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Durham, Durham to Edinburgh, Edinburgh from $17: 3 ways by bus, train, flight or car

Compare Travel Options and Prices

from
Durham, United Kingdom
to
Edinburgh, United Kingdom

How to Get from Durham 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.

$17 by busBest price
167.6 kmDistance
1h 46m Fastest

Compare Train, Bus, Flight, and Driving Options

Get detailed, step-by-step directions below for your trip from Durham 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
Train
Average Duration
1h  46m
Estimated price
$80-220
Recommended
Company
Megabus UK
Bus
Average Duration
3h  25m
Estimated price
$17-24
Cheapest
route map
Distance: 167.6 km
Duration: 1h 46m

See more options

Pricing table
Company
various
Drive
Average Duration
2h  30m
Estimated price
$40-60

Compare prices for your selected dates

TypeMo 06/01Tu 07/01We 08/01Th 09/01Fr 10/01Sa 11/01Su 12/01
Bus $20 $20 $18 $19 $19 $19 $19
Train $19 $29 $19 $29 $28 $31 $32
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Traveling From Durham to Edinburgh

The journey from Durham to Edinburgh presents a fascinating contrast between Durham's charming, historic architecture and Edinburgh's vibrant, bustling city life steeped in a rich cultural heritage.

Best Neighbourhoods in Edinburgh

Edinburgh's neighborhoods offer diverse experiences rich in history and culture.

Old Town
• Home to the historic Royal Mile.
• Stunning medieval architecture at every turn.
New Town
• Known for its elegant Georgian buildings.
• Packed with shops, cafes, and galleries.
Leith
• Vibrant waterfront with trendy eateries.
• Rich maritime history and artistic vibe.

Best Times To Visit Edinburgh's Attractions

Timing your visits can greatly enhance your experience in Edinburgh.

Edinburgh Castle
Arrive early in the morning to beat the crowds and enjoy quiet views.
Holyrood Palace
Visiting during weekday mornings usually results in fewer tourists.
Arthur’s Seat
Late afternoon offers fewer hikers and stunning sunset views.

Edinburgh Weather: What to Expect Year-Round

Edinburgh experiences a temperate maritime climate, with mild summers and cold winters, making it a year-round destination. Late spring and early autumn are ideal for visiting, as the weather is generally pleasant, allowing you to explore the city comfortably.

Dining Recommendation in Edinburgh

When in Edinburgh, you can’t miss trying haggis, a traditional Scottish dish that showcases the region's bold flavors, particularly at The Soldier's Dog, known for its inviting atmosphere and use of local ingredients. This dining experience contrasts with Durham's more traditional English fare, offering a unique taste of Scotland’s culinary heritage.

Durham - Edinburgh operators

Explore transport companies operating between Durham 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 Durham to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 46m
Estimated price
$80-220
Contact phone
+44 345 722 5333
Website
https://www.lner.co.uk/

Train from Durham to Edinburgh

Average Duration
1h 41m
Estimated price
$100-140
Bus Show bus routes
Website
https://uk.megabus.com

Bus from Durham University Palatine Centre to Edinburgh Bus Station

Average Duration
3h 25m
Estimated price
$17-24

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

Traveling between Durham 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 Durham to Edinburgh, spanning 123 miles. The route offers captivating scenery and a smooth driving experience, taking around 2 hours and 30 minutes to reach your destination. 💸 Explore the flexibility of traveling by car with prices ranging from £32 to £47 for the Durham to Edinburgh trip. Enjoy the convenience of setting your own pace and making spontaneous stops along the way, adding an element of adventure to your road journey.
Average price
£31 - £47
🛤️ The train services depart hourly from Durham station and arrive at Edinburgh station, making it easy to plan your trip according to your schedule. The journey typically takes around 1 hour and 46 minutes, allowing you to reach your destination in a relatively short amount of time. 💷 Ticket prices for the Durham to Edinburgh train vary between £63 to £174, giving you the flexibility to choose the fare that best suits your budget and travel preferences. Whether you're heading to Edinburgh for a day trip or an extended stay, the train offers a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.
Departure Point
Durham station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh station
Useful tips for train travellers
• Onboard services for your train journey from Durham to Edinburgh typically include a café-bar in standard class, offering snacks, beverages, and light meals. In First Class or Business Class, you may enjoy complimentary meals and a wider selection of beverages, including hot drinks and alcoholic options. Note that catering services may vary by operator.
• There are multiple operators for this route, including LNER (London North Eastern Railway) and CrossCountry. LNER offers both Standard and First Class seating, while CrossCountry mainly provides Standard Class seats. Visit their websites for more information: LNER - lner.co.uk and CrossCountry - crosscountrytrains.co.uk
• Upon arriving at Edinburgh Waverley Station, keep in mind that luggage storage services are available at the station, allowing you to explore the city without your bags. Waverley also has restroom facilities, but showers are not available. For a quick trip to the city center, take the tram (line 1) directly from Waverley to the city center, or opt for a local bus; Lothian Buses Routes 3 or 33 can take you to central destinations.
🚌 Embark on a scenic journey from Durham University Palatine Centre to Edinburgh Bus Station aboard a Megabus UK service. Departing once daily and operating every day, the bus ride lasts approximately 3 hours and 25 minutes. 🏰 Sit back, relax, and enjoy the picturesque landscapes as you travel from Durham to Edinburgh. Megabus UK offers a convenient and affordable option for exploring these historic cities, with prices ranging from £13 to £19 for a one-way ticket.
Departure Point
Durham University Palatine Centre station
Arrival Point
Edinburgh Bus Station

Frequently asked questions

Find out more about the route from Durham to Edinburgh.

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The distance between Durham and Edinburgh is approximately 104 miles by road. By train, it takes around 1 hour and 44 minutes to travel from Durham to Edinburgh. If you prefer to drive, the journey typically takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus, which usually takes 3 hours and 20 minutes to reach Edinburgh from Durham.
The most cost-effective transportation option for traveling from Durham to Edinburgh is by bus. The bus ticket costs £16-£22 and the journey takes approximately 3 hours and 20 minutes. However, if time efficiency is a priority, the quickest way to reach Edinburgh from Durham is by train. Although more expensive, with tickets costing £75-£227, the train journey only takes 1 hour and 44 minutes.
The prices for a train journey between Durham and Edinburgh range from £75 to £227. The cost depends on factors such as time of travel, class of ticket, and availability. On the other hand, a bus ride from Edinburgh to Durham typically costs between £16 and £22, again depending on factors like time of travel and type of ticket. It's recommended to check with the respective train and bus operators for the most accurate and up-to-date prices.
To get from Durham to Edinburgh without using public transportation, you can drive. The driving distance between Durham and Edinburgh is approximately 123 miles, which takes around 2 hours and 30 minutes. The cost of fuel and tolls can vary, but it is estimated to be between £31 and £47 for a one-way trip.
The best way to travel from Durham to Edinburgh without a car is by train. The journey takes approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes and the ticket prices range from £75 to £227. The train is a convenient and efficient mode of transportation, allowing you to sit back and enjoy the scenic views along the way.
Yes, there is a direct link between Durham and Edinburgh. You can take a train from Durham to Edinburgh, with services departing hourly and taking approximately 1 hour and 44 minutes. Alternatively, you can take a bus from Durham University to Edinburgh Bus Station, with services operating once daily and taking around 3 hours and 20 minutes. Both options provide convenient and direct transportation between the two cities.
There are numerous hotels available in Edinburgh, with a total of 1382+ options to choose from. The prices for these hotels start at £33, making it suitable for various budgets. Whether you prefer luxury accommodations or more affordable options, there is a wide range of choices available for you to stay near Edinburgh.

Trips to Edinburgh