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Cardiff to Edinburgh train with Avanti West Coast

Fri, Apr 25
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for Apr 25

Cheapest price

$198

Average price

$314

Fastest journey

6 h 25 m

Average duration

6 h 45 m

Trains per day

6

Distance

497 km

Cheap tickets

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

Transport for WalesW18187+Avanti West CoastC44657
11:53AM6h28
Cardiff Central (CDF)
06:21PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$1981One-way
1 transfer
CrossCountryP11660 · C65947
08:45AM7h21
Cardiff Central (CDF)
04:06PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$2101One-way
1 transfer
Transport for WalesW18188+Avanti West CoastC50105
09:53AM6h25
Cardiff Central (CDF)
04:18PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$2521One-way
1 transfer
Transport for WalesW19090+Avanti West CoastC50090+TransPennine ExpressP13200
10:53AM6h47
Cardiff Central (CDF)
05:40PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$3981One-way
2 transfers
CrossCountryP11693_C65950
09:45AM7h23
Cardiff Central (CDF)
05:08PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
$3981One-way
0 transfers

Live departures

Cardiff to Edinburgh train times

Showing trains for today, Thursday, April 24
Last updated at 6:06 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
cross_countryP11722 · C65957
On time
10:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h19
6:04 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
transport_for_walesW18187+avanti_west_coastC44657
On time
10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h28
5:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
great_westernY22209+cross_countryC65960
On time
11:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h15
7:05 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
transport_for_walesW18185+avanti_west_coastC50111+transpennine_expressP13209
On time
11:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h47
6:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2 transfers
transport_for_walesW19103+avanti_west_coastC50114
On time
12:53 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h31
7:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
cross_countryP11787 · C46116+london_north_eastern_railwayC71580
On time
1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h23
9:08 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2 transfers

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Cardiff to Edinburgh by bus, train, or flight

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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Cardiff to Edinburgh?

The best time to book your train from Cardiff to Edinburgh is 3 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Cardiff to Edinburgh route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Cardiff to Edinburgh per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Cardiff to Edinburgh.

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Journey information

Overview: Train from Cardiff to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train
Trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $83 (€69) but you can travel from only $42 (€35) by bus.
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 $42 (€35)
Distance
308 miles (497 km)
Average train duration
6h 59m
Cheapest ticket price
$83 (€69)
Trains per day
6
Train providers
4
Fastest train
6h 5m
First train
04:33
Last train
16:45
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 $42 (€35)

Train companies: Virgin Trains, CrossCountry and Transport for Wales from Cardiff to Edinburgh trains

Find the best trains between Cardiff and Edinburgh with Omio's travel partners Virgin Trains, CrossCountry and Transport for Wales from $102 (€85). We can find you the best deals, schedules and tickets when comparing and booking the best trip.

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.

Train information from Cardiff to Edinburgh with Virgin Trains:

  • Average Duration: 5 h 59 min
  • Cheapest Price: $124

Traveling by train from Cardiff to Edinburgh

The train connection between Cardiff and Edinburgh offers a convenient and scenic way to travel across the UK. Passengers can choose from several providers, including Avanti West Coast, Cross Country, and Transport for Wales. With frequent services available throughout the day, travelers can enjoy comfortable seating and onboard amenities while taking in picturesque views of the British countryside during their journey.

Train Connection: Cardiff to Edinburgh

The train journey from Cardiff to Edinburgh takes approximately 5 hours and 59 minutes, with a total of 1 connection per day. This route is not direct, requiring a transfer during the trip.

Cardiff to Edinburgh Train Connection

The first daily train journey from Cardiff to Edinburgh departs at 05:35 AM, providing an early start for travelers eager to explore the scenic route. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 16:54 PM, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their day before heading towards their destination.

Train Ticket Prices from Cardiff to Edinburgh

The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between Cardiff and Edinburgh is €85. The average ticket price tends to be around €224, making it advisable to book in advance or look for deals if you're aiming to save on your travel expenses.

Exploring Edinburgh's Historic Landmarks

Edinburgh Castle, perched atop Castle Rock, has a rich history dating back to the 12th century and served as a royal residence for centuries. Its significance lies not only in its role during Scotland's tumultuous past but also as a symbol of national pride, attracting millions of visitors each year who come to explore its ancient halls and stunning views over the city. Unique features include the Stone of Destiny, used in Scottish coronations, and the One O'Clock Gun that fires daily—a tradition since 1861.

Holyrood Palace is an official residence of Her Majesty The Queen in Scotland and boasts a fascinating history intertwined with royalty since it was founded by David I in the 12th century. This magnificent palace serves as both a working royal palace and an important historical site where significant events have shaped Scotland’s monarchy. Visitors are captivated by its unique blend of architectural styles—from medieval ruins to elegant baroque interiors—and can stroll through beautiful gardens that offer breathtaking views against Arthur's Seat.

Arthur's Seat is an extinct volcano rising majestically above Edinburgh, offering hikers panoramic vistas that showcase both natural beauty and urban landscape alike. Its historical significance stems from being part of Holyrood Park—an area steeped in legend—as well as serving as one of Edinburgh’s most accessible outdoor escapes for locals and tourists seeking adventure or tranquility amidst nature. What makes this landmark truly unique is not just its geological formation but also how it connects you with ancient stories; many believe it's named after King Arthur himself!

FAQs: Trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh

FAQs: Travel by train from Cardiff to Edinburgh easily. Whether you want fast, cheap or something entirely different, our travel experts have collected everything you need to know so you can find the best option from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
FAQs

Popular train stations from Cardiff to Edinburgh

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
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
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)
The major train station for arrivals in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Waverley. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh Waverley for your journey to Edinburgh from Cardiff.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
  • Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free public Wi-Fi available.
Lockers
Lockers
  • You can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2.
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: Wide range of shops Passport Photo Booth
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: New Street: Long Stay
Dining
Dining
  • Bagel Factory
  • Burger King
  • Caffè Nero
  • Costa Coffee
  • JD Wetherspoon
  • The Pasty Shop
  • The Beer House
  • M&S
  • Pret a Manger
Taxis
Taxis
  • Taxi: Nearest Taxi Ranks are on Market St and Waverley Bridge outside the station.
  • Accessible taxis: Taxi ranks are located on Waverley Bridge and also Market Street. Market Street can be accessed step free via available lifts.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • 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.
WC
WC
  • National key toilets: Yes
  • National key toilets location: At entrance to Public Toilets
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
  • Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets,
Hotel
Hotel
  • Old Waverley Hotel
  • Jurys Inn Edinburgh
  • The Scotsman Hotel
Ticket Office
Ticket Office
  • Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
  • Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Public transit options for Edinburgh Waverley
  • Bus lines: 22, 30, 33, X22, X25, X37
  • Train lines: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, CrossCountry, LNER, ScotRail, Transpennine Express
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off on Waterloo Place, pick up across from Apex Hotel and drop off outside the Apex Hotel.
  • Metro: No metro available.

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