- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering science, world cultures, design, fashion, and Scottish history in one major city-centre complex.
Cheapest price
$149
Average price
$271
Fastest journey
6 h 33 m
Average duration
6 h 36 m
Trains per day
11
Distance
497 km
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.
The average ticket from Cardiff to Edinburgh will cost around $271 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $149.
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
W33798+
G00904
W33799+
G00892
W33753+
G00937
W35158+
W33563+
G01057
W33797+
G00899
W33799+
G00892
W33753+
G00937
W33797+
G00899
W33794+
G66799
W33798+
G00904Omio 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 prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 20m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.4kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $39, and a flight costs an average of $111.
Distance: 308 miles (497 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$192 Average price | $66 Average price Cheapest | $246 Average price | $175 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
7h 1m Average total duration 6h 31m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 48m Average total duration 13h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 20m Average total duration Fastest 1h 20m Onboard + 3h 0m 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 | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline | Your own car or car rental |
Direct Options | 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 $127 (€104) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Cardiff to Edinburgh costing on average $192 (€158).
A bus is $180 (€148) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cardiff to Edinburgh costing on average $246 (€202).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 6h 31m.
Bus takes on average 13h 18m.
You'll arrive about 1h 37m sooner (6h 31m by train vs 8h 8m by car). Tickets start at around $192 (€158) compared to roughly $175 (€144) 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.
Direct services run with CrossCountry, Cross Country.
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.
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Edinburgh trains for tomorrow, Saturday, July 11. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
G01057+ W33563+ W35158 | 5:14 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h04 | 12:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
G66717+ C01370+ W85176+ W35164 | 6:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h13 | 1:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
G00937+ W33753 | 7:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h35 | 2:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G00853+ C01371+ W85183+ W35172 | 8:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h16 | 3:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
G00892+ W33799 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h33 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G66736+ C01373+ W85193+ C42290 | 10:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h17 | 5:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
G00899+ W33797 | 11:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h36 | 6:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G00870+ W33795+ W85202+ W35184 | 12:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h18 | 7:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
G00904+ W33798 | 1:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h38 | 8:23 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G00882+ W33796+ W85207+ C42293 | 2:21 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h20 | 9:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 3 transfers | |
G66799+ W33794 | 3:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h37 | 10:22 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare bus, train, 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.
Trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 31m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $50 (€41) but you can travel from only $39 (€32) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:00, the last at 18:52. The fastest train covers the 308 miles (497 km) distance in 6h 25m.
Distance 308 miles (497 km) |
Average train duration 6h 31m |
Cheapest ticket price $50 (€41) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 25m |
First train 4:00 AM |
Last train 6:52 PM |
Cheapest Month Mar |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Tue |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 70 days |
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 covering science, world cultures, design, fashion, and Scottish history in one major city-centre complex.
The principal national art gallery in central Edinburgh, known for Scottish and European masterpieces and an easy-to-visit Princes Street Gardens setting.
A striking neo-Gothic gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history, with strong permanent displays and temporary exhibitions.
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street, linking the castle and Holyrood, lined with closes, monuments, museums, and major visitor sights.
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, known for sunrise and sunset city panoramas and its concentration of monuments.
A curving, colorful Old Town street that is heavily photographed and widely associated with Edinburgh’s most social-media-friendly streetscape.
Scotland’s national dish made from minced offal, oats, suet, and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. It is closely associated with Edinburgh and Burns Night suppers.
A rich Scottish soup of smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, often finished with milk or cream. It is a classic warming dish found in many Edinburgh pubs and restaurants.
A small double-crust meat pie, usually filled with seasoned minced lamb or mutton. It is a traditional Scottish snack commonly found in bakeries and football kiosks.
A long-established local favourite serving modern Scottish dishes with local produce in a relaxed setting. Popular for haggis, seafood, and dependable service.
A well-known gastropub by Tom Kitchin offering refined Scottish pub food in a warm neighbourhood atmosphere. Good for elevated classics and seasonal ingredients.
A reliable city-centre seafood restaurant known for Scottish mussels, oysters, and fish dishes. Casual and lively, it is a strong choice for local coastal flavours.
Edinburgh is pricey by UK standards, especially in August. Dining and hotels cost more than in many other British cities.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Round up in taxis. Tipping is not expected for pubs or takeaway, but small change is appreciated.
Official public transport app
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh -> Princes Street, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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!
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cardiff 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.

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