- 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.
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Cairnryan to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for Jun 20
Cheapest price
$49
Average price
$62
Fastest journey
2 h 43 m
Average duration
2 h 55 m
Trains per day
10
Distance
158 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Cairnryan to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid traveling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Cairnryan to Edinburgh will cost around $62 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $49.
Fast trains
It's difficult to get from Cairnryan to Edinburgh without transferring at least 2 times.
C14611 · L87370 · L882469:01 AM3h09Girvan station (GIR)12:10 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way2 transfers- L86952 · L87385 · L8825511:02 AM3h02Girvan station (GIR)2:04 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way2 transfers
- L86967 · L87377 · L870969:52 AM3h07Girvan station (GIR)12:59 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way2 transfers
- C14611 · L87370 · C14752+
Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street9:01 AM2h43Girvan station (GIR)11:44 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way3 transfers - L86952 · L87385 · C14759+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street11:02 AM2h46Girvan station (GIR)1:48 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way3 transfers
- C14611 · L87370 · C14752+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street9:01 AM2h43Girvan station (GIR)11:44 AMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way3 transfers
- L86952 · L87385 · C14759+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street11:02 AM2h46Girvan station (GIR)1:48 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way3 transfers
- L86967 · L87377 · L87925+Bus from Glasgow Central to Glasgow Queen Street9:52 AM2h57Girvan station (GIR)12:49 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way3 transfers
- L86952 · L87385 · L8825511:02 AM3h02Girvan station (GIR)2:04 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way2 transfers
- L86967 · L87377 · L870969:52 AM3h07Girvan station (GIR)12:59 PMEdinburgh Waverley (EDB)$491One-way2 transfers
Travel Information
Compare train, flight, and bus for Cairnryan to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Cairnryan to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the train with prices starting from $39. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 47m. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a train costs an average of $39, and a flight costs an average of $35.
Distance: 98 miles (158 km)
Compare train with
Most popular Train | Flight | Driving |
|---|---|---|
$47 Average price Cheapest | $251 Average price | $87 Average price (fuel + tolls) |
3h 17m Average total duration Fastest 2h 47m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 7h 19m Average total duration 4h 19m Onboard + 3h 0m Additional time* | 2h 53m Average total duration (door-to-door) |
Direct Options | Direct Options | Direct Options |
The cheapest way to travel from Cairnryan to Edinburgh is a train with an average price of $47 (€38).
This is compared to other travel options from Cairnryan to Edinburgh:
A train is $205 (€168) less than a flight for this route with tickets for a flight from Cairnryan to Edinburgh costing on average $251 (€206).
The fastest way to travel from Cairnryan to Edinburgh is by train with an average journey time of 2h 47m.
Other travel options to Edinburgh take longer:
Flight takes on average 4h 19m.
Bus takes on average 5h 5m.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Cairnryan and Edinburgh including taking a train, flight, and bus.
We recommend using the train as it is the most popular way to get from Cairnryan to Edinburgh among Omio's users.
Take the train. On this route, it beats driving on both time and money.
The journey is about 6m faster (2h 47m by train vs 2h 53m by car) and roughly $40 (€33) cheaper once you factor in fuel and tolls ($47 (€38) vs $87 (€71)). 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.
Live departures
Cairnryan to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Cairnryan to Edinburgh trains for today, Friday, June 19. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Transfers | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 8:01 AM Cairnryan | 3h01 | 11:02 AM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 9:01 AM Cairnryan | 3h01 | 12:02 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:05 PM Cairnryan | 4h07 | 5:12 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 1:57 PM Cairnryan | 3h28 | 5:25 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 6:03 PM Cairnryan | 3h45 | 9:48 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
| 7:03 PM Cairnryan | 3h45 | 10:48 PM Edinburgh | 0 transfersDirect | |
This is the last train of the day. | |||||
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Cairnryan 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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Why should you book Cairnryan to Edinburgh trains with Omio?
Scotrail operates all trains services from Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio vs Scotrail?
- 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, flight and bus to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Rome2rio?
- Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, flight and bus to find the ideal travel option from Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
Journey information
Overview: Train from Cairnryan to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Cairnryan to Edinburgh run on average 12 times per day, taking around 2h 47m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $39 (€32) but you can travel from only $35 (€28) by flight.
The earliest train runs at 05:52, the last at 20:58. The fastest train covers the 98 miles (158 km) distance in 2h 42m.
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 $35 (€28)
Distance 98 miles (158 km) |
Average train duration 2h 47m |
Cheapest ticket price $39 (€32) |
Trains per day 12 |
Fastest train 2h 42m |
First train 5:52 AM |
Last train 8:58 PM |
Cheapest Month Oct |
Cheapest Day Wed |
High Season Jul - Sep |
Low Season Oct - Dec |
Busiest Day Mon |
Least Busy Day Fri |
Best time to book 42 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
Flight from $35 (€28)
Train companies: Scotrail from Cairnryan to Edinburgh trainsScotrail trains will get you between Cairnryan and Edinburgh from $35 (€28). 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
2h 42m
Cheapest Price
$39 (€32)
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
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
Major national art gallery on The Mound with Scottish and European masterpieces. Central, elegant and one of Edinburgh’s classic cultural stops.
- Recommended
Scottish National Portrait Gallery
Striking red-sandstone gallery dedicated to portraits of figures from Scottish history and culture. Well regarded for both the collection and the building itself.
- Must visit
Royal Mile
Edinburgh’s most famous historic street linking the castle and Holyroodhouse, lined with closes, courtyards, shops and major sights.
- Must visit
Calton Hill
One of Edinburgh’s essential viewpoints, especially popular for sunrise and sunset photography. Famous for sweeping views over the city and Arthur’s Seat.
- Must visit
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.
- Gluten-free
Haggis, Neeps And Tatties
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
- Gluten-free
Cullen Skink
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
Scotch Broth
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
The Scran & Scallie
A polished gastropub from Tom Kitchin, known for refined Scottish pub classics, seasonal produce and a warm neighbourhood atmosphere
Mussel Inn Seafood Restaurant
A long-established seafood restaurant popular for Scottish mussels, fish dishes and a relaxed city-centre setting
Ondine
A respected upscale seafood restaurant focused on high-quality Scottish fish and shellfish in an elegant contemporary space
Pound sterling
Edinburgh is pricier than many UK cities, especially for hotels and dining in the centre during peak season.
Average meal costs
- Budget
- GBP 8-15 for takeaway or casual lunch.
- Mid-range
- GBP 20-35 per person at a mid-range restaurant.
- Fine dining
- GBP 70+ per person at upscale restaurants.
- Coffee
- GBP 3-4.50 for a coffee.
Tipping culture
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.
Transport for Edinburgh
Get the appOfficial public transport app
Prices
- Single ticket
- GBP 2.00
- Day pass
- GBP 5.00
To the city center
Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh -> Princes Street, Edinburgh
- Distance
- 0.8 km
- Travel time
- 10 min
- TapTapCap lets you pay by contactless card on Lothian buses and trams, with daily caps applied automatically.
- Single bus and tram fares are flat within the city, so exact change is not needed if you pay contactless or in the official app.
FAQs: Trains from Cairnryan to Edinburgh
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $39 (€32), while the average price is around $47 (€38).
The train from Cairnryan to Edinburgh takes 2h 42m and runs 12 per day.
The first train from Cairnryan to Edinburgh leaves at 5:52 AM.
The distance by train from Cairnryan to Edinburgh is 98 miles (158 km).
The last train from Cairnryan to Edinburgh leaves at 8:58 PM.
There is no high speed train available from Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
There is no direct train service currently available from Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
Unfortunately, there is no night train available from Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
The train station in Cairnryan that goes to Edinburgh is Girvan station (GIR), which connects to Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
The cheapest way to get from Cairnryan to Edinburgh is by flight, with a cost of around $35 (€28).
There is no direct train from Cairnryan to Edinburgh; travelers typically take a ferry to Stranraer and then a train. The route from Stranraer to Edinburgh offers scenic views of the Scottish countryside, including rolling hills and coastal landscapes.
A day trip from Cairnryan to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 42m. Trains run 12 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 Cairnryan to Edinburgh.
Since neither Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan 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 Cairnryan to Edinburgh
Cairnryan
Edinburgh
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
Shopping
Parking
Dining
ATM
Taxis
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information 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 Cairnryan
More options for your journey from Cairnryan to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Cairnryan
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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