Your Complete Guide to Airport Transfers in Edinburgh
Getting from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to the heart of Scotland’s capital is easy, quick, and affordable—if you know your options. There are several options you can leverage. Read on to learn more.
Airlink 100 bus – Best Value & Runs 24/7
- Time: ~30 minutes
- Cost: £5.50 one-way / £8.00 return
- Download App: Lothian Buses app for tickets & live tracking
The Airlink 100 bus is a reliable, comfortable coach that runs every 10 minutes, day and night. You can find it outside the main airport terminal; the buses are easy to spot and access and directly take you to key city center stops, including Haymarket, West End, Princes Street, and Waverley Bridge.
The route is truly thoughtfully designed, stopping at key Edinburgh landmarks like the Zoo, Murrayfield, and Haymarket Station before reaching the city center. While the Princes Street stop is drop-off only, it’s perfect to dive straight into Edinburgh’s bustling shopping and tourist district. For added convenience, the bus also stops at South St David Street—an important hub and the starting point for the return journey to the airport if you’re staying in the city center.
Luggage racks, USB charging, free Wi-Fi, and friendly drivers make it a top choice. Tickets can be bought onboard (card/contactless), online, or through the Lothian Buses app.
Buses depart at least every 10 minutes throughout most of the day and night. You can check the timetable online here.
If you also buy a return ticket, note that they never expire, giving you the flexibility to head back to the airport whenever you’re ready—no need to pre-book, making it even easier to explore Edinburgh at your own pace.
Pro tip: Use the Lothian Buses app to check real-time departures and skip the queue. All useful information can be found here – link.
Edinburgh Tram – Smooth Ride into Town
- Time: ~35 minutes
- Cost: £7.50 one-way / £9.50 return
- Download App: Edinburgh Trams app or buy from ticket machines
The Edinburgh Tram is a scenic and modern way to get from the airport to the city.
The tram station at the airport is only about 100 meters from the terminal; the tram stop is easy for passengers to find upon arrival.
It runs every 7–10 minutes and stops at several central locations, including Haymarket, West End, and Princes Street, and terminates at York Place (Picardy Place).
Trams are clean, wheelchair accessible, and ideal if you’re staying near any tram stop.
Although the bus is faster, the trade-off with the tram is its slower pace through the city center due to these additional stops, where mainly locals disembark. Unlike the express bus, which skips local destinations for a faster arrival, the tram presents a more detailed route that may appeal to you needing access to specific locations.
Heads up: You must purchase your ticket before boarding—no onboard sales.
Taxi or Uber – Most Convenient, Especially Late at Night
Taxis are located right outside the airport. Black cabs are always available, or you can use Uber, Bolt, or Free Now for a ride-share option. It’s the most comfortable way to travel if you carry heavy luggage or arrive late or early.
Only licensed taxis operate at the airport, so you can be sure you’ll get a reliable and scam-free experience. These taxis must use a meter for every journey, providing transparency and peace of mind for travelers concerned about overcharging.
Tip: Pre-book a private transfer via airport shuttle services like Airport Collections UK or Welcome Pickups for fixed fares and fewer surprises.
Whether you’re arriving for a weekend getaway or an extended stay, getting from Edinburgh Airport to the city center is hassle-free, with options to suit every budget and travel style. From the reliable Airlink 100 bus to the sleek Edinburgh Tram or the convenience of a taxi, your journey into the city’s heart starts smoothly. With flexible tickets, easy-to-use apps, and well-connected stops, Edinburgh ensures your Scottish adventure begins when you land.
Pack your bag and waddle more!
