The distance from the airport to Edinburgh city centre is 6.7 miles (10.7 km) as the crow flies, or 8.8 miles (14.3 km) if you’re land-bound.
Since you can’t take the crow shortcut, we’ve mapped out the most valuable methods of getting from Edinburgh airport to the city centre. From an open-top bus to tram and taxi services, you can be in the heart of the capital within minutes of landing.
Navigate the capital’s reliable commercial and public transport from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre with this helpful guide by Bight Bus.
How To Get From Edinburgh Airport to the City Centre
Find out what is the best way to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre from our recommended list.
Please note: Ticket prices are effective June 2025
Tram
While there’s no direct route by train from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre, the tram stop is conveniently located directly outside the terminal building. The first tram leaves the airport at 6.30 am, while the last tram for the day departs at 22:52.
Combined tram and train tickets are available if you want to travel further by train across Scotland from Edinburgh Waverley Station.
- Frequency: Trams run every 7-10 minutes
- Journey Time: 35 minutes to Princes Street
- Cost: £7,90 for a single adult ticket, £5 for children
Public Bus
Airlink buses from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre offer an economical travel option. The bus stop is a short walk from the International 2 and Domestic UK Arrivals. There’s no need to book tickets; you can buy them from the bus driver or on the app.
Note: Have the exact fare prepared when paying in cash.
- Frequency: Up to every 10 minutes
- Journey Time: 30-35 minutes, depending on traffic conditions
- Cost: £8 for adult single tickets, £4 for children, up to 3 kids under 5 for free with a paying adult
Private Taxi
Some taxis from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre offer immediate availability without booking, while the Black Cab service requires a booking. There are also various ride-share options available via their respective apps.
Frequency: Available 24/7 with minimal waiting times
Journey Time: 20-30 minutes, depending on traffic and destination
Cost: £25-£35 including tips, with potential surcharges for night services
Car Rental
It’s possible to travel from Edinburgh airport to the city centre at your own speed. Major international car rental brands operate from the airport terminal, offering vehicles from economy to luxury categories.
Frequency: Available during business hours with 24-hour return facilities
Journey Time: 20-25 minutes direct drive to Edinburgh city centre
Cost: £43-£60 per day plus fuel, parking fees extra
Pro tip: Edinburgh takes parking seriously. You could be fined £100 just for leaving your car on the sidewalk. It’s best to stick to designated spots… if you can find one.
Bright Bus Airport Express
The Bright Bus Airport Express must be one of the most exciting ways to travel from Edinburgh Airport. This premium service combines comfortable transportation with local insights from our team, making your journey part of the Edinburgh experience.
- Frequency: Scheduled departures every 15 minutes for most of the day
- Journey Time: 20 to 30 minutes from the airport to Waverley Bridge
- Cost: £5 for single adult tickets and £7 for a return. Kids under five hop on for free, and concessions are available for pensioners. Young Scot cardholders or those over 60 with a bus pass travel free.
Buy your ticket for the cheapest way from Edinburgh airport to the city centre — the Bright Bus Airport Express!
Bright Bus Airport Express: Edinburgh’s Brightest Airport Transfer
Surprise your loved one or family with a fun open-top bus airport transfer to start your Edinburgh gateway! The Bright Bus Airport Express service is ideal for tourists seeking a memorable arrival or locals who want to view their capital from the best seat in town.
Here’s our route from Edinburgh Airport:
- Edinburgh Airport, Stop E
- Airport Hotels
- Maybury
- Edinburgh Zoo
- Murrayfield Stadium, Ormidale Place
- Haymarket Station
- Shandwick Place, Stop SC
- Princes Street, Stop PF
- Edinburgh Waverley Station, Stop PM
Book an express service that is stress-free. Getting from Edinburgh airport to the city centre is fun, fast and cheap with Bright Bus. Buy your ticket today!