Edinburgh to Liverpool from $41: 7 ways by bus, train, flight or car

• While driving from Edinburgh to Liverpool, refuel at service stations like the Welcome Break on the M6, where fuel prices are currently around £1.60 per liter; plan your stops as these can vary significantly in rural areas.

• Expect heavy traffic around the M62 and M6 junctions during peak hours; consider using Waze (waze.com) for real-time traffic updates and alternative routes to avoid delays.

• Upon arrival in Liverpool, familiarize yourself with the city’s restricted traffic zones (like the city centre's ‘Liverpool One’ area); parking rates typically range from £8 to £15 per day in central car parks, so check options like Q-Park or secure a pre-booked spot online to save on costs.

On your train from Edinburgh to Liverpool, you will find onboard catering services provided by Avanti West Coast. They offer a range of complimentary snacks and beverages in First Class, including tea, coffee, and soft drinks, as well as light meals available for purchase. Economy class offers a cafe bar where you can buy snacks, light meals, and drinks on board, making it easy to grab something during your journey.

The train services on this route primarily operated by Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express. Avanti West Coast offers Standard Class and First Class seating, with the latter featuring larger seats and quiet zones. TransPennine Express provides Standard Class and First Class seating, with additional amenities such as free Wi-Fi and dining options available at your seat in First Class. You can check schedules and book tickets on their websites: Avanti West Coast and TransPennine Express.

Upon arrival at Liverpool Lime Street Station, you'll find it conveniently located in the city center. If you need to store your luggage, there is a left luggage service available, allowing you to explore without the burden of your bags. Additionally, restrooms are available in the station, but unfortunately, there are no shower facilities. To reach the city center quickly, take the Merseyrail train from Lime Street to Liverpool Central, which is just one stop and takes about 4 minutes. Alternatively, bus routes such as the 10 or 26 provide direct access to multiple city center destinations.

• Be prepared for a stopover when flying from Edinburgh to Liverpool, as the quickest option includes a layover; check the duration and airport of the layover, as you may need to factor in additional time for connection.

• After landing at Liverpool Airport, navigate to the arrivals area by following the clear signs; expect to find a convenient shuttle service to the city center, which takes approximately 30 minutes, or consider using ride-sharing apps for quicker access.

• Taxi fares from Liverpool Airport to the city center typically range from £20 to £30, and you can pre-order one or find a taxi at the dedicated taxi ranks outside the terminal; check local transport schedules at Merseytravel for additional options.

• Consider bringing snacks and water for your journey; the FlixBus does not have a food service on board, and the 8h 35m trip may leave you hungry and thirsty before arrival.

• Before your trip, check the FlixBus schedule and arrive at Edinburgh Bus Station early, as the service operates only once daily and punctuality is crucial for a smooth journey.

• Upon arriving at Liverpool Bus Station, head to the information desk if you need help navigating the area; the station is well-connected to local public transport like buses and trains, making it easy to continue your journey.