To get around in Edinburgh, you can use a combination of public transportation options, including buses, trains, and trams, as well as walk or cycle through the city's historic streets.
Quick Facts
Getting There
Edinburgh is easily accessible by air, with Edinburgh Airport (EDI) being the main international airport serving the city. The airport is located about 8 miles west of the city center and offers direct flights to many European destinations, as well as connections to major hubs in the US and beyond. You can also reach Edinburgh by train or bus from other major cities in the UK, including London, Manchester, and Glasgow. The city's main train station, Edinburgh Waverley, is a major hub for rail travel in Scotland, with frequent services to and from London's King's Cross station.
If you're traveling from outside the UK, you can fly into Edinburgh Airport and then take a taxi, bus, or tram into the city center. Alternatively, you can take a train or bus from other major cities in the UK, or drive to Edinburgh via the M8 and M9 motorways. The city is also a popular destination for cruise ships, with many liners docking at the port of Leith, just a few miles north of the city center.
Domestic Flights
If you need to travel to other parts of the UK, there are several domestic airlines that operate from Edinburgh Airport, including British Airways, EasyJet, and Ryanair. You can fly to destinations such as London, Manchester, and Belfast, as well as to other cities in Scotland, such as Glasgow and Aberdeen. Booking in advance is usually the best way to get a good deal on domestic flights, and you can use online travel agents such as Expedia or Skyscanner to compare prices and find the best options. Approximate costs for domestic flights can vary depending on the time of year and demand, but you can expect to pay around $50-$100 for a one-way ticket to London, for example.
Trains & Rail
Edinburgh has an extensive rail network, with frequent services to and from London, as well as to other major cities in Scotland and the north of England. The city's main train station, Edinburgh Waverley, is a major hub for rail travel in Scotland, with services operated by ScotRail, Virgin Trains, and London North Eastern Railway (LNER). You can book tickets online in advance through the National Rail website or at the station itself, and prices vary depending on the time of year and demand. There are also several high-speed options available, including the LNER service to London, which takes around 4.5 hours.
Buses & Coaches
There are several bus and coach companies that operate in Edinburgh, including National Express, Citylink, and Lothian Buses. These services connect the city to other major destinations in Scotland and the UK, including London, Glasgow, and Manchester. You can book tickets online in advance or at the bus station itself, and prices are generally cheaper than trains, although the journey times can be longer. The bus station is located in the city center, just a short walk from the train station and other major attractions.
City Transport
| Mode | Available In | Cost (USD) | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| City Bus | Edinburgh | $2-$3 | Lothian Buses operate an extensive network of services across the city |
| Taxi | everywhere | $10-$15/km | Available at taxi ranks or by booking in advance |
| Ride-Hailing | Edinburgh | $5-$10 | Uber and Bolt operate in the city |
| Tram | Edinburgh | $2-$3 | A convenient way to get to and from the airport |
Driving
- To drive in Edinburgh, you'll need a valid driver's license from your home country, as well as car insurance that covers you in the UK.
- The road quality in Edinburgh is generally good, although there can be traffic congestion in the city center, especially during rush hour.
- Fuel costs are relatively high in the UK, with gasoline prices averaging around $6-$7 per gallon.
- Car rental companies such as Hertz, Avis, and Europcar operate in Edinburgh, and you can book a car online in advance or at the airport.
- Be aware of the city's one-way systems and pedestrianized areas, which can make navigation challenging for visitors.
- Parking in the city center can be expensive, with rates averaging around $5-$10 per hour.
Transport Tips
- Be aware of peak hour traffic congestion in the city center, and plan your journey accordingly.
- Consider purchasing a Ridacard for unlimited travel on Lothian Buses and trams.
- Download the Transport for Edinburgh app to plan your journey and track bus and tram times.
- Be mindful of cyclists and pedestrians when driving in the city, as Edinburgh has a strong cycling culture.
- Avoid using unlicensed taxis, and instead book a licensed cab or use a ride-hailing app.
- Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers you for unexpected transportation costs or delays.
- Be aware of roadworks and diversions, which can affect traffic flow in the city.