- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Ely to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $28. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 1h 15m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $28, and a train costs an average of $88.
Distance: 282 miles (454 km)
Most popular Train | Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$110 Average price | $82 Average price Cheapest | $88 Average price | $161 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 53m Average total duration 4h 23m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 15m Average total duration Fastest 1h 15m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 16h 54m Average total duration 16h 24m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 6h 14m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Ely to Edinburgh:
A flight is $6 (€5) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Ely to Edinburgh costing on average $88 (€72).
A flight is $28 (€23) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Ely to Edinburgh costing on average $110 (€90).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 4h 23m.
Bus takes on average 16h 24m.
The journey is about 1h 51m faster (4h 23m by train vs 6h 14m by car) and roughly $51 (€42) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($110 (€90) vs $161 (€132)). 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.
Compare train, bus, 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 Ely to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 4h 23m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $88 (€72) but you can travel from only $28 (€23) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:48, the last at 19:17. The fastest train covers the 282 miles (454 km) distance in 4h 31m.
Distance 282 miles (454 km) |
Average train duration 4h 23m |
Cheapest ticket price $88 (€72) |
Trains per day 6 |
Fastest train 4h 31m |
First train 5:48 AM |
Last train 7:17 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Sun |
High Season Jan - Mar |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Best time to book 21 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 history, science, design and world cultures in a landmark Victorian building. A top all-round visit in the city.
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
Ancient volcanic peak in Holyrood Park with the city’s most famous hike and outstanding panoramic views. A classic outdoor Edinburgh experience.
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a peppery savoury pudding traditionally made with oats and offal, served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns supps
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes and onions. Though from Cullen, it is a classic on Edinburgh menus and a comforting local staple
A traditional hearty soup of barley, root vegetables and usually lamb or mutton. It is a long-standing Scottish comfort food commonly found in pubs and cafes
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Service is sometimes included. If not, tip 10-12.5% in restaurants for good service. Rounding up is common in taxis. Tipping is not expected for counter service.
Official public transport app
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Ely 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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