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Exeter to Edinburgh from $63: 11 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Exeter, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Exeter 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.

$63 by busBest price
586.6 kmDistance
3h 24m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Exeter 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
Drive
Plane
Average Duration
3h  57m
Estimated price
$77-288
Recommended
Company
FlixBus
Bus
Average Duration
12h  50m
Estimated price
$63-93
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 586.6 km
Duration: 3h 24m

See more options

Company
various
Plane
Average Duration
3h  24m
Estimated price
$79-273
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  16m
Estimated price
$89-313
Company
various
Train
Plane
Average Duration
4h  45m
Estimated price
$105-330
Company
various
Train
Train
Train
Average Duration
5h  42m
Estimated price
$125-488
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
7h  27m
Estimated price
$140-210
Company
various
Train
Train
Plane
Average Duration
6h  13m
Estimated price
$163-487
Company
various
Train
Train
Train
Average Duration
10h  50m
Estimated price
$184-386
Company
various
Train
Average Duration
7h  35m
Estimated price
$230-635
Company
CrossCountry
Train
Average Duration
7h  39m
Estimated price
$250-850

Traveling From Exeter to Edinburgh

The journey from Exeter to Edinburgh takes you from the tranquil charm of Devon’s countryside to Scotland’s vibrant capital, where history and culture intertwine in an unforgettable landscape.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh boasts diverse neighborhoods, each offering a distinct character and charm.

Old Town
• Rich in medieval architecture and history.
• Home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
New Town
• Elegant Georgian buildings and wide streets.
• Fantastic shopping and dining options.
Leith
• A vibrant waterfront with trendy eateries.
• Great views and picturesque canals.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Timing your visits can elevate your Edinburgh experience significantly.

Edinburgh Castle
Weekday mornings offer a quieter atmosphere to explore the castle.
Palace of Holyroodhouse
Visit in the late afternoon for fewer tourists and stunning lighting.
Arthur's Seat
Early mornings are ideal for serene hikes and breathtaking views.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, with cool summers and mild winters, making it a year-round destination for travelers. Late spring and early autumn tend to offer the best weather, but you’ll find that the city's charm shines through regardless of the forecast.

Dining Recommendation in Edinburgh

Sampling haggis at The Witchery by the Castle gives you a taste of traditional Scottish cuisine, showcasing rich local flavors that contrast sharply with Exeter's Devonshire cream and seafood dishes. The atmospheric setting and use of locally sourced ingredients create a memorable dining experience that reflects Edinburgh's unique cultural heritage.

Exeter - Edinburgh operators

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

Train Show train routes
Contact phone
0344 736 9123
Website
https://www.crosscountrytrains.co.uk/

Train from Exeter St Davids to Bristol Temple Meads

Average Duration
57m
Estimated price
50-130

Train from Exeter St Davids to Edinburgh

Average Duration
7h 39m
Estimated price
250-850

Train from Exeter St Davids to Birmingham New Street

Average Duration
2h 28m
Estimated price
95-270
Contact phone
+44 3457 000 125
Website
https://www.gwr.com/

Train from Exeter St Davids to Bristol Temple Meads

Average Duration
1h 28m
Estimated price
45-100
Contact phone
0345 6000 650
Website
https://www.southwesternrailway.com/

Train from Exeter Central to Salisbury

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
45-120

Train from Salisbury to Southampton Airport Parkway

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
16-40
Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253
Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/

Train from Wolverhampton to Edinburgh

Average Duration
3h 47m
Estimated price
130-310
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
https://www.lner.co.uk/

Train from Newcastle to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 24m
Estimated price
95-130
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671
Website
https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/

Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Edinburgh

Average Duration
3h 16m
Estimated price
45-120
Contact phone
03333 211 202
Website
https://tfw.wales

Train from Cardiff Central to Manchester Piccadilly

Average Duration
3h 22m
Estimated price
70-120
Plane Show flights
Website
https://www.loganair.co.uk/

Plane from Exeter to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 32m
Estimated price
100-420

Plane from Cardiff (CWL) to Edinburgh (EDI)

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
130-440
Website
https://www.easyjet.com

Plane from Bristol to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 15m
Estimated price
40-210
Website
https://www.ryanair.com

Plane from Bristol to Edinburgh

Average Duration
3h 30m
Estimated price
35-310
Bus Show bus routes
Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300
Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Exeter to Bristol

Average Duration
1h 50m
Estimated price
13-18

Bus from Bristol to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
10h
Estimated price
50-75

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

Traveling between Exeter 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 Exeter to Edinburgh, spanning over 700 km of breathtaking landscapes and charming towns. The journey promises around 7 and a half hours of driving through the heart of the UK. 💰 Prices to travel from Exeter to Edinburgh by car typically range from £111 to £166, offering budget-friendly options for those seeking a cost-effective adventure across the country.
Average price
£109 - £163
🚆 Travelling by train from Exeter to Edinburgh is a convenient and scenic journey. The direct service operated by CrossCountry offers departures every three hours and takes approximately 7 hours and 39 minutes. 💷 Ticket prices for the Exeter to Edinburgh train can vary, ranging from £182 to £502. Whether you're planning a leisurely trip or a business journey, the train offers a comfortable and efficient way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the UK.
Departure Point
Exeter St Davids station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for the journey from Exeter to Edinburgh are typically provided by Great Western Railway (GWR) and LNER. GWR offers a selection of catering services including a complimentary snack and drinks in First Class, while Economy passengers can purchase food and beverages from the onboard café service. LNER also offers a range of food options in First Class and an at-seat service, while their Standard Class includes a food trolley service with a variety of light snacks and drinks.
• For seating options, Great Western Railway provides First Class, which offers more spacious seating, complimentary refreshments, and quieter environments. Their Standard Class features comfortable seating with sufficient legroom. LNER also provides First Class with lounge access and at-seat dining, and Standard Class is well-equipped with power outlets and luggage storage. Be sure to choose First Class if you prefer a more premium travel experience.
• There are multiple operators for this route including Great Western Railway (GWR) and LNER. Their websites are: GWR - ">">gwr.com and LNER - ">">lner.co.uk For local transport in Edinburgh, visit Lothian Buses for bus routes and Edinburgh Trams for tram schedules. Upon arrival in Edinburgh, Waverley Station has a left luggage service, restrooms, and shower facilities available for travelers.
🛫 Experience a convenient and quick journey from Exeter to Edinburgh by catching a direct flight from Cardiff Airport. With Loganair as the airline provider, you can reach your destination in just 1 hour and 15 minutes. ✈️ Enjoy a seamless transition as you travel from the South West to Scotland in approximately 3 hours and 24 minutes by plane. 💸 Flight prices between Edinburgh and Exeter can range from £62 to £216, providing you with a variety of options to suit your budget and travel preferences.
Departure Point
Cardiff Airport
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Airport
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Consider checking in online and downloading your boarding pass before arriving at Exeter Airport, as this small step can save you valuable time, especially since Loganair flights are often busier on weekends and during holidays.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh Airport, follow the signs to the ‘Airport Bus’ and ‘Tram’ directly for a seamless transition into the city center, as these services run frequently, with the tram taking approximately 30 minutes to reach Princes Street.
• Expect taxi fares from Edinburgh Airport to the city center to be around £25-£30, so consider using the Edinburgh Airport tram or bus, which can be a more cost-effective option for solo travelers or couples.
🚌 Starting from Exeter station, travelers can board a FlixBus service to Edinburgh with a layover in Bristol. The journey, with transfers, spans approximately 12 hours and 50 minutes. 🗺️ Passengers will enjoy scenic views as the bus traverses from Exeter to Edinburgh via Bristol. 💰 Ticket prices for the Exeter to Edinburgh bus range between £50 to £73, making it a cost-effective and convenient option for those looking to explore the journey by road.
Departure Point
Exeter station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Exeter to Edinburgh.

Or choose the category:
The distance between Exeter and Edinburgh is approximately 585.8 km by road and 710.4 km by car. The most efficient way to travel from Exeter to Edinburgh is by plane, which takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a train, which takes about 7 hours and 41 minutes. Other options include taking a combination of train and flight, which takes around 4 hours and 27 minutes, or driving, which takes approximately 7 hours and 27 minutes.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Exeter to Edinburgh is by taking a bus, which costs £47-£71. However, this option also takes the longest, with a travel time of 12 hours and 55 minutes. If you're looking for a faster option, flying is the most time-efficient way to travel, taking only 3 hours and 24 minutes. The cost of a flight from Exeter to Edinburgh ranges from £59-£228.
The prices for a train journey from Exeter to Edinburgh vary from £188 to £667, depending on factors such as travel class and time of booking. On the other hand, the prices for a bus journey from Edinburgh to Exeter range from £49 to £68.
To get from Exeter to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 709.7 km. The journey typically takes around 7 hours and 27 minutes, depending on traffic conditions. The cost of this option varies, ranging from £110 to £165 for fuel and other expenses.
The best way to travel from Exeter to Edinburgh without a car is by train. This option takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes and costs between £188 and £667. Another option is to fly, which takes around 3 hours and 24 minutes and costs between £59 and £228. If you prefer a more affordable option, you can take a bus, which takes approximately 12 hours and 55 minutes and costs between £47 and £71.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Exeter and Edinburgh. The train journey takes approximately 7 hours and 41 minutes, with services operating every day. However, there is no direct bus connection between the two cities, and bus travel would involve transfers and take around 12 hours and 55 minutes.
The flight between Exeter and Edinburgh typically takes around 1 hour and 25 minutes. The prices for this flight can vary between £62 and £222.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Edinburgh with over 1382 hotels to choose from. Prices for hotels in the area start at £33 per night.

Trips to Edinburgh