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Dumfries to Edinburgh from $23: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Dumfries, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Dumfries 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.

$23 - DriveBest price
73.3 milesDistance
1h 37m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Dumfries 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
Train
Average Duration
2h  45m
Estimated price
$39-177
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
5h  2m
Estimated price
$34-56
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 73.3 miles
Duration: 1h 37m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  37m
Estimated price
$23-35
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Traveling From Dumfries to Edinburgh

The journey from Dumfries to Edinburgh offers a fascinating contrast between the tranquil charm of Dumfries and the vibrant energy of Scotland's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences for every traveler.

Leith
• Vibrant waterfront with trendy restaurants and bars.
• Rich maritime history reflected in local culture.
Old Town
• Cobblestone streets filled with historic landmarks.
• Home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
New Town
• Elegant Georgian architecture and spacious streets.
• Excellent shopping and dining options await.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle
Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy stunning views.
Royal Mile
Visit during weekdays for a quieter stroll along this historic street.
Arthur's Seat
Go at sunrise for a peaceful hike and breathtaking scenery.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, characterized by cool summers and mild winters, with rain possible at any time of year. Planning your visit around the warmer months of late spring to early autumn can enhance your experience, as this is when the city is most vibrant and outdoor attractions are best enjoyed.

Dining Recommendation in Edinburgh

A visit to Edinburgh calls for trying haggis at the renowned restaurant The Witchery by the Castle, where the ambiance blends history and luxury. Unlike Dumfries' more traditional fare, this dish captures the bold flavors of local ingredients, offering a dining experience that is both atmospheric and distinctively Scottish.

Dumfries - Edinburgh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Dumfries 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 Dumfries to Carlisle

Average Duration
37m
Estimated price
$13-27
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/

Train from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 18m
Estimated price
$45-150
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671
Website
https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/

Train from Carlisle to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 22m
Estimated price
$26-65
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Carlisle to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$21-29

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

Traveling between Dumfries 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 picturesque journey from Dumfries to Edinburgh, spanning 117.5 km of scenic Scottish landscapes. The drive typically takes around 1 hour and 37 minutes, offering a delightful road trip experience. 💰 Explore affordable travel options, with car prices ranging from £18 to £28 for the enjoyable drive to Edinburgh from Dumfries.
Average price
£18 - £27
🚂 Although there is no direct train from Dumfries to Edinburgh, travelers can reach their destination in approximately 2 hours and 45 minutes with a transfer in Carlisle. 💷 Prices for train tickets between Dumfries and Edinburgh can range from £31 to £140, providing passengers with various options based on their budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Dumfries station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• On the train journey from Dumfries to Edinburgh, the primary operator is ScotRail, which offers catering services including light snacks, drinks, and sometimes local food options available for purchase. Note that the food trolley service may not be available on all trains, so it's a good idea to check the specific service you are booked on. You can also find more information about onboard services on their website ScotRail.
• The Dumfries to Edinburgh route typically offers a range of seating options including Standard Class and First Class. Standard Class provides comfortable seating but can be a bit crowded during peak hours. If you’re looking for a quieter and more spacious environment, consider upgrading to First Class, where you benefit from more space, complimentary refreshments, and a generally enhanced travel experience.
• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Waverley Station, one of the largest train stations in the UK, you will find luggage storage facilities operated by Excess Baggage Company, which allows you to leave your bags while you explore the city. There are also restrooms available on site; just follow the signage once inside the station. To navigate from the station to the city center, the quickest option is to take the Lothian Bus number 3 or number 5 towards the city, or you can hop on the Edinburgh Trams which stop just outside the station. For tram services, allow for about a 25-minute travel time to key locations in the city center.
🚌 Route 1: The journey from Dumfries to Edinburgh takes about 3 hours and 46 minutes covering a distance of 190 km with a transfer in Glasgow. The first step involves a bus from Dumfries to Glasgow, departing from Academy Street and arriving at Buchanan Bus Station with Stagecoach West Scotland. 🚌 Route 2: This route from Dumfries to Edinburgh lasts approximately 4 hours and 42 minutes over 184 km, also requiring a transfer. The initial leg is a bus from Dumfries to Annan, departing from DG1 and arriving at Graham Arms with Stagecoach Cumbria before continuing on to Edinburgh with Borders Buses from Graham Arms Hotel to South Bridge. 🚌 Route 3: The shortest option to travel from Dumfries to Edinburgh takes 2 hours and 58 minutes covering a distance of 128 km. This direct journey involves a bus departing from Academy Street in Dumfries and arriving at Usher Hall in Edinburgh operated by Houstons Coaches.
Useful tips for bus travellers
• When planning your trip from Dumfries to Edinburgh, consider taking Route 3 with Houstons Coaches for the fastest journey, which takes just under 3 hours and goes directly from Academy Street to Usher Hall (Stop XA). More details can be found at houstonscoaches.co.uk
• If you opt for Route 1, remember to check Stagecoach West Scotland’s bus schedules to ensure timely transfers at Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow, as the bus from Dumfries takes about 2 hours 9 minutes and the subsequent journey to Edinburgh takes another 1 hour 23 minutes. Visit stagecoachbus.com for the latest info.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh's Usher Hall, familiarize yourself with the surrounding area as it is a central location near many attractions; be sure to download a map of the city or use local transport services via Lothian Buses to navigate easily towards your destination. You can check bus routes and schedules at lothianbuses.co.uk

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Dumfries to Edinburgh.

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The distance between Dumfries and Edinburgh is 101.4 km by road. By train, it takes approximately 2 hours and 52 minutes to travel from Dumfries to Edinburgh. If you choose to take a bus and then a train, the travel time is around 2 hours and 34 minutes. Alternatively, driving by car takes about 1 hour and 37 minutes to reach Dumfries from Edinburgh.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Dumfries to Edinburgh is driving. It takes approximately 1 hour and 37 minutes and costs approximately £18-£27.
The prices of trains between Dumfries and Edinburgh range from £44 to £121.
To travel from Dumfries to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can drive by car. The driving distance between the two cities is approximately 117.5 km, and it takes around 1 hour and 37 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Dumfries by car. The cost of fuel for this journey can vary from £18 to £27, depending on the fuel efficiency of the vehicle and current fuel prices.
To travel from Dumfries to Edinburgh without a car, the best option is to take a combination of bus and train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 34 minutes and the cost ranges from £27 to £66.
Yes, there is a direct link between Dumfries and Edinburgh by bus. Houstons Minicoaches operates a direct bus service from Buccleuch Street in Dumfries to Home Street in Edinburgh. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 39 minutes.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Edinburgh. With over 1382 hotels to choose from, you can find something suitable for every budget and preference. Prices start at £33, so you can find affordable options as well.

Trips from Dumfries

Trips to Edinburgh