Train from Dundee to Edinburgh
Travelling by train from Dundee to Edinburgh is one of the quickest and most convenient ways to move between these two Scottish cities. The route is well served by frequent, direct services that make the journey smooth and stress-free, whether you’re commuting, heading out for a day trip, or travelling onward to Edinburgh Airport. Most trains run directly, so you won’t need to worry about changes along the way.
The train journey is also known for being comfortable and scenic. As you travel south, you pass through charming towns and coastal landscapes, with views across the Firth of Tay and stretches of open countryside. With modern trains offering comfortable seating, space for luggage, and onboard facilities such as Wi-Fi on many services, travelling by rail is often more relaxing than driving.
Journey times are short, ticket prices can be very competitive when booked in advance, and departures run from early morning until late at night. Overall, taking the train from Dundee to Edinburgh is a reliable and enjoyable option for both regular travellers and visitors.
Dundee to Edinburgh Train – Key Journey Information
| Journey detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Distance | 36 miles (58 km) |
| Average journey time | Around 1h 15m – 1h 20m |
| Fastest train | Approximately 1h 7m |
| Trains per day | About 6–8 services |
| Direct trains | Yes, most services are direct |
| First train | Around 05:30 |
| Last train | Around 23:56 |
Dundee to Edinburgh Train Overview
The Dundee to Edinburgh train route is one of the most frequently used rail connections in eastern Scotland, providing a fast and reliable link between the two cities. Trains depart from Dundee station (DEE) and typically arrive at Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), which sits in the heart of the city and offers excellent onward connections by tram, bus, and taxi. Some services also stop at Haymarket, making the route convenient for travellers heading towards the west of Edinburgh or Edinburgh Airport.
Most trains running from Dundee to Edinburgh are direct, allowing passengers to travel comfortably without the need to change along the way. The journey covers approximately 36 miles (58 km) and usually takes around 1 hour 15 minutes, although faster services can complete the trip in just over an hour. Trains operate throughout the day, from early morning until late at night, making this route suitable for both short trips and longer journeys.
Services on this route are operated mainly by ScotRail, with additional services provided by LNER and CrossCountry. These operators offer modern trains with comfortable seating, luggage space, and onboard amenities on many services. Thanks to the high frequency and direct nature of the route, travelling by train from Dundee to Edinburgh is considered one of the easiest and most convenient ways to make the journey.
Dundee to Edinburgh Train – Route Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Departure station | Dundee (DEE) |
| Main arrival station | Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) |
| Alternative arrival | Haymarket (select services) |
| Distance | 36 miles (58 km) |
| Average travel time | Around 1h 15m |
| Fastest services | About 1h 7m |
| Train operators | ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry |
| Direct services | Yes, most trains are direct |
| Service frequency | Regular departures throughout the day |
Train Times from Dundee to Edinburgh
Train times from Dundee to Edinburgh are frequent and well spread throughout the day, making it easy to plan your journey at almost any time. Services usually start early in the morning and continue until late at night, which is ideal for commuters, day-trippers, and travellers with late connections in Edinburgh.
On most days, trains depart every 30 to 60 minutes, with slightly reduced frequency during very early morning or late-night hours. The first train from Dundee to Edinburgh typically leaves around 05:30, while the last train of the day usually departs close to 23:56, depending on the day and operator. Most services run directly to Edinburgh, so journey times remain consistent throughout the day.
Train times can vary slightly based on the operator and whether the service makes additional stops along the route. Some trains call at intermediate stations such as Leuchars, Cupar, Ladybank, and Kirkcaldy, while faster services make fewer stops and reach Edinburgh more quickly. For the most accurate and up-to-date information, it’s always best to check live timetables on the day of travel.
Typical Dundee to Edinburgh Train Schedule
| Time of day | Service frequency | Notes |
|—|—|
| Early morning | Every 60 minutes | First departures around 05:30 |
| Morning peak | Every 30–60 minutes | Popular with commuters |
| Midday | Every 30–60 minutes | Good availability of direct trains |
| Evening | Every 30–60 minutes | Consistent services until late |
| Late night | Limited services | Last train around 23:56 |
Dundee to Edinburgh Train Journey Time
The train journey from Dundee to Edinburgh is known for being quick, smooth, and reliable. Thanks to mostly direct services, passengers can travel between the two cities without changing trains, keeping journey times short and consistent throughout the day. This makes the route ideal for daily commuters as well as visitors planning a short trip or a day out in Edinburgh.
On average, the journey takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on the service and the number of intermediate stops. Faster trains, which make fewer stops along the route, can complete the journey in as little as 1 hour 7 minutes. Slower services may take slightly longer, particularly during off-peak hours or late in the evening, but the difference is usually minimal.
The route covers a distance of approximately 36 miles (58 km) and passes through parts of eastern Scotland, offering a comfortable and often scenic ride. With modern rolling stock, comfortable seating, and onboard facilities available on many services, the journey time feels short and easy to manage.
Dundee to Edinburgh Train Duration Summary
| Journey type | Typical travel time |
|---|---|
| Fastest train | Around 1h 7m |
| Average journey | 1h 15m – 1h 20m |
| Slower services | Up to 1h 25m |
| Direct trains | Majority of services |
| Distance covered | 36 miles (58 km) |
Dundee to Edinburgh Train Ticket Prices
Train ticket prices from Dundee to Edinburgh can vary depending on when you book, the time of travel, and the type of ticket you choose. In general, this route offers good value for money, especially if you plan ahead and avoid peak travel times. With several operators running services throughout the day, passengers have plenty of options to compare fares and find the best deal.
The cheapest train tickets are usually available when booking Advance fares, which are released in limited numbers and tend to sell out quickly. These tickets are tied to a specific train and can be found at much lower prices than tickets bought on the day of travel. If you purchase your ticket on the day, you can expect to pay closer to the average fare, particularly during busy morning and evening periods.
Peak-time services, typically during weekday mornings and late afternoons, are more expensive due to higher demand. Off-peak and super off-peak tickets offer better value and more flexibility, allowing travel outside the busiest hours. Railcards, such as the 16–25 Railcard, Two Together Railcard, or Senior Railcard, can reduce fares by up to one-third, making the journey even more affordable.
Dundee to Edinburgh Train Fares – Price Guide
| Ticket type | Typical price range | Notes |
|—|—|
| Cheapest Advance tickets | £8 – £12 | Limited availability, must book early |
| Average ticket price | £20 – £25 | Common for on-the-day travel |
| Peak-time tickets | £25+ | Weekday mornings & evenings |
| Off-peak tickets | £15 – £20 | Better value, more flexibility |
| Railcard discounts | Save up to 1/3 | Applies to most ticket types |
Overall, booking early, travelling off-peak, and using a Railcard are the most effective ways to secure cheap train tickets from Dundee to Edinburgh. With regular services and competitive pricing, the train remains one of the most cost-effective and convenient ways to travel between the two cities.
Cheap Trains from Dundee to Edinburgh – How to Save Money
Finding cheap trains from Dundee to Edinburgh is very achievable if you follow a few proven booking strategies. This route is competitive, with multiple operators and frequent services, which means prices can be low—especially for travellers who plan ahead and stay flexible with travel times.
One of the best ways to save money is by booking Advance tickets as early as possible. These tickets are usually released several weeks before travel and are sold in limited numbers. Once they sell out, prices rise quickly, particularly for popular departure times. If your travel plans are fixed, booking early can result in significant savings compared to buying tickets on the day.
Travelling off-peak is another effective way to reduce costs. Peak fares generally apply during weekday morning and evening rush hours, while off-peak and super off-peak tickets are cheaper and often more flexible. In addition, using a Railcard can cut the cost of most tickets by up to one-third, making a noticeable difference over regular journeys. Comparing different operators and departure times before booking also helps ensure you’re getting the best available fare.
Tips for Finding Cheap Dundee to Edinburgh Train Tickets
| Money-saving method | How it helps |
|---|---|
| Book Advance tickets | Lowest fares, available weeks in advance |
| Travel off-peak | Cheaper tickets outside rush hours |
| Use a Railcard | Save up to 1/3 on most fares |
| Be flexible with times | Different departures can vary in price |
| Compare operators | ScotRail, LNER, and CrossCountry prices differ |
| Avoid last-minute booking | On-the-day tickets are usually more expensive |
By combining early booking, off-peak travel, and Railcard discounts, many passengers can secure cheap train tickets from Dundee to Edinburgh without compromising on comfort or convenience.
Are There Direct Trains from Dundee to Edinburgh?
Yes — there are direct trains from Dundee to Edinburgh, and they make up the majority of services on this route. Direct trains are the fastest and most convenient option, as they allow you to travel straight through without changing at intermediate stations. This keeps journey times short and reduces the risk of delays caused by missed connections.
Most direct services run between Dundee station (DEE) and Edinburgh Waverley (EDB), with some trains also calling at Haymarket, which is useful for travellers heading towards Edinburgh Airport or the west of the city. Direct trains operate consistently throughout the day, from early morning to late evening, making them suitable for both short trips and longer travel plans.
The main operators providing direct Dundee to Edinburgh trains include ScotRail, LNER, and CrossCountry. These services typically take between 1 hour 7 minutes and 1 hour 20 minutes, depending on the number of stops. While a small number of slower services may involve additional calling points, most journeys remain direct and straightforward.
Direct Dundee to Edinburgh Train Services – Summary
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Direct trains available | Yes |
| Average direct journey time | 1h 15m – 1h 20m |
| Fastest direct service | Around 1h 7m |
| Main operators | ScotRail, LNER, CrossCountry |
| Typical arrival station | Edinburgh Waverley |
| Alternative arrival | Haymarket (select services) |
| Changes required | None on most services |
Direct services are the preferred choice for most travellers, offering the quickest and easiest way to travel by train from Dundee to Edinburgh.
Train Route & Stops from Dundee to Edinburgh
The train route from Dundee to Edinburgh follows a well-established line through eastern Scotland, connecting a series of important towns and rail hubs before reaching the capital. Most services are direct, but they still make several intermediate stops, depending on the operator and time of day. Faster services call at fewer stations, while stopping services serve more local communities along the way.
After departing Dundee station, trains typically head south through Fife before crossing into the Edinburgh area. Along the journey, passengers travel through a mix of coastal scenery, countryside, and historic towns. This route is often described as scenic, particularly on clear days, with views of estuaries and rolling landscapes adding to the experience.
Not every train stops at all stations listed below, but these are the most common stops on the Dundee to Edinburgh route. Always check your specific service to confirm the calling points.
Common Stops on the Dundee to Edinburgh Train Route
| Order | Station | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Dundee | Departure station |
| 2 | Leuchars | Gateway for St Andrews |
| 3 | Cupar | Town in central Fife |
| 4 | Ladybank | Key junction station |
| 5 | Markinch | Served by many stopping services |
| 6 | Kirkcaldy | Major Fife town |
| 7 | Inverkeithing | Near Forth crossings |
| 8 | Edinburgh Gateway | Convenient for airport connections |
| 9 | Haymarket | West Edinburgh, tram links |
| 10 | Edinburgh Waverley | Main city-centre arrival |
Because many trains on this route are direct, passengers can enjoy a smooth journey without changing trains, even when multiple stops are involved. Faster services may skip some intermediate stations, while local services provide wider coverage across Fife.
Train from Dundee to Edinburgh Waverley
Most trains from Dundee to Edinburgh terminate at Edinburgh Waverley, the city’s main and busiest railway station. Located right in the heart of Edinburgh, Edinburgh Waverley sits between the Old Town and New Town, making it the most convenient arrival point for visitors, commuters, and onward travellers. From here, you can easily access major attractions, hotels, shopping areas, and public transport connections.
Trains arriving at Edinburgh Waverley are usually direct and take around 1 hour 15 minutes, depending on the service and the number of stops along the route. Some services may also stop at Haymarket before reaching Waverley, which is useful for passengers travelling to the west of the city or connecting to the tram line for Edinburgh Airport.
Edinburgh Waverley offers a wide range of passenger facilities, including shops, cafés, waiting areas, ticket offices, and step-free access across the station. With frequent onward connections by bus, tram, taxi, and other rail services, it serves as the main hub for rail travel across Scotland and the rest of the UK.
Dundee to Edinburgh Waverley – Arrival Overview
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Arrival station | Edinburgh Waverley (EDB) |
| Location | City centre, Old Town / New Town |
| Average journey time | Around 1h 15m |
| Direct services | Yes |
| Alternative stop | Haymarket (select services) |
| Onward connections | Trams, buses, taxis, national rail |
| Facilities | Shops, cafés, toilets, ticket office |
Edinburgh Waverley is the most popular and practical arrival point when travelling by train from Dundee to Edinburgh, offering excellent connectivity and easy access to the city.
Train from Dundee to Edinburgh Airport
There is no direct train from Dundee to Edinburgh Airport, but travelling by rail is still a straightforward and popular option. Most passengers take the train from Dundee to Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket, then complete the journey to the airport using local transport. This combination is reliable, well signposted, and used daily by travellers heading for flights.
The most common option is to travel to Edinburgh Waverley, which is served by frequent direct trains from Dundee. From Waverley, you can connect to Edinburgh Airport by tram, bus, or taxi. Trams run regularly from nearby stops and offer a direct link to the airport, while airport buses operate throughout the day and night. Taxis are also readily available outside the station for a faster, door-to-door transfer.
An alternative is to change at Haymarket, which is closer to the airport and sits directly on the tram line. Many trains from Dundee stop at Haymarket, allowing passengers to transfer easily to the tram for a short ride to the airport terminal. This option can save time, especially during busy periods in the city centre.
Dundee to Edinburgh Airport – Travel Options by Train
| Step | Travel option | Approximate time |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | Train from Dundee to Edinburgh Waverley | 1h 15m – 1h 20m |
| 2 | Tram from city centre to airport | 30–35 minutes |
| 1 (alternative) | Train from Dundee to Haymarket | Around 1h 10m |
| 2 (alternative) | Tram from Haymarket to airport | 20–25 minutes |
| Total journey time | Via Waverley or Haymarket | Around 1h 45m – 2h |
Overall, travelling from Dundee to Edinburgh Airport by train is convenient and flexible, with frequent services and multiple connection options. Choosing Haymarket for your transfer can reduce travel time, while Edinburgh Waverley offers more facilities and onward transport choices. For early flights or late arrivals, it’s always best to check connection times in advance to ensure a smooth journey.
Train Operators on the Dundee to Edinburgh Route
Several well-known rail operators run train services from Dundee to Edinburgh, giving passengers a choice of departure times, ticket types, and onboard facilities. These operators provide mostly direct services, helping to keep journey times short and travel simple.
The majority of trains on this route are operated by ScotRail, which offers frequent services throughout the day and is often the most popular choice for local and regional travel. LNER and CrossCountry also run services on this route, mainly as part of longer-distance journeys that pass through both Dundee and Edinburgh. On limited occasions, Caledonian Sleeper services may also serve this route as part of overnight travel.
Each operator provides slightly different onboard amenities, ticket options, and pricing structures, allowing passengers to choose the service that best fits their needs. While journey times remain similar across operators, factors such as seat comfort, Wi-Fi availability, and ticket flexibility can vary.
Train Companies from Dundee to Edinburgh
| Train operator | Service type | Typical journey time | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| ScotRail | Regional & intercity | 1h 10m – 1h 20m | Most frequent services |
| LNER | Intercity | Around 1h 15m | Fewer stops, comfortable trains |
| CrossCountry | Long-distance | Around 1h 18m | Part of cross-UK routes |
| Caledonian Sleeper | Overnight (limited) | Varies | Limited availability |
Thanks to the mix of operators, travellers benefit from regular departures, competitive pricing, and a range of onboard experiences when taking the train from Dundee to Edinburgh.
Is the Train Journey from Dundee to Edinburgh Scenic?
Yes, the train journey from Dundee to Edinburgh is widely considered scenic, especially when travelling during daylight hours. The route runs through parts of eastern Scotland and offers a mix of coastal views, countryside landscapes, and historic towns, making the journey enjoyable rather than just practical.
Shortly after leaving Dundee, trains pass along stretches near the Firth of Tay, before continuing south through Fife. Along the way, passengers can enjoy views of rolling fields, small towns, and rail landmarks such as bridge crossings near the estuaries. As the train approaches Edinburgh, the scenery gradually shifts to a more urban setting, with views across the outskirts of the city before arriving at Edinburgh Waverley.
Many travellers consider this route one of the more pleasant short-distance train journeys in Scotland. Comfortable seating and large windows on most services make it easy to relax and take in the views, particularly on clear days. While the journey is relatively short, it offers enough variety to make the trip memorable.
What You’ll See on the Dundee to Edinburgh Train Route
| Part of the journey | Scenic highlights |
|---|---|
| Leaving Dundee | Views near the Firth of Tay |
| Through Fife | Countryside, farmland, small towns |
| Coastal sections | Estuary and water views |
| Approaching Edinburgh | City outskirts and historic rail lines |
| Overall experience | Relaxing and visually appealing |
For passengers who enjoy combining travel with sightseeing, the train from Dundee to Edinburgh offers a comfortable ride with attractive scenery along the way.
Dundee to Edinburgh Train FAQs
Below are answers to the most common questions travellers ask when planning a train journey from Dundee to Edinburgh. These are based on typical services, journey patterns, and passenger demand.
❓ How long is the train from Dundee to Edinburgh?
The average train journey from Dundee to Edinburgh takes around 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 20 minutes. The fastest direct services can complete the trip in as little as 1 hour 7 minutes, while slower services with more stops may take slightly longer.
❓ How much is a train ticket from Dundee to Edinburgh?
Train ticket prices vary depending on booking time and travel period. Cheapest tickets can be found from £8–£12 when booked in advance. If you buy tickets on the day of travel, the average price is usually around £20–£25, with higher prices during peak hours.
❓ Are there direct trains from Dundee to Edinburgh?
Yes, most trains from Dundee to Edinburgh are direct, meaning you won’t need to change trains. Direct services are operated mainly by ScotRail, with additional services from LNER and CrossCountry, keeping the journey fast and convenient.
❓ What is the first train from Dundee to Edinburgh?
The first train of the day from Dundee to Edinburgh usually departs at around 05:30, although times may vary slightly depending on the day of the week and operator.
❓ What is the last train from Dundee to Edinburgh?
The last train typically leaves Dundee close to 23:56. Late-night services may be less frequent, so it’s recommended to check times in advance if you’re travelling late.
❓ How far is Dundee from Edinburgh by train?
The distance between Dundee and Edinburgh by train is approximately 36 miles (58 kilometres). This relatively short distance helps keep journey times quick and reliable.
❓ Is the train journey from Dundee to Edinburgh scenic?
Yes, the route is often described as scenic, particularly during daylight hours. Passengers can enjoy views of the Firth of Tay, countryside across Fife, and a mix of coastal and urban scenery as the train approaches Edinburgh.
❓ Can you do a day trip from Dundee to Edinburgh by train?
Absolutely. With frequent departures, direct services, and a journey time of just over an hour, the train makes day trips from Dundee to Edinburgh easy and practical. Early morning departures and late-night returns give plenty of time to explore the city.