Glasgow
Edinburgh

Glasgow to Edinburgh: Cheapest Travel Options

Bus: Choose Citylink for affordable tickets from Glasgow to Edinburgh starting at just £4.3. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 1h 27m trip.

Train: Speep and Confort. Opt for London North Eastern Railway (LNER) trains with fares beginning at €24. Travel time approximately 1h 4m.

Glasgow to Edinburgh bus times

Check out the cheapest buses departing from Glasgow to Edinburgh

CompanyDeparture time/Arrival timeDeparture Station/Arrival StationTransport TypePriceView schedule
Citylink
1h 27m
Citylink
£4.3
Citylink
1h 27m
Citylink
£4.3
Citylink
1h 20m
Citylink
£4.3
Citylink
1h 22m
Citylink
£4.3
Citylink
1h 19m
Citylink
£4.3

Over 273 schedules for your journey.

Bus Glasgow to Edinburgh

It takes an average of 2h 14m to travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh by bus, over a distance of around 67 km. There are normally 149 buses per day traveling from Glasgow to Edinburgh and tickets for this journey start from £4.3 when you book in advance.

Distance67 km
Price£4.3
Frequency149
Fastest56m

Train Glasgow to Edinburgh

It takes an average of 1h 7m to travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh by train, over a distance of around 67 km. There are normally 124 trains per day traveling from Glasgow to Edinburgh and tickets for this journey start from €24 when you book in advance.

Distance67 km
Price€24
Frequency124
Fastest44m

What companies travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh?

Whether you're seeking speed, comfort, affordability, or a blend of all, our detailed overview covers the key players in the industry. Get insights into schedules, booking tips, and amenities offered by each company, ensuring your journey between these iconic cities is as smooth and enjoyable as possible.

Best Travel Options

Traveling from Glasgow to Edinburgh is a journey worth taking, whether by bus, train, or car. Here’s what you need to know:

Travel Time: Trains whisk you to Edinburgh in under an hour, buses take longer, but cars offer the flexibility of pace depending on traffic.

Cost: Buses win for budget-friendliness, while trains offer value with deals. Cars may cost more with added expenses split among passengers.

Experience: Buses provide convenience, trains comfort with scenic views, and cars the freedom for detours and discovering hidden gems along the way.

🧳 Covering 74 km (46 miles), this trip is a short adventure rich in Scottish charm. Discover more on our page to enhance your travel plans.

Best Travel Options

Bus vs Train

Traveling from Glasgow to Edinburgh offers distinct experiences whether by bus or train:

Price Point: Buses present a cost-friendly alternative, giving money-savvy travelers more bang for their buck. Trains, while sometimes more costly, provide competitive rates with advance bookings.

Duration: If time is of the essence, trains zip you to your destination in under an hour, contrasting with the 1-2 hour bus journey that allows for slow-paced exploration.

Environmental Impact: Both modes of transport pledge a nod to eco-friendliness, yet trains edge ahead with a lower carbon footprint for the eco-conscious traveler.

Bus vs Train

Frequently asked questions

Discover Scotland’s heart by journeying from Glasgow to Edinburgh. Experience seamless travel with scenic views, historic landmarks, and direct routes that make this trip memorable and efficient. Uncover the charm of these dynamic cities in comfort and ease.

Cheapest Travel Options

Discover cost-effective travel from Glasgow to Edinburgh with operators like Megabus and Citylink, featuring fares as low as £1. If trains suit your taste, ScotRail and Avanti West Coast offer city-center convenience with prices ranging £6 to £30. Meanwhile, rideshare options like BlaBlaCar and Liftshare can connect you to budget-friendly journeys for around £3 to £7.

Whether you’re a family looking for savings on group fares, a business traveler prioritizing comfort and speed, or a solo budget explorer, there’s a travel option tailored to your needs. Consider the range of affordable buses, speedy trains, and sociable rideshares to find the perfect balance between cost and convenience on your trip from Glasgow to Edinburgh.

Cheapest Travel Options
Save money

Cheap tickets from Glasgow to Edinburgh

The price of tickets from Glasgow to Edinburgh is cheaper for a one-way standard class ticket if you book in advance. Booking on the day is usually more expensive and costs can vary depending on the time of day, route or class.

Book in advance

Most of the companies release their tickets around three to six months in advance, many of which can be cheaper the earlier you book. If you know the dates you want to travel, you may be able to find some cheaper tickets from Glasgow to Edinburgh by booking early.

Be flexible with your travel times

Many of the services are also popular commuter services, lots of companies increase ticket prices during “peak hours” (generally between 06:00 – 10:00 and 15:00 – 19:00 on weekdays). If you can, consider traveling outside of peak hours to find lower priced tickets.

Choose a slower or connecting transport

On some of the busier routes, you might also have the option to take a slower or connecting transport. It may take a little longer than some high-speed or direct services, but if you have a little extra time on your hands, you might find a cheaper fare. Plus, you'll have more time to enjoy the view of the countryside!

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Seasonal Travel Pack Essentials Guide

Embarking on a short trip to Edinburgh? Gear up for the city’s fickle temperament with savvy essentials. Whether you’re admiring the spring blooms or walking through the autumnal hues, pack smart with adaptable layers, waterproofs, and comfortable footwear to fully embrace the Scottish charm any time of year.

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Travel Tips

The best tips from our team for your next trip

"Research sightseeing opportunities along your route, such as landmarks, tourist attractions, or scenic routes, and plan your itinerary accordingly."

"Choosing the right seat, such as one with extralegroom or a window seat, can help maximize comfort during your journey."

"Check the pet policies of the bus or train company you are traveling with, and make sure your pet is allowed on board."

"Learn basic phrases in the local language, such as greetings or common phrases, to show respect and build connections with locals."

"Keep your valuables like cash, passport, andimportant documents in a secure place, like a neck wallet or a money belt.Avoid carrying large sums of money or expensive jewelry."

"Choose a mode of transportation that allows you to work comfortably, such as a train with spacious seating or a bus with Wi-Fi."

"Research the local culture and customs of the places you will be traveling through, and learn about the history, traditions, and values of the people."

"Bring a refillable water bottle and stay hydrated by drinking plenty of water throughout your journey."

"Traveling during off-peak hours can save moneyon bus and train fares, as prices tend to be lower during non-peak times."

"Arrive on time for your bus or train, and be respectful of other passengers' schedules."

"Consider choosing eco-friendly transport options like buses or trains instead of driving alone in a car, which can help reduce your carbon footprint."

Travel Hotspots

Discover the Top Transit Hubs

Discover the top transit hubs with our comprehensive list of the busiest and most important bus and train stations. Find out which stations offer the best connections and travel options for your next trip. Plan your trip with ease and efficiency by exploring our guide to the key transit hubs.