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Southampton to Edinburgh from $44: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Southampton, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Southampton 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 by busBest price
579.2 kmDistance
3h 11m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Southampton 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
3h  11m
Estimated price
$100-355
Recommended
Company
megabus M17
Bus
Average Duration
11h  14m
Estimated price
$44-61
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 579.2 km
Duration: 3h 11m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
5h  4m
Estimated price
$90-293
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$90-333
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  44m
Estimated price
$95-345
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
13h  5m
Estimated price
$96-176
Company
various
Plane
Drive
Average Duration
3h  35m
Estimated price
$121-402
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  14m
Estimated price
$130-210
Company
various
Plane
Train
Average Duration
4h  32m
Estimated price
$136-540
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
6h  22m
Estimated price
$238-387
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
8h  15m
Estimated price
$246-783

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $30 $30 $31 $39 $33 $37 $36
Train $143 $126 $116 $106 $121 $121 $140
Fly $129 $133 $127 $163 $233 $199 $236

Traveling From Southampton to Edinburgh

The journey from Southampton to Edinburgh offers a vibrant contrast between the bustling coastal charm of the south and the rich, historic allure of Scotland's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh features diverse neighborhoods, each with its distinct character and charm.

Old Town
• Home to Edinburgh Castle and historic sites.
• Cobblestone streets filled with shops and eateries.
Leith
• Vibrant waterfront with trendy bars and restaurants.
• Offers a more local, authentic experience.
New Town
• Known for Georgian architecture and stylish boutiques.
• Ideal for those seeking a modern atmosphere.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Visiting Edinburgh can be even more enjoyable with strategic timing at popular spots.

Edinburgh Castle
Arrive early in the morning or late in the afternoon for fewer crowds.
Holyrood Palace
Weekdays tend to be quieter; visiting in the late afternoon is ideal.
Arthur's Seat
Early mornings or weekdays provide a peaceful hiking experience.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh enjoys a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and chilly winters, making spring and early autumn the best times for pleasant sightseeing. Weather can be unpredictable, so travelers often find that layers and waterproof gear enhance their comfort while exploring the city's historic and outdoor attractions.

Dining in Edinburgh: A Culinary Experience

Savor the rich flavors of haggis at the renowned Dishoom, where the vibrant atmosphere and use of local ingredients create an unforgettable dining experience that sets it apart from the more traditional fare in Southampton. This Scottish classic, served with neeps and tatties, offers a bold taste of the region's culinary heritage that you won't find back home.

Southampton - Edinburgh operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
britishairways.com

Plane from Southampton (SOU) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$110-470

Plane from Southampton (SOU) to Glasgow (GLA)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$120-650

Plane from London Heathrow (LHR) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$60-350
Website
loganair.co.uk

Plane from Southampton (SOU) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
$110-460

Plane from Southampton (SOU) to Glasgow (GLA)

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$120-650

Plane from Southampton (SOU) to Newcastle (NCL)

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$130-500
Website
klm.com

Plane from Southampton (SOU) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
3h 35m
Estimated price
$210-1300
Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0345 6000 650
Website
southwesternrailway.com

Train from Southampton Central to Woking

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$30-75

Train from Southampton Central to Clapham Junction

Average Duration
1h 11m
Estimated price
$40-100

Train from Southampton Central to London Waterloo

Average Duration
1h 19m
Estimated price
$40-110
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
gwr.com

Train from Southampton Central to Bristol Temple Meads

Average Duration
1h 45m
Estimated price
$45-110
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
lner.co.uk

Train from King's Cross to Edinburgh

Average Duration
4h 22m
Estimated price
$190-280

Train from Newcastle to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
$95-130
Bus Show bus routes
Website
uk.megabus.com

Bus from Southampton New Road to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

Average Duration
9h 40m
Estimated price
$35-50

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
$11-16
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Glasgow to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$9-13

Bus from Bristol to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
$50-75
all-pages.other Show other routes
Website
ryanair.com

Other from Bristol to Edinburgh

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
$35-310
Website
aerlingus.com

Other from London Heathrow to Edinburgh

Average Duration
3h 40m
Estimated price
$60-350

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

Traveling between Southampton 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.

🚗 Embark on a scenic road trip from Southampton to Edinburgh, covering a distance of 685.6 km, showcasing the stunning landscapes of the United Kingdom. 💰 Enjoy the flexibility of budget-friendly travel options ranging from £103 to £166 for the journey by car, providing an affordable and convenient way to explore both cities at your own pace. ⏱️ Spend around 7 hours and 14 minutes behind the wheel, immersing yourself in the rich history and diverse culture as you journey from the south coast to the historic capital of Scotland.
Average price
£101 - £163
🌟 Enjoy the comfort and convenience of South Western Railway services departing from Southampton Central station to kickstart your adventure. Relax and unwind during the approximately 6-hour and 22-minute journey, including transfers, before reaching your destination at Edinburgh station, operated by LNER. 💸 Prices for the train tickets between Southampton and Edinburgh can vary from £188 to £306, offering flexibility for different budgets.
Departure Point
Southampton Central station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary depending on the train operator, but generally, services such as 'LNER' offer a range of catering options. You can expect meals, snacks, and beverages available for purchase or included in First Class tickets. 'CrossCountry' trains, another operator on this route, usually provide a cafe bar with snacks and drinks, but food offerings can be more limited.
• For your journey from Southampton to Edinburgh, the primary seating options include Standard Class and First Class on 'LNER' and 'CrossCountry'. Standard Class seats are comfortable and include access to power outlets, while First Class offers more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and quieter carriages. Make your choice based on your budget and desired comfort.
• The primary operators on this route are 'LNER' (London North Eastern Railway) and 'CrossCountry'. You can find more information on their services at LNER's website and CrossCountry's website. For local transport schedules in Edinburgh, refer to Lothian Buses. Edinburgh Waverley Station's site includes valuable maps and facilities details.
🛫 Experience a swift journey from Southampton to Edinburgh with a direct flight lasting just 1 hour and 25 minutes, offered by British Airways, KLM, and Loganair. 🌍 Cover the distance between these historic cities in just over 3 hours by plane, making travel between Southampton and Edinburgh convenient and efficient. 💸 Prices for flights between Edinburgh and Southampton can range from £79 to £280, providing flexibility for travelers with varying budgets.
Departure Point
Southampton Airport
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Book directly with airlines like British Airways, KLM, or Loganair for better customer service; the quickest direct flight takes only 1h 25m, making it essential to avoid potential delays by opting for the latest departure available.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport, follow the clearly marked signs to baggage claim and the city center transport options; taxis are readily available, with approximate fares to the city center being around £25 to £30, so have cash or a card ready.
• Before your trip, check local transport schedules through the Edinburgh Trams website for the latest service information and consider pre-ordering any in-flight meals through the British Airways dining options to enhance your experience.
🚌 Embark on an adventurous journey from Southampton to Edinburgh by bus with Megabus UK. Despite the lack of a direct route, you'll enjoy a scenic ride through Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station. 🛣️ The total travel time, including transfers, is approximately 11 hours and 14 minutes. 💰 Prices for this bus trip can range from £35 to £48, offering an affordable and convenient way to explore the beautiful cities of Southampton and Edinburgh at your own pace.
Departure Point
Southampton New Road station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Southampton to Edinburgh.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Southampton and Edinburgh is approximately 577.8 km by air and 686.1 km by road. If you prefer to travel by train, it will take you around 6 hours and 20 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Southampton. Alternatively, you can take a flight from Southampton to Glasgow and then a train to Edinburgh, with a total travel time of approximately 3 hours and 57 minutes. Driving from Edinburgh to Southampton takes approximately 7 hours and 14 minutes by car, while the bus journey can take around 11 hours and 18 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Southampton to Edinburgh is by taking a bus, which typically costs between £43 and £66 and takes approximately 11 hours and 18 minutes. On the other hand, the quickest option is to fly, with a flight duration of 3 hours and 6 minutes and a cost ranging from £74 to £266.
When traveling from Southampton to Edinburgh, the prices for a train ticket range from £177 to £283. On the other hand, bus fares from Edinburgh to Southampton can range from £47 to £64.
To get from Southampton to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can consider driving. The distance between the two cities is approximately 685.6 km, and it takes around 7 hours and 14 minutes to drive.
To travel from Southampton to Edinburgh without a car, the best option is to take a train. The journey takes approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes, with ticket prices ranging from £172 to £289. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 6 minutes and costs between £74 and £266. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a bus, which takes longer at 11 hours and 18 minutes, but is a more budget-friendly option with fares ranging from £43 to £66.
There is no direct train or bus link between Southampton and Edinburgh. However, you can reach Edinburgh from Southampton by taking a train, with a journey time of approximately 6 hours and 20 minutes, including transfers. Alternatively, you can opt for a combination of flying and taking a train, which can take around 3 hours and 57 minutes. If you prefer to drive, the distance between the two cities is around 686.1 km, and it typically takes about 7 hours and 14 minutes by car.
The flight between Southampton and Edinburgh typically takes 1 hour and 20 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary, ranging from £77 to £264.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Edinburgh as there are over 1382 hotels available. Prices for hotels start at £33 per night, providing a range of options to suit different budgets.

Trips from Southampton

Trips to Edinburgh