, London to Manchester and London to Glasgow. The company operates a fleet of Pendolino and Super Voyager trains, which offer a smooth and comfortable journey.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 5m
Cheapest Price
$90 (€74)
Avanti West Coast frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies depend on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if train cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
First Class: Complimentary meals and drinks. Standard Class: Onboard shop with drinks and snacks
Seat reservation
First Class: Included in ticket price. Standard Class: Optional reservation for £8-12
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and assistance for boarding/alighting available
Pets
Small pets free in carriers. Dogs £30 per single journey. Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Transport for Wales

About
Transport for Wales is a public transport provider in Wales, UK. It operates a comprehensive network of trains, buses and ferries across the country. The trains are modern and comfortable, with a range of different types including InterCity Express Trains, Regional Trains, and Metro Trains. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. There are a variety of ticket types available, including single and return tickets, season tickets, and group tickets. The most popular routes include Cardiff to Swansea, Cardiff to Newport, and Cardiff to Manchester.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 44m
Cheapest Price
$210 (€172)
Transport for Wales frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policy depends on ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks. Some stations have cafes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations recommended but not mandatory. Free of charge when booking tickets
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free. Dogs allowed with ticket (£5 per day). Guide dogs free
Quiet zone

Transpennine Express

About
Transpennine Express is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates services from Manchester and Liverpool to Scotland, the North East and Yorkshire. It offers a range of services, including express, regional and local trains. Express trains are the fastest, with journey times of up to three hours. Regional trains are slower, but offer more stops and a more relaxed atmosphere. Local trains are the slowest, but offer the most stops. Transpennine Express offers a range of ticket types, including single, return, group and season tickets. Onboard facilities include free Wi-Fi, power sockets, comfortable seating and a range of food and drink options. The most popular routes for Transpennine Express are Manchester to Edinburgh, Liverpool to Leeds and Manchester to York. These routes offer a convenient and comfortable way to travel between the cities.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
6h 43m
Cheapest Price
$225 (€184)
Transpennine Express frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 large items and 1 small hand luggage included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket type
Refund
Full refund if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks, plus a small selection of hot and cold food items
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free of charge and recommended for busy routes
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, priority seating, assistance booking service
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two dogs per passenger
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 24m
Cheapest Price
$550 (€450)
Cross Country frequency
1 a day

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) 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 Waverley (EDB), this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $73 (€60), while the average price is around $191 (€156).
The train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) takes 6h 5m and runs 7 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) is 309 miles (498 km).
The first train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) leaves at 4:49 AM.
The last train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) leaves at 3:16 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB). This service operates 0 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) is by bus, with a cost of around $29 (€24).
Yes, the train journey from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh Waverley is scenic, offering views of the rolling hills of Wales, the picturesque Lake District, and the rugged landscapes of Southern Scotland.
A day trip from Cardiff Central to Edinburgh Waverley is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 5m with 6 trains available per day and the distance is 309 miles (498 km).
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Since neither Cardiff Central (CDF) nor Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) 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 Waverley (EDB) include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Leuchars, Dundee.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) 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.
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 Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)

Cardiff
Edinburgh
The major train station for departures in Cardiff is Cardiff Central. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Cardiff Central for your trip from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Bike RentalBike Rental
Car RentalCar Rental
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free Wi-Fi in the station
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Brewery Car park
Dining
Dining
  • Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
  • Pret a Manger
  • Tesco Express
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station
WC
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platforms 1 to 8. The National Key toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: The National Key/Accessible toilets are located in the East Subway near the lifts and on Platform 8; these toilets are operated by a RADAR key and are only available during staffing hours
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Hotel
Hotel
  • Clayton Hotel Cardiff
  • Cardiff Marriott Hotel
  • Travelodge Cardiff Central
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
  • Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage location: East end of platforms 1 and 2, 3 and 4, 6 and 7 - also at the front and rear of the station
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Public transit options for Cardiff Central
  • Commuter rail lines: City Line, Rhondda Line, Rhymney Line, Valley Line, South Wales Main Line
  • Train lines: Transport for Wales, CrossCountry, Great Western Railway
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the rear car park (Penarth Road entrance)

More options for your journey from Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)

Here are some other resources that might have the information you need

Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) and Cardiff Central (CDF)

HomeTrainsTrains in United KingdomTrain Times to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)Cardiff Central (CDF) to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) train

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