Manchester
Edinburgh

Manchester to Edinburgh: Cheapest Travel Options

Bus: Choose Megabus for affordable tickets from Manchester to Edinburgh starting at just €17.54. Ideal for budget travelers. Around 5h 25m trip.

Train: Speep and Confort. Opt for Transpennine Express trains with fares beginning at €66. Travel time approximately 3h 19m.

Manchester to Edinburgh bus times

Check out the cheapest buses departing from Manchester to Edinburgh

CompanyDeparture time/Arrival timeDeparture Station/Arrival StationTransport TypePriceView schedule
Megabus
5h 25m
Megabus
17.54
Flixbus
5h 20m
Flixbus
18.99
Flixbus
5h 55m
Flixbus
18.99
Flixbus
7h 5m
Flixbus
29.98
Megabus
5h 47m
Megabus
43.27

Over 70 schedules for your journey.

Bus Manchester to Edinburgh

It takes an average of 5h 51m to travel from Manchester to Edinburgh by bus, over a distance of around 282 km. There are normally 7 buses per day traveling from Manchester to Edinburgh and tickets for this journey start from €17.54 when you book in advance.

Distance282 km
Price€17.54
Frequency7
Fastest5h 20m

Train Manchester to Edinburgh

It takes an average of 4h 13m to travel from Manchester to Edinburgh by train, over a distance of around 282 km. There are normally 63 trains per day traveling from Manchester to Edinburgh and tickets for this journey start from €66 when you book in advance.

Distance282 km
Price€66
Frequency63
Fastest3h 11m

What companies travel from Manchester 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

Exploring travel options from Manchester to Edinburgh involves selecting from a variety of transportation modes, each offering distinct advantages:

Travel Time: Trains provide a swift journey of about 3-4 hours, perfect for quick getaways. Driving offers flexible schedules with around 4 hours of travel, while buses extend to 4-5 hours but include sights.

Cost: Buses emerge as the most economical choice, ideal for budget-savvy travelers. Trains offer competitive fares with early bookings, whereas driving costs fluctuate with fuel prices and potential tolls.

Experience: Train rides promise comfort and scenic views, suitable for those who enjoy relaxed travel. Bus journeys combine affordability with landscape vistas, while driving caters to freedom lovers.

🧳 Spanning about 200 miles (322 kilometers), this trip is relatively short, offering experiences for every type of traveler. Dive into the page below for more enriching details.

Best Travel Options

Bus vs Train

Exploring the distinctive factors between bus and train travel from Manchester to Edinburgh reveals various traveler considerations:

Travel Speed: Trains offer a swifter journey, reaching Edinburgh in about 3 hours, while bus rides take longer at approximately 4-6 hours, suiting those who prefer a slower pace.

Affordability: Buses generally present a cost-effective option, making them appealing to budget-conscious individuals, whereas trains might be slightly costlier but save time and offer additional conveniences.

Viewing Pleasure: Bus routes provide passengers with picturesque views of the UK’s northern landscapes, while train travel speeds through the scenery with less focus on the vistas but with added comfort.

Bus vs Train

Frequently asked questions

Embark on a scenic journey from Manchester to Edinburgh, relaxing as you traverse the rolling hills and historic landscapes. Unlock the perfect travel experience with our guide to the most beautiful, seamless train or bus voyage. Explore, unwind, and arrive refreshed.

Cheapest Travel Options

Make your journey from Manchester to Edinburgh a smooth and economical one with savvy transport picks. Hop on a bus with National Express or Megabus and snag tickets from as low as £10 to £30. For faster travel, consider the train with options like TransPennine Express and Avanti West Coast with fares between £25 and £60.

Stretch your pounds further as you plan your travel, whether you’re a family with little ones in tow, hitting the road for business, a solo adventure seeker, or a group of friends on a getaway. Find the intersection of price, convenience, and comfort tailored to your travel needs and financial plans, and join a community of smart explorers making the most of the trip up north.

Cheapest Travel Options
Save money

Cheap tickets from Manchester to Edinburgh

The price of tickets from Manchester 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 Manchester 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!

Seasonal Travel Pack Essentials Guide

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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Exploring Edinburgh is a breeze with its robust local and public transportation network. From eco-friendly buses to fast trams and convenient trains, you’ll find a mode of travel suited for your pace and preference. Streamline your journey with these handy tips on payment and safety, ensuring a smooth ride through Scotland’s charming capital.

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Your First Arrival by Bus or Train
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Welcome to Edinburgh, where every journey opens a new chapter of discovery in this historic city. Insightful preparation ensures a smooth transit, guaranteeing the quaint allure of Scotland’s capital is within comfortable reach.

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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.