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Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) train ticket prices
£4.10
On Tue 05 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.
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!
Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) train travel guide
The train journey from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) combines efficiency with pleasure, featuring beautiful scenery and comfort. With frequent departures from Aberdeen, you can get to Edinburgh (Waverley) in just 2h 18m, making it an ideal and convenient choice for travelling between them.
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?
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, there are no direct trains from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley). However, you can still find the best train options using the TrainPal Train Journey Planner. Simply enter your departure and arrival stations to see all available train services and plan your trip
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?
To get the best price on UK train tickets, it is essential to book as early as you can. Train operators generally release their cheapest Advance tickets up to 12 weeks ahead of the travel date, making early booking the most effective way to secure a lower fare.
Check timetables and during the journey
Are Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains punctual, and how can I check real-time information?
Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains are generally punctual, but delays or disruptions can happen due to weather, strikes, and other factors. With Train Journey Planner, finding a train timetable for your trip is simple. Enter your departure and arrival stations to view a detailed schedule of available trains. Provide your travel details to find the best routes, connections, and train times.
How early should I arrive for a train in the UK?
Usually, you need to arrive at a station at least 15-20 minutes ahead of time. However, consider the station's size and your familiarity with it. If the station is large and you are not familiar with it, leaving home as early as possible is the best choice. This can reduce your stress and ensure a relaxing journey.
Do Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) trains offer Wi-Fi and other facilities?
Yes, most trains on the route from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) are equipped with Wi-Fi. Passengers can also enjoy complimentary food, drinks, and power sockets for a more comfortable journey. Please note that the availability of these services can vary depending on the train company
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?
First Class offers an updated experience with more comfort and amenities, such as complimentary food and drinks. The exact services offered depend on the specific train operator.
Other things you might be interested
Are there discounts for students or seniors on UK train tickets?
Can UK train tickets be refunded or changed?
How do I check train delays and cancellations in the UK?
Checking train delays and cancellations in the UK is simple. Utilise the TrainPal mobile app for real-time information. We offer live updates, including live train status and notifications of any train strikes.
Which train companies operate the Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) route?
The route from Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) is operated by CrossCountry. To find the operator for any other journey, perform a search for your route on this page; the operator's name will be listed with each travel option.
Essential onboard rules and facilities
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Luggage
You can bring up to three pieces of luggage for free, including satchels, backpacks, suitcases, and similar items.
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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.
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Children
Discounts are available for young travellers based on age: Travellers under 5 usually travel free, children aged 5–15 get a 50% discount, and 16 to 17-year-olds can use a 16-17 Saver Railcard to get 50% off.
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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.
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Passenger assistance
Passengers with disabilities or additional needs can arrange assistance with their train operator, if required. To ensure support is available for your journey, this service should be booked in advance.
How to buy cheap Aberdeen to Edinburgh (Waverley) train tickets
Cheaper train tickets for less busy times. Combine with Advance fares for the best deals.
Compensation and refunds
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* 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.
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