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Aberdeen to Edinburgh from $12: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Aberdeen, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Aberdeen to Edinburgh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way

1Map provides directions to cities, towns, landmarks, attractions, and addresses worldwide, offering thousands of multi-modal routes to easily get you from point A to point B.

$12 RideshareBest price
150 kmDistance
2h 12m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Aberdeen to Edinburgh with 1Map travel planner. Easily compare ticket prices, explore various transport options, and find the best routes for a seamless and cost-effective travel experience.

Company
First ScotRail Service
Train
Average Duration
2h  12m
Estimated price
$40-210
Recommended
Company
BlaBlaCar
Rideshare
Average Duration
2h  43m
Estimated price
$12-18
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 150 km
Duration: 2h 12m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
3h  6m
Estimated price
$18-26
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  12m
Estimated price
$35-60
Company
First ScotRail Service
Train
Average Duration
2h  25m
Estimated price
$40-95

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 20/01Tu 21/01We 22/01Th 23/01Fr 24/01Sa 25/01Su 26/01
Bus $10 $7 $11 $7 $13 $10 $8
Train $27 $19 $24 $18 $26 $22 $19

Traveling From Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Journeying from Aberdeen to Edinburgh offers a shift from the rugged beauty of the North Sea coastline to the vibrant streets steeped in historic charm and cultural richness.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh features diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences and vibes.

Old Town
• Rich in medieval architecture and history.
• Home to iconic attractions like Edinburgh Castle.
New Town
• Known for elegant Georgian architecture.
• Hosts trendy shops and chic cafes.
Leith
• Vibrant waterfront area with a relaxed atmosphere.
• Renowned for its diverse dining options.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Timing your visits to Edinburgh's landmarks can greatly enhance your experience.

Edinburgh Castle
Early mornings or late afternoons offer fewer crowds and stunning views.
Holyrood Palace
Visit during weekdays to enjoy a quieter, more relaxed atmosphere.
Arthur's Seat
Early mornings or off-peak seasons provide serene hiking conditions.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, making it a charming destination year-round. While summer months bring drier conditions and longer days, be prepared for showers during the rest of the year, as the variable weather can influence your daily plans.

Dining Recommendation in Edinburgh

For a truly memorable meal, try the haggis at The Kitchin, where traditional Scottish flavors are elevated with a modern twist and local ingredients shine through. This dining experience contrasts with Aberdeen’s seafood focus, immersing you in a lively atmosphere that celebrates seasonal produce and creative culinary techniques.

Aberdeen - Edinburgh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Aberdeen and Edinburgh, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
+44 344 811 0141
Website
https://www.scotrail.co.uk/

Train from Aberdeen to Haymarket

Average Duration
2h 12m
Estimated price
$40-90
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
https://www.lner.co.uk/

Train from Aberdeen to Haymarket

Average Duration
2h 27m
Estimated price
$95-140
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Aberdeen to Haymarket

Average Duration
2h 26m
Estimated price
$75-210
Website
https://sleeper.scot

Train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Average Duration
2h 53m
Estimated price
$75-100
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Aberdeen Coach Station to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 6m
Estimated price
$16-22
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Aberdeen Bus Station to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$18-26
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://www.blablacar.com

Other from Aberdeenshire to Edinburgh

Average Duration
2h 43m
Estimated price
$12-18

Aberdeen to Edinburgh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips

Traveling between Aberdeen and Edinburgh offers a variety of convenient options to suit your preferences, schedule, and budget. Whether you prioritize affordability, speed, or comfort, you’re sure to find the perfect way to travel without compromising on quality or convenience.

🚗 Enjoy a scenic drive spanning 194.7 km from Aberdeen to Edinburgh in approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes. 💰 Prices for the journey by car range from £28 to £47, providing budget-friendly flexibility for travelers.
Average price
£27 - £47
Useful tips for car travellers
• Plan your fuel stops strategically; Shell and BP stations along the A90 typically offer petrol prices around £1.45 to £1.50 per liter, with one of the most convenient stops being the Shell station in Stonehaven.
• Upon arriving in Edinburgh, be mindful of restricted traffic zones, particularly in the city center; aim to park in designated areas such as the St. James Quarter car park, where daily rates can range from £15 to £25 depending on time spent.
• Use routes with clear navigation apps like Waze or Google Maps to stay updated on traffic conditions; note that the M90 may have occasional roadworks, so allow extra time if needed to avoid delays.
🚄 Experience a smooth and convenient train journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh with direct services departing hourly and operating every day. The First ScotRail Service will take you from Aberdeen station to Haymarket station in approximately 2 hours and 12 minutes. 💷 Ticket prices for the Aberdeen to Edinburgh train range from £32 to £166, offering flexibility for various budgets and travel preferences. Plan your trip ahead to secure the best fare and make the most of your journey from the northeastern coast of Scotland to the nation's capital.
Departure Point
Aberdeen station
Arrival Point
Haymarket station
Useful tips for train travellers
• When traveling from Aberdeen to Edinburgh, you can expect a variety of onboard catering services depending on the operator. For example, LNER offers a range of refreshments including light snacks, sandwiches, and hot meals, available for purchase. They also have a complimentary service in First Class that includes a selection of drinks and snacks.
• On the Aberdeen to Edinburgh route, you typically have the option of Standard Class and First Class seats. LNER provides comfortable Standard Class seating with ample legroom, while First Class seating offers more spacious seats, complimentary Wi-Fi, and access to a quieter coach. It is advisable to book seats in advance to ensure availability.
• The main train operators for the route from Aberdeen to Edinburgh are LNER (London North Eastern Railway) and ScotRail. You can visit their websites for schedules and ticket bookings: LNER - lner.co.uk, ScotRail - scotrail.co.uk For local transport schedules in Edinburgh, check lothianbuses.co.uk
🚌 Hop on a direct Megabus UK service from Aberdeen Coach Station to Edinburgh Bus Station. The journey, running every 30 minutes, promises a seamless ride between these Scottish cities. 🌿 Enjoy the scenic 3-hour trip through the picturesque landscapes of Scotland as you make your way from Aberdeen to Edinburgh on a comfortable bus operated by Megabus UK. 🎟️ Tickets for this convenient bus service range from £14 to £21, offering an affordable and efficient way to travel between two vibrant cities in the UK.
Departure Point
Aberdeen Coach Station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Book your Megabus ticket in advance online at megabus.com to secure the best prices for your trip, as fares can vary significantly depending on your booking time.
• Before boarding at Aberdeen Coach Station, check current departure boards for any last-minute changes in your bus schedule, and make sure to arrive at least 15 minutes early to find your bus easily.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh Bus Station, be prepared for a busy environment; the station connects to various local buses and trams—download the Lothian Buses app at lothianbuses.co.uk to navigate public transport options conveniently after your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Aberdeen to Edinburgh.

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The distance between Aberdeen and Edinburgh is approximately 149.7 km by road. The typical travel time by train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is 2 hours and 19 minutes. If you prefer driving, it takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes to travel from Edinburgh to Aberdeen. Alternatively, the bus journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh usually takes around 2 hours and 59 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is ridesharing, which typically costs between £9-£13. This mode of transportation takes approximately 2 hours and 43 minutes. For a faster option, driving is the best choice, taking around 2 hours and 12 minutes at a cost of £27-£47.
The prices for traveling from Aberdeen to Edinburgh vary depending on the mode of transportation. Taking the train can cost anywhere from £27 to £165, while taking the bus can cost between £14 to £20.
To get from Aberdeen to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can consider using Blablacar's carpooling service for rideshare options. This is a convenient option if you don't have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transport. The driving distance between Aberdeen and Edinburgh is approximately 194.7 km, and it takes about 2 hours and 12 minutes to drive. The prices for carpooling services from Aberdeen to Edinburgh can range from £27 to £47.
The most convenient and efficient way to travel from Aberdeen to Edinburgh without a car is by train. The train journey takes approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes. Tickets for this route can range in price from £27 to £165, depending on factors such as the time of travel and the class of ticket.
Yes, there is a direct link between Aberdeen and Edinburgh. You can take a direct train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh, which departs hourly and takes approximately 2 hours and 19 minutes. There is also a direct bus service that operates daily, departing from Union Square Bus Station in Aberdeen and arriving at West End, Queensferry Street in Edinburgh, with a travel time of around 2 hours and 59 minutes.
There are over 1382 hotels available in Edinburgh, offering a range of options to suit different budgets and preferences. Prices start at £33 per night, making it possible to find affordable accommodation.

Trips from Aberdeen

Trips to Edinburgh