Manchester, Greater Manchester to Edinburgh, Edinburgh from $18: 8 ways by bus, train, flight or car
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How to Get from Manchester to Edinburgh: Cheapest, Fastest and Best Way
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$18 RideshareBest price
283.25 kmDistance
3h 13m Fastest
Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options
Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Manchester 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.
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Compare prices for your selected dates
| Type | Mo 06/01 | Tu 07/01 | We 08/01 | Th 09/01 | Fr 10/01 | Sa 11/01 | Su 12/01 |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bus | $15 | $20 | $14 | $15 | $19 | $15 | $17 |
| Train | $31 | $30 | $29 | $30 | $36 | $34 | $47 |
| Fly | $214 | $178 | $209 | $210 | $194 | $100 | $100 |
Traveling From Manchester to Edinburgh
The journey from Manchester to Edinburgh takes you from vibrant urban culture and industrial heritage to the captivating charm of Scotland's capital, rich with history and stunning landscapes.
Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is home to diverse neighborhoods, each offering distinct experiences.
Old Town
• Historic architecture and cobbled streets abound.
• Vibrant atmosphere with shops and pubs.
Leith
• Trendy waterfront with a booming dining scene.
• Rich maritime history and arts culture.
New Town
• Elegant Georgian architecture and spacious squares.
• High-end shopping and cultural venues.
Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions
Timing your visits to Edinburgh's attractions can greatly enhance your experience.
Edinburgh Castle
Visit early in the morning or late afternoon for fewer crowds.
Arthur's Seat
Early mornings or weekdays offer tranquility and stunning views.
The Royal Mile
Stroll during weekdays to enjoy a more relaxed atmosphere.
Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round
Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and chilly winters, making late spring and early autumn the ideal times to visit for pleasant weather. Be prepared for sudden rain showers throughout the year, as weather can influence your sightseeing plans and outdoor activities.
Dining in Edinburgh
Indulge in haggis, a traditional Scottish dish often served with neeps and tatties, at the renowned restaurant The Witchery by the Castle. This dining experience offers a rich tapestry of local flavors and an unrivaled ambiance, setting it apart from Manchester’s culinary scene.
Manchester - Edinburgh operators
Explore transport companies operating between Manchester and Edinburgh, with prices starting at . These companies offer competitive pricing, flexible schedules, and comfortable travel experiences.
Contact phone
+44 345 600 1671Website
https://www.tpexpress.co.uk/
Train from Manchester Oxford Road to Edinburgh
Average Duration
3h 13mEstimated price
$45-120Train from Manchester Piccadilly to Liverpool South Parkway
Average Duration
42mEstimated price
$13-35Contact phone
+44 800 200 6060Website
https://www.northernrailway.co.uk/
Train from Manchester Victoria to Wigan Wallgate
Average Duration
45mEstimated price
$6-9Contact phone
00 44 345 528 0253Website
https://www.avantiwestcoast.co.uk/
Train from Wigan North Western to Edinburgh
Average Duration
2h 41mEstimated price
$95-240Contact phone
+49 30 300 137 300Website
https://www.flixbus.co.uk
Bus from Manchester to Edinburgh Bus Station
Average Duration
7h 20mEstimated price
$35-50Website
https://uk.megabus.com
Bus from Manchester Shudehill Interchange to Edinburgh Bus Station
Average Duration
5h 25mEstimated price
$24-35Contact phone
+3 318 576 2228Website
https://www.blablacar.com
Other from Manchester to Edinburgh
Average Duration
4h 23mEstimated price
$18-35Website
easyjet.com
Plane from Manchester (MAN) to Edinburgh (EDI)
Average Duration
3h 8mEstimated price
$65-270Website
britishairways.com
Plane from Manchester to Edinburgh
Average Duration
3h 50mEstimated price
$180-550Website
ryanair.com
Plane from Manchester to Edinburgh
Average Duration
3h 30mEstimated price
$35-230Website
aerlingus.com
Plane from Manchester to Edinburgh
Average Duration
3h 50mEstimated price
$180-550Manchester to Edinburgh: Overview of Bus, Train, Flight, and Car Trips
Traveling between Manchester 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 Manchester to Edinburgh spanning 215 miles, offering breathtaking views of the British countryside along the way.
💸 Prices to travel by car from Manchester to Edinburgh range from £55 to £87, providing a budget-friendly and flexible transportation option for your journey.
Average price
£54 - £85
🌟 Enjoy a comfortable 3 hours and 13 minutes ride through the picturesque countryside as you make your way to Edinburgh. TransPennine Express Service manages these reliable train connections between the two vibrant cities.
🎫 Ticket prices for this convenient route range from £35 to £95, offering travelers a cost-effective way to travel the 359 km distance between Manchester and Edinburgh.
Departure Point
Manchester Oxford Road station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services on the direct trains from Manchester to Edinburgh, primarily operated by Avanti West Coast and LNER, include a catering service offering snacks and meals. LNER trains feature a cafe bar where you can grab light bites and drinks, while Avanti offers a menu that includes sandwiches, hot meals, and beverages delivered to your seat in First Class. Be sure to check availability and menus in advance for any dietary requirements.
• The Avanti West Coast service provides a variety of seating options, including Standard Class and First Class. First Class seats are more spacious and come with complimentary food and drink service, while Standard Class is comfortable but more economical. LNER has similar options with Standard Class and First Class, features large reclining seats with access to power outlets and a quieter environment in First. For a smoother journey, consider upgrading to First Class, especially if traveling during peak hours.
• The journey from Manchester to Edinburgh can be taken by Avanti West Coast (avantiknowhow.com) and LNER (lner.co.uk). When you arrive at Edinburgh Waverley station, you will find convenient luggage storage facilities available at the station for a small fee. The station also has modern restroom facilities, including accessible options. To get to the city center quickly, take the tram from the station; you can catch Tram 1 which departs regularly and takes about 20 minutes to reach Princes Street, the main shopping and tourist area.
🛫 Flying from Manchester to Edinburgh involves a journey of approximately 4 hours and 42 minutes by plane. Despite there being no direct flights, the quickest option with one stopover typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes.
💸 The cost of a flight between Edinburgh and Manchester can vary, with prices typically ranging from £33 to £161. By comparing fares and choosing the most suitable flight option, passengers can enjoy a comfortable and efficient journey between these two popular UK cities.
Departure Point
Manchester Airport
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Airport. The quickest flight takes 2h 45m and has one stopover
Useful tips for plane travellers
• Be mindful of your layover times, as there are no direct flights from Manchester to Edinburgh; choose airlines like Aer Lingus or Ryanair for efficient connections, but ensure your layover is sufficient to avoid missing your second flight, especially during peak travel hours.
• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Airport, expect a straightforward navigation process; the airport is relatively small, but take the lift or escalator down to the arrivals area where you can find helpful signage directing you to baggage claim and transportation options.
• Prepare for a taxi fare from Edinburgh Airport to the city center to cost around £25-£30; alternatively, consider taking the Airlink 100 bus, which costs £4.50 and provides a convenient and direct route into town, with a frequency of every 10 minutes. For more transport options, you can check out Edinburgh's public transport schedules at edinburgh.gov.uk
🚌 Hop on a direct bus from Manchester to Edinburgh, departing from Manchester station. The journey with FlixBus takes approximately 7 hours and 20 minutes, with services operating twice daily every day.
🏞️ Enjoy the scenic route as you travel from Manchester to Edinburgh by bus, arriving at the Edinburgh Bus Station. Sit back, relax, and take in the countryside views during the 7-hour journey across the UK.
💸 Ticket prices for the bus trip between Edinburgh and Manchester range from £19 to £28, offering an affordable and convenient way to travel between these two vibrant cities in the United Kingdom.
Departure Point
Manchester station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station
Useful tips for bus travellers
• Arrive at Manchester Coach Station well in advance, as boarding can start 20 minutes before departure; check FlixBus, National Express, and Megabus for schedules and ticket prices at their websites: flixbus.co.uk, nationalexpress.com, and megabus.com
• Prepare for the scenic ride by bringing a good book or downloading some podcasts, as the journey of approximately 7h 20m will take you through beautiful landscapes, including the Peak District.
• Upon arrival at Edinburgh Bus Station, familiarize yourself with the station layout; visit the food court on the lower level for local snacks, and use the Lothian Buses website (lothianbuses.co.uk) to navigate public transport options to your next destination.
Frequently asked questions
Find out more about the route from Manchester to Edinburgh.
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The distance between Manchester and Edinburgh is 176 miles. The typical travel times by various modes of transportation are as follows: It takes 3 hours and 13 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Manchester by train. Taking a train to Birmingham and then flying takes 4 hours and 36 minutes. By plane, the travel time is 4 hours and 42 minutes. Driving from Edinburgh to Manchester takes approximately 3 hours and 50 minutes, while taking the bus takes 5 hours and 45 minutes.
The most cost-effective option for traveling from Manchester to Edinburgh is by rideshare, which costs approximately £14-£28. This mode of transportation may take around 4 hours and 23 minutes, providing a budget-friendly choice for travelers. However, for those seeking a quicker option, taking the train is the most time-efficient choice. Although it is relatively more expensive, with prices ranging from £79-£190, the train journey takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes, allowing travelers to reach their destination faster.
The prices for a train ticket between Manchester and Edinburgh range from £79 to £190. On the other hand, the prices for a bus ticket between Edinburgh and Manchester vary from £24 to £47. It is advisable to check for specific prices and deals from different transportation providers to get the best value for your journey.
To travel from Manchester to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can consider using carpooling services like Blablacar. This allows you to share a ride with someone heading in the same direction. The driving distance between Manchester and Edinburgh is approximately 215 miles, which takes around 3 hours and 50 minutes. Depending on the provider and availability, carpooling prices range from £55 to £87.
To travel from Manchester to Edinburgh without a car, the best option is to take the train. It takes approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes and fares range from £79 to £190. Another option is to take a bus, which takes around 5 hours and 45 minutes and costs between £24 and £47. Alternatively, you can fly from Manchester to Edinburgh, which takes about 4 hours and 42 minutes and prices range from £32 to £158.
Yes, there is a direct link between Manchester and Edinburgh. The most convenient way to travel between the two cities is by train, with direct services departing every four hours and taking approximately 3 hours and 13 minutes. There is also a direct bus service available, departing twice daily and taking approximately 5 hours and 45 minutes. Both options offer a convenient and reliable way to travel between Manchester and Edinburgh.
The flight between Manchester and Edinburgh typically takes around 2 hours and 45 minutes with one stopover. However, there are no direct flights available between these two cities. The cost of a flight between Edinburgh and Manchester can vary, with prices ranging from £33 to £153. It is recommended to compare prices and book in advance to get the best deal.
There are plenty of options for accommodation near Edinburgh. With over 1382 hotels available, you can find a wide range of choices to suit your preferences and budget. Prices start at £33, ensuring there is something for everyone. Whether you are looking for luxury hotels, budget accommodations, or something in between, you will find a variety of options to choose from.
Trips from Manchester
- Manchester to Dublin
- Manchester to Amsterdam
- Manchester to Paris
- Manchester to Liverpool
- Manchester to Chester
- Manchester to Glasgow
- Manchester to Nottingham
- Manchester to Newcastle upon Tyne
- Manchester to Madrid
- Manchester to Berlin
- Manchester to Sheffield
- Manchester to Munich
- Manchester to Brussels
- Manchester to Exeter
- Manchester to Milan
- Manchester to Warrington
- Manchester to Lisbon
- Manchester to Stockport
- Manchester to Barcelona
- Manchester to Blackpool
- Manchester to Copenhagen
- Manchester to York
- Manchester to Cardiff
- Manchester to London
- Manchester to Leicester
- Manchester to Birmingham
- Manchester to Stoke-on-Trent
- Manchester to Leeds (West Yorkshire)
- Manchester to Seville
- Manchester to New York City
- Manchester to Reykjavík
- Manchester to Alicante
- Manchester to Rome
- Manchester to Dalaman
- Manchester to Cambridge (Cambridgeshire)
- Manchester to Geneva
- Manchester to Belfast
- Manchester to Nice
- Manchester to Venice
- Manchester to Krakow
Trips to Edinburgh
- Aberdeen to Edinburgh
- Dublin to Edinburgh
- Fort William to Edinburgh
- Belfast to Edinburgh
- Paris to Edinburgh
- Oxford to Edinburgh
- Glasgow to Edinburgh
- Amsterdam to Edinburgh
- Nottingham to Edinburgh
- Liverpool to Edinburgh
- Inverness to Edinburgh
- Cardiff to Edinburgh
- Southampton to Edinburgh
- Birmingham to Edinburgh
- Bristol to Edinburgh
- York to Edinburgh
- Brussels to Edinburgh
- Cork to Edinburgh
- Newcastle upon Tyne to Edinburgh
- New York City to Edinburgh
- London to Edinburgh
- Stirling to Edinburgh
- Dundee to Edinburgh
- Perth to Edinburgh
- St. Andrews to Edinburgh
- Newark to Edinburgh
- Chicago to Edinburgh
- Houston to Edinburgh
- Seattle to Edinburgh
- Dallas to Edinburgh
- Leeds (West Yorkshire) to Edinburgh
- Luton (Bedfordshire) to Edinburgh
- Cambridge (Cambridgeshire) to Edinburgh
- Norwich to Edinburgh
- Durham to Edinburgh
- Peterborough to Edinburgh
- Preston (Lancashire) to Edinburgh
- San Francisco to Edinburgh
- Denver to Edinburgh
- Orlando to Edinburgh