Bristol to Edinburgh bus with FlixBus

Tue 13 Oct
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National Express
FlixBus
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Avanza
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Avanza
2,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest coaches from Bristol to Edinburgh

Showing times, prices and bookable tickets for 13 Oct

Cheapest price on 13 Oct

£31

Average ticket price on 13 Oct

£47

Fastest journey on 13 Oct

11 h 40 m

Average journey duration on 13 Oct

12 h 19 m

Buses on 13 Oct

15

Distance

502 km

Cheap tickets

The best way to find a cheap coach ticket from Bristol to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.

The average ticket from Bristol to Edinburgh will cost around £47 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap coach tickets today for only £31.

Fast coaches

To travel from Bristol to Edinburgh you need to make at least one change.

  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    8:5511h55
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    20:50Edinburgh, Bus Station
    £311One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    8:5513h26
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    22:21Edinburgh, Drum Brae South
    £371One-way
    2 changes
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus
    19:3511h40
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    7:15Edinburgh, Bus Station
    £411One-way
    1 change
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    11:0012h46
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    23:46Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)
    £421One-way
    2 changes
  • FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus
    11:0012h41
    Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
    23:41Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)
    £421One-way
    2 changes

Journey information

Overview: Bus from Bristol to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of bus

Buses from Bristol to Edinburgh run on average 24 times per day, taking around 12h 1m. Cheap bus tickets for this journey start at £23 but you can travel from only £21 by flight.

The earliest coach runs at 00:25, the last at 23:55. The fastest coach covers the 502 km distance in 9h 25m.

Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £21
Distance
502 km
Average bus duration
12h 1m
Cheapest ticket price
£23
Buses per day
24
Fastest bus
9h 25m
First bus
0:25
Last bus
23:55
Cheapest Month
Feb
Cheapest Day
Tue
High Season
Jul - Sept
Low Season
Jan - Mar
Busiest Day
Mon
Least Busy Day
Sat
Best time to book
49 days
Fares are the lowest economy prices found on Omio. Early booking often means lower prices. Prices change daily and are subject to availability. Discount cards, coach trips, and booking fees are not included.
Price information
Cheapest alternative travel mode
Flight from £21

Live departures

Bristol to Edinburgh bus times

The table below shows live departures for Bristol to Edinburgh coaches for today, Monday 12 October. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated coach journeys.

Last updated at
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus8:55 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
13h26
22:21 Edinburgh, Drum Brae South2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus8:55 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
11h55
20:50 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:00 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
12h53
23:53 Edinburgh, Bus Station2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:00 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
12h33
23:33 Edinburgh, Drum Brae South2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:00 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
12h41
23:41 Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus11:00 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
12h46
23:46 Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus17:40 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
12h45
6:25 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change
National ExpressNX040 · NX59418:00 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
13h20
7:20 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus19:35 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
11h40
7:15 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus19:35 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
12h59
8:34 Edinburgh, Drum Brae South2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus19:35 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
13h27
9:02 Edinburgh, St Andrew's House2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus19:35 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
13h11
8:46 Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB)2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus19:35 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
13h18
8:53 Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF)2 changes
Tuesday 13 October
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus · FlixBus3:15 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
15h54
19:09 Edinburgh, Drum Brae South2 changes
FlixBusFlixBus · FlixBus3:15 Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)
14h20
17:35 Edinburgh, Bus Station1 change

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Why should you book Bristol to Edinburgh coaches with Omio?

National Express as well as FlixBus offer coaches services from Bristol to Edinburgh.
Omio is an official ticket reseller for all your travel options from Bristol to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio vs National Express?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can not only buy tickets for National Express, but also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Edinburgh.
  • Designed for International Travelers: Omio is in your language including 24/7 customer service and offers multiple payment options, including PayPal, credit cards, and bank transfer, in your preferred currency.
  • Compare all your options: Omio allows you to compare National Express with all available travel options, which are train, bus and flight to ensure you get the best deal for traveling from Bristol to Edinburgh.

Why book with Omio over Wanderu or Trainline?

  • Compare with other providers: On Omio, you can also compare tickets for the likes of FlixBus to find the best option for your trip from Bristol to Edinburgh.
  • Multiple modes of transport: Omio allows you to compare travel options including train, bus and flight to find the ideal travel option from Bristol to Edinburgh.

Bus providers: FlixBus, National Express from Bristol to EdinburghYou can travel by bus between Bristol to Edinburgh with FlixBus, National Express for as low as £21. When you search for schedules and tickets, Omio will show you the best journey

FlixBus

About
FlixBus is one of Europe’s leading low-cost bus companies, founded in Germany and now offering long-distance services across Europe and the United States. In addition to its extensive daytime network, FlixBus also operates overnight buses on select European routes. Standard amenities include free Wi-Fi, power outlets to charge devices, extra legroom, luggage space, and onboard toilets, with snacks and drinks available for purchase. FlixBus offers a single Standard ticket type for all routes, which includes one carry-on bag and one checked bag per passenger. Additional fees apply for extra luggage and for reserving specific seats, such as Extra Seats, Table Seats, or Panorama Seats. This combination of affordability, comfort, and wide coverage makes FlixBus a popular choice for budget-conscious travelers.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average FlixBus Duration
9h 25m
Cheapest FlixBus Price
£23
FlixBus frequency
17 a day
Luggage included
One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Additional luggage
Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority boarding; Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Bikes
Bikes are allowed for a fee; must be booked.
Pets
Small pets in carriers allowed; guide dogs travel for free.

National Express

About
National Express is the UK’s leading long-distance coach company, operating over 550 services per day and serving more than 900 destinations nationwide. It also runs frequent services to major UK airports — including Heathrow, Gatwick, Stansted, Luton, and Bristol — 24 hours a day. All National Express coaches are air-conditioned and offer free Wi-Fi and onboard entertainment. Most vehicles are equipped with seat belts and power outlets at every seat, allowing you to charge your phone or laptop during your journey. Ticket options include Restricted Fare, Standard Fare, and Fully Flexible Fare, with the latter providing maximum flexibility for cancellations or changes.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average National Express Duration
10h 10m
Cheapest National Express Price
£26
National Express frequency
5 a day
Luggage included
Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
Additional luggage
10€ per additional bag.
Cancellation Policy
You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
Amenities on board the bus
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Seat reservation
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Assistance; Priority seating; Accessible toilets.
Bikes
Folding Bikes are allowed; non-folding bikes are not allowed.

Complete guide to Edinburgh

Things to do in Edinburgh

Discover the best of Edinburgh — top attractions, local food, transport tips, budget advice, and currency essentials. Plan your perfect Edinburgh trip today.

  • Must visit

National Museum of Scotland

National museum covering science, design, world cultures and Scottish history. Excellent for varied collections and a dramatic central hall.

  • Must visit

Scottish National Gallery

Major art gallery with Scottish and international works from the Renaissance to the late nineteenth century, beside Princes Street Gardens.

  • Recommended

Fruitmarket

Contemporary art gallery in a converted schoolhouse, known for thoughtful exhibitions by Scottish and international artists near the Royal Mile.

Pound sterling (£)

Moderate for the UK. Rooms and dining are pricier in peak season, but buses are affordable and budget eats are easy to find.

Average meal costs

Budget
£8-15 for fast food or a simple meal.
Mid-range
£20-35 per person for a restaurant meal.
Fine dining
£70+ per person for upscale dining.
Coffee
£3-4.50 for a cappuccino.

Tipping culture

Tipping is optional. In restaurants, 10-12.5% is common if service is not included. Round up taxi fares. Cafés and pubs usually do not expect tips.

Buses from Bristol to Edinburgh

Passengers who are looking for coaches from Bristol to Edinburgh will only find a short service of just 2 trains running per day. Only one provider operates the distance between the two locations and that is with the leading provider, National Express. Onboard these coaches, expect the use of good services and useful onboard facilities. The first running coach of the day is at 4:15 a.m. and the latest running coach of the day is at 7:00 p.m. Guests will have a duration of either 12h 40min or 14h 55min.

Bristol to Edinburgh Bus Time: Daily Departures

There are just 2 coaches running per day from Bristol to Edinburgh. One coach departs early in the morning whilst the other departs in the evening. The first running coach of the day at 4:15 a.m. has a duration of 14h 55min and an arrival time of 7:10 p.m. Whereas the last departing coach is at 7:00 p.m. has a duration of 12h 40min and an arrival time of 7:40 a.m.

How long is the journey by bus from Bristol to Edinburgh?

Depending on what time of day that you intend to travel from Bristol to Edinburgh, you will find different durations of travel. The first running coach of the day is at 04:15 and is the journey of the day with the longest duration. With a duration of 14h 55min, expect an arrival time of 7:10 p.m. Otherwise, if you depart at 7:00 p.m. then you’ll face a duration of 12h 40min. Your arrival time will then be at 07:40 a.m. as you face an overnight coach.

Edinburgh Hiking. Source: Shutterstock

What are the departure and arrival stations for buses from Bristol to Edinburgh?

Departure bus station: Passengers should expect that a coach always departing from Bristol to reach Edinburgh will depart from Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St.) The coach station lies just 1.8 miles (2.8 km) from the city centre of Bristol. Travel the distance easily with buses like A1, 70, park& ride, and more. Otherwise, a walk will take just 10mins. At the station, you can find popular facilities like eateries, toilet facilities, money withdrawal points, and more. The operating hours of the coach station run 7 days a week from 07:45 a.m. to 5:45 p.m.

Arrival bus station: All coaches from Bristol to Edinburgh will always arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. This is the leading coach station in Edinburgh and it also serves all of the city. The bus station lies just 0.6 miles (0.9 km) from Edinburgh’s city centre and can be reached in just a quick walk or alternatively you can choose buses like Bus 1, Bus 16, Bus 7, or Bus 14. At the bus station, passengers can find toilet facilities, baby changing facilities, vending machines, charging points, along with much more.

Which bus companies travel from Bristol to Edinburgh?

Passengers who are looking for trains from Bristol to Edinburgh will find just one provider operating the journey and that is with the leading provider, National Express. National Express operates only a short service of 2 trains per day and has a duration from 12h 40min to 14h 55min, depending on what time of day that you choose to travel. A passenger will not be able to find a direct route to Edinburgh from Bristol but instead a coach that requires 1 change.

Changes will always be made at London, Victoria Coach station. One of the two operating coaches per day is an overnight coach, departing at 7:00 p.m. and arriving at 07:40 a.m. with a duration of 12h 40min. Your coach will always depart from Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough Street) and arrive at Edinburgh, Bus Station. Onboard National Express coaches, passengers will find great services from staff and good onboard amenities.

National Express buses from Bristol to Edinburgh

National Express are the only provider that operates from Bristol to Edinburgh. Passengers will find only 2 running coaches per day and this will always be via the destination of London, Victoria Coach Station. A passenger will not be able to choose any more or any less than 1 connecting route. The quickest duration of the coach is 12h 40min and this is if your train departs at 7:00 p.m. and arrives at 07:40 a.m. Otherwise, a passenger can choose a coach with a duration of 14h 55min if they depart at 04:15 a.m. and arrive at 7:10 p.m.

Bus from Bristol to Edinburgh: Services on Board

Before you even board a coach with National Express, expect to make use of the eco-friendly, e-ticket. An e-ticket can be used on any electronic device of your choosing and is extremely easy to use. They’re made even easier with the ability to store tickets in your Omio account for easy filing. Passengers onboard National Express coaches can choose from either standard or first-class tickets. Whilst they’re both a comfortable option of travel, first-class options usually tend to offer comfier seating, adequate privacy, and seats that are all equipped with a table. If you choose to bring luggage onto a National Express coach, then expect to bring no more than two medium sized suitcases. Otherwise, you can bring one large suitcase that doesn’t exceed the weight of 44 lbs (20 kg). Passengers can also bring a small piece of hand luggage, such as a handbag.

Edinburgh Old Town. Source: Shutterstock

How to find cheap bus tickets from Bristol to Edinburgh?

There are some simple money-saving tips to help you save some extra money on your trip from Bristol to Edinburgh. With just a few clicks of a button, you can be facing better value of your prices for your intended trip. A passenger should always book with adequate time in advance to make sure that they’re not facing last-minute inflation of prices. Prices tend to inflate if you choose to book just days or hours beforehand. To face the best prices, consider booking either weeks or months in advance.

Otherwise, another useful money-saving tip is if you choose to be flexible with your dates. Alternating your dates of travel by just a few days, you could be facing cheaper prices of tickets. This is because certain days of the week or time of year could increase your cost price of tickets. Common times of price inflation is during weekends or during children’s school holidays.

To Edinburgh by bus – travel tips

Edinburgh is equipped with lots of exciting attractions, landmarks, and venues, that every visitor, tourist, and resident can enjoy. No matter if you’re travelling with your friends or family, you’ll find something appropriate and exciting to spend your time in the city. Enjoy some of the top attractions in Edinburgh like Edinburgh Castle, National Museum of Scotland, Arthur’s Seat, Palace of Holyroodhouse, Calton Hill, Royal Mile, Edinburgh Zoo, Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh, along with much more.

Otherwise, if you’re looking to enjoy the leading venues of the city like the top restaurants then enjoy great venues like Aizle, Scotland Meets Sardinia – Pop Up, TIMERYARD, The Kitchin, The Table, Purslane Restaurant, Number One, Forage & Chatter, Wedgwood The Restaurant, Prana Indian Grill Edinburgh, New Chapter, Fishers In The City, and more. No matter how you choose to spend your time in Edinburgh you’ll be quickly anticipating your return.

FAQs: Bristol to Edinburgh coach

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Bristol to Edinburgh by coach. From journey times and ticket prices to direct connections, first and last departures, and even whether the route is scenic, our FAQs cover everything you need to plan your trip. Whether you’re looking for the fastest coach, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
Cheap coach tickets from Bristol to Edinburgh can start from as little as £23 when you book in advance. The average coach ticket price for Bristol to Edinburgh is £52; however, prices vary depending on the time of day and class and they tend to be more expensive on the day.
The average journey time by coach from Bristol to Edinburgh is 9h 25m to travel the 502 km long route. Journey times can vary on weekends and holidays, so use our Journey Planner to search for a specific date.
The earliest coach from Bristol to Edinburgh leaves at 0:25. Plan your trip with the Journey Planner from Omio.
The latest coach from Bristol to Edinburgh leaves at 23:55.
There are 24 coaches a day from Bristol to Edinburgh which require at least one change with National Express, FlixBus. Schedules can vary on holidays or weekends with fewer coaches.
When taking a coach from Bristol to Edinburgh, you can count on National Express, FlixBus for the best way to get you to Edinburgh. You can also check all possible coach companies who offer a service between Bristol and Edinburgh and compare the amenities they offer before buying a coach ticket.
When departing from Bristol , you have various coach station options to start your route from including Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), Bristol, University Queens Road, Stoke Gifford, UWE East Gate, Bristol, Airport Bus Station, Bristol, Airport (Public Transport Interchange), Bristol, Clifton Down, Bristol, Blackboy Hill, Bristol, White Tree . When arriving in Edinburgh , you can end your route in coach stations like Edinburgh, Bus Station, Edinburgh, Drum Brae South, Edinburgh, Haymarket Station (Stop HB), Edinburgh, Princes Street West (Stop PF), Edinburgh, St Andrew's House, Ingliston, Park & Ride.Passengers board the coach most frequently from Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St), which is located around away from the city centre, and they get off the coach at Edinburgh, Bus Station, located 0 away from the city centre.
It's helpful to compare your options as there are 3 ways to travel between Bristol and Edinburgh including taking a train, coach and flight.
Yes, the following accessibility options are available when taking the coach from Bristol to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Assistance
    • Priority seating
    • Accessible toilets.
  • FlixBus
    • Assistance
    • Priority boarding
    • Wheelchair-accessible buses.
Yes, there are bathrooms on board the coach from Bristol to Edinburgh for coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Whether you can cancel your coach ticket from Bristol to Edinburgh depends on the coach companies:
  • National Express
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 24 hours before departure for a refund minus a cancellation fee. Changes can be up to 24 hours before departure for a fee.
  • FlixBus
    • You can cancel your ticket up to 15 minutes before departure and receive a voucher for future travel. Refund requests for delays over 120 minutes are possible.
Yes, bikes are allowed on board the coach with coach company National Express, FlixBus.
Tickets are often cheaper when booked early. Traveling during off-peak hours or on weekdays can help you save money. Sort results by price to quickly identify the most affordable options. Check for promotions or discounts available on our website and app.
No, there is no food available to purchase on board the coach from Bristol to Edinburgh.
Yes, the following luggage options are included when booking a coach ticket from Bristol to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • Two medium-sized suitcases up to 20kg each and one small piece of hand luggage.
  • FlixBus
    • One carry-on bag up to 7kg (42x30x18 cm) and one checked bag up to 20kg (80x50x30 cm).
Yes, the following additional luggage options are available when booking a coach ticket from Bristol to Edinburgh:
  • National Express
    • 10€ per additional bag.
  • FlixBus
    • Additional luggage can be purchased for a fee.
Yes, you can bring your pet on the coach from Bristol to Edinburgh. The following conditions apply:
  • FlixBus
    • Small pets in carriers allowed
    • guide dogs travel for free.
You can reserve your seat on the coach from Bristol to Edinburgh with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus
Yes, there are USB plugs on board the coach from Bristol to Edinburgh with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.
Yes, there is Wifi on board the coach from Bristol to Edinburgh with the following coach company: National Express, FlixBus.

popular bus stations

Important Stations and Airports in Bristol and Edinburgh

Most Bristol to Edinburgh buses use the Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) to Edinburgh, Bus Station station pair, with some services arriving at Edinburgh, St Andrew's House. Use this guide to compare Bristol and Edinburgh bus stations on this route, check city-centre transport, alongside checking practicalities like bus station facilities and services.

Departure bus stations in Bristol
Arrival bus stations in Edinburgh
Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St)Bristol Bus Station (Bay 19), Marlborough Street 15, BS1 3ES
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol, Bus & Coach Station (Marlborough St) from Bristol city centre

Bus76, X6, X1, 39, 75, X9, X4, 73, X39, 522, X6a, X1a · 4m · £2 · every ~156 min
Bristol, University Queens RoadBeacon House, Queens Rd, Bristol BS8 1QU, UKWifiParkingDiningATMTaxisAccessibilityWCShowerTicket Office
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol, University Queens Road from Bristol city centre

Bus72 · 11m · £4 · every ~8 min

Bristol, University Queens Road bus station facilities and services

Bristol, University Queens Road has practical services for this route, including Wifi, Parking, Dining, ATM, Taxis, Accessibility, WC, Shower and Ticket Office.

Food and drink

Food options include: Cafes and eateries in vicinity.

Wi-Fi and ATMs

Wi-Fi is available at Bristol, University Queens Road. ATMs are aTMs available at nearby locations.

Tickets and information

Ticket office support is available at Bristol, University Queens Road.

Parking, taxis and toilets

Available at Bristol, University Queens Road: Parking, Taxis, WC.

Accessibility

Accessibility facilities are available at Bristol, University Queens Road: Wheelchair accessible via ramps.

Bristol, Airport Bus Station
City-centre transport

Getting to Bristol, Airport Bus Station from Bristol city centre

BusFal · 19m · £10 · every ~4 min
A1 · 29m · £4 · every ~30 min
A1 · 32m · £4 · every ~30 min
A1 · 39m · £4 · every ~30 min

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