Edinburgh to Glasgow by Train
Direct high-speed service · from €19.87
Route Overview: Edinburgh to Glasgow
The Edinburgh to Glasgow train is one of Scotland's busiest and most frequent rail routes, with up to 4 trains per hour connecting the country's two largest cities in under 50 minutes. ScotRail operates all services on this corridor.
The fastest route runs via Falkirk High to Glasgow Queen Street, taking approximately 50 minutes. An alternative route via Shotts serves Glasgow Central and takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Both routes run frequently throughout the day.
Since September 2025, ScotRail has permanently abolished peak fares across its entire network. This means you pay the same price for an Edinburgh to Glasgow ticket regardless of when you travel — making spontaneous journeys and commuting significantly more affordable.
How Long Is the Edinburgh to Glasgow Train?
The direct ScotRail from Edinburgh to Glasgow takes approximately 50 min, with multiple daily departures.
How Much Does a Edinburgh to Glasgow Train Ticket Cost?
Tickets start from €19.87 when booked in advance. Prices vary by date, time, and availability.
How Many Trains Run Daily from Edinburgh to Glasgow?
Up to 4/day trains operate daily on the Edinburgh to Glasgow route.
Train Operator
ScotRail
Direct high-speed service · 50 min max
Which Stations Serve the Edinburgh to Glasgow Route?
Edinburgh Waverley
- Located in the heart of Edinburgh between the Old Town and New Town
- Tram, bus, and taxi connections available directly outside the station
- RER Shops and food outlets inside the station
Glasgow Queen Street
- Central Glasgow location, close to George Square and Buchanan Street shopping area
- Glasgow Central station is a 5-minute walk for onward Avanti West Coast services
- RER Subway, bus, and taxi connections nearby
What Classes Are Available on Edinburgh to Glasgow Trains?
Standard
- Comfortable seating with tables on many services
- Free WiFi on most trains
- Power outlets at window seats
- Luggage racks and space for larger bags
First Class
- Wider seats with extra legroom
- Quieter carriage environment
- Power outlets at every seat
- Available on selected services only
How to Book the Edinburgh to Glasgow Train?
Starting Price
Per person, one way in Standard class. Prices shown are indicative starting prices per person for a one-way journey in 2nd Class and may vary based on travel date, time, and availability. All information is sourced from official railway operators and may change without notice.
Book Early
Tickets are available up to 6 months in advance. Advance bookings offer the best prices.
Children & Youth
Children 4-11 may qualify for reduced fares. Youth discounts may be available. Infants under 4 travel free
Luggage
Standard luggage allowance applies
What Should You Know About Edinburgh to Glasgow Trains?
No Peak Fares — Same Price All Day
Since September 2025, ScotRail has permanently abolished peak fares. You pay the same price regardless of when you travel — no more expensive peak-hour tickets. Anytime singles and returns are now priced at the former off-peak level.
Two Routes Available
The fastest route via Falkirk High takes around 50 minutes to Glasgow Queen Street. An alternative route via Shotts to Glasgow Central takes around 1 hour 15 minutes. Both run frequently throughout the day.
First Class Available on Some Services
Selected ScotRail services between Edinburgh and Glasgow offer First Class seating with extra legroom and quieter carriages. Not all trains have First Class — check when booking.
Two Glasgow Stations
The fast Edinburgh service arrives at Glasgow Queen Street. If you need Glasgow Central (for Avanti West Coast to London), it is a 5-minute walk between the two stations.
Frequently Asked Questions: Edinburgh to Glasgow
The fastest trains via Falkirk High take approximately 50 minutes from Edinburgh Waverley to Glasgow Queen Street. Services via Shotts to Glasgow Central take around 1 hour 15 minutes.
Fares start from £8.40 one-way in Standard class. Since September 2025, ScotRail charges the same fare regardless of time of day — no peak pricing.
Up to 4 trains per hour during the day on the fast Falkirk High route, with additional services via Shotts. The service runs from early morning until late evening.
The fast service arrives at Glasgow Queen Street. Some slower services via Shotts arrive at Glasgow Central. The two stations are a 5-minute walk apart in central Glasgow.
No seat reservation is required or available on ScotRail Edinburgh-Glasgow services. Simply buy a ticket and board any train.
Yes. National railcards (16-25, 26-30, Two Together, Family, Senior, Disabled) offer a third off standard fares on ScotRail services.