- Must visit
National Museum of Scotland
Scotland’s flagship museum covering science, design, world cultures, and Scottish history in one major city-centre complex.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Thurso to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for May 17
Cheapest price
$56
Average price
$56
Fastest journey
7 h 37 m
Average duration
7 h 37 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
294 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Thurso to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Thurso to Edinburgh will cost around $56 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $56.
Fast trains
Of the 1 trains that leave Thurso for Edinburgh on Sun, May 17, 1 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
On Sun, May 17 the direct trains cover the 294 km distance in an average of 7 h 37 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 7 h 37 m .
On Sun, May 17 the slowest trains will take 7 h 37 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.
11:30 AM7h37Thurso7:07 PMEdinburgh$561One-way0 transfers
- 11:30 AM7h37Thurso7:07 PMEdinburgh$561One-way0 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train and bus for Thurso to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Thurso to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $56. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 7h 32m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $56, and a bus costs an average of $123.
Distance: 182 miles (294 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$89 Average price Cheapest | $123 Average price | $139 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
8h 2m Average total duration Fastest 7h 32m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 8h 41m Average total duration 8h 11m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 37m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Thurso to Edinburgh is a train with an average price of $89 (€72).
This is compared to other travel options from Thurso to Edinburgh:
A train is $34 (€27) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Thurso to Edinburgh costing on average $123 (€99).
The fastest way to travel from Thurso to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 7h 32m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Bus takes on average 8h 11m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 2 ways to travel between Thurso and Edinburgh including taking a train and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Thurso to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the train. It's the cheaper option, and the extra time on board is usually more relaxing than driving it.
Tickets start at around $89 (€72) compared to roughly $139 (€112) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $51 (€41). The journey takes 7h 32m versus 5h 37m by car, so you'll arrive a bit later, but you can work, read, or sleep along the way rather than spending the time behind the wheel. You'll also save the hassle of parking at the other end.
Driving is worth it if you're on a tight schedule, travelling as a group, or want to stop somewhere en route.
Live departures
Thurso to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Thurso to Edinburgh trains for today, Saturday, May 16. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Y41052 · Y38568 | On time 8:34 AM Thurso station (THS) | 7h54 | 4:28 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
| Y41070 · Y38570 | On time 1:06 PM Thurso station (THS) | 9h14 | 10:20 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 transfer | |
| Y41070 · Y39579 · W73917 | On time 1:06 PM Thurso station (THS) | 8h22 | 9:28 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 2 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Thurso to Edinburgh by train or bus
Compare train and bus 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.
Sun
May 17
May 17
Mon
May 18
May 18
Tue
May 19
May 19
Wed
May 20
May 20
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May 21
May 21
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May 22
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May 23
May 23
Why should you book Thurso to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Scotrail as well as ScotRail offer trains services from Thurso to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Thurso to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for Scotrail, but also compare tickets for the likes of ScotRail to find the best option for your trip from Thurso 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 Scotrail with all available travel options, which are train and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Thurso to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train and bus to find the ideal travel option from Thurso to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Thurso to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Thurso to Edinburgh run on average 3 times per day, taking around 7h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $56 (€45) if you book in advance.
The earliest train runs at 05:33, the last at 16:37. The fastest train covers the 182 miles (294 km) distance in 7h 37m.
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 182 miles (294 km) |
Average train duration 7h 32m |
Cheapest ticket price $56 (€45) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 7h 37m |
First train 5:33 AM |
Last train 4:37 PM |
Cheapest Month Dec |
Cheapest Day Mon |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Sun |
Least Busy Day Sun |
Best time to book 49 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, ScotRail from Thurso to Edinburgh trainsScotrail, ScotRail trains will get you between Thurso and Edinburgh from $56 (€45). 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
7h 37m
Cheapest Price
$56 (€45)
Scotrail frequency
3 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
ScotRail
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
7h 38m
Cheapest Price
$162 (€131)
ScotRail frequency
3 a day
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
Scottish National Gallery
The national art collection in central Edinburgh, with major European paintings and an excellent Scottish art selection.
- Recommended
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history, culture, and public life.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
The Old Town’s most famous historic street, linking Edinburgh Castle and Holyroodhouse through dense medieval architecture.
- Must visit
Calton Hill
Short, rewarding hill walk with some of Edinburgh’s best panoramic views, especially popular at sunrise and sunset.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
The city’s most famous natural viewpoint, offering a memorable hike and sweeping views over Edinburgh and the coast.
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
Scotland’s best-known national dish: a savoury pudding of minced offal, oats, onion, and spices, usually served with mashed turnips and potatoes. It is strongly associated with Edinburgh and Burns Sup
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A rich Scottish soup made with smoked haddock, potatoes, and onions, often finished with milk or cream. It is a classic warming starter found in many Edinburgh pubs and restaurants.
Scotch Pie
A traditional double-crust meat pie, usually filled with spiced minced mutton or beef. It is a classic bakery and football-day snack across Scotland and remains a familiar local comfort food.
The Scran & Scallie
Well-known gastropub from Tom Kitchin, serving polished Scottish pub classics in a relaxed setting. A good choice for traditional dishes with high-quality ingredients.
Howies Restaurant
Long-running local favourite serving modern Scottish dishes with local produce. Friendly, reliable, and popular with visitors seeking approachable regional food.
The Witchery By The Castle
Historic, atmospheric restaurant near Edinburgh Castle, known for refined Scottish cuisine and a dramatic Gothic setting popular for special occasions.
Pound Sterling
Moderate by UK standards. Attractions and pubs add up, but transport and casual dining are manageable.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or a basic meal.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 60+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a regular coffee.
Tipping culture
Restaurants: 10-12.5% if not included. Pubs: not expected. Taxis: round up. Hotels: optional for helpful service.
Transport for Edinburgh
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- £1.80
- Day pass
- £4.50
To the city center
Edinburgh Waverley -> Princes Street
- Distance
- 0.5 km
- Travel time
- 5 min
- You can pay with contactless card on all Lothian buses and trams.
- Avoid traveling during peak hours (8-9 AM and 5-6 PM) for a less crowded experience.
FAQs: Trains from Thurso to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Thurso 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.
Train ticket prices from Thurso to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $56 (€45), while the average price is around $89 (€72).
The train from Thurso to Edinburgh takes 7h 37m and runs 3 per day.
The first train from Thurso to Edinburgh leaves at 5:33 AM.
The distance by train from Thurso to Edinburgh is 182 miles (294 km).
The last train from Thurso to Edinburgh leaves at 4:37 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Thurso to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from Thurso to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Thurso to Edinburgh.
The train station in Thurso that goes to Edinburgh is Thurso station (THS), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Thurso to Edinburgh is by train, with a cost of around $56 (€45).
Yes, the train journey from Thurso to Edinburgh is considered scenic, offering views of the rugged Scottish Highlands, picturesque countryside, and coastal landscapes.
A day trip from Thurso to Edinburgh is not feasible as the travel duration is 7h 37m one way, and the journey is 182 miles (294 km) apart. Trains run 3 times per day.
In Edinburgh, visitors can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket, enjoy a ghost tour of the haunted streets, attend shows at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden. Discover hidden gems at the Stockbridge Market. Key sights include Edinburgh Castle, Arthur's Seat, The Royal Mile, Holyrood Palace, and The National Museum of Scotland.
For a fulfilling experience, spending 2 to 3 days in Edinburgh allows you to explore its historic sites, such as Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile, enjoy cultural attractions, and immerse yourself in the local atmosphere.
Yes, you can take the train from Thurso to Edinburgh.
Since neither Thurso nor Edinburgh 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 Edinburgh include Glasgow, Newcastle, St Andrews, Stirling, Dundee.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Thurso to Edinburgh 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 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 Thurso to Edinburgh
Thurso
Edinburgh
The major train station for departures in Thurso is Thurso. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Thurso for your trip from Thurso to Edinburgh.
Amenities at train station
Parking
Dining
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 09:50 - 16:54 Saturday 10:10 - 16:54 Sunday Closed
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
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 both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 1
- Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: No
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: Available during ticket office opening hours.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Part of the ticket office
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- 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
Public transit options for Thurso
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stop at the station entrance
The major train station for arrivals in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Waverley. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh Waverley for your journey to Edinburgh from Thurso.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
ShoppingParkingDining
ATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike Parking
Car RentalInformation 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
ParkingDiningLoungeLost and Found OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Address
Slateford station, Meggetgate, off A70 Slateford Road, Slateford, City of Edinburgh, EH14 1BXDistance to city center
4 kmParking
- Car Park: 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 Slateford
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stop on Slateford Road at Platform 2 stair exit
Most popular train connections from Thurso
More options for your journey from Thurso to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Thurso
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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