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Belfast to Edinburgh from $44: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Belfast, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Belfast 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.

$44 - Bus and Ferry, BusBest price
230.1 kmDistance
1h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Belfast 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
various
Plane
Average Duration
1h  37m
Estimated price
$62-208
Recommended
Company
Translink UK, Megabus UK
Bus
Bus
Average Duration
7h  34m
Estimated price
$44-60
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 230.1 km
Duration: 1h 37m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Drive
Average Duration
4h  53m
Estimated price
$0-0
Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  11m
Estimated price
$47-221
Company
Translink UK, First ScotRail Service
Bus
Train
Average Duration
7h  8m
Estimated price
$52-142
Company
various
Drive
Bus
Train
Average Duration
7h  52m
Estimated price
$52-142

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $62 $63 $63 $62 $63 $63 $63
Fly $37 $35 $36 $35 $39 $35 $36
Browse car rentalsExplore flights

Traveling From Belfast to Edinburgh

The journey from Belfast to Edinburgh offers a vibrant contrast between Belfast's rich industrial heritage and lively street art scene and Edinburgh's stunning historic architecture and enchanting cobblestone streets.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's neighborhoods each offer distinctive charm and experiences for visitors.

Old Town
• Home to Edinburgh Castle and the Royal Mile.
• Rich history with narrow alleys and hidden courtyards.
New Town
• Features elegant Georgian architecture and wide streets.
• Bustling with shops, cafes, and cultural spots.
Stockbridge
• Quaint village vibe with local boutiques and cafes.
• Scenic walks along the Water of Leith.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Planning your visit around peak times can greatly enhance your experience in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds and stunning views.
Holyrood Palace
Midweek visits are ideal; enjoy quieter explorations of the royal residence.
Arthur’s Seat
Early mornings provide serene hiking experiences and breathtaking sunrise vistas.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by mild summers and cool winters, with rainfall spread throughout the year. For the best travel experience, visiting between late spring and early autumn allows you to enjoy pleasant weather while avoiding the peak tourist crowds.

Dining in Edinburgh: A Culinary Adventure

Try the haggis at The Kitchin, where traditional Scottish flavors meet innovative presentation, offering an experience distinctly different from Belfast's more pub-centric dining scene. The restaurant's emphasis on seasonal local ingredients and its warm, inviting atmosphere create a memorable culinary journey that truly showcases Scotland's rich gastronomic heritage.

Belfast - Edinburgh operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
aerlingus.com

Plane from Belfast City (BHD) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$62-208
Website
easyjet.com

Plane from Belfast (Aldergrove) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$30-190
Website
ryanair.com

Plane from Belfast (Aldergrove) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
1h 37m
Estimated price
$24-250
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+44 28 9066 6630
Website
translink.co.uk

Bus from Belfast Europa Bus Centre to Glasgow Buchanan

Average Duration
6h
Estimated price
$35-50

Bus from Cairnryan Stena Terminal to Glasgow Buchanan

Average Duration
2h 5m
Estimated price
$23-35
Website
uk.megabus.com

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$11-16
Train
Contact phone
+44 344 811 0141
Website
scotrail.co.uk

Train from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$17-40
Website
sleeper.scot

Train from Glasgow Queen Street Low Level to Edinburgh

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$75-95
Ferry
Contact phone
+44 844 770 7070
Website
stenaline.co.uk

Ferry from Belfast to Cairnryan

Average Duration
2h 22m
Estimated price
0-0

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

Traveling between Belfast 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.

Useful tips for train travellers
• On your train journey from Belfast to Edinburgh, look out for catering services provided by the operator, which is typically Avanti West Coast or Irish Rail. They offer a selection of light snacks and beverages for purchase on board. If traveling First Class, you'll enjoy complimentary meals and drinks, including a selection of wines and premium snacks, enhancing your travel experience.
• The trains operating on this route typically offer a range of seating options, including Standard Class (Economy), First Class, and Business Class. Standard Class is comfortable and affordable, while First Class provides larger seats with more legroom, complimentary food and drink, and quieter carriages, making it ideal for a more luxurious experience. Book early to secure the seating option of your choice.
• The primary operators for this route are Avanti West Coast and Irish Rail. You can visit their websites for schedule details and to book tickets: Avanti West Coast and Irish Rail. Additionally, check transport schedules for onward connections in Edinburgh via the Lothian Buses website, as well as useful station information on the Edinburgh Waverley page.
🛫 Experience a fast and convenient journey from Belfast to Edinburgh by taking a direct flight from Belfast City Airport. With a flight duration of just 55 minutes, you'll reach your destination in no time. 🎫 Aer Lingus provides flights between Belfast City Airport and Edinburgh Airport, offering a seamless travel option for those looking to explore Scotland's capital city. The total flying time from Belfast to Edinburgh is approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes. 💸 Enjoy flexible pricing options for flights between Edinburgh and Belfast, with ticket costs ranging from £49 to £164.
Departure Point
Belfast City Airport
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider booking a morning flight with Aer Lingus from Belfast City Airport (BHD) to Edinburgh (EDI) for potentially lower fares and less air traffic, which can ensure a smoother flight experience.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport, be prepared for automated passport control, as this can expedite your entry; just have your passport ready and follow the signs to the ePassport gates if you are a UK or EU citizen.
• Taxi fares from Edinburgh Airport to the city center typically range from £20 to £30, making it a convenient option; alternatively, consider checking out Lothian Buses (lothianbuses.com) for affordable and frequent shuttle services into the city.
🚌 The bus journey from Belfast to Edinburgh involves transferring at Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station, taking approximately 7 hours and 34 minutes in total. 🌄 Enjoy scenic views as you travel from Belfast Europa Bus Centre to the final destination of Edinburgh Bus Station, operated by Translink UK and Megabus UK. 💸 Prices for the bus ticket between Belfast and Edinburgh range from £35 to £47, offering an affordable and convenient travel option for exploring the UK.
Departure Point
Belfast Europa Bus Centre station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Before embarking on your bus journey, double-check your departure location from Belfast; you'll start from the Belfast Europa Bus Centre at stand 6 for Hannon Coach or Belfast Port for National Express services to Glasgow.
• When booking your bus tickets, consider using megabus.com for competitive pricing and promotions, especially for the Edinburgh leg of your trip, and ensure you check for real-time schedules as they can vary.
• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Bus Station, pay attention to the signage directing you to the various city transport options such as buses and trams; the station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy to access restaurants, shopping, and attractions nearby, such as the popular St. James Quarter and Princes Street.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Belfast to Edinburgh.

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The distance between Belfast and Edinburgh is approximately 230.1 km. There are several modes of transportation available for traveling between the two cities. The fastest option is to take a flight, which takes around 2 hours and 39 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a combination of flying to Glasgow and then a train to Edinburgh, which takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. The slowest option is to take a bus, which takes around 7 hours and 28 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation options for traveling from Belfast to Edinburgh are by bus and ferry and by flying. Taking the bus and ferry is a cheaper option, with prices ranging from £35-£55 and a travel time of approximately 7 hours and 28 minutes. However, if time is a priority, flying is the quickest option, with a travel time of 2 hours and 39 minutes and prices ranging from £39-£149.
When traveling from Belfast to Edinburgh, the prices for a bus ticket can range from £38 to £51.
To travel from Belfast to Edinburgh without a car, you can take a combination of bus, ferry, and train. The journey takes approximately 7 hours and 5 minutes and can cost between £35 to £110. You can start by taking a bus from Belfast to Cairnryan, then board a ferry to Larne, and finally, take a train from Larne to Edinburgh.
No, there is no direct link between Belfast and Edinburgh by bus. However, there are bus services that depart from Belfast Europa Bus Centre and arrive at Princes Street via Buchanan Bus Station, with a journey time of approximately 7 hours and 28 minutes including transfers. The bus services are operated by Translink UK and Scottish Citylink.
The flight between Belfast and Edinburgh typically takes around 55 minutes. The price of a flight between the two cities usually ranges from £39 to £144, depending on factors such as the airline, time of booking, and availability.
There are several accommodation options available near Edinburgh. There are over 1382 hotels to choose from, offering a range of prices and amenities. Prices start at £33, making it possible to find a suitable option for various budgets.

Trips from Belfast

Trips to Edinburgh