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The cheapest and fastest trains from Inverness to Edinburgh
Showing times and prices for 03 Jan
Cheapest price
£66
Average price
£70
Fastest journey
3 h 36 m
Average duration
4 h 5 m
Trains per day
5
Distance
181 km
Cheap tickets
The best way to find a cheap train ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh is to book your journey as far in advance as possible and to avoid travelling at rush hour.
The average ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh will cost around £70 if you buy it on the day, but you can find cheap train tickets today for only £66.
Fast trains
Of the 5 trains that leave Inverness for Edinburgh every day 3 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.
These direct trains cover the 181 km distance in an average of 4 h 5 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 3 h 36 m .
The slowest trains will take 5 h 27 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.
Y3856812:473h41
Inverness station (INV)16:28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
0 changes
Y3856409:423h36
Inverness station (INV)13:18Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
0 changes
Y39570 · Y3913608:424h05
Inverness station (INV)12:47Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
1 change
Y3856610:503h38
Inverness station (INV)14:28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
0 changes
Y73033 · Y3859410:565h27
Inverness station (INV)16:23Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£841One-way
1 change
Y3856409:423h36
Inverness station (INV)13:18Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
0 changes
Y3856610:503h38
Inverness station (INV)14:28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
0 changes
Y3856812:473h41
Inverness station (INV)16:28Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
0 changes
Y39570 · Y3913608:424h05
Inverness station (INV)12:47Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£661One-way
1 change
Y73033 · Y3859410:565h27
Inverness station (INV)16:23Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
£841One-way
1 change
Travel Information
Compare coach and train for Inverness to Edinburgh
Omio recommends booking the coach as it is the most popular option from Inverness to Edinburgh among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the coach with prices starting from £11. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 3h 59m. In case you are seeking to minimise your carbon footprint the train is your best bet as it emits only 0.1 - 0.2kg. The ticket price range depends on the travel mode: a coach costs an average of £11, and a train costs an average of £24.
Distance: 181 km
Compare train with
| Train | Most popular Coach |
|---|---|
£61 Average Price | £15 Average Price Cheapest |
4h 29m Average total duration Fastest 3h 59m Onboard + 30m Additional time* | 4h 30m Average total duration 4h 0m Onboard + 30m Additional time* |
0.1 - 0.2kg CO2 emissions Lowest | 0.2 - 0.5kg CO2 emissions |
Most popular train company |  Most popular bus company |
Direct Options | Direct Options |
Additional time: Average total travel duration to departure point, security checks and transfers.
Live departures
Inverness to Edinburgh train times
The table below shows live departures for Inverness to Edinburgh trains for today, Friday 2 January. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.
Last updated at 05:50
| Provider | Departs | Duration | Arrives | Changes | Tickets |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Y38563 | On time 09:42 Inverness station (INV) | 3h32 | 13:14 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y38565 | On time 10:50 Inverness station (INV) | 3h40 | 14:30 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Y38441 · Y38593 | On time 10:56 Inverness station (INV) | 5h28 | 16:24 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 1 change | |
| Y38567 | On time 12:48 Inverness station (INV) | 3h45 | 16:33 Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) | 0 changesdirect | |
| Saturday 3 January | |||||
| 04:36 Inverness | 3h44 | 08:20 Edinburgh | 0 changesdirect | |
Find all the dates and times for this journey
Compare prices and tickets Inverness to Edinburgh by coach or train
Compare coach and train 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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How far in advance should I book train tickets from Inverness to Edinburgh?
The best time to book your train from Inverness to Edinburgh is 49 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Inverness to Edinburgh route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Inverness 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 Inverness to Edinburgh.
Trains
from £28Coaches
from £11Journey information
Overview: Train from Inverness to Edinburgh
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Trains from Inverness to Edinburgh run on average 6 times per day, taking around 3h 59m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at £24 but you can travel from only £11 by coach.
There are 3 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 04:54, the last at 20:23. The fastest train covers the 181 km distance in 3h 20m.
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 £11
Distance 181 km |
Average train duration 3h 59m |
Cheapest ticket price £24 |
Trains per day 6 |
Direct trains 3 |
Fastest train 3h 20m |
First train 04:54 |
Last train 20:23 |
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 £11
Train companies: ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper from Inverness to Edinburgh trainsScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Inverness and Edinburgh from £11. 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
3h 23m
Cheapest Price
£24
ScotRail frequency
5 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
3h 20m
Cheapest Price
£27
LNER frequency
1 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
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
4h 11m
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
FAQs: Inverness to Edinburgh train
Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Inverness 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.
The train distance from Inverness to Edinburgh is 181 km.
To fully experience Edinburgh's historic sites, cultural attractions, and local cuisine, a stay of three to four days is recommended.
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.
Yes, the train journey from Inverness to Edinburgh is considered scenic, offering views of the Scottish Highlands, picturesque villages, and the Cairngorms National Park.
The train journey from Inverness to Edinburgh covers a distance of 181 km and takes approximately 3h 20m. Trains run 6 per day.
A day trip from Inverness to Edinburgh is not feasible as the journey lasts 3h 20m. Trains operate 6 times per day over a distance of 181 km.
Yes, there is a direct train between Inverness and Edinburgh. The service operates 3 times per day, provided by ScotRail, LNER, Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail.
The first train from Inverness to Edinburgh leaves at 4:54.
The last train from Inverness to Edinburgh departs at 20:23.
To get from Inverness to Edinburgh, you can choose from several travel options including coach and train.
Booking trains from Inverness to Edinburgh in advance is advisable, especially during peak travel seasons or for long journeys, to ensure availability and secure better fares.
Trains from Inverness to Edinburgh run approximately 6 times per day.
The cost of a train ticket from Inverness to Edinburgh can vary. The cheapest tickets are usually available from £24, while the average price tends to be around £61.
The cheapest way to get from Inverness to Edinburgh is by coach, costing approximately £11.
Yes, there is a night train from Inverness to Edinburgh.
The train station in Inverness that goes to Edinburgh is Inverness station (INV), and it arrives at Edinburgh Waverley (EDB).
Currently, there is no high-speed train service from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Yes, you can take the train from Inverness to Edinburgh.
popular train stations
Important Stations and Airports in Inverness and Edinburgh
Inverness
Edinburgh
The major train station for departures in Inverness is Inverness. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Inverness for your trip from Inverness to Edinburgh.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Parking
Dining
ATM
Accessibility
WC
Hotel
Lounge
Lost and Found Office
Ticket Office
Bike Parking
Car Rental
Information Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 20:30 Saturday 06:30 - 18:30 Sunday 09:15 - 20:20
Parking
- Car Park: Station Car Park
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 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
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on the Concourse. The National key toilets are located on the Concourse; these toilets are operated by a radar key. Available between 0630 and 1930
- National key toilets: Yes
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- 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, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Inverness
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the Eastgate side of the station at the short stay car park
The major train station for arrivals in Edinburgh is Edinburgh Waverley. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Edinburgh Waverley for your journey to Edinburgh from Inverness.
Amenities at train station
Wifi
Lockers
ShoppingParkingDiningATM
TaxisAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingCar RentalInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Wifi
- Free public Wi-Fi available.
Lockers
- You can leave luggage at Excessive Baggage Company on Platform 2.
Shopping
- Type of shops available: Wide range of shops Passport Photo Booth
Parking
- Car Park: New Street: Long Stay
Dining
- Bagel Factory
- Burger King
- Caffè Nero
- Costa Coffee
- JD Wetherspoon
- The Pasty Shop
- The Beer House
- M&S
- Pret a Manger
Taxis
- Taxi: Nearest Taxi Ranks are on Market St and Waverley Bridge outside the station.
- Accessible taxis: Taxi ranks are located on Waverley Bridge and also Market Street. Market Street can be accessed step free via available lifts.
Accessibility
- Entrances are step free. Station is equipped with an elevator. Staffed with guide communicators for the deaf. Tactile warning strips are on the platform edges for the blind.
WC
- National key toilets: Yes
- National key toilets location: At entrance to Public Toilets
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
- Baby changing facilities location: Female toilets,Male toilets,
Hotel
- Old Waverley Hotel
- Jurys Inn Edinburgh
- The Scotsman Hotel
Ticket Office
- Mon - Sat: 05:00 - 23:59
- Sun: 07:00 - 23:59
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage location: Cycle storage can be found in the station: by the lift at Platform 2 (37 spaces) Platform 3 (68 Spaces) and adjacent to Platform 19 (86 Spaces). Additional cycle spaces are available in New Street car park (32 spaces).
- Storage CCTV: Yes
Information Desk
- Information booths are located on the concourse.
Public transport options for Edinburgh Waverley
- Bus lines: 22, 30, 33, X22, X25, X37
- Train lines: Avanti West Coast, Caledonian Sleeper, CrossCountry, LNER, ScotRail, Transpennine Express
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off on Waterloo Place, pick up across from Apex Hotel and drop off outside the Apex Hotel.
- Metro: No metro available.
Amenities at train station
WifiShoppingParkingDiningATMAccessibilityWCHotelLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 21:25 Saturday 06:30 - 21:25 Sunday 08:10 - 21:25
Distance to city center
1 kmShopping
- Type of shops available: M&S Simply Food
Parking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to all platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the automatic ticket gates Blue Badge parking bays: 2
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, the Concourse and near the entrance from Haymarket Terrace.
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
- Waiting rooms location: Inside the station - one on platform 4 and one on platform 2 and 3
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- 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, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Haymarket
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the layby in front of the station
Amenities at train station
WifiParkingDiningAccessibilityWCLoungeLost and Found OfficeTicket OfficeBike ParkingInformation Deskinformation
Ticket Office Hours
- Opening hours: Monday,Tuesday,Wednesday,Thursday,Friday,Saturday 06:10 - 00:10 Sunday 08:40 - 00:10
Distance to city center
7 kmParking
- Car Park: No
Accessibility
- Staff help available: Yes
- Step free access coverage: Yes
- Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms. The Passenger Assist meeting point is at the Ticket Office Blue Badge parking bays: 4
- Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
- Accessible toilets: Yes
- Ramp for train access: Yes
- Wheelchairs available: Yes
- Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: Yes
WC
- Toilets Location: The toilets are located in the Waiting Shelter/Room. The toilet facilities are only available during ticket office opening hours.
- National key toilets: No
- Baby changing facilities: Yes
Bike Parking
- Storage sheltered: Yes
- Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
- Information available from staff: Yes - from help point,Yes - from ticket office
- Helpline Contact: Tel: 0800 046 1634 and 18001 0800 046 1634 (Deaf and customers who are hard of hearing)
- Passenger Information Systems: Announcements, Arrival screens
Public transport options for Edinburgh Gateway
- Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stops outside the station
Most popular train connections from Inverness
More options for your journey from Inverness to Edinburgh
Here are some other resources that might have the information you need
Most popular trains to and from Edinburgh and Inverness
Most popular train connections to Edinburgh
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