Cardiff to Edinburgh train with CrossCountry

Sat, Jul 11
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CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
CrossCountry
Avanti West Coast
Transport for Wales
Transpennine Express
Cross Country
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for Jul 11

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

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.

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.

Fast trains

It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.

  • Avanti West CoastW33798+CrossCountryG00904
    1:45 PM6h38
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    8:23 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $1491One-way
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastW33799+CrossCountryG00892
    9:45 AM6h33
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    4:18 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $2051One-way
    1 transfer
  • Avanti West CoastW33753+CrossCountryG00937
    7:45 AM6h35
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    2:20 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $2051One-way
    1 transfer
  • Great Western RailwayW35158+Avanti West CoastW33563+CrossCountryG01057
    5:14 AM7h04
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    12:18 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $2051One-way
    2 transfers
  • Avanti West CoastW33797+CrossCountryG00899
    11:45 AM6h36
    Cardiff Central (CDF)
    6:21 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $2051One-way
    1 transfer

Travel Information

Compare bus, train, and flight for Cardiff to Edinburgh

Omio 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)

Compare train with

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

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

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

The cheapest way to travel from Cardiff to Edinburgh is a bus with an average price of $66 (€54).

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).

The fastest way to travel from Cardiff to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 1h 20m.

Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:

Train takes on average 6h 31m.

Bus takes on average 13h 18m.

It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cardiff and Edinburgh including taking a bus, train, and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's meaningfully faster than driving, and the time saved usually justifies the price.

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.

Live departures

Cardiff to Edinburgh train times

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.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
CrossCountryG01057+Avanti West CoastW33563+Great Western RailwayW351585:14 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h04
12:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2 transfers
CrossCountryG66717+Avanti West CoastC01370+Transpennine ExpressW85176+Great Western RailwayW351646:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h13
1:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)3 transfers
CrossCountryG00937+Avanti West CoastW337537:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h35
2:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00853+Avanti West CoastC01371+Transpennine ExpressW85183+Great Western RailwayW351728:23 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h16
3:39 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)3 transfers
CrossCountryG00892+Avanti West CoastW337999:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h33
4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
CrossCountryG66736+Avanti West CoastC01373+Transpennine ExpressW85193+Great Western RailwayC4229010:20 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h17
5:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)3 transfers
CrossCountryG00899+Avanti West CoastW3379711:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h36
6:21 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00870+Avanti West CoastW33795+Transpennine ExpressW85202+Great Western RailwayW3518412:20 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h18
7:38 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)3 transfers
CrossCountryG00904+Avanti West CoastW337981:45 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
6h38
8:23 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
CrossCountryG00882+Avanti West CoastW33796+Transpennine ExpressW85207+Great Western RailwayC422932:21 PM Cardiff Central (CDF)
7h20
9:41 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)3 transfers
CrossCountryG66799+Avanti West CoastW337943:45 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 prices and tickets Cardiff to Edinburgh by bus, train, or flight

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.

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Why should you book Cardiff to Edinburgh trains with Omio?

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

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 to Edinburgh.
  • 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 bus, train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cardiff to Edinburgh.

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 to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including bus, train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Cardiff to Edinburgh.

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.

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 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.

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 $39 (€32)
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
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 $39 (€32)

Train companies: CrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, Cross Country from Cardiff to Edinburgh trainsCrossCountry, Avanti West Coast, Transport for Wales, Transpennine Express, Cross Country trains will get you between Cardiff and Edinburgh from $39 (€32). 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 6m
Cheapest Price
$50 (€41)
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 25m
Cheapest Price
$101 (€83)
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 57m
Cheapest Price
$102 (€84)
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
$347 (€285)
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
$547 (€450)
Cross Country frequency
1 a day

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 covering science, world cultures, design, fashion, and Scottish history in one major city-centre complex.

  • Must visit

Scottish National Gallery

The principal national art gallery in central Edinburgh, known for Scottish and European masterpieces and an easy-to-visit Princes Street Gardens setting.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Portrait Gallery

A striking neo-Gothic gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history, with strong permanent displays and temporary exhibitions.

Pound Sterling

Edinburgh is pricey by UK standards, especially in August. Dining and hotels cost more than in many other British cities.

Average meal costs

Budget
GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a simple lunch.
Mid-range
GBP 20-35 per person at a casual restaurant.
Fine dining
GBP 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
Coffee
GBP 3-4.50 for a cappuccino or latte.

Tipping culture

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.

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

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.

FAQs
Train ticket prices from Cardiff to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $50 (€41), while the average price is around $192 (€158).
The train from Cardiff to Edinburgh takes 6h 25m and runs 6 per day.
The distance by train from Cardiff to Edinburgh is 308 miles (497 km).
The first train from Cardiff to Edinburgh leaves at 4:00 AM.
The last train from Cardiff to Edinburgh leaves at 6:52 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
Yes, there is a direct train from Cardiff to Edinburgh. This service operates 0 times per day, provided by CrossCountry, Cross Country.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
The train station in Cardiff that goes to Edinburgh is Cardiff Central (CDF), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Cardiff to Edinburgh is by bus, with a cost of around $39 (€32).
The train journey from Cardiff to Edinburgh offers a variety of scenic views, including rolling hills, picturesque countryside, and glimpses of the coastline, providing a pleasant visual experience.
A day trip from Cardiff to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 6h 25m. However, there are 6 trains per day covering the 308 miles (497 km) distance.
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.
Yes, you can take the train from Cardiff to Edinburgh.
Since neither Cardiff 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 train as it is the most popular way to get from Cardiff 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.

The Omio App Makes Travel Planning Easy

We’ll get you where you want to go. From live train updates to mobile tickets, our innovative app is the ideal way to plan and keep track of your travel.

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