The cheapest and fastest trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh
Cheapest price
$385
Average price
$385
Fastest journey
6 h 26 m
Average duration
6 h 43 m
Trains per day
3
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 $385 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $385.
It's difficult to get from Cardiff to Edinburgh without transferring at least once.
G56045+
W10500
P08472+
C23650+
W10500
P08472+
C23650
P08472+
C23650+
W10500
G56045+
W10500
P08472+
C23650Travel 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 €37. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 19m. 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 €37, and a train costs an average of €87.
Distance: 308 miles (497 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight |
|---|---|---|
€215 Average price | €58 Average price Cheapest | €190 Average price |
6h 55m Average total duration 6h 25m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 13h 48m Average total duration 13h 18m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 19m Average total duration Fastest 1h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.4kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.5 - 1.2kg CO2 emissions | - CO2 emissions |
![]() Most popular train company | ![]() Most popular bus company | ![]() Most popular airline |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Cardiff to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Cardiff to Edinburgh trains for today, Thursday, November 27. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
C23366 · C23658 | On time 8:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h21 | 4:06 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G56072+ W10508+ C26808 | On time 8:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h44 | 3:37 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
C23399_C23661 | 9:45 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h23 | 5:08 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 transfersDirect | |
G56051+ W10514 | On time 9:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h25 | 4:18 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P08482+ C23665 | On time 10:50 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h17 | 6:07 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
G56080+ P00492+ C26805 | On time 10:53 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h47 | 5:40 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
| Friday, November 28 | |||||
G56045+ W10500 | On time 5:49 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h31 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
P08472+ C23650+ W10500 | On time 5:54 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 6h26 | 12:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
P08472+ C23650 | On time 5:54 AM Cardiff Central (CDF) | 7h11 | 1:05 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.
Nov 27
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Why should you book Cardiff to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Avanti West Coast as well as CrossCountry, TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales 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 Avanti West Coast?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Avanti West Coast, but also compare tickets for the likes of CrossCountry, TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales 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 Avanti West Coast 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 Trainline and Rail Europe?
- Multiple travel company options: While Avanti West Coast tickets can be bought on Avanti West Coast's website or third party sellers, Omio allows you to compare with the likes of CrossCountry, TransPennine Express and Transport for Wales to help you choose the right option for your journey 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?
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cardiff to Edinburgh
Trains from Cardiff to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 6h 25m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $107 (€87) but you can travel from only $46 (€37) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:08, the last at 18:57. The fastest train covers the 308 miles (497 km) distance in 6h 25m.
Distance 308 miles (497 km) |
Average train duration 6h 25m |
Cheapest ticket price $107 (€87) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 6h 25m |
First train 04:08 |
Last train 18:57 |
Train companies: Avanti West Coast, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western from Cardiff to Edinburgh trainsAvanti West Coast, CrossCountry, TransPennine Express, Transport for Wales, Cross Country, first_great_western trains will get you between Cardiff and Edinburgh from $46 (€37). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Avanti West Coast
CrossCountry
TransPennine Express
Transport for Wales
Cross Country
first_great_western
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.

popular train stations
Popular train stations from Cardiff to Edinburgh
- Car Park: No
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B. The platform has level access from Bute Street and Lloyd George Avenue.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: Yes
- Onward travel information: There is a bus stop outside the station.
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the bus stop close to the station entrance on Bute Street
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday 07:30 - 18:30 Saturday 09:30 - 15:30 Sunday Closed
- Car Park: No
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category B3. While both platforms are step-free, there is no facility for wheelchair users, mobility scooter users or persons with reduced mobility to cross between Platform 1 and 2 due to a steep footbridge. Customers who have travelled from the Valleys and wish to access the University or the Civic Centre are advised to travel to Queen Street station, change onto a North-bound service and alight at Cathays on the return service.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) take cash, and major debit and credit cards. The machine on the Cardiff-bound platform is only available during staffing hours. The machine on the Pontypridd-bound platform is available all the time.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
- Travelodge
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Arrival screens
- Onward travel information: The nearest bus stop is on Park Place
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: At the bus stops adjacent to the Cardiff University Students' Union on Park Place
- Opening hours: Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday, Saturday 07:40 - 18:00 Sunday 10:00 - 15:30 Temporary opening hours due to the COVID-19 pandemic.
- Car Park: No
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machines are near the main entrance and take cash and major debit and credit cards.
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 4. The National key toilets are located on the Main Concourse to the right of the Ticket Office; these toilets are operated by a radar key and are only available during staffing hours.
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: No
- Travelodge
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage location: to the right of the station front
- Storage CCTV: Yes
- Information available from staff: Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: 03333 211202
- Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements, Arrival screens
- Onward travel information: Limited service from stop outside station Mondays to Fridays
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: For services towards Cardiff Central use the bus stop at the front of the station. For services towards Cathays use the bus stop in front of the shop opposite the station entrance. Please ask a member of station staff if you are unsure of which stop to use.
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
- Free Wi-Fi in the station.
- Type of shops available: News agent and convenience store
- Car Park: Brewery Car park
- Gourmet Coffee Bar & Kitchen
- Pret a Manger
- Tesco Express
- Taxi: Taxi rank is on the right as you exit the main station entrance
- There is step-free access in the whole station. There are also ramps for train access and elevators in the station.
- 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
- Clayton Hotel Cardiff
- Cardiff Marriott Hotel
- Travelodge Cardiff Central
- Waiting rooms location: On platforms 1/2, 3/4, 6/7 and 8.
- Mon - Fri: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sat: 05:40 - 21:30
- Sun: 07:30 - 21:30
- 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
- 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)
- Car Park: No
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: No
- Step free access note: Category C. The station platforms are only accessible by stairs.
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Penarth Road
- Car Park: No
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: Category B2. Step free access to Platform 1 (to Cardiff) from Leckwith Road. Step free access to Platform 2 (to Radyr) Leckwith Road via a ramp with a steep gradient
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible ticket machines note: The ticket machine(s) do not accept cash. Payment is by major debit and credit cards only.
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: The bicycle stands can be found on Platform 1 (to Cardiff).
- Storage CCTV: No
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Wait at the station entrance on Leckwith Road close to traffic lights
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 21:25 Saturday 06:30 - 21:25 Sunday 08:10 - 21:25
- Type of shops available: M&S Simply Food
- Car Park: No
- 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
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, the Concourse and near the entrance from Haymarket Terrace.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Waiting rooms location: Inside the station - one on platform 4 and one on platform 2 and 3
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
- 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
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the layby in front of the station
- Car Park: No
- 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
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: No
- 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
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from Platform 2 bus stop, adjacent to Herminston Gate
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
- Free public Wi-Fi available.
- You can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2.
- Type of shops available: Wide range of shops Passport Photo Booth
- Car Park: New Street: Long Stay
- Bagel Factory
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Costa Coffee
- JD Wetherspoon
- The Pasty Shop
- The Beer House
- M&S
- Pret a Manger
- 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.
- 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.
- 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,
- Old Waverley Hotel
- Jurys Inn Edinburgh
- The Scotsman Hotel
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle storage can be found in the station: by the lift at Platform 2 (37 spaces) Platform 3 (68 Spaces) and adjacent to Platform 19 (86 Spaces). Additional cycle spaces are available in New Street car park (32 spaces).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
- Information booths are located on the concourse.
- 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.
- Car Park: No
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: No
- 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
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stop on Slateford Road at Platform 2 stair exit
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:10 - 00:10 Sunday 08:40 - 00:10
- Car Park: No
- 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 both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 4
- 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: Yes
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Shelter/Room. The toilet facilities are only available during ticket office opening hours.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
- 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: Announcements, Arrival screens
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stops outside the station
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