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Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices

Travelling from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train? Find fares from as low as £4.10. Benefit from Advance tickets, Off-Peak train tickets, and Railcards for extra savings. Enjoy the most cost-effective and pleasant journey with TrainPal. For more tips on saving money, visit our UK cheap train ticket guide.
Cheapest

£4.10󰄽

On Sat 09 May

  • £5.00󰄽
    Thu07 May
  • £5.00󰄽
    Fri08 May
  • Sat09 May
  • £5.00󰄽
    Sun10 May
  • £4.10󰄽
    Mon11 May
  • £5.00󰄽
    Tue12 May
  • £4.10󰄽
    Wed13 May

Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets and times

Plan your journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) with ease. Explore the first and last train times, departure and arrival stations, distance, journey time, and price options to make the most of your trip.

Price
From £4.10
Departure station
Arrival station
Distance
92 miles (148km)
Journey time
2h 18m
First train
05:57
Last train
22:24
Frequency
24

ScotRail vs LNER: which operator should you choose?

There are three train operators offering direct links between Aberdeen and Edinburgh, the main two being ScotRail and LNER. The operator you choose will depend on what you value in a train service.
Train operators
Avg. duration
Best for
Feature services
ScotRail

2h 25m

Flexibility, commuters

First Class available, high frequency departures, reliable service

LNER

2h 30m

Comfort, business travellers

Modern fleet, First Class available

2h  25m

Specific schedule needs 

Standard Premium (more room without First Class price).

  • ScotRail offers more frequent services for this route, but their catering and First Class services are rather basic. 
  • LNER offers fewer departures, but with a modern, spacious fleet that offers excellent onboard catering and superior First Class service.

ScotRail is the better option for those who value flexibility and options for departure times, while LNER is the right choice for anyone looking for a more premium train experience.

Train travel from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

Travel with confidence when you’re armed with our local tips for trains between Aberdeen and Edinburgh.

Departing from Aberdeen station

Aberdeen is a compact, city-centre train station, making it easy to reach. 

  • Getting to your platform: The main entrance is located off Guild Street, right next to the Union Square Shopping Centre. Most of the station is at ground level, with the main platforms – Platforms 3 to 6 – located directly ahead of you as you pass through the ticket barriers. These platforms are most commonly where Edinburgh trains depart from.
  • Pre-departure essentials: If you want to grab a quick coffee and a sandwich before departure, you’ll find a Caffe Nero and a Pret a Manger within the station itself. The station is attached to Union Square shopping centre, so you’ll have more options there – we recommend Black Sheep Coffee for a more specialty coffee experience or a healthy smoothie bowl.

Onboard experience from Aberdeen to Edinburgh

The train journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh is one of the most scenic routes in the UK, offering a stunning coastal journey with plenty of sea views as well as some dramatic bridge crossings.

  • Key landmarks: Look out for the red steel Forth Bridge and the near-water-level Tay Bridge. You’ll also get some sandy beach views as you traverse Lunan Bay.
  • Where to sit? Sitting on the left-hand side will offer the best coastal views, although both sides offer scenic glimpses at different stages of the journey, so don’t worry too much if you’re on the right.

Arriving at Edinburgh Waverley

Edinburgh Waverley station boasts a highly central location that straddles the historic Old Town and the Georgian New Town. That being said, it is famously hilly as it is situated in a valley, so choosing the right exit is key.

  • The Princes Street Exit: Exit via the northern ramps for high-street shopping, the Edinburgh Tram link to the airport, and easy access to the New Town.
  • The Market Street Exit: Head to this southern exit if you are on your way to the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, or the university. This exit is flatter but leads directly into the heart of the historic Old Town.

If you are laden with heavy luggage and don’t fancy the walk, follow signs to Market Street to get to the taxi rank. If you are travelling light, the city centre is entirely accessible on foot – just don’t underestimate those hills!

*Information is subject to change. Please check the latest train timetable before your trip.

Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide

Taking the train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) is both efficient and enjoyable, offering scenic views and comfort. With frequent departures from Aberdeen, you can arrive at Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 2h 18m, making it a quick and convenient option for travelling between these two places.

Planning and booking

Planning and booking

How much does it cost for a train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

Ticket prices from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) average around £4.10, but vary based on travel dates and ticket flexibility. To see the exact fare for your trip, please perform a search with your preferred dates.

What is the best way to travel from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) by train?

Utilise the TrainPal app or website to its fullest potential. Our Train Journey Planner is a top-notch online tool for planning your trips. Just enter your departure and arrival cities or stations. Then, review timetables and schedules, compare prices, consider direct routes, and check for food supplies or other amenities. Find the best train route from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley).

What is the fastest train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

The fastest train journey time from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) is 2h 18m. Direct trains can save significant time by avoiding transfers. Always check if a direct route is available for your journey. Moreover, when searching for trains, consider the total travel time. Some routes with fewer stops or more efficient schedules might be faster.

Are there direct trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

No, unfortunately, you need to transfer from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley). Still, the TrainPal Train Journey Planner helps you find the best train. Just input your origin or destination places, then click "Search" to see the suitable route.

Is it worth taking a train from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley)?

Yes, the train is a highly practical choice. Compared to driving, it is more eco-friendly and avoids the stress of traffic and parking. Compared to coaches, it offers more comfort, space, and scheduling flexibility. Furthermore, its ability to drop you off in the heart of the city makes it an exceptionally convenient option for most journeys.

How far in advance can I book my train ticket?

Typically, you can book UK train tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of your travel date. This is when the cheapest Advance tickets are usually released by train operators. To secure the best price, we strongly recommend booking as early as possible.

Check timetables and during the journey

Check timetables and during the journey

Are Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?

While Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains are usually on time, delays or disruptions may occur due to weather, strikes, and other factors. Finding a train timetable for your trip from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) is easy with Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to get a detailed schedule of available trains. Input your travel details to discover the best routes, connections, and train times.

How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?

It’s recommended to reach the train station 15-20 minutes before your train is set to leave. This gives you sufficient time to locate your platform, particularly in larger stations. Arriving early is also beneficial if you need to collect tickets or find your way around an unfamiliar station, helping to minimise any potential stress.

Do Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?

Yes, most trains on the Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) route offer amenities like Wi-Fi, food services, and various seating options. Additional facilities may include power sockets, accessibility features, and luggage storage. Check the specific amenities offered by the train operator when booking, as these can vary.

How do I transfer between train stations in the UK?

Check our Train Journey Planner, which provides detailed information about transfers to ensure your journey is uninterrupted, saving you time and effort, and allowing you to get a full rest for travelling.

What is the difference between Standard and First Class?

Standard Class ensures a comfortable journey. For an upgraded experience, First Class provides superior comfort and additional amenities, such as complimentary refreshments, though the exact services vary by train operator.

Other things you might be interested

Other things you might be interested

Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?

Yes. Our Railcards offer discounts on UK train tickets. Students can use the 16-17 Saver or 16-25 Railcard for up to 1/3 off most fares. Seniors aged 60 and over can use the Senior Railcard for 1/3 off. Railcards can be purchased online with a choice of one-year or three-year validity. The more you travel, the more you save.

Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?

In the UK, refund and change policies for train tickets vary by type. Advance Tickets are generally non-refundable but may be changeable for a fee. Flexible tickets, like Anytime Train Tickets and Off-Peak train tickets, offer more options for refunds and changes. Review the specific terms and conditions of your ticket or refer to UK train ticket types for precise details.

How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?

Get easy and quick access to live updates and notifications via the TrainPal app. If your phone is enabled to receive messages from us, you'll receive notifications about train cancellations on your screen as soon as you pick up your phone

Which train companies operate the Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?

The Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) route is operated by CrossCountry. For any journey, the easiest way to find the operator is to search for your route on this page. The operator's name will appear next to each travel option in the results.

Essential onboard rules and facilities

  • Luggage

    Your free luggage allowance includes up to three items per passenger, covering standard bags like suitcases, backpacks, and other similarly-sized items.

  • Bicycle

    Bike reservations are mandatory and free for most train journeys, but space is limited. Standard bicycles and folding bikes are generally allowed. Some operators also permit tandems and e-bikes. Please note that e-scooters, motorcycles, tricycles, and bicycle trailers are not permitted. We strongly recommend checking the specific cycle policy on your train operator's website before you travel.

  • Children

    Children under 5 usually travel free. Children aged 5–15 get 50% off, and 16-year-olds can use the 16-17 Saver Railcard for 50% off.

  • Pets

    Each passenger can travel with up to 2 pets for free. Throughout the journey, dogs must be on a lead, and any other pets must remain in their carrier. Animals are not permitted on seats or in restaurant carriages.

  • Passenger assistance

    For passengers with disabilities or additional needs, all train operators provide dedicated assistance. It is essential to book this service in advance to guarantee its availability.

How to buy cheap Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets

Explore more money-saving tips for your train journeys. Start saving today and enjoy affordable train travel with TrainPal.
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Break the journey into sections for potential cheaper rail fares.

Save on long journeys with Advance tickets. Buy up to 12 weeks ahead.

Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.

Save 1/3 on train fares with multiple Railcards available.

Unlimited travel between 2 stations. Save more than daily tickets.

GroupSave on Off-Peak tickets: 1/3 off for groups of 3-9 adults.
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Compensation and refunds

Your plans have changed?

To change your journey or request a refund, please visit our dedicated ticket refunds and changes page for step-by-step instructions.

Your train was disrupted?

For information on claiming Delay Repay compensation due to a delayed, cancelled, or strike-affected service, consult our delays and disruptions page or our UK rail strike page. These pages also provide live service updates.

* Prices are dynamic and subject to change. Ticket prices vary based on time of day, route, and class. This pricing does not apply to discounted Split tickets and Railcards.