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Edinburgh to Lerwick from $46: 6 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Edinburgh, United Kingdom
to
Lerwick, United Kingdom

How to Get from Edinburgh to Lerwick: 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.

$46 - Bus, ferryBest price
486 kmDistance
3h 2m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Edinburgh to Lerwick 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
Loganair
Plane
Average Duration
3h  38m
Estimated price
$262-670
Recommended
Company
Megabus / NorthLink Ferries
Bus
Drive
Average Duration
18h  37m
Estimated price
$46-92
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 486 km
Duration: 3h 2m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
First ScotRail Service, NorthLink Ferries
Train
Drive
Average Duration
18h 
Estimated price
$73-2530
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  2m
Estimated price
$283-754
Company
various
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  16m
Estimated price
$295-757
Company
Caledonian Sleeper, NorthLink Ferries
Train
Drive
Average Duration
18h  35m
Estimated price
$2531-2532

Compare prices for your selected dates

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Traveling From Edinburgh to Lerwick

Traveling from Edinburgh to Lerwick offers you a striking contrast, with the vibrant city life of Scotland’s capital giving way to Lerwick's serene, coastal charm and rich maritime heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Lerwick

Lerwick’s neighborhoods showcase a blend of local culture and stunning scenery.

Downtown Lerwick
• Bustling shops and cafes along Commercial Street.
• Close to the Shetland Museum and Archives.
Gilsetta
• Picturesque waterfront views and colorful houses.
• Access to nature trails and parks nearby.
Scalloway
• Rich history with the Scalloway Castle nearby.
• Quaint village atmosphere with local eateries.

Best Times To Visit Lerwick's Attractions

Timing your visit to Lerwick's attractions can elevate your experience and enjoyment.

Shetland Museum and Archives
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer visitors.
Lerwick Harbour
Early evening strolls offer stunning sunset views and tranquility.
Fort Charlotte
Weekdays are ideal to explore the fort without large crowds.

Lerwick Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Lerwick experiences a maritime climate, characterized by mild temperatures and frequent rainfall, which can influence your travel plans and outdoor activities. Generally, late spring and summer offer the best weather for exploring, although you should always be prepared for changing conditions.

Dining Recommendation in Lerwick

In Lerwick, don't miss the chance to try the traditional seafood chowder at the Fishing Boat Inn, where fresh, locally sourced catch transforms simple ingredients into warming, flavorful dishes. The cozy, rustic atmosphere here provides a charming contrast to Edinburgh's bustling food scene, allowing you to savor authentic Shetland flavors while overlooking the picturesque harbor.

Edinburgh - Lerwick operators

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

Plane Show flights
Website
loganair.co.uk

Plane from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Lerwick Airport (LSI)

Average Duration
1h 25m
Estimated price
£20-60

Plane from Glasgow (GLA) to Lerwick (LSI)

Average Duration
1h 30m
Estimated price
£51-52

Plane from Glasgow (GLA) via Kirkwall to Lerwick (LSI)

Average Duration
2h 45m
Estimated price
£51-52

Plane from Dundee (DND) to Lerwick (LSI)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
£20-60
Bus
Website
uk.megabus.com

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Aberdeen Coach Station

Average Duration
3h 7m
Estimated price
£3-92
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
flixbus.de

Bus from Edinburgh Bus Station to Aberdeen Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
£4-96
Train
Contact phone
+44 344 811 0141
Website
scotrail.co.uk

Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 20m
Estimated price
£5-14
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
lner.co.uk

Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 34m
Estimated price
£5-17
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
crosscountrytrains.co.uk

Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 31m
Estimated price
£5-10
Other Show other routes
Website
sleeper.scot

Other from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Average Duration
2h 55m
Estimated price
£60-100
Ferry
Contact phone
+44 845 600 0449
Website
northlinkferries.co.uk

Ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick Shetland Esplanade Ferry Terminal

Average Duration
14h 30m
Estimated price
£36-216

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

Traveling between Edinburgh and Lerwick 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 plane travellers
• Book your flight with Loganair early, as their direct service from Edinburgh to Lerwick can fill up quickly due to high demand, particularly during the summer months and festival seasons.
• Upon arriving at Lerwick Airport, expect a small terminal; be sure to allow extra time to collect any checked luggage, as it may take longer than what you are accustomed to at larger airports.
• Taxi fares from Lerwick Airport to the city center are typically around £10-£12; pre-booking a taxi through Lerwick Taxis or Murray’s Taxis can save time, especially if your flight arrives during busy hours.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Edinburgh to Lerwick.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Edinburgh and Lerwick is approximately 486.0 km. The typical travel time by bus and ferry is 18 hours and 28 minutes. If you prefer to fly, it takes around 4 hours and 53 minutes to reach Lerwick from Edinburgh.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Edinburgh to Lerwick is by taking a bus and ferry, with prices ranging from £35 to £74. Although this option takes longer at approximately 18 hours and 28 minutes, it is a more affordable choice for budget-conscious travelers. On the other hand, if time is of the essence, flying is the quickest option, taking only 4 hours and 53 minutes with prices ranging from £164 to £469.
To travel from Edinburgh to Lerwick without a car, the best option is to take a train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen, which takes about 2 hours and 30 minutes. From there, you can catch a ferry from Aberdeen to Lerwick, which takes approximately 12 hours and 36 minutes. The total travel time including transfers is around 18 hours and 6 minutes. The cost of this journey can vary between £51 and £219, depending on the specific options and discounts available.
The flight from Edinburgh to Lerwick typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. The cost of the flight can vary, with prices ranging from £166 to £437.
There are plenty of accommodation options available near Lerwick. With over 44 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something suitable for their needs and budget. Prices for hotels in Lerwick start at £59 per night.

Trips from Edinburgh