Overview – Train from Glasgow to Edinburgh
The train from Glasgow to Edinburgh is one of the busiest and most convenient rail journeys in Scotland. Trains run frequently throughout the day, offering fast, direct connections between the two city centres, which makes rail travel the preferred option for commuters, day-trippers, and tourists alike.
Most services are operated by ScotRail and run direct, meaning you won’t need to change trains along the way. Depending on the service you choose, the journey typically takes between 45 minutes and just over 1 hour, making it significantly quicker and more comfortable than driving during peak hours. Trains usually depart from Glasgow Queen Street or Glasgow Central and arrive at Edinburgh Waverley or Edinburgh Haymarket, both of which are centrally located with excellent onward connections.
Another major advantage of travelling by train on this route is frequency. Trains operate multiple times per hour from early morning until late at night, so you rarely need to plan around a fixed departure. Whether you’re travelling for work, a same-day return trip, or a short break, it’s easy to find a service that fits your schedule.
Ticket prices vary depending on when you book and the time you travel. Advance tickets are usually the cheapest option, while off-peak services can help reduce costs if you have flexible travel times. With short journey times, high reliability, and city-centre arrivals, the Glasgow to Edinburgh train route is widely considered the fastest and most practical way to travel between Scotland’s two largest cities.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Journey Snapshot
| Journey Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Average journey time | Around 50 minutes – 1 hour |
| Fastest train | Approximately 45 minutes |
| Distance | About 40–41 miles (around 65–67 km) |
| Trains per day | Frequent services throughout the day |
| Direct trains | Yes, most services are direct |
| Main operator | ScotRail |
| Main departure stations | Glasgow Queen Street, Glasgow Central |
| Main arrival stations | Edinburgh Waverley, Edinburgh Haymarket |
Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Time & Duration
The train journey time from Glasgow to Edinburgh is one of the shortest intercity rail trips in the UK. Thanks to frequent, mostly direct services, passengers can expect a quick and predictable journey, making this route ideal for commuters and short visits.
On average, trains take around 50 minutes to just over 1 hour to complete the journey. The fastest services can reach Edinburgh in as little as 45–46 minutes, usually running directly between Glasgow Queen Street and Edinburgh Waverley. Slightly longer journeys—typically 1 hour 10 to 1 hour 25 minutes—may stop at additional intermediate stations or operate via alternative routes.
Journey times can vary depending on:
- Departure station (Queen Street vs Central)
- Time of day (peak vs off-peak)
- Number of stops
- Route taken (direct or semi-fast services)
During peak hours, trains are still frequent, but average journey times may be marginally longer due to busier networks and additional stopping patterns. Off-peak and early-morning or late-evening services often deliver the fastest and smoothest rides.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Duration Breakdown
| Journey Type | Typical Duration |
|---|---|
| Fastest train | ~45–46 minutes |
| Average journey time | ~50 minutes – 1 hour |
| Slower services | ~1 hour 15 – 1 hour 25 minutes |
| Direct trains | Most services |
| Indirect / more stops | Limited services |
Overall, if speed is your priority, choosing a direct service from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh Waverley is usually the best option. With such short travel times and regular departures, the train remains the fastest and most reliable way to travel between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Ticket Prices & Cost
Train ticket prices for the journey from Glasgow to Edinburgh can vary depending on when you book, time of travel, and ticket type. Because this is a high-frequency route, there’s usually good availability, but prices are generally cheapest when booked in advance or when travelling off-peak.
If you buy tickets on the day of travel, prices are typically higher and closer to the standard flexible fare. However, travellers who plan ahead can often secure Advance tickets at a lower cost. Off-peak services—usually outside weekday rush hours—also tend to be cheaper and less crowded.
Another important factor is ticket flexibility. Advance tickets are usually the lowest-priced option but are tied to a specific train. Flexible tickets cost more but allow you to travel on multiple services during the day, which can be useful for commuters or travellers with uncertain schedules.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Ticket Price Overview
| Ticket Type | Typical Price Range | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Advance ticket | Lower-priced fares when booked early | Fixed plans, budget travel |
| Off-Peak ticket | Mid-range pricing | Flexible travel outside rush hour |
| Anytime / Flexible ticket | Higher price | Maximum flexibility |
| Railcard ticket | Up to 1/3 off standard fares | Students, seniors, frequent travellers |
Prices can also fluctuate depending on peak travel periods, such as weekday mornings and late afternoons, when demand is highest. Travelling outside these times not only reduces costs but often results in a more comfortable journey.
Overall, the cost of a train from Glasgow to Edinburgh is competitive compared to other transport options, especially when you factor in speed, city-centre arrivals, and frequent departures. Booking early and choosing the right ticket type can make this already affordable route even better value.
Cheap Train Tickets – How to Save Money on Glasgow to Edinburgh Trains
Finding cheap train tickets from Glasgow to Edinburgh is usually straightforward if you know when and how to book. Because this route is served by frequent services throughout the day, travellers have several ways to reduce the overall cost of their journey.
One of the most effective ways to save money is by booking your ticket in advance. Advance tickets are released in limited numbers and are typically much cheaper than buying a ticket on the day of travel. These tickets are tied to a specific train, but they offer excellent value if your travel plans are fixed.
Another proven way to lower costs is to avoid peak travel times. Weekday mornings and late afternoons tend to be the busiest—and most expensive—periods. Travelling off-peak, such as mid-morning, early afternoon, or later in the evening, often results in cheaper fares and a more relaxed journey.
Using a Railcard can also make a significant difference. Railcards generally offer up to 1/3 off standard fares, making them ideal for students, seniors, families, and frequent travellers. Even a single return journey can sometimes justify the cost of a Railcard.
Best Ways to Save on Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Tickets
| Money-Saving Tip | How It Helps |
|---|---|
| Book in advance | Access lower Advance fares |
| Travel off-peak | Cheaper tickets and quieter trains |
| Use a Railcard | Save up to 1/3 on most fares |
| Avoid rush hour | Lower demand, better prices |
| Be flexible with times | More chance of finding deals |
It’s also worth checking prices for different departure times on the same day, as fares can vary even within short intervals. With a bit of flexibility and early planning, the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh can be one of the most affordable and convenient intercity journeys in Scotland.
Train Operators on the Glasgow–Edinburgh Route
Several train operators provide services between Glasgow and Edinburgh, ensuring frequent departures and good coverage throughout the day. The majority of trains on this route are direct, making it easy to travel without changing along the way.
The primary operator on the Glasgow to Edinburgh route is ScotRail, which runs regular services between Glasgow Queen Street or Glasgow Central and Edinburgh Waverley or Edinburgh Haymarket. ScotRail trains are designed for short to medium-distance journeys and typically offer comfortable seating, luggage space, and onboard facilities suited to commuters and leisure travellers.
Other operators may appear on specific services or at certain times of day, especially on routes that connect beyond Edinburgh or Glasgow. These operators usually supplement ScotRail services rather than replacing them and may operate less frequently on this specific corridor.
Train Operators Serving Glasgow to Edinburgh
| Train Operator | Role on This Route | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| ScotRail | Main operator | Most frequent, direct services |
| CrossCountry | Limited services | Operates select long-distance routes |
| LNER | Indirect presence | Mainly long-distance connections |
| TransPennine Express | Occasional | Services linking wider UK routes |
For most travellers, ScotRail will be the operator you use, as it offers the fastest and most frequent trains on this route. When booking tickets, it’s common to see services from multiple operators listed, but journey times, prices, and onboard experience remain broadly similar for direct trips between Glasgow and Edinburgh.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Schedule & Frequency
Trains between Glasgow and Edinburgh run frequently throughout the day, making this one of the most flexible rail routes in Scotland. Thanks to the high number of daily services, travellers rarely need to plan their journey around a single departure time.
On most days, trains operate several times per hour, especially during peak commuting periods. Services generally start early in the morning and continue until late at night, allowing for early departures, late returns, and convenient same-day travel between the two cities.
The first trains of the day usually depart shortly after early morning hours, while the last trains run close to midnight, depending on the day of the week and the route taken. Weekday schedules are typically the busiest, while weekends may see slightly fewer services, though trains still run regularly.
Glasgow to Edinburgh Train Schedule Overview
| Schedule Detail | Typical Timing |
|---|---|
| First train | Early morning |
| Last train | Late evening / near midnight |
| Trains per hour (peak) | Multiple services per hour |
| Trains per hour (off-peak) | Regular departures |
| Weekday frequency | Very frequent |
| Weekend frequency | Slightly reduced but reliable |
Because of this high-frequency schedule, missing one train rarely causes long delays—you can usually catch the next service within a short time. This reliability makes the train an excellent option for commuters, business travellers, and tourists who want flexibility without long waiting times.
Direct vs Indirect Trains (Stops Explained)
Most travellers choosing the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh will be pleased to know that direct trains are the norm on this route. Direct services are the fastest and most popular option, especially for commuters and day-trippers, as they run frequently and avoid the need to change trains.
Direct trains usually operate between Glasgow Queen Street and Edinburgh Waverley. These services may still stop at a small number of intermediate stations, but you remain on the same train for the entire journey. Because of limited stops and priority routing, direct services deliver the shortest journey times, often under one hour.
Indirect trains are less common but can appear at certain times of day or on specific routes, particularly when travelling from Glasgow Central. These services may involve:
- Additional intermediate stops
- A longer route via suburban stations
- Occasionally, a change of train
While indirect services generally take longer, they can sometimes be useful if you are travelling from or to a specific local station, or if direct trains are fully booked during peak hours.
Direct vs Indirect Trains – Glasgow to Edinburgh
| Train Type | Typical Journey Time | Stops | Change Required | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Direct train | ~45–60 minutes | Few stops | No | Fastest, most convenient |
| Indirect train | ~1h 15m – 1h 30m | Multiple stops | Sometimes | Local access, flexibility |
Common Stops on the Glasgow–Edinburgh Route
Even on direct services, trains may stop at a selection of intermediate stations, depending on the route and service pattern. Commonly served stations include:
- Haymarket
- Falkirk High
- Polmont
- Other local stations on slower services
For most passengers, choosing a direct service from Glasgow Queen Street to Edinburgh Waverley is the easiest and quickest way to travel. However, indirect trains still provide a reliable alternative when timing, location, or availability makes them a better fit.
Train Stations Guide (Glasgow & Edinburgh)
Understanding which stations are used on the Glasgow–Edinburgh route helps you plan a smoother journey, especially if you’re connecting onward by bus, tram, or on foot. Trains on this corridor mainly use two stations in Glasgow and two in Edinburgh, all located close to the city centres with excellent transport links.
Glasgow Queen Street Station
Most direct and fastest services to Edinburgh depart from Glasgow Queen Street Station. This station is right in the heart of Glasgow, making it ideal for commuters and visitors staying centrally. Queen Street is the preferred departure point for services heading to Edinburgh Waverley, offering shorter journey times and frequent departures.
Why it’s popular:
- Main hub for direct Edinburgh services
- Central location near shopping and business districts
- Easy access to buses and Glasgow Subway
Glasgow Central Station
Glasgow Central Station also serves trains towards Edinburgh, though these services are often slightly slower or make more stops. Glasgow Central is one of the busiest stations in the UK and is especially convenient if you’re arriving from long-distance routes or connecting from other parts of Scotland or England.
Best for:
- Connections from long-distance trains
- Access to the south and west of Glasgow
- Alternative routes when Queen Street services are busy
Edinburgh Waverley Station
The majority of trains from Glasgow arrive at Edinburgh Waverley Station, Edinburgh’s main and most centrally located station. Situated between the Old Town and New Town, Waverley offers immediate access to major attractions, hotels, and onward transport.
Key advantages:
- Central city location
- Best station for sightseeing and hotels
- Connections to trains across Scotland and the UK
Edinburgh Haymarket Station
Some services also stop at or terminate at Edinburgh Haymarket Station. Located slightly west of the city centre, Haymarket is convenient for business districts and offers easy tram connections to Edinburgh Airport.
Useful if you’re:
- Heading to the west of Edinburgh
- Connecting to the airport by tram
- Looking for a less crowded alternative to Waverley
Glasgow–Edinburgh Station Overview
| City | Main Stations | Best Used For |
|---|---|---|
| Glasgow | Queen Street | Fast, direct trains |
| Glasgow | Central | Connections & alternative routes |
| Edinburgh | Waverley | City centre & attractions |
| Edinburgh | Haymarket | Airport and west Edinburgh access |
Choosing the right station can save time and make your arrival more convenient. For most travellers, Glasgow Queen Street → Edinburgh Waverley remains the simplest and quickest station combination.
Glasgow ↔ Edinburgh Airport by Train
Many travellers search for a train connection between Glasgow and Edinburgh Airport, but it’s important to know upfront that there is no direct train running airport-to-airport. However, combining train + tram or bus makes the journey straightforward and reliable.
From Glasgow to Edinburgh Airport by Train
To reach Edinburgh Airport from Glasgow, the most common route is:
- Take a train from Glasgow Queen Street or Glasgow Central to Edinburgh Waverley or Edinburgh Haymarket.
- From Edinburgh Haymarket, transfer to the tram, which runs directly to Edinburgh Airport.
- Alternatively, from Edinburgh Waverley, use the airport bus or walk to nearby tram stops.
This route is popular because trains between Glasgow and Edinburgh run frequently, and tram services to the airport are well-coordinated.
From Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow by Train
If you’re arriving at Edinburgh Airport and travelling on to Glasgow, the journey works in reverse:
- Take the tram from Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh Haymarket or Edinburgh Waverley.
- Board a direct train to Glasgow Queen Street or Glasgow Central.
This combination offers flexibility and usually avoids long waiting times.
Glasgow Airport to Edinburgh by Train
There is also no direct train from Glasgow Airport to Edinburgh. The typical route is:
- Use an airport bus from Glasgow Airport to Glasgow Central or Queen Street.
- Continue your journey by train to Edinburgh.
Airport Train Connection Overview
| Route | Typical Connection | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Glasgow → Edinburgh Airport | Train + tram/bus | Fastest via Haymarket |
| Edinburgh Airport → Glasgow | Tram + train | Frequent connections |
| Glasgow Airport → Edinburgh | Bus + train | No direct rail link |
| Airport to airport | Not direct | Requires city-centre transfer |
While there isn’t a single-train solution, the train + tram/bus combinations are efficient and widely used. Thanks to frequent rail services between Glasgow and Edinburgh, airport transfers remain quick, well-connected, and easy to plan.
Train vs Bus – Glasgow to Edinburgh
When travelling between Glasgow and Edinburgh, the two most common public transport options are train and bus. Both are widely used, but they serve slightly different travel needs depending on your priorities—speed, cost, comfort, or flexibility.
The train is generally the fastest and most convenient option. With frequent departures, short journey times, and city-centre stations at both ends, trains are ideal for commuters, business travellers, and day trips. You avoid road traffic, arrive centrally, and usually enjoy a more comfortable ride, especially during peak hours.
The bus is often the cheapest alternative, particularly when booked in advance. Buses can be a good choice for budget travellers or those travelling late at night when train services are less frequent. However, bus journeys typically take longer and are more affected by traffic conditions, especially during busy periods.
Glasgow to Edinburgh: Train vs Bus Comparison
| Factor | Train | Bus |
|---|---|---|
| Average journey time | ~45–60 minutes | ~1h 15m – 1h 45m |
| Fastest option | Yes | No |
| Typical cost | Mid-range (cheaper with Advance/Railcard) | Usually cheaper |
| Frequency | Very frequent | Frequent but less than trains |
| Comfort | More spacious, onboard facilities | Basic seating |
| City-centre arrival | Yes | Yes |
| Traffic impact | None | Possible delays |
| Best for | Speed, convenience, day trips | Budget travel |
Overall, if time and convenience matter most, the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh is the better choice. If you’re travelling on a tight budget and don’t mind a longer journey, the bus can offer good value. Many travellers prefer the train for its reliability, speed, and central-city connections, especially on such a short intercity route.
Is the Train Scenic? Is It Good for a Day Trip?
The train journey between Glasgow and Edinburgh may be short, but it still offers pleasant views of the Scottish countryside, especially on services that travel via Falkirk and surrounding areas. Along the way, passengers can catch glimpses of rolling fields, small towns, and open green landscapes that provide a relaxing break from city scenery.
While this route isn’t considered one of Scotland’s most dramatic rail journeys, it is often described as comfortable and enjoyable, particularly when compared to road travel. Sitting back on the train allows you to avoid traffic and enjoy a smooth ride, making the journey feel quicker and less stressful.
Is the Glasgow–Edinburgh Train Good for a Day Trip?
Yes—this route is ideal for a day trip. With journey times typically under an hour and trains running frequently throughout the day, it’s easy to travel out in the morning and return in the evening without feeling rushed. Many commuters and tourists do this regularly, whether for work, sightseeing, shopping, or events.
A day trip works well because:
- Trains run multiple times per hour
- Stations are located right in the city centres
- Return journeys are easy to plan with flexible ticket options
You can comfortably spend several hours exploring Edinburgh’s historic streets or Glasgow’s cultural districts and still catch a convenient train back the same day.
Why This Route Works So Well for Short Visits
| Reason | Benefit |
|---|---|
| Short journey time | More time at your destination |
| Frequent trains | Flexible return options |
| Central stations | No long transfers needed |
| Reliable service | Easy planning for same-day travel |
Overall, whether you’re travelling for work or leisure, the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh offers a relaxed, efficient, and day-trip-friendly experience. It’s one of the easiest ways to move between Scotland’s two largest cities without the hassle of driving or long-distance travel.
Reverse Route – Train from Edinburgh to Glasgow
The train from Edinburgh to Glasgow follows the same rail corridor as the Glasgow–Edinburgh journey, offering equally frequent, fast, and mostly direct services. This reverse route is just as popular, serving commuters, students, and travellers making day trips or onward connections.
Most trains depart from Edinburgh Waverley, with some services also stopping at Edinburgh Haymarket, and arrive at Glasgow Queen Street or Glasgow Central depending on the service. Direct trains are the standard, and journey times typically mirror the outbound route, making planning simple in either direction.
Travel times are usually around 50 minutes to just over 1 hour, with the fastest trains completing the trip in as little as 45–46 minutes. Services run multiple times per hour, so you rarely need to wait long for a departure—even during off-peak periods.
Ticket pricing and money-saving options are the same as for the Glasgow → Edinburgh route. Booking Advance tickets, travelling off-peak, and using a Railcard can all help reduce the cost. Because both cities are served by central stations, the train remains the most convenient option for reverse travel as well.
Edinburgh to Glasgow – Quick Overview
| Journey Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Average journey time | ~50 minutes – 1 hour |
| Fastest train | ~45–46 minutes |
| Direct trains | Yes, most services |
| Trains per hour | Frequent, especially peak |
| Main departure stations | Edinburgh Waverley, Haymarket |
| Main arrival stations | Glasgow Queen Street, Glasgow Central |
| Main operator | ScotRail |
Covering both directions within the same guide helps travellers plan confidently, whether they’re heading from Glasgow to Edinburgh or from Edinburgh to Glasgow, without needing to switch between multiple pages.
FAQs – Trains from Glasgow to Edinburgh
Below are clear answers to the most common questions about travelling by train between Glasgow and Edinburgh. These cover timing, prices, distance, frequency, and practical planning—exactly what most travellers want to know.
Is there a direct train from Glasgow to Edinburgh?
Yes. Most services on this route are direct, meaning you stay on the same train for the entire journey. Direct trains are frequent and usually the fastest option.
How long is the train from Glasgow to Edinburgh?
The journey typically takes around 50 minutes to just over 1 hour. The fastest services can take about 45–46 minutes, while slower services with more stops may take a little longer.
How far is Glasgow from Edinburgh by train?
The rail distance between the two cities is around 40–41 miles (65–67 km).
How often do trains run from Glasgow to Edinburgh?
Trains run several times per hour throughout the day, especially during peak periods. This high frequency means you usually won’t have to wait long for the next service.
What time is the first train from Glasgow to Edinburgh?
The first trains usually depart early in the morning, making it possible to travel at the start of the day for work or early plans.
What time is the last train from Glasgow to Edinburgh?
The last train generally runs late in the evening, often close to midnight, though exact times can vary by day and route.
How much is a train ticket from Glasgow to Edinburgh?
Ticket prices depend on when you book and time of travel. Advance and off-peak tickets are cheaper, while flexible tickets bought on the day cost more. Using a Railcard can reduce fares by up to 1/3.
Is the train the fastest way to travel between Glasgow and Edinburgh?
Yes. For most travellers, the train is the fastest and most reliable option, especially compared to driving or taking the bus during busy periods.
Can I do a day trip by train from Glasgow to Edinburgh?
Absolutely. With short journey times, frequent services, and central stations, this route is ideal for a same-day return trip.
Do trains also run from Edinburgh to Glasgow?
Yes. Services operate in both directions with the same frequency, journey times, and ticket options, making travel easy either way.