Inverness to Edinburgh train with Scotrail

Wed, Sep 30
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London North Eastern Railway
Scotrail
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
London North Eastern Railway
Scotrail
Regionale
Deutsche Bahn
iryo
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Inverness to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for Sep 30

Cheapest price on Sep 30

$33

Average ticket price on Sep 30

$77

Fastest journey on Sep 30

3 h 21 m

Average journey duration on Sep 30

3 h 30 m

Trains on Sep 30

16

Distance

181 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh will cost around $77 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $33.

Fast trains

On Wed, Sep 30, we found 16 trains from Inverness to Edinburgh, including 7 direct services.

On Wed, Sep 30 the direct trains cover the 181 km distance in an average of 3 h 30 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 21 m .

On Wed, Sep 30 the slowest trains will take 3 h 40 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

  • ScotrailC14809 · W83089
    5:35 AM3h46
    Inverness station (INV)
    9:21 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $331One-way
    1 transfer
  • London North Eastern RailwayC02029
    7:55 AM3h21
    Inverness station (INV)
    11:16 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $431One-way
    0 transfers
  • ScotrailL87055
    6:52 PM3h23
    Inverness station (INV)
    10:15 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $441One-way
    0 transfers
  • ScotrailL88106 · W83258
    8:22 PM3h55
    Inverness station (INV)
    12:17 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $441One-way
    1 transfer
  • ScotrailC14661
    4:54 AM4h44
    Inverness station (INV)
    9:38 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)
    $441One-way
    0 transfers

Live departures

Inverness to Edinburgh train times

The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Edinburgh trains for today, Tuesday, September 29. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
ScotrailC14813 · W83006
On time
2:50 PM Inverness station (INV)
4h01
6:51 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
ScotrailL88101 · C14725
On time
3:44 PM Inverness station (INV)
3h59
7:43 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
ScotrailC14815 · W83234
On time
5:25 PM Inverness station (INV)
4h01
9:26 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
ScotrailC14589 · L87087
On time
6:01 PM Inverness station (INV)
5h29
11:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
ScotrailL87055
On time
6:52 PM Inverness station (INV)
3h23
10:15 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL88106 · W83258
On time
8:22 PM Inverness station (INV)
3h55
12:17 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 transfer
Wednesday, September 30
ScotrailC146614:54 AM Inverness station (INV)
4h44
9:38 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailC14809 · W830895:35 AM Inverness station (INV)
3h46
9:21 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailC14577+CrossCountryG011535:49 AM Inverness station (INV)
5h05
10:54 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailC146516:38 AM Inverness station (INV)
3h36
10:14 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
London North Eastern RailwayC020297:55 AM Inverness station (INV)
3h21
11:16 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL88094 · L876608:42 AM Inverness station (INV)
4h01
12:43 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailC146539:42 AM Inverness station (INV)
3h32
1:14 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL8705010:50 AM Inverness station (INV)
3h40
2:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect
ScotrailL86847 · L8707910:56 AM Inverness station (INV)
5h28
4:24 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)1 transfer
ScotrailC1465512:48 PM Inverness station (INV)
3h45
4:33 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Inverness to Edinburgh by train, bus, or flight

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.

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Why should you book Inverness to Edinburgh trains with Omio?

London North Eastern Railway as well as Scotrail offer trains services from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Omio is the only official third party seller for London North Eastern Railway tickets.

Why book with Omio vs London North Eastern Railway?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for London North Eastern Railway, but also compare tickets for the likes of Scotrail to find the best option for your trip from Inverness 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 London North Eastern Railway with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Inverness to Edinburgh.

How far in advance should I book train tickets from Inverness to Edinburgh?

The best time to book your train from Inverness to Edinburgh is 70 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Inverness to Edinburgh route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Inverness 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 Inverness to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Inverness to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Inverness to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 49m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $22 (€18) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by bus.

There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 20:22. The fastest train covers the 112 miles (181 km) distance in 3h 8m.

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 $10 (€8)
Distance
112 miles (181 km)
Average train duration
3h 49m
Cheapest ticket price
$22 (€18)
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
3
Fastest train
3h 8m
First train
4:54 AM
Last train
8:22 PM
Cheapest Month
Aug
Cheapest Day
Sun
High Season
Jul - Sep
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Tue
Least Busy Day
Wed
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 $10 (€8)

Train companies: Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway from Inverness to Edinburgh trainsScotrail, London North Eastern Railway trains will get you between Inverness and Edinburgh from $10 (€8). 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 Scotrail Duration
3h 8m
Cheapest Scotrail Price
$22 (€18)
Scotrail frequency
6 a day
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

London North Eastern Railway

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average London North Eastern Railway Duration
3h 20m
Cheapest London North Eastern Railway Price
$25 (€21)
London North Eastern Railway frequency
1 a day
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
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone

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 covers science, design, natural history, and world cultures in a landmark building with excellent family appeal.

  • Must visit

National Gallery of Scotland

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance onward, set dramatically on The Mound in the city centre.

  • Recommended

Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art

Gallery of modern and contemporary art in a neoclassical building with sculpture park, strong changing exhibitions, and a peaceful setting.

British pound sterling (£)

Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities. Hotels surge in festival season, dining is mid-to-high, and transit is reasonable but not especially cheap for visitors.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or casual takeaway.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale restaurants.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for coffee.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if no service charge is added. Round up for taxis. Cafes usually do not expect tips.

FAQs: Trains from Inverness to Edinburgh

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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 Inverness to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $22 (€18), while the average price is around $62 (€51).
The train from Inverness to Edinburgh takes 3h 8m and runs 6 per day.
The first train from Inverness to Edinburgh leaves at 4:54 AM.
The distance by train from Inverness to Edinburgh is 112 miles (181 km).
The last train from Inverness to Edinburgh leaves at 8:22 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Yes, there is a direct train from Inverness to Edinburgh. This service operates 3 times per day, provided by London North Eastern Railway, Scotrail.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Inverness to Edinburgh.
The train station in Inverness that goes to Edinburgh is Inverness station (INV), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Yes, the train journey from Inverness to Edinburgh is scenic, offering views of the Scottish Highlands, rolling hills, and picturesque landscapes along the way.
Yes, you can take the train from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Popular day trips by train from Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
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.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Inverness to Edinburgh

Most Inverness to Edinburgh trains use the Inverness to Edinburgh Waverley station pair, with some services arriving at Haymarket. Use this guide to compare Inverness and Edinburgh train stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like train station facilities and services.

Departure train stations in Inverness
Arrival train stations in Edinburgh

Which Inverness station do trains to Edinburgh leave from?

Trains from Inverness to Edinburgh leave from Inverness. The station is from Inverness city centre at Inverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PY.
InvernessInverness station, Academy Street, Inverness, Highland, IV2 3PYWifiParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Desk
City-centre transport

Getting to Inverness from Inverness city centre

Location for Rail Replacement ServicesBuses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park

Inverness train station facilities and services

Inverness has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Accessibility, WC, Hotel, Lounge, Lost and Found Office, Ticket Office, Bike Parking, Car Rental, and Information Desk.

Food and drink

Food and drink options are available at Inverness.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Inverness. ATMs are available at Inverness.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Inverness. Information desks are 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.

Luggage and lost property

Lost and found is available at the station.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Inverness: Parking, WC.

Bike and car services

Available at Inverness: Bike Parking, Car Rental.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Inverness: 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: 3, Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station, 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.

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