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Glasgow, Glasgow to Edinburgh, Edinburgh from $3: 5 ways by bus, train, flight or car

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from
Glasgow, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Glasgow 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.

$3 RideshareBest price
68.4 kmDistance
50m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Glasgow 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, Caledonian Sleeper
Train
Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$17-95
Recommended
Company
Various
Rideshare
Average Duration
1h  16m
Estimated price
$3-9
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 68.4 km
Duration: 50m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
1h  23m
Estimated price
$9-13
Company
Various
Drive
Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$15-22
Company
Various
Taxi
Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$150-190

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $6 $6 $5 $6 $7 $6 $6
Train $21 $21 $21 $19 $21 $21 $17
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Traveling From Glasgow to Edinburgh

Traveling from Glasgow to Edinburgh offers a delightful contrast, with Glasgow's vibrant urban life and rich cultural scene juxtaposed against Edinburgh's historic charm and stunning landscapes.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh boasts diverse neighborhoods, each with distinct character and charm.

Old Town
• Home to Edinburgh Castle and royal history.
• Cobblestone streets filled with shops and eateries.
New Town
• Elegant Georgian architecture and wide avenues.
• Vibrant shopping scene with trendy boutiques.
Leith
• Scenic waterfront and lively harbor area.
• Famous for its diverse culinary offerings.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Planning your visit can enhance your experience at Edinburgh's top sites.

Edinburgh Castle
Visit early in the morning for shorter lines and a peaceful atmosphere.
Holyrood Palace
Weekdays in the late afternoon offer fewer visitors and quieter tours.
Arthur's Seat
Early mornings or late afternoons provide stunning views with less foot traffic.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cool winters, making it a year-round destination. Visiting during late spring and early autumn often provides the most pleasant weather for exploring the city's attractions without overwhelming crowds.

Dining Recommendation in Edinburgh

A must-try dish in Edinburgh is the haggis, often best enjoyed at The Witchery by the Castle, where the rich flavors and cozy, atmospheric setting offer a different culinary experience compared to Glasgow's vibrant food scene. This iconic dish celebrates local ingredients and traditional Scottish recipes, providing a taste of the city's history and culture.

Glasgow - Edinburgh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Glasgow 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 Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh

Average Duration
50m
Estimated price
$17-40
Website
https://sleeper.scot

Train from Glasgow Queen Street Low Level to Edinburgh

Average Duration
55m
Estimated price
$75-95
Bus Show bus routes
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
$9-13
all-pages.other Show other routes
Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228
Website
https://blablacar.co.uk

Other from Glasgow to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 16m
Estimated price
$3-9
Taxi

Taxi from Glasgow to Edinburgh

Average Duration
52m
Estimated price
$150-190

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

Traveling between Glasgow 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 Glasgow to Edinburgh, spanning a drive of 46 miles. In just under an hour, you can traverse the scenic route between these vibrant Scottish cities. 💸 Discover budget-friendly travel options, with car prices ranging from £12 to £17 for a convenient and flexible transportation experience. Choose the affordability and comfort of a car journey for your trip.
Average price
£12 - £17
Useful tips for car travellers
• Plan your fuel stops as gas prices can vary; expect to pay around £1.50 per liter at service stations along the M8, which is the main route connecting Glasgow to Edinburgh.
• Be aware of restricted traffic zones in Edinburgh, especially in the city center; parking rates typically range from £2 to £5 per hour, with daily parking costs between £20 and £30 at public car parks.
• Use Google Maps or Waze for real-time traffic updates and navigation; upon arrival, consider using the Park & Ride services like the Ingliston or Ferrytoll options to avoid city congestion and enjoy easier access to Edinburgh’s attractions.
🚆 When traveling from Glasgow to Edinburgh by train, you can enjoy a direct journey that departs from Glasgow Queen Street and arrives in Edinburgh. The services operate daily, departing every 20 minutes, with the journey taking approximately 50 minutes. 🛤️ The distance of the route between the two cities is 76.0 km, and the train services are operated by First ScotRail Service. You can expect a comfortable and efficient ride as you make your way from Glasgow to Edinburgh by train. 💷 Ticket prices for the Glasgow to Edinburgh train vary from £13 to £75, offering flexibility for different budget preferences. Whether you choose a direct route or a journey with transfers, the scenic train ride through Scotland is sure to be a memorable experience.
Departure Point
Glasgow Queen Street station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard the trains operated by LNER and ScotRail, you can enjoy a range of catering services. LNER offers a complimentary food and drink service in First Class, including options like sandwiches, salads, and hot beverages. In Economy Class, snacks and refreshments are available from the onboard café bar. ScotRail offers snacks and drinks for purchase, with a focus on local products. Check their respective websites for the latest menu options.
• Both LNER and ScotRail provide different seating options. LNER offers First Class seats with spacious reclining chairs, complimentary meals, and quieter carriages. Their Standard Class provides comfortable seating with enough legroom for a pleasant journey. ScotRail has First Class seats that provide additional comfort and facilities, while Standard Class is equipped with standard seating. Be sure to reserve your seat online for the best experience.
• The main operators for this route are LNER (lner.co.uk) and ScotRail (scotrail.co.uk). Both websites offer live train schedules, ticket purchasing options, and up-to-date service information. For local transport in Edinburgh, you can check Lothian Buses (lothianbuses.com) for bus schedules and routes.
🚌 The direct bus journey from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Edinburgh Bus Station takes approximately 1 hour and 23 minutes, with services departing hourly every day. 🚌 This route, operated by Megabus UK, covers a distance of 66.8 km between the two Scottish cities, offering a convenient and affordable travel option for passengers.
Departure Point
Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Consider booking your ticket in advance for the best prices on the Megabus, which operates the route from Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station to Edinburgh Bus Station; you can purchase tickets online at tickets.uk.megabus.com
• Make sure to check the departure times and potential delays on the day of your trip, as buses run hourly; you can find the latest schedules both on the Megabus website and at the station.
• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Bus Station, navigate your way to the ground level exit where you'll find immediate access to taxis, Lothian Buses, and the tram service heading into the city; for a map of the station, refer to edinburgh.gov.uk

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Glasgow to Edinburgh.

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The cheapest way to travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh is by ridesharing. The cost of a rideshare typically ranges from £2-£7 and the journey takes approximately 1 hour and 16 minutes. Ridesharing is a cost-effective option for budget-conscious travelers looking to save money on transportation between these two cities.
The fastest way to travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh is by train. The journey takes approximately 49 minutes, making it a quick and convenient option. Tickets for the train ride can range from £11 to £75, depending on the type of ticket and class of travel. Trains between the two cities are frequent, so it is easy to find a convenient departure time.
The distance from Glasgow to Edinburgh is approximately 42 miles. If you choose to drive, the distance is slightly longer at around 46.5 miles. The duration of the journey will depend on the mode of transportation and the traffic conditions.
The best way to travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 49 minutes and ticket prices range from £11 to £75, depending on the class and time of travel. Trains run frequently throughout the day, providing a convenient and efficient option for transportation between the two cities. Alternatively, you can also consider taking a bus or coach, which may have slightly longer travel times but can be a more cost-effective option.
The journey from Glasgow to Edinburgh typically takes 49 minutes by train. Trains depart from Glasgow Queen Street station every 15 minutes, providing frequent options for travelers. This allows for a fast and convenient transportation option between the two cities. Additionally, the train route offers scenic views of the Scottish countryside, adding to the overall travel experience.
There are numerous accommodation options available near Edinburgh. With over 1,382 hotels to choose from, travelers can find something to fit their budget and preferences. Prices for hotels in Edinburgh start at £33 per night. Whether you're looking for luxury hotels, budget-friendly options, or cozy bed and breakfasts, you'll find a variety of choices to suit your needs in the city. It is recommended to book in advance to secure the best rates and availability.
Yes, you can share a ride from Glasgow to Edinburgh through BlaBlaCar's carpooling service. This is a convenient option if you do not have a driver's license or prefer to avoid public transportation. By booking a rideshare, you can split the cost of the journey with other passengers, making it a cost-effective and eco-friendly travel option. Be sure to check the available rides and prices on the BlaBlaCar website or app before your trip.
Yes, you can drive from Glasgow to Edinburgh. The driving distance between the two cities is 46 miles, and it takes approximately 52 minutes to drive there. However, traffic conditions and roadworks may affect the actual travel time. It is recommended to check for any updates or alternative routes before setting off on your journey.
Yes, there is a direct bus between Glasgow and Edinburgh. The bus departs from Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow and arrives at Princes Street in Edinburgh. The bus service operates every day, with buses departing every 20 minutes. The journey between the two cities takes approximately 1 hour and 18 minutes.
To catch the bus from Glasgow to Edinburgh, you need to go to Buchanan Bus Station. This is the main bus station in Glasgow, located in the city center. From there, you can take the Scottish Citylink bus service to Edinburgh. The bus journey between the two cities takes approximately 1 hour and 15 minutes.
The Glasgow to Edinburgh bus services, operated by Scottish Citylink, arrive at Princes Street station, located in the heart of Edinburgh. Princes Street is a bustling area with shops, restaurants, and attractions nearby. From there, travelers can easily explore the city on foot or take public transportation to their desired destination. It is a convenient and central location for those visiting Edinburgh.
Trains from Glasgow to Edinburgh arrive at Edinburgh station. The train services are operated by First ScotRail. Edinburgh station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easy for travelers to explore the city and its attractions upon arrival.
Yes, there is a direct train between Glasgow and Edinburgh. The train departs from Glasgow Queen Street station and arrives at Edinburgh. Trains operate every 15 minutes, seven days a week. The journey takes approximately 49 minutes, making it a convenient and efficient way to travel between the two cities.
To catch the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh you will need to go to Glasgow Queen Street station. This is where the train services operated by First ScotRail Service depart from. It is advisable to check the train schedule and platform information before your journey to ensure a smooth experience. Queen Street station is conveniently located in the city center, making it easily accessible for travelers.
The cost of a train ticket from Glasgow to Edinburgh ranges from £11 to £75, depending on the type of ticket and the time of day. Off-peak tickets can be more affordable, while peak-time tickets tend to be more expensive. It is recommended to book in advance and check for any discounted fares or promotional offers to get the best price for your journey. Additionally, it's worth noting that prices may vary during holidays or special events.
A bus ticket from Glasgow to Edinburgh can cost anywhere between £9 and £20, depending on the bus company and the time of travel. Prices may also vary depending on factors such as advance booking and peak travel times. It's recommended to check with different bus operators and compare prices to find the best deal for your journey.
To drive from Glasgow to Edinburgh, the cost can range from £12 to £17, depending on factors such as fuel prices and tolls. This estimate includes both the cost of fuel for the approximately 48-mile journey and any additional expenses you may encounter along the way, such as parking fees. It is important to note that these prices may fluctuate and that it is always a good idea to check for current fuel prices and any road tolls before embarking on your journey.

Trips from Glasgow

Trips to Edinburgh