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Edinburgh to Cairnryan from $24: 4 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
to
Cairnryan, United Kingdom

How to Get from Edinburgh to Cairnryan: 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.

$24 by busBest price
198 kmDistance
2h 21m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Edinburgh to Cairnryan 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
Bus
Average Duration
4h  18m
Estimated price
$30-53
Recommended
Company
various
Bus
Average Duration
4h  43m
Estimated price
$24-36
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 198 km
Duration: 2h 21m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  21m
Estimated price
$30-45
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
4h  41m
Estimated price
$52-101

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Train $41 $41 $41 $42 $42 $42 $42

Traveling From Edinburgh to Cairnryan

Your journey from Edinburgh, with its bustling city life and rich history, to Cairnryan, a tranquil coastal village surrounded by stunning natural beauty, offers a fascinating contrast of experiences.

Best Neighbourhoods in Cairnryan

Cairnryan offers charming neighborhoods that highlight its coastal appeal and community spirit.

Cairnryan Village
• Scenic views of Loch Ryan
• Close-knit community atmosphere
Drumlanrig Estate
• Beautiful gardens and parkland
• Rich history and culture
Sandy Brae
• Easy access to local shops
• Peaceful walking paths along the coast

Best Times To Visit Cairnryan's Attractions

Maximize your experience in Cairnryan by visiting at the right times.

Loch Ryan
Early mornings offer serene views and fewer visitors, ideal for reflection.
Cairnryan Beach
Late afternoons attract sunset lovers, creating a picturesque atmosphere.
Historic Sites
Weekdays are best for exploring without the weekend crowds.

Cairnryan Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Cairnryan experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making it a pleasant destination year-round. While late spring and early autumn provide the best conditions for outdoor activities, be prepared for occasional rain, which can add a refreshing charm to your travels.

Dining Recommendation in Cairnryan

The fresh seafood at The Harbour Cafe is a must-try, showcasing local catches that bring a taste of the sea to your plate. This dining experience stands apart from Edinburgh's more urban cuisine, offering a relaxed atmosphere where you can savor the flavors of Ayrshire's coastal bounty.

Edinburgh - Cairnryan operators

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

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

Train from Edinburgh to Glasgow Queen Street

Average Duration
51m
Estimated price
30-30

Train from Glasgow Central to Ayr

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
6-8

Train from Ayr to Stranraer

Average Duration
1h 21m
Estimated price
3-4
Bus
Contact phone
+44 28 9066 6630
Website
https://www.translink.co.uk/

Bus from Glasgow Buchanan to Cairnryan Stena Terminal

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
4-7
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 23m
Estimated price
5-5
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Glasgow

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
5-5

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

Traveling between Edinburgh and Cairnryan 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 journey spanning 123 miles from Edinburgh to Cairnryan by car, winding through the captivating landscapes of Scotland. Feel the thrill of the open road and the anticipation of new adventures ahead. 💰 Experience budget-friendly options with prices to travel from Edinburgh to Cairnryan by car ranging from £32 to £47. Enjoy the flexibility and freedom that comes with exploring at your own pace and on your own terms. 🌊 Arrive in Cairnryan after approximately 2 hours and 21 minutes of driving, ready to embrace the coastal charm of this picturesque port town. Take in the fresh sea breeze and immerse yourself in the tranquility of the Scottish coast.
Average price
£31 - £47
🚆 Travelling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan by train is a scenic journey that takes around 4 hours and 41 minutes. Sit back, relax, and enjoy the beautiful landscapes passing by outside your window. 💰 The prices for a train ticket between Edinburgh and Cairnryan can vary, with fares typically ranging from £54 to £106.
🚌 To travel from Edinburgh to Cairnryan by bus, you will first depart from Edinburgh Bus Station. The journey includes transfers and takes approximately 4 hours and 43 minutes via Glasgow Buchanan. 🚌 The prices for a bus ticket between Cairnryan and Edinburgh can vary from £25 to £38, offering an affordable and efficient way to explore the beautiful sights along the way.
Departure Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Arrival Point
Cairnryan Stena Terminal station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Edinburgh to Cairnryan.

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The distance between Edinburgh and Cairnryan is approximately 159.3 km by road. The typical travel times vary depending on the mode of transportation. By train, it takes approximately 6 hours and 26 minutes to reach Cairnryan from Edinburgh. If you prefer a combination of train and bus, the journey takes around 4 hours and 9 minutes. The fastest option is taking a car, which takes approximately 2 hours and 21 minutes. Another option is taking a bus, which typically takes around 4 hours and 29 minutes.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Edinburgh to Cairnryan is to take a train and bus via Ayr. This option is relatively cheaper with fares ranging from £24 to £35 and takes around 5 hours and 19 minutes. However, if time is a priority, driving is the quickest option, taking approximately 2 hours and 21 minutes, but it is slightly more expensive with costs ranging from £31 to £47.
The price of a train ticket from Edinburgh to Cairnryan can range from £35 to £102, depending on the class and availability. On the other hand, the cost of a bus ticket from Cairnryan to Edinburgh can range from £27 to £37, depending on the bus company and any discounts available.
To travel from Edinburgh to Cairnryan without using public transportation, you can drive your own car or rent one. The distance between the two cities is approximately 197.9 km, and it takes around 2 hours and 21 minutes to drive. The cost of renting a car for this journey can range from £31 to £47.
To travel from Edinburgh to Cairnryan without a car, the best option is to take a train and bus combination. The journey takes approximately 4 hours and 9 minutes and tickets range from £28 to £47.
Yes, there is a direct transportation link between Edinburgh and Cairnryan. While there is no direct bus service, you can take a train from Edinburgh to Cairnryan, which takes approximately 6 hours and 26 minutes. Alternatively, you can drive by car, which takes around 2 hours and 21 minutes.
There are plenty of accommodation options near Cairnryan. With over 134 hotels available, visitors can easily find a place to stay that suits their preferences and budget. Prices for hotels in Cairnryan start at £47 per night.

Trips from Edinburgh