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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$62
Fastest journey
2 h 56 m
Average duration
2 h 59 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
158 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan without transferring at least 2 times.
L88237 · L87371 · L869598:58 AM3h04Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:02 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers- L88240 · L87380 · L869649:56 AM2h59Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:55 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
- L88252 · L87403 · L8698012:56 PM3h05Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)4:01 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
- C14893 · L87363 · L869577:59 AM2h58Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)10:57 AMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
- L88249 · L87396 · L8697211:56 AM3h00Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2:56 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
- C14756 · L87396 · L86972+
Bus from Glasgow Queen Street to Glasgow Central12:00 PM2h56Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2:56 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way3 transfers - C14893 · L87363 · L869577:59 AM2h58Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)10:57 AMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
- L88240 · L87380 · L869649:56 AM2h59Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:55 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
- L88249 · L87396 · L8697211:56 AM3h00Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)2:56 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
- L88237 · L87371 · L869598:58 AM3h04Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)12:02 PMGirvan station (GIR)$491One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and flight for Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Cairnryan among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 46m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $39, and a flight costs an average of $41.
Distance: 98 miles (158 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$45 Average price Cheapest | $267 Average price | $86 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 16m Average total duration Fastest 2h 46m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 29m Average total duration 5h 29m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 50m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is a train with an average price of $45 (€37).
This is compared to other travel options from Edinburgh to Cairnryan:
A train is $222 (€182) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Edinburgh to Cairnryan costing on average $267 (€219).
The fastest way to travel from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is by train with an average journey time of 2h 46m.
Other travel options to Cairnryan take longer:
Flight takes on average 5h 29m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Edinburgh and Cairnryan including taking a train and flight.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 4m faster (2h 46m by train vs 2h 50m by car) and roughly $41 (€34) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($45 (€37) vs $86 (€71)). You'll also arrive in the city centre rather than hunting for parking, and you can work, read, or watch the landscape go by instead of concentrating on the road.
Driving is still worth considering if you want to stop along the way or need a car once you arrive.
Live departures
Edinburgh to Cairnryan train times
The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 7:57 AM Edinburgh | 3h05 | 11:02 AM Cairnryan | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:00 AM Edinburgh | 3h02 | 11:02 AM Cairnryan | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 8:57 AM Edinburgh | 3h05 | 12:02 PM Cairnryan | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:00 AM Edinburgh | 3h02 | 12:02 PM Cairnryan | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 5:00 PM Edinburgh | 2h53 | 7:53 PM Cairnryan | 0 transfersDirect |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Cairnryan by train or flight
Compare 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 Edinburgh to Cairnryan trains with Omio?
Scotrail operates all trains services from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and flight to find the ideal travel option from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan run on average 11 times per day, taking around 2h 46m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 06:19, the last at 21:06. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (158 km) distance in 2h 53m.
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
Distance 98 miles (158 km) |
Average train duration 2h 46m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 11 |
Fastest train 2h 53m |
First train 6:19 AM |
Last train 9:06 PM |
Cheapest Month Apr |
Cheapest Day Sat |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Tue |
Best time to book 7 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
Train companies: Scotrail from Edinburgh to Cairnryan trainsScotrail trains will get you between Edinburgh and Cairnryan from $39 (€32). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Scotrail
About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 53m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
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 catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone
FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Cairnryan can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€32), while the average price is around $45 (€37).
The train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan takes 2h 53m and runs 11 per day.
The first train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan leaves at 6:19 AM.
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is 98 miles (158 km).
The last train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan leaves at 9:06 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
There is no direct train service currently available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Cairnryan is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which connects to Girvan station (GIR).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is by train, with a cost of around $39 (€32).
There is no direct train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan; however, the journey involves a train to Stranraer with a scenic route through the rolling hills and countryside of southwestern Scotland, offering picturesque views along the way.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 53m each way, despite being 98 miles (158 km) apart. There are 10 trains per day.
In Cairnryan, you can enjoy a walk along Loch Ryan for a peaceful experience and birdwatching, discover the luxurious Glenapp Castle with its gardens and afternoon tea, and visit the Cairnryan Ferry Terminal for ferry services to Northern Ireland. Nearby, you can explore Stranraer with attractions like the Stranraer Museum and Castle of St. John, or venture into Galloway Forest Park for hiking and stargazing. Additionally, a coastal walk along the Ayrshire Coastal Path offers stunning views of the coastline.
Cairnryan is a small village primarily known for its ferry services to Northern Ireland. A day or two is typically sufficient to explore its offerings, including enjoying the scenic views and visiting nearby attractions.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.
Since neither Edinburgh nor Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan include Ayr, Irvine.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan, travelers should be cautious of petty theft, especially around busy ferry terminals and parking areas. It's important to use official ticket vendors to avoid scams related to fake or inflated transportation tickets. Staying aware of surroundings and securing personal belongings helps ensure a safe visit.
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 Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Edinburgh
Cairnryan
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Wifi
- Free public Wi-Fi available
Lockers
- You can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Wide range of shops Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: New Street: Long Stay
Dining
- Bagel Factory
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Costa Coffee
- JD Wetherspoon
- The Pasty Shop
- The Beer House
- M&S
- Pret a Manger
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
- 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
- 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
- Old Waverley Hotel
- Jurys Inn Edinburgh
- The Scotsman Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Bike Parking
- 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 Desk
- Information booths are located on the concourse.
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.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 21:25 Saturday 06:30 - 21:25 Sunday 08:10 - 21:25
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: M&S Simply Food
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, the Concourse and near the entrance from Haymarket Terrace
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Inside the station - one on platform 4 and one on platform 2 and 3
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transit options for Haymarket
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the layby in front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Distance to city center
7 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- 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
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: No
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- 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
Public transit options for Edinburgh Park
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from Platform 2 bus stop, adjacent to Herminston Gate
Most popular train connections from Edinburgh
More options for your journey from Edinburgh to Cairnryan
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Cairnryan and Edinburgh
Most popular train connections to Cairnryan
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