Edinburgh Airport Transport
Buses and Shuttles
Edinburgh Airport is exceptionally well connected to the city and surrounding areas by a variety of bus services. The most popular option is the Airlink 100 Express Bus, which runs 24 hours a day, every 10 minutes, between the airport and Waverley Bridge in the city centre. The journey takes around 25 minutes, and tickets cost £5.50 for a single and £8 for an open return. Child fares are also available.
Other bus lines include the Lothian Bus 35, connecting the airport to Ocean Terminal with stops at local destinations, and the N22 night bus for late arrivals or departures. The new Bright Bus Airport Express offers a fast, affordable shuttle every 15 minutes, with fares starting at £5 and free rides for over-60s with a concession card.
Buy your bus tickets online or via mobile apps to save time and avoid queues at the airport. Buses are accessible for passengers with reduced mobility and have space for luggage.
Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Taxis are readily available at the airport, with a dedicated rank just outside the terminal. Edinburgh’s iconic black cabs can accommodate up to five passengers and charge between £25 and £40 for a trip to the city centre. Private hire vehicles and ride-hailing services like Uber are also available and can be booked in advance or upon arrival.
If you’re traveling in a group or with a lot of luggage, consider booking a private transfer or minivan in advance for a fixed price and added convenience. Many taxi companies offer pre-booking and meet-and-greet services.
Comparative Taxi Destinations
| Destination | Distance (km) | Approx. Time | Approx. Price (GBP) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh City Centre | 13 | 20–30 min | £25–£40 |
| Leith (Forth Ports) | 17 | 30 min | £65–£85 |
| Falkirk | 35 | 30 min | £60–£80 |
| Glasgow City Centre | 66 | 45–55 min | £115–£140 |
| Dundee | 96 | 70 min | £157–£175 |
| Edinburgh Waverley Station | 14 | 25 min | £25–£40 |
Tram and Train
The Edinburgh Trams provide a direct and comfortable link between the airport and the city’s New Town, including stops at Princes Street and Haymarket. Trams run every 10–15 minutes from 6 am to 11 pm, with a journey time of about 40 minutes. Adult tickets cost £7 for a single and £9.50 for a return; child fares are also available.
While the airport does not have its own train station, you can easily connect to national rail services at Edinburgh Waverley or Haymarket stations via tram or bus. These stations offer routes to Glasgow, London, and other major UK cities.
Buy tram and train tickets in advance, especially during peak travel times, to secure the best fares and avoid queues. The tram is a great choice if you have heavy luggage, as it is step-free and spacious.
Car Hire
Major car rental companies such as Europcar, Hertz, Enterprise, and Sixt have desks at the airport, offering a wide range of vehicles for every budget. The car hire centre is located within walking distance of the terminal, and advance booking is strongly recommended, especially during busy periods.
See more information
Compare prices online before your trip and book early to get the best deals. Check if your rental includes GPS or child seats if needed.
How to Get to Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh Airport is about 10 km (6 miles) west of the city centre, easily accessible by car via the M8 and A8 roads. If arriving by public transport, you can use the Airlink 100, Bright Bus Airport Express, or tram for a direct and efficient journey. Taxis, private transfers, and car hire are also convenient options, especially if you have heavy luggage or are traveling in a group.
Allow extra time for your journey during peak hours, major events, or adverse weather, as traffic and queues can increase significantly.