- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Zurich to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Jul 15
Cheapest price
$927
Average price
$927
Fastest journey
1 d 37 m
Average duration
1 d 37 m
Trains per day
1
Distance
1249 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Zurich to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Zurich to Edinburgh will cost around $927 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $927.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Zurich to Edinburgh without transferring at least 5 times.
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6:34 PM24h37Zurich7:11 PMEdinburgh$9271One-way5 transfers
- 6:34 PM24h37Zurich7:11 PMEdinburgh$9271One-way5 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Zurich to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the flight as it is the most popular option from Zurich to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the flight with prices starting from $51. For those with little time consider booking a flight which can get you there in 2h 55m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the bus is your best bet as it emits only 1.2 - 3.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a flight costs an average of $51, and a train costs an average of $927.
Distance: 776 miles (1249 km)
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Flight | Bus | Driving |
|---|---|---|---|
$937 Average price | $179 Average price Cheapest | $202 Average price | $343 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
19h 52m Average total duration 19h 22m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 5h 55m Average total duration Fastest 2h 55m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 38h 6m Average total duration 37h 36m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 16h 43m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
- CO2 emissions | 3.7 - 7.5kg CO2 emissions | 1.2 - 3.1kg CO2 emissions Lowest | - CO2 emissions |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
The cheapest way to travel from Zurich to Edinburgh is a flight with an average price of $179 (€148).
This is compared to other travel options from Zurich to Edinburgh:
A flight is $23 (€19) less than a bus for this route with tickets for a bus from Zurich to Edinburgh costing on average $202 (€167).
A flight is $757 (€624) less than a train for this route with tickets for a train from Zurich to Edinburgh costing on average $937 (€772).
The fastest way to travel from Zurich to Edinburgh is by flight with an average journey time of 2h 55m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Train takes on average 19h 22m.
Bus takes on average 37h 36m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Zurich and Edinburgh including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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 $937 (€772) compared to roughly $343 (€283) in fuel and tolls — a saving of about $-593.77 (€-489.30). The journey takes 19h 22m versus 16h 43m 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
Zurich to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Zurich to Edinburgh trains for today, Tuesday, July 14. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 6:59 AM Zurich | 14h10 | 9:09 PM Edinburgh | 5 transfers | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Zurich to Edinburgh by train, flight, or bus
Compare train, flight, 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.
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Journey information
Overview: Train from Zurich to Edinburgh
Switzerland
United Kingdom
Trains from Zurich to Edinburgh run on average 3 times per day, taking around 19h 22m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $927 (€764) but you can travel from only $51 (€42) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 06:59, the last at 18:34. The fastest train covers the 776 miles (1249 km) distance in 13h 27m.
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
Flight from $51 (€42)
Distance 776 miles (1249 km) |
Average train duration 19h 22m |
Cheapest ticket price $927 (€764) |
Trains per day 3 |
Fastest train 13h 27m |
First train 6:59 AM |
Last train 6:34 PM |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Jan - Mar |
Busiest Day Sat |
Least Busy Day Thu |
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
Flight from $51 (€42)
Train companies: Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) from Zurich to Edinburgh trainsSwiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) trains will get you between Zurich and Edinburgh from $51 (€42). With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS)
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
13h 27m
Cheapest Price
$927 (€764)
Swiss Federal Railways (SBB CFF FFS) 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
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.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Historic spine of the Old Town linking the castle and palace, lined with closes, landmarks, performers, shops, and layered city history.
- Must visit
Princes Street
Elegant shopping boulevard in the New Town with castle views, gardens below, major monuments, and strong access to central attractions.
- Must visit
Arthur's Seat
Extinct volcano in Holyrood Park climbed for sweeping city views, sunrise walks, and one of Edinburgh's most memorable outdoor experiences.
Haggis
A rich savoury pudding of sheep offal, oats, suet, onion and spices, traditionally served with neeps and tatties. Scotland’s national dish and central to Burns Suppers.
- Vegetarian
- Gluten-free
Neeps And Tatties
Mashed turnips and potatoes, usually served with haggis. This classic Scottish side is a staple of traditional Edinburgh meals.
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
A hearty soup of smoked haddock, potatoes and onions in milk or cream. Strongly linked to Scotland’s fishing heritage and widely loved in Edinburgh.
Number One
Refined Scottish fine dining in the Balmoral Hotel, known for seasonal tasting menus and polished service in an elegant setting.
The Cafe Royal
Historic oyster bar and restaurant serving Scottish seafood, shellfish and game in a lively, classic Victorian dining room.
The Scran And Scallie
Celebrated modern Scottish restaurant focused on local produce, creative small plates and a relaxed but high-quality neighbourhood feel.
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 Zurich to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Zurich 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 Zurich to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $927 (€764), while the average price is around $937 (€772).
The train from Zurich to Edinburgh takes 13h 27m and runs 3 per day.
The distance by train from Zurich to Edinburgh is 776 miles (1249 km).
The first train from Zurich to Edinburgh leaves at 6:59 AM.
The last train from Zurich to Edinburgh leaves at 6:34 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Zurich to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from Zurich to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Zurich to Edinburgh.
The cheapest way to get from Zurich to Edinburgh is by flight, with a cost of around $51 (€42).
The train journey from Zurich to Edinburgh offers scenic views, particularly as it passes through the Swiss Alps, picturesque German countryside, and the rolling landscapes of Northern England and Scotland.
A day trip from Zurich to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 13h 27m. The distance covered is 776 miles (1249 km). Trains operate 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 Zurich to Edinburgh.
Edinburgh is outside the Schengen Area. Travelers departing from Zurich will need a valid passport and may require a visa depending on their nationality. 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 flight as it is the most popular way to get from Zurich 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.
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.
More options for your journey from Zurich to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Zurich
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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