
Best Airports & How to Get from the Airport to the City in Edinburgh, Edinburgh, City of, United Kingdom
1. Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
The primary airport serving Edinburgh with direct flights to numerous destinations worldwide.
- Direct Flights: Offers direct flights to various cities across Europe, North America, and Asia.
- Transport Links: Easy access to public transportation like buses and trams for travel within the city.
- Car Hire Services: Convenient car hire services available on-site for those who prefer self-driving.
2. Airlink 100 Bus
Express bus service connecting Edinburgh Airport with the city centre (Waverley Station) in just 30 minutes.
- Frequency: Buses run every 10 minutes during peak hours and approximately every 20-30 minutes at other times.
- Ticket Options: Single, return, day travel tickets available as well as a multi-journey ticket for unlimited travel within a specific timeframe.
- Luggage Allowance: A generous luggage allowance, making it easy to transport larger suitcases or bags.
3. Tram (Edinburgh Trams)
Modern and efficient tram service connecting the airport with the city centre, with stops at key tourist destinations.
- Stops: Multiple stops along popular tourist routes like Princes Street and Festival Square.
- Integrated Fare System: Integrates with the existing Lothian Buses network for seamless multimodal travel.
- Speed: Travel time to the city centre is approximately 35 minutes, making it a slightly slower but more scenic option compared to Airlink 100 Bus.
4. Taxi
A convenient option for travellers with luggage or those preferring door-to-door service from the airport to their destination.
- Availability: Taxis are readily available outside the terminal at Edinburgh Airport.
- Fare Estimates: Fares to the city centre typically range from £20-£30, depending on the exact destination.
- Time Efficient: A taxi ride takes around 20-30 minutes, making it faster than public transportation for some destinations.
5. Slateford Railway Station
Smaller railway station located near Edinburgh Airport, providing train connections to the city centre and beyond.
- Limited Connectivity: Fewer trains and destinations compared to Waverley Station in the city centre.
- Travel Time: Journey time to Edinburgh Waverley Station is approximately 15 minutes, making it quicker than public buses or trams.
- Convenience: Ideal for travellers with specific train connections or those seeking a quieter travel experience.
6. Uber
Request a ride from Uber directly on your smartphone for a convenient and reliable service to the city centre.
- Flexibility: Choose between UberX, UberBlack or other options available in Edinburgh.
- Price: Pricing is similar to taxis but with the convenience of a smartphone app and cashless payment.
- Ride Time Estimates: Estimated travel time from the airport to the city centre is around 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic conditions.
7. Citylink Bus (M9/X54)
Coach services connecting Edinburgh Airport with destinations across Scotland, including Inverness, Glasgow and St Andrews.
- Long-Distance Travel: Ideal for travellers visiting multiple destinations in Scotland.
- Frequency and Time: Coaches run less frequently than city services, with travel times ranging from 1-2 hours to various destinations.
- Comfort: Coach seats are comfortable and offer a good view of the Scottish countryside during the journey.
8. Rental Car
Pick up a rental car at Edinburgh Airport for independent travel around Scotland.
- Independence: Travel on your own schedule and explore Scotland at your leisure.
- Variety of Cars: A wide range of car options available, from compact cars to luxury vehicles.
- Parking and Road Conditions: Awareness of parking regulations in Edinburgh and road conditions across Scotland is essential for a stress-free trip.
9. Train (Napier Railway Station)
Smaller railway station located near the city centre, offering connections to Edinburgh Airport and other destinations.
- Stops: Key stops include Haymarket Station, Waverley Station, and Edinburgh Park.
- Travel Time: Journey time to Edinburgh Airport is approximately 15 minutes.
- Convenience: Ideal for travellers with specific train connections or those seeking a quieter travel experience.
10. Bike Hire
Rent a bike and explore Edinburgh's charming streets at your own pace.
- Fitness and Environment: Enjoy the benefits of exercise while reducing your carbon footprint.
- Variety of Bikes: A range of bike options available, from road bikes to hybrid and electric bikes.
- Safety: Ensure you wear a helmet and follow traffic regulations for a safe journey.
11. Walking Tour
Discover Edinburgh's historic landmarks and hidden gems on a guided walking tour.
- Cultural Learning: Learn about the city's rich history and culture from knowledgeable guides.
- Flexibility: Choose from a variety of tours focusing on different themes, such as architecture or ghost stories.
- Physical Activity: Walking tours are a great way to stay active during your trip while exploring the city.
12. Car Sharing (Car2Go)
Rent a car for short trips within Edinburgh with Car2Go's convenient car-sharing service.
- Affordability: Compared to taxi fares, car sharing is often more cost-effective for shorter journeys.
- Availability: Cars are stationed at various locations throughout Edinburgh, making them easily accessible.
- Environmental Impact: Reduce your carbon footprint by sharing a car with multiple users during your trip.
13. Tour Bus (City Sightseeing Edinburgh)
Hop-on hop-off bus tour service offering flexible sightseeing around Edinburgh.
- Flexibility: Create your own itinerary by hopping on and off the bus at various stops throughout the city.
- Comfort: Open-top buses offer great views of Edinburgh's landmarks and attractions.
- Guided Tour Option: Choose between a guided tour or the freedom to explore at your own pace.
14. Water Taxi (Edinburgh Cruises)
Experience Edinburgh from a unique perspective with a water taxi tour on the Firth of Forth.
- Scenic Views: Enjoy stunning views of Edinburgh's coastline, castles, and bridges.
- Uniqueness: Offers a unique travel experience compared to other land-based transportation options.
- Limited Availability: Operates seasonally and during specific hours, so plan your trip accordingly.
15. Walk from the Airport (Edinburgh Park)
For the fitness-conscious traveller, consider walking from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre.
- Fitness and Health: Walking is a great way to stay active during your trip while exploring the city.
- Distance: The walk takes approximately 45 minutes to reach the city centre, depending on your pace.
- Safety: Ensure you stay safe by walking during daylight hours and following pedestrian paths.