Train Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Fri 19 Dec
+ Add return
ScotRail
LNER
CrossCountry
Caledonian Sleeper
Cross Country
1,000+ travel companies
ScotRail
LNER
CrossCountry
Caledonian Sleeper
Cross Country
1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Showing times and prices for 01 Jan

Cheapest price

£24

Average price

£35

Fastest journey

2 h 24 m

Average duration

2 h 31 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

149 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Aberdeen to Edinburgh will cost around £35 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £24.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Aberdeen for Edinburgh every day 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

These direct trains cover the 149 km distance in an average of 2 h 31 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 24 m .

The slowest trains will take 2 h 34 m and usually involve a change or two along the way, but you might be able to save a few pennies if you’re on a budget.

LNER
17:182h31
Aberdeen
19:49Edinburgh
£241One-way
0 changes
LNER
13:522h33
Aberdeen
16:25Edinburgh
£261One-way
0 changes
CrossCountry
07:202h34
Aberdeen
09:54Edinburgh
£311One-way
0 changes
LNER
08:522h33
Aberdeen
11:25Edinburgh
£371One-way
0 changes
ScotRail
20:062h24
Aberdeen
22:30Edinburgh
£551One-way
0 changes

Travel Information

Compare train and coach for Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Aberdeen to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £7. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 30m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.0 - 0.1kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £7, and a train costs an average of £12.

Distance: 149 km

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Coach

£28

Average Price

£11

Average Price

Cheapest

3h 0m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 30m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 59m

Average total duration

3h 29m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

0.0 - 0.1kg

CO2 emissions

Lowest

0.1 - 0.4kg

CO2 emissions

ScotRail

Most popular train company

Megabus

Most popular bus company

Direct Options

Direct Options

Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.

Live departures

Aberdeen to Edinburgh train times

The table below shows live departures for Aberdeen to Edinburgh trains for today, Wednesday 31 December. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 06:31
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesChanges
Tickets
cross_countryC74726
On time
08:20 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h34
10:54 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
scotrailY38584
On time
09:05 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h18
11:23 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
london_north_eastern_railwayY11838
On time
09:52 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h33
12:25 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
scotrailY38586
On time
11:01 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h22
13:23 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
scotrailY38589
On time
12:07 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h21
14:28 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
scotrailY38591
On time
13:11 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h18
15:29 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
scotrailY38593
On time
14:03 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h21
16:24 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
london_north_eastern_railwayY11858
On time
14:52 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h33
17:25 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
scotrailY38595
On time
16:04 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h28
18:32 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
0 changesdirect
scotrailY39541 · Y39181
On time
16:32 Aberdeen station (ABD)
3h11
19:43 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 change
scotrailY39850 · Y39025
On time
17:14 Aberdeen station (ABD)
2h58
20:12 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
1 change

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Aberdeen to Edinburgh by train or coach

Compare train and coach prices over the next three weeks. See the best deals at a glance, find the lowest fares, and choose the option that fits your budget.

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01 Jan
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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Aberdeen to Edinburgh?

The best time to book your train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Aberdeen to Edinburgh route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Aberdeen to Edinburgh per month. Insights are sourced from fares found by Omio users in the last 12 months. Current prices may differ as prices vary depending on the time of day, class or how far in advance you book your train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh run on average 7 times per day, taking around 2h 30m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £12 but you can travel from only £7 by coach.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 149 km distance in 2h 18m.

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
Coach from £7
Distance
149 km
Average train duration
2h 30m
Cheapest ticket price
£12
Trains per day
7
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
2h 18m
First train
05:30
Last train
22:28
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
Coach from £7

Train companies: ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper, Cross Country from Aberdeen to Edinburgh trainsScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper, Cross Country trains will get you between Aberdeen and Edinburgh from £7. With over 1000 travel companies on Omio, you can find the best train times and tickets for your trip.

ScotRail

About
Scotrail is a train operating company in Scotland, providing rail services throughout the country. It operates a wide range of services, from commuter trains to long-distance intercity services. The company operates a variety of train types, including the Class 380, Class 385, Class 156, Class 158 and Class 170. These trains offer a range of onboard facilities, such as free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and comfortable seating. Scotrail also offers a range of ticket types, including Advance, Off-Peak, and Anytime tickets. The most popular routes for Scotrail include Glasgow to Edinburgh, Glasgow to Inverness, and Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 18m
Cheapest Price
£17
ScotRail frequency
4 a day
Luggage included
2 large items of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, designated luggage areas at end of carriages, under seats
Cancellation Policy
According to ticket conditions mentioned above
Refund
Full refund if service canceled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service on most routes with snacks and drinks, some stations have catering facilities
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are free but optional, recommended during peak times
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, dogs allowed with ticket (£1-£3), maximum 2 dogs per passenger, assistance dogs free
Quiet zone

LNER

About
LNER is a train company based in the United Kingdom. It operates a wide range of services, from high-speed intercity trains to local services. Its most popular routes include London to Edinburgh, London to Leeds, and London to York. LNER offers a variety of train types, including the Azuma, InterCity 225, and HST. The Azuma is a modern, high-speed train that offers comfortable seating and onboard Wi-Fi. The InterCity 225 is a classic train that offers a more traditional experience. The HST is a high-speed train that offers a smooth ride and plenty of legroom. LNER offers a variety of ticket types, including Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak. Advance tickets are the cheapest option and must be booked in advance. Anytime tickets are more expensive but can be used at any time. Off-Peak tickets are the most affordable option for travelling during off-peak times. Onboard facilities include comfortable seating, Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a range of food and drink options. LNER also offers a range of discounts and special offers, making it an affordable and convenient way to travel.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 25m
Cheapest Price
£16
LNER frequency
2 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage and 1 small item included
Luggage storage
Overhead racks, luggage areas at the end of carriages, and under seats
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies apply as per ticket conditions
Refund
Full refund available if train is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Cafe bar serving hot and cold drinks, snacks, and light meals. First Class passengers receive complimentary refreshments
Seat reservation
Seat reservations are included with Advance tickets. Optional for other ticket types at £0-£2 per person depending on route
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, ramps for boarding, passenger assistance service available
Pets
Small pets travel free. Dogs must be on a lead. Maximum two pets per passenger
Quiet zone

CrossCountry

About
CrossCountry is a fast-speed train operator in the United Kingdom, offering both express and regional services across the country. Express services, such as the CrossCountry Voyager and XC Trains, provide quick and comfortable journeys with amenities like free Wi-Fi, power sockets, and a selection of snacks and drinks. Regional services, including the CrossCountry Regional and Regional Express, make more local stops for a leisurely trip. Ticket options include Standard Class and First Class, as well as Advance, Anytime, and Off-Peak fares to suit different budgets and schedules. Popular routes include London to Birmingham, Manchester to Edinburgh, and Bristol to Reading.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 24m
Cheapest Price
£17
CrossCountry frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Overhead racks and luggage storage areas at ends of carriages
Cancellation Policy
Refund policies vary by ticket type
Refund
Full refund provided for canceled services
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Trolley service with drinks and snacks on some routes
Seat reservation
Seat reservations available for additional fee
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Wheelchair spaces and accessible toilets available
Pets
Small pets in carriers travel free, larger dogs require ticket
Quiet zone

Caledonian Sleeper

About
The Caledonian Sleeper is a train service operating in the United Kingdom. It offers overnight journeys between London, Scotland, the North of England and Wales. The service is operated by Serco and consists of two types of trains: the Classic Sleeper and the Lowland Sleeper. The Classic Sleeper offers comfortable sleeping berths, while the Lowland Sleeper offers reclining seats. Both trains offer onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi, power sockets, and complimentary tea and coffee.Ticket types include Standard, First Class and Solo. Standard tickets offer access to the lounge car, while First Class tickets include access to the lounge car and complimentary breakfast. Solo tickets are available for single travellers and offer access to the lounge car and a private sleeping berth. The most popular routes for the Caledonian Sleeper are London to Edinburgh, Glasgow and Inverness. Passengers can also travel from London to Aberdeen, Fort William and Dundee.
Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
3h 7m
Cheapest Price
£79
Caledonian Sleeper frequency
1 a day
Luggage included
2 pieces of luggage per person included in ticket price
Luggage storage
Dedicated luggage storage areas in each carriage and under beds in sleeping compartments
Cancellation Policy
Cancellation policies vary by ticket type and timing before departure
Refund
Full refund provided if service is cancelled
Amenities on board the train
Wifi
Food sold onboard
Complimentary breakfast for all guests. Club Car serves dinner and drinks. Room service available for sleeping car passengers
Seat reservation
Included in ticket price for sleeping car passengers. Optional seat reservations available for seated carriages
Toilets
USB plugs
Accessibility
Accessible rooms available, wheelchair spaces, accessible toilets, and staff assistance
Pets
Small pets allowed in sleeping compartments for a fee. Guide dogs travel free
Quiet zone

Cross Country

Luggage & cancellation policy
Average Duration
2h 27m
Cheapest Price
£125
Cross Country frequency
1 a day

Trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh run regularly throughout the day from early in the morning until the evening. There are several services per hour, operated by a number of providers. The journey can take anywhere from two hours and 20 minutes to two hours and 45 minutes, depending on the chosen train.

Aberdeen to Edinburgh Train Time: Daily departures

After an early morning service, there are one or two trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh each hour until around 9:30 p.m. This schedule runs during the week and at weekends, giving passengers plenty of choice.

How long is the journey by train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh?

Taking the train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh can take between two hours and 20 minutes and two hours and 45 minutes. Services vary depending on the operator and time of departure, but none of the journeys require a change.

What are the departure and arrival stations for trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh?

Departure train station: Aberdeen's train station is conveniently located in the city centre, just a 10-minute walk from some of the major attractions. It is also found on the numbers three, 12 and 59 bus routes. Inside, there are many facilities, including toilets, showers and refreshment options, as well as ATMs and shops.

Arrival train station: Edinburgh has three train stations, but the most centrally located is Waverley, where trains from Aberdeen arrive. It's situated at the end of Princes Street, close to a number of attractions and onward transport connections. The station is equipped with a travel centre, toilets and showers, ATMs and a lost property office. Food and drinks can be bought from the on-site shops and water fountains offer refreshment.

Which train companies travel from Aberdeen to Edinburgh?

Trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh are mainly run by LNER and ScotRail, but there are also a couple of services a day operated by CrossCountry. None of the services require a change and there is little difference in the time it takes to complete the journey with the different providers.

ScotRail Aberdeen to Edinburgh

ScotRail operates the majority of the trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh, with at least one service an hour during peak times. It uses high-speed Inter7City trains for the route and passengers do not need to make any connections. Journeys can vary in length by around 25 minutes depending on the time of day.

LNER Aberdeen to Edinburgh

There are three or four LNER trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh each day, scattered across the timetable. The route is served with Azuma trains, which typically take two hours and 35 minutes to reach their destination. No changes are required.

CrossCountry Aberdeen to Edinburgh

CrossCountry operates two trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh a day, with one in the morning and the last service in the evening. The high-speed trains take around two hours and 35 minutes to complete the journey, without any connections necessary.

Aberdeen to Edinburgh trains: Services on board

ScotRail: Upgrades to first-class are available on board ScotRail's trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh. They offer additional legroom and complimentary food and drink throughout the journey. Each ScotRail passenger is allowed two large pieces of luggage and a smaller item of hand luggage. Two small pets on a lead or in a travel carrier can be brought onboard. Anyone wishing to travel with a bike should book a space for it when buying their ticket. ScotRail offers an assistance service for disabled travelled, which can be booked until just two hours before travel.

LNER: Booking an upgrade to first-class with LNER on trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh means choosing refreshment options from a menu of food made from locally sourced ingredients. There's also more spacious seating available. Luggage allowances on LNER trains are one large suitcase measuring no more than 90 x 70 x 30 centimetres and two small items. Spaces for bikes must be booked in advance and two pets can be brought on board at no extra charge. Special assistance for those travelling with disabilities should be booked at least 24 hours before departure.

CrossCountry: Upgrading to first-class on CrossCountry trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh means reclining seats and food and drink served by a dedicated host. The operator recommends bringing a piece of luggage no larger than 90 x 70 x 30 centimetres on board. Smaller items can be stowed under seats. A maximum of two small pets per person can be brought onto CrossCountry trains at no extra cost. Reservations for bikes must be made before travel. A JourneyCare service is operated by CrossCountry, which facilitates travel for those with disabilities or limited mobility.

How do I find cheap train tickets from Aberdeen to Edinburgh?

The best way to obtain the cheapest train tickets from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is to book in advance and be flexible with travel times. Some dates can be cheaper than others too, so it's worth widening the search if at all possible.

FAQs: Aberdeen to Edinburgh train

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Aberdeen to Edinburgh by train. 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 train, the cheapest option, or tips for making the most of your visit at Edinburgh, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
To fully experience Edinburgh's historic sites, cultural attractions, and local cuisine, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
The train journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh offers a scenic experience, featuring views of the North Sea coastline, rolling hills, and picturesque countryside, making it an enjoyable ride for passengers.
In Edinburgh, you can explore the vibrant atmosphere of Grassmarket with its pubs, shops, and street performances, or enjoy a ghost tour through the haunted streets and underground vaults. Attend a performance at the Edinburgh Festival Theatre, and visit the Royal Botanic Garden Edinburgh for beautiful landscapes. Discover hidden gems and local art at the Stockbridge Market. Must-see sights include Edinburgh Castle, offering panoramic views and housing the Crown Jewels, Arthur's Seat for hiking and city views, The Royal Mile lined with shops and landmarks, Holyrood Palace with its stunning gardens, and the National Museum of Scotland showcasing diverse exhibits.
A day trip from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey duration is 2h 18m. However, there are 7 train trips available per day. The distance is 149 km.
The train distance from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is 149 km.
The train journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh covers a distance of 149 km and takes approximately 2h 18m. Trains run 7 per day.
Booking trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Yes, there is a direct train between Aberdeen and Edinburgh. The service operates 6 times per day, provided by ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper, Cross Country, ScotRail.
The first train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh leaves at 5:30.
The cost of a train ticket from Aberdeen to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £12, while the average price tends to be around £28.
The cheapest way to get from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is by coach, costing approximately £7.
The last train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh departs at 22:28.
To get from Aberdeen to Edinburgh, you can choose from several travel options including train and coach.
Trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh run approximately 7 times per day.
The train station in Aberdeen that goes to Edinburgh is Aberdeen station (ABD), and it arrives at Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Yes, there is a night train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh.
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Aberdeen to Edinburgh.
Yes, you can take the train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh.

popular train stations

Important Stations and Airports in Aberdeen and Edinburgh

Aberdeen
Edinburgh
The major train station for departures in Aberdeen is Aberdeen. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Aberdeen for your trip from Aberdeen to Edinburgh.
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
LockersLockers
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
TaxisTaxis
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
Luggage CartsLuggage Carts
information
phone
Phone Number
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • 6:00 AM - 11:00 PM Monday - Sunday
platformCount
Number of platforms
7
Wifi
Wifi
  • Free
Parking
Parking
  • The car park is open 24/7. Access is available via College Street.
Dining
Dining
  • The Silver Darling
  • Moonfish Cafe
Taxis
Taxis
  • Outside the main entrance.
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Elevators, ramps, restrooms.
WC
WC
  • £0.30
Hotel
Hotel
  • Residence Inn Aberdeen
  • Hilton Aberdeen TECA
  • Jurys Inn Aberdeen
Lost and Found Office
Lost and Found Office
  • Located in the main concourse
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • 80 places, covered
Car Rental
Car Rental
  • Enterprise
  • Europcar
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Located in the main concourse
Luggage Carts
Luggage Carts
  • Free
Station Plan
  • Hall 1: main entrance, ticket office, and platforms
  • Hall 2: waiting area and shops
Public transport options for Aberdeen
  • Bus: Several lines available
  • Train: ScotRail services
  • National Rail services
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
AccessibilityAccessibility
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: Fully Accessible - lifts and footbridge Blue Badge spaces: 3
  • Accessible car park equipment: Wheelchair users may require assistance using car park equipment at this station
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: Yes
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
Information Desk
  • Information available from staff: Yes - from help point
  • Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing)
  • Passenger Information Systems: Departure screens, Announcements
Public transport options for Dyce (Aberdeen Airport)
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the station car park at the end of Station Road
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