- 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 Rochdale to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from $40. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 55m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a bus costs an average of $40, and a flight costs an average of $155.
Distance: 166 miles (268 km)
Most popular Train | Bus | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$88 Average price | $47 Average price Cheapest | $190 Average price | $73 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
4h 25m Average total duration Fastest 3h 55m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 0m Average total duration 6h 30m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 54m Average total duration 4h 54m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 4h 22m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
This is compared to other travel options from Rochdale to Edinburgh:
A bus is $42 (€34) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Rochdale to Edinburgh costing on average $88 (€72).
A bus is $144 (€117) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Rochdale to Edinburgh costing on average $190 (€156).
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Flight takes on average 4h 54m.
Bus takes on average 6h 30m.
You'll arrive about 27m sooner (3h 55m by train vs 4h 22m by car). Tickets start at around $88 (€72) compared to roughly $73 (€60) 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.
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.
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 Rochdale to Edinburgh run on average 4 times per day, taking around 3h 55m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $58 (€47) but you can travel from only $40 (€33) by bus.
The earliest train runs at 04:45, the last at 21:00. The fastest train covers the 166 miles (268 km) distance in 3h 58m.
Distance 166 miles (268 km) |
Average train duration 3h 55m |
Cheapest ticket price $58 (€47) |
Trains per day 4 |
Fastest train 3h 58m |
First train 4:45 AM |
Last train 9:00 PM |
Cheapest Month Jun |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Sat |
Best time to book 28 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 Rochdale 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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