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Helensburgh to Edinburgh from $15: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Helensburgh, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Helensburgh 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.

$15 - Train, BusBest price
96.56 kmDistance
1h 28m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Helensburgh 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
First ScotRail Service
Train
Average Duration
2h  3m
Estimated price
$20-30
Recommended
Company
various
Train
Bus
Average Duration
2h  22m
Estimated price
$15-21
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 96.56 km
Duration: 1h 28m

See more options

Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
1h  28m
Estimated price
$23-35
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Traveling From Helensburgh to Edinburgh

The journey from Helensburgh to Edinburgh offers you a shift from the tranquil shores of the Clyde to the vibrant hustle and historical depth of Scotland's capital.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with its own charm and character.

Old Town
• Rich in history with medieval architecture.
• Home to the iconic Edinburgh Castle.
Leith
• Vibrant waterfront with trendy bars and restaurants.
• Offers a unique blend of culture and arts.
New Town
• Recognized for stunning Georgian architecture.
• Great shopping and dining experiences await you.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Maximize your Edinburgh experience by timing your visits just right.

Edinburgh Castle
Visit early in the morning to enjoy fewer crowds and cooler temperatures.
Royal Mile
Explore during weekdays to avoid busy tourist traffic and enjoy local shops.
Arthur's Seat
Aim for early evenings for stunning sunsets and quieter hiking trails.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate with mild summers and cool winters, making spring and early autumn the most pleasant times to visit. Be prepared for unpredictable weather, as it can influence your exploration—sunny skies one moment and rain the next, so layering clothing is wise.

Dining in Edinburgh: A Culinary Adventure

At The Witchery by the Castle, indulge in their rich, aromatic haggis, neeps, and tatties, a dish that beautifully contrasts with the seaside staples of Helensburgh. The opulent atmosphere, combined with a focus on locally sourced ingredients and an innovative menu, creates a dining experience that embodies Edinburgh’s vibrant culinary scene.

Helensburgh - Edinburgh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Helensburgh 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 Helensburgh Central to Edinburgh

Average Duration
2h 3m
Estimated price
$20-30

Train from Helensburgh Central to Glasgow Queen Street Low Level

Average Duration
41m
Estimated price
$7-11
Bus
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

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
https://www.flixbus.co.uk

Bus from Glasgow to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
1h 10m
Estimated price
$7-10

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

Traveling between Helensburgh 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.

🚗 Discover the scenic journey from Helensburgh to Edinburgh, covering a distance of 114.3 km in just under 1.5 hours. 💷 Prices for the car trip from Helensburgh to Edinburgh range between £18 to £28, offering a cost-effective and convenient mode of transportation. 🏰 Arrive in Edinburgh after a pleasant drive, ready to explore the charming streets, iconic landmarks, and rich cultural heritage of the Scottish capital. Your road trip promises a seamless and enjoyable travel experience through the beautiful landscapes of Scotland.
Average price
£18 - £27
🚂 The journey from Helensburgh to Edinburgh by train takes approximately 2 hours and 3 minutes. 🌄 With a direct train departing from Helensburgh Central and arriving at Edinburgh, travelers can enjoy a scenic route spanning 113 kilometers. There are different routes available, with transfers in Glasgow or Falkirk, offering varying journey durations. 📞 For more information and booking inquiries, passengers can contact ScotRail at 011 44 344 811 0141 or visit http://www.scotrail.co.uk/. Prices for the train tickets between Helensburgh and Edinburgh typically range from £16 to £24, making it an affordable and efficient way to explore these picturesque destinations in the United Kingdom.
Departure Point
Helensburgh Central station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services vary by operator, but on the West Coast Mainline service managed by Avanti West Coast, you will find an onboard café offering a range of snacks, sandwiches, and drinks. There is also a First Class service that provides complimentary refreshments, including meals depending on the time of day. Make sure to check the menu upon boarding for specials or dietary options.
• The West Coast Mainline service features two main seating options: First Class and Standard Class. First Class offers more spacious seating with additional legroom, complimentary services, and quieter compartments, while Standard Class provides comfortable seating suitable for a shorter journey. Choose First Class if you're looking for a more premium experience during this 1.5 to 2-hour trip.
• Multiple operators serve the Helensburgh to Edinburgh route, primarily Avanti West Coast and ScotRail. For schedules, ticket booking, and other services, visit their websites: Avanti West Coast (avantiwestcoast.co.uk) and ScotRail (scotrail.co.uk). You'll find additional information on train times and possible connections.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh Waverley Station, note that you can leave luggage at the station's Left Luggage facility, located in the concourse—ideal if you want to explore the city without your bags. The station also has clean restroom facilities, although showers are not available.
• The fastest way to get from Waverley Station to the city center is by walking; it’s just a short 10-minute stroll. Alternatively, consider taking tram line 1 towards York Place, which stops right outside the station and will take you into the city center quickly.
🚌 The journey from Helensburgh to Edinburgh by bus takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes, covering a distance of around 114-116 km with a transfer involved. 🚌 The first step of the trip is a bus towards Glasgow, lasting about 1 hour and 26 to 32 minutes, depending on the route taken. The buses depart from Helensburgh Railway Station and arrive at either Hielenman's Umbrella or Trongate, operated by First Glasgow. 🚌 The final leg of the journey is a bus towards Edinburgh, with a travel time of about 1 hour and 24 minutes. The megabus 900 service departs from Glasgow's Buchanan Bus Station and arrives at the final destination in Edinburgh.

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Helensburgh to Edinburgh.

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The distance between Helensburgh and Edinburgh is approximately 96.6 km or 114.9 km by car. By train, it takes around 2 hours and 4 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Helensburgh. If you prefer driving, the journey from Edinburgh to Helensburgh takes about 1 hour and 28 minutes. Taking a bus, the travel time is around 3 hours and 8 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Helensburgh.
The most cost-effective and time-efficient transportation option for traveling from Helensburgh to Edinburgh is by train. It takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes and costs between £16 and £23. The train provides a convenient and comfortable journey with no traffic congestion to worry about. However, if you prefer a quicker option, driving takes approximately 1 hour and 28 minutes and costs between £18 and £28.
The prices for a train journey between Helensburgh and Edinburgh range from £16 to £23.
To get from Helensburgh to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can drive the distance of approximately 114.3 km. The journey takes around 1 hour and 28 minutes by car. The prices for renting a car and fuel costs can vary between £18 and £28, depending on the specific vehicle and fuel prices at the time.
The most convenient way to travel from Helensburgh to Edinburgh without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes and costs between £16 and £23.
Yes, there is a direct train link between Helensburgh and Edinburgh. The journey takes approximately 2 hours and 4 minutes and services operate hourly, every day. However, there is no direct bus service between Helensburgh and Edinburgh, but it is possible to take a bus with transfers which would take approximately 3 hours and 8 minutes.
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.

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