Edinburgh to Aberdeen train with ScotRail

Sat, Dec 13
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ScotRail
LNER
CrossCountry
Caledonian Sleeper
ScotRail
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ScotRail
LNER
CrossCountry
Caledonian Sleeper
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1,000+ travel companies
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The cheapest and fastest trains from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Showing times and prices for Dec 16

Cheapest price

$31

Average price

$47

Fastest journey

2 h 20 m

Average duration

2 h 26 m

Trains per day

5

Distance

149 km

Cheap tickets

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

The average ticket from Edinburgh to Aberdeen will cost around $47 if you buy it on the day, but the cheapest tickets can be found for only $31.

Fast trains

Of the 5 trains that leave Edinburgh for Aberdeen on Tue, Dec 16, 5 travel direct so it’s quite easy to avoid journeys where you’ll have to change along the way.

On Tue, Dec 16 the direct trains cover the 149 km distance in an average of 2 h 26 m but if you time it right, some trains will get you there in just 2 h 20 m .

On Tue, Dec 16 the slowest trains will take 2 h 32 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.

LNERC41108
10:31AM2h32
Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
01:03PMAberdeen station (ABD)
$311One-way
0 transfers
ScotRailY38530
09:30AM2h22
Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
11:52AMAberdeen station (ABD)
$461One-way
0 transfers
ScotRailY38526
08:31AM2h28
Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
10:59AMAberdeen station (ABD)
$461One-way
0 transfers
ScotRailY38533
11:30AM2h20
Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
01:50PMAberdeen station (ABD)
$461One-way
0 transfers
ScotRailY38540
01:28PM2h30
Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
03:58PMAberdeen station (ABD)
$651One-way
0 transfers

Travel Information

Compare bus and train for Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Omio recommends booking the train as it is the most popular option from Edinburgh to Aberdeen among Omio's users. If you are prioritising price take the bus with prices starting from €8. For those with little time consider booking a train which can get you there in 2h 32m. 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 bus costs an average of €8, and a train costs an average of €19.

Distance: 92 miles (149 km)

Compare train with

Most popular
Train
Bus

€29

Average price

€12

Average price

Cheapest

3h 2m

Average total duration

Fastest

2h 32m

Onboard

+

30m

Additional time*

3h 39m

Average total duration

3h 9m

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

Edinburgh to Aberdeen train times

The table below shows live departures for Edinburgh to Aberdeen trains for today, Monday, December 15. You can also manually refresh the results below to see updated train journeys.

Last updated at 2:22 AM
ProviderDepartsDurationArrivesTransfers
Tickets
scotrailY38518
On time
5:30 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h42
8:12 AM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect
scotrailY38383
On time
6:30 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h26
8:56 AM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect
scotrailY38524
On time
7:30 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h36
10:06 AM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect
scotrailY38526
On time
8:31 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h28
10:59 AM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect
scotrailY38530
On time
9:30 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h22
11:52 AM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect
london_north_eastern_railwayC41108
On time
10:31 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h32
1:03 PM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect
scotrailY38533
On time
11:30 AM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h20
1:50 PM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect
scotrailY3853712:30 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h17
2:47 PM Aberdeen station (ABD)0 transfersDirect
scotrailY38540
On time
1:28 PM Edinburgh Waverley (EDB)
2h30
3:58 PM Aberdeen station (ABD)
0 transfersDirect

This is the last train of the day.

Find all the dates and times for this journey

Compare prices and tickets Edinburgh to Aberdeen by bus or train

Compare bus 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 Edinburgh to Aberdeen?

The best time to book your train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen is 35 days before departure. See how prices for trains change on the Edinburgh to Aberdeen route.
Prices are for one-way tickets for one passenger from Edinburgh to Aberdeen 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 Edinburgh to Aberdeen.

Journey information

Overview: Train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

United KingdomUnited Kingdom
United KingdomUnited Kingdom
Icon of train

Trains from Edinburgh to Aberdeen run on average 6 times per day, taking around 2h 32m. Cheap train tickets for this journey start at $23 (€19) but you can travel from only $10 (€8) by bus.

There are 6 trains per day. The earliest train runs at 05:30, the last at 22:28. The fastest train covers the 92 miles (149 km) distance in 2h 22m.

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
Bus from $10 (€8)
Distance
92 miles (149 km)
Average train duration
2h 32m
Cheapest ticket price
$23 (€19)
Trains per day
6
Direct trains
6
Fastest train
2h 22m
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
Bus from $10 (€8)

Train companies: ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper from Edinburgh to Aberdeen trainsScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper trains will get you between Edinburgh and Aberdeen from $10 (€8). 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 22m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
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
2h 34m
Cheapest Price
$24 (€19)
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
Average Duration
2h 28m
Cheapest Price
$35 (€28)
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 6m
Cheapest Price
$108 (€86)
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

Traveling by train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

The train connection between Edinburgh and Aberdeen is well-served by several providers, including Scotrail, London North Eastern Railway, and Cross Country. With frequent services throughout the day, travelers can enjoy a comfortable journey that showcases Scotland's stunning landscapes. The trip typically takes around 2 to 3 hours, making it an ideal option for both business and leisure travelers looking to explore these vibrant cities.

Train Connection: Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Traveling from Edinburgh to Aberdeen takes approximately 2 hours and 20 minutes. There are a total of 12 connections available each day, all of which are direct services. Passengers can board the train at various stations in Edinburgh, including Edinburgh Gateway, Haymarket, and Edinburgh Waverley, with arrival at Aberdeen station.

Edinburgh to Aberdeen Train Connection

The first daily train journey from Edinburgh to Aberdeen departs at 07:30, providing an early start for travelers looking to explore the scenic route. The last departure of the day is scheduled for 21:31, allowing visitors ample time to enjoy their activities in either city before heading back.

Train Ticket Prices from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

The cheapest ticket price for a train journey between Edinburgh and Aberdeen is €16. The average ticket price typically hovers around €35, making it an affordable option for travelers looking to explore these two vibrant Scottish cities.

Exploring Aberdeen's Maritime Heritage and Architectural Wonders

Welcome to the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, a treasure trove of maritime history that dates back to its establishment in 1984, showcasing the city’s rich seafaring heritage. This museum is significant not only for its extensive collection of ship models and artifacts but also for its stunning location overlooking the busy harbor, where you can witness modern-day shipping alongside historical displays. One unique feature here is the interactive exhibits that allow visitors to experience life at sea through immersive storytelling and hands-on activities.

Next on our journey is St Machar's Cathedral, an architectural gem with roots tracing back over 1,000 years; it stands as a testament to Scotland's medieval ecclesiastical architecture. The cathedral holds great significance as both a place of worship and a symbol of local identity, featuring beautiful stained glass windows depicting biblical stories intertwined with regional history. What sets this landmark apart are its remarkable stone carvings and impressive wooden ceiling adorned with intricate designs—each telling tales from centuries past.

Finally, we arrive at Marischal College—a striking example of granite Gothic architecture completed in 1906 that reflects Aberdeen’s prosperity during the Victorian era. Its significance lies not just in being one of Europe’s largest granite buildings but also as part of Robert Gordon University today; it embodies educational excellence within our community. A truly unique aspect is how Marischal College blends traditional academic values with contemporary learning spaces while retaining original features like grand staircases and ornate facades that captivate every visitor who steps inside.

FAQs: Trains from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Find answers to the most common questions about traveling from Edinburgh to Aberdeen 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 Aberdeen, this guide helps you travel smarter and with confidence.

FAQs
The train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen takes 2h 22m and runs 6 per day.
To explore Aberdeen's main attractions, such as the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, Duthie Park, and the historic Aberdeen Art Gallery, a 2 to 3-day visit is typically sufficient.
A day trip from Edinburgh to Aberdeen is not feasible as the journey takes 2h 22m each way. Trains operate 6 times per day, covering a distance of 92 miles (149 km).
The last train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen leaves at 10:28 PM.
In Aberdeen, you can explore the Aberdeen Art Gallery with its impressive art collection, enjoy the scenic Aberdeen Beach Esplanade, and visit the serene Cruickshank Botanic Garden. Discover history at Provost Skene's House and catch a show at His Majesty's Theatre. Don't miss the Aberdeen Maritime Museum, St Machar's Cathedral, and the picturesque Footdee fishing village. Relax in Duthie Park or delve into military history at The Gordon Highlanders Museum.
Yes, there is a night train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
The train journey from Edinburgh to Aberdeen offers scenic views, including picturesque landscapes of the Scottish countryside, charming coastal vistas, and glimpses of historic sites along the route.
Train ticket prices from Edinburgh to Aberdeen can vary. The cheapest ticket starts at $23 (€19), while the average price is around $36 (€29).
The distance by train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen is 92 miles (149 km).
The cheapest way to get from Edinburgh to Aberdeen is by bus, with a cost of around $10 (€8).
The train station in Edinburgh that goes to Aberdeen is Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which connects to Aberdeen station (ABD).
The first train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen leaves at 5:30 AM.
Yes, you can take the train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
There is no high speed train available from Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Yes, there is a direct train from Edinburgh to Aberdeen. This service operates 6 times per day, provided by ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry, Caledonian Sleeper, ScotRail.

popular train stations

Popular train stations from Edinburgh to Aberdeen

Edinburgh
Aberdeen
The major train station for departures in Edinburgh is Brunstane. Find all the information you need to know about services, amenities and connections at Brunstane for your trip from Edinburgh to Aberdeen.
Amenities at train station
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
6 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to single platform
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: No
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 transit options for Brunstane
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from the bus stop on Milton Road East-West bound
Amenities at train station
WifiWifi
ShoppingShopping
ParkingParking
DiningDining
ATMATM
AccessibilityAccessibility
WCWC
HotelHotel
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Ticket OfficeTicket Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Ticket Office Hours
  • Opening hours: Monday - Friday 06:30 - 21:25 Saturday 06:30 - 21:25 Sunday 08:10 - 21:25
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
1 km
Shopping
Shopping
  • Type of shops available: M&S Simply Food
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
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
WC
  • Toilets Location: The toilets are located on Platform 1, the Concourse and near the entrance from Haymarket Terrace.
  • Baby changing facilities: Yes
Lounge
Lounge
  • Waiting rooms location: Inside the station - one on platform 4 and one on platform 2 and 3
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: Yes
  • Storage CCTV: No
Information Desk
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 transit 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
WifiWifi
ParkingParking
DiningDining
AccessibilityAccessibility
LoungeLounge
Lost and Found OfficeLost and Found Office
Bike ParkingBike Parking
Car RentalCar Rental
Information DeskInformation Desk
information
ticketOfficeHours
Distance to city center
7 km
Parking
Parking
  • Car Park: No
Accessibility
Accessibility
  • Staff help available: No
  • Step free access coverage: Yes
  • Step free access note: This is a Category A station. This station has step-free access to both platforms
  • Accessible ticket machines: There are accessible ticket machines at this station
  • Ramp for train access: No
  • Wheelchairs available: No
  • Impaired mobility set down / pick up points available: No
Bike Parking
Bike Parking
  • Storage sheltered: No
  • Storage CCTV: No
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 transit options for Edinburgh Park
  • Location for Rail Replacement Services: Buses pick up/drop off from Platform 2 bus stop, adjacent to Herminston Gate

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