When you’re considering your transport from Edinburgh Airport to the city center, you have four different options to choose from including taxi, private transfer, bus, and tram.
The fastest and most convenient options are an Edinburgh Airport taxi or private Edinburgh Airport transfer. These take around 25 minutes to reach the city center, under ideal traffic conditions, and cost between £25 (€29) and £39.60 (€47) for up to 5 passengers.
You can also take the Airlink 100 Express Bus which takes just 30 minutes and costs £4.50 (€5), or you can opt for the tram, which takes 35 minutes and costs £6.50 (€7.60). While the tram is a fun option and runs slightly more regularly than the bus, given the price and the journey time, it is the least convenient option overall.
Useful if your accommodation isn't directly in the center, as there are more stops along the line.
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How to get from Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh city center by taxi
Taking an Edinburgh Airport taxi to your desired destination is a quick and comfortable transfer option. Capital Cars is the official taxi company operating from Edinburgh Airport, providing both regular airport taxis – known as black cabs/taxis – and private taxis which require a booking. Both options can seat 5 people, are available 24/7 and if you opt for a regular taxi, you can simply turn up and go. The ride to downtown Edinburgh takes around 25 minutes if you don’t get stuck in traffic.
How much does a taxi cost from Edinburgh Airport to the city center?
Unfortunately, regular black taxis at Edinburgh Airport don’t operate on a flat-rate fee system, instead, they use a taximeter based on the distance traveled. Your final fee may vary slightly but from Edinburgh Airport to the city center, it should be around £25 (€29) during the day (06:00-18:00), plus any road tolls and an airport surcharge fee of £5 (€6). Note that prices increase by at least 33% at night (18:00-06:00), on weekends and holidays.
Where can I get a taxi from?
You’ll find official black cabs lined up outside the East Terminus Facility at the airport. As you exit the Arrivals Hall on the ground floor, walk across the plaza, following the ‘taxi’ signs. Once there, go to the front of the line and let the rank attendant know your destination.
Convenience
Getting from Edinburgh Airport to the city center by taxi is one of the best ways to travel. Taxis are comfortable, convenient, and are a perfect way to take the edge off Scotland’s chilly weather, especially if you’re traveling with luggage. The downside is you’ll have to wait for an available vehicle.
Keep in mind if your trip occurs during the holidays that taxi lines can be quite lengthy so if you prefer not to stand around, we suggest pre-booking a private transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups instead.
Useful Tips
Standard sized taxis can take up to 5 people, which makes this the cheapest transfer option from Edinburgh Airport per person.
You can ask your driver for an estimated price to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center, but the final amount will depend on traffic levels and the location of your destination.
Some taxis in Edinburgh now accept card payments. To find out if they do, you can look for a sign on the taxi's window or you can simply ask your driver.
Standard sized taxis can hold up to 5 people with a standard amount of luggage.
It's possible to use a taxi company other than Capital Cars, however, the free pick-up and drop-off areas are a 10-minute walk from the terminal.
How to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center by bus
Taking a bus from Edinburgh Airport to the city center is a highly convenient and cost-effective transfer option. The Airlink 100 Express Bus runs 24/7 and takes just 30 minutes to reach Waverly Station in the city center where you can connect with trains and other transport options.
*There are two other services connecting Edinburgh Airport to other areas of the city, the Skylink 200 which covers North Edinburgh, and the Skylink 300 which covers West Edinburgh. Just keep in mind that these buses only operate from 06:00 to 00:00.
How much is the bus from Edinburgh Airport to the city?
Taking the Airlink 100 from Edinburgh Airport to the city center will cost you £4.50 (€5) for a one-way ticket, or £7.50 (€8.70) for an open return. If you’re traveling with kids, a single child ticket (5-15 years old) costs £2 (€2.30).
You can buy your tickets at the airport from ticket booths close to the bus stop, self-service machines in arrivals, online in advance, or directly from the driver on the bus.
Cost
€5
Trip Duration
30 Min.
There is a 10 minute waiting time.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The Airlink 100 Express Bus is available every 10 minutes 24/7.
Where do I get the bus from?
You can find the blue and yellow Airlink Bus at the D stop at the bus terminal of Edinburgh Airport. The Airlink 100 Express Bus stops at Waverley Bridge, next to Waverley Train Station in Edinburgh city center.
Convenience
The Airlink 100 Express Bus runs 24/7, so no matter what time you land, you can hop on a bus and make your way directly to the city center, making this a fairly convenient transfer option. This option ranks lower in convenience because it won’t take you directly to the door of your destination.
To avoid having to travel on crowded public transport, especially if you’re traveling with luggage during peak hours, we suggest pre-booking a private transfer with Welcome Pickups instead so that you can travel directly to your door stress-free and relaxed.
Timetables
Edinburgh Airport to Waverley Station
Airlink 100 timetable
Useful Tips
The Airlink 100 Express Bus stops at Waverley Bridge, near Princess Street, Waverley Train Station and the main bus station, which makes it very easy to travel onwards to your hotel.
There is no luggage storage under the bus, however, there are a few luggage rails available in the bus.
Book your tickets online in advance to avoid queues and additional time at the airport.
You cannot pay for your ticket in euros, only in GBP.
If you purchase an open return ticket, it'll cost you less than buying two singles.
This bus runs 24 hours a day, but less frequently throughout the night (00:00-04:30).
How to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center by tram
Using the Edinburgh Airport tram is a fun transfer option although it takes longer and is slightly more expensive than the bus. Most passengers tend to get off at Haymarket Train Station or St Andrew Square in the city center which takes around 35 minutes to reach, however, there are several stops along the way including Edinburgh Park Station and Murrayfield Stadium.
*There isn’t a direct train from Edinburgh Airport to the city center so passengers traveling onward via train should transfer at Haymarket Train Station.
Edinburgh tram prices from the airport to the city center
A one-way ticket for the tram from Edinburgh Airport to the city center costs £6.50 (€7.60) for an adult traveler and accompanying children under the age of 5 travel for free.
Single ticket:
Adult – £6.50 (€7.60)
Child (5-15 years) – £3.30 (€3.80)
Return ticket:
Adult – £9 (€10.45)
Child – £4.80 (€5.60)
All tram stops have ticket machines on the platform, or you can purchase tickets online in advance or via the ‘Transport for Edinburgh’ app.
Cost
€7.60
Trip Duration
35 Min.
The tram runs every 10 minutes before 07:00, every 7 minutes between 07:00 and 19:00, and every 10 minutes after 19:00.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
The tram at Edinburgh Airport is available from 06:26 to 22:48.
Where do I get the tram from?
You’ll find the Edinburgh Airport tram stop outside on the Ground Floor; just follow the marked tram icons from the Baggage Claim area. Once outside the terminal, look for the stop next to the plaza and the large ‘Edinburgh’ sign. Note that the tram terminates in Newhaven so make sure you keep an eye on the stops so you don’t miss the city center.
Convenience
With direct services running between Edinburgh Airport and the city center every 7-10 minutes, the tram will get you to the train station or various stops in the city. Take note, however, that if you’re arriving late at night or in the early hours of the morning, you’ll need to find another form of transportation such as a taxi or private transfer since the tram line will be closed. Additionally, you’ll need to walk or take a taxi to your destination from the tram stop.
Timetables
Edinburgh Airport to the city
Edinburgh Airport tram timetable
Useful Tips
The tram is the only public transfer option that offers free WiFi onboard.
There is limited luggage storage on the trams, so be sure to keep your luggage by your side at all times during your journey to the city center.
Trams only accept payment in GBP, not euros, so make sure to have some pounds in cash on you.
If you're planning on using the tram or bus systems frequently on a certain day, you can purchase a day ticket which is also valid for use on Lothian Bus services.
If you board the tram without a ticket, you can still buy one on board, but you will have to pay the £10 on-board fee.
How to get from Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh city center by private transfer
The most convenient and reliable way to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center is to book a private Edinburgh Airport transfer. Private transfers provide modern and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles, allowing you complete privacy as you travel to your hotel or destination. When you book a private transfer, you’ll be dropped directly at your door in around 25 minutes under ideal traffic conditions. Private transfers charge a fixed fare rate so there are no hidden extras.
When you book your transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups you’ll receive 24/7 customer support, a personalized service to suit your needs, a trained local English-speaking driver and peace of mind that everything has been taken care of for you.
How much does a private transfer from Edinburgh Airport to the city cost?
When you book a private transfer you’ll receive a a fully inclusive quote prior to booking that once secured, won’t change or be affected by traffic conditions, road tolls or various surcharges. Furthermore, you can pay for your trip online which means you won’t need to worry about withdrawing cash at the airport.
With this in mind, when you book with Welcome Pickups you can expect to pay £71 (€84) for a 5-seater vehicle or if you’re traveling as a larger group, you’ll pay £79 (€94) for an 8-seater minivan for your trip to downtown Edinburgh. Your ride can be booked online or via the app in less than 60 seconds; simply enter your personal details, your flight number and the time and date you wish to be collected.
Cost
€51
Trip Duration
25 Min.
Your private transfer driver will be waiting for you on arrival.
Convenience
Safety
Value for Money
Private transfers can be arranged for any time of day, every day of the year.
Where do I meet my private transfer?
When you book a private transfer you’ll have the benefit of a meet-and-greet service where your driver and vehicle will be waiting for you on arrival. Your friendly English-speaking driver will be waiting by the Arrivals Hall entrance holding a sign with your name to help you recognise them. After the introductions, you’ll be shown to your pre-selected private vehicle and be on your way.
Convenience
Nothing beats a door-to-door service with zero wait time which is why getting a private transfer is the most convenient mode of transport from Edinburgh Airport to the city center. If you’re traveling in a group, the costs can be split, making this option just as affordable as a taxi or public transport, plus there is plenty of space for luggage and your driver will give you tips and tricks about Edinburgh City on the way to your accommodation.
Useful Tips
When booking your private transfer make sure you select a time at least 30 minutes after your flight's scheduled landing.
When booking, you can choose between a variety of modern and stylish vehicles that can seat up to 8 people.
Tipping isn't expected in Edinburgh but if you'd like to thank your driver for exceptional service you are welcome to do so.
Any special requests such as baby seats and wheelchair-accessible vehicles can be made at the time of booking to keep everyone in your party safe and comfortable.
Your driver will monitor your flight in case there are any delays to ensure they are still on time to meet you.
Edinburgh Airport private transfers
Powered by Welcome Pickups. Book a trained, English-speaking driver to pick you up for a fixed price with no hidden fees.
How much is the train from Edinburgh Airport to the city?
Unfortunately, trains do not run from Edinburgh Airport to the city center. However, there are other public transport options including a tram and the Airlink bus. The Airlink 100 Express Bus takes 30 minutes and a one-way ticket costs £4.50 (€5) whereas the tram costs £6.50 (€7.60) and takes 35 minutes to reach the city center.
How much does a taxi cost from Edinburgh Airport to city center?
From Edinburgh Airport to the city center a taxi should cost around £25 (€29) during the day (06:00-18:00), excluding any extra charges such as tolls, airport and nighttime surcharges.
How do I get to Edinburgh city center from the airport?
There are four different ways to travel from Edinburgh Airport to the city center; you can either take a taxi or private transfer, the bus or the tram. The cheapest transfer option is to take the Airlink 100 Express Bus, which costs £4.50 (€5) for an adult one-way ticket. Alternatively, you can use Edinburgh’s tram service at £6.50 (€7.60) for each adult traveler.
Better yet, you can opt for the comfortable and convenient option of taking a taxi from Edinburgh Airport to the city which should cost about £25 (€29). Or, if you’d rather treat yourself to a premium service with an all-inclusive price and no extra costs, you can pre-book an airport taxi with Welcome Pickups.
How long does the tram take to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center?
There is a direct tram that runs from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre. The tram runs every 7-10 minutes from 06:26 to 22:48 and takes 35 minutes to reach the city.
Taking an Edinburgh Airport taxi to your desired destination is a quick and comfortable transfer option. Capital Cars is the official taxi company operating from Edinburgh Airport, providing both regular airport taxis – known as black cabs/taxis – and private taxis which require a booking. Both options can seat 5 people, are available 24/7 and if you opt for a regular taxi, you can simply turn up and go. The ride to downtown Edinburgh takes around 25 minutes if you don’t get stuck in traffic.
How much does a taxi cost from Edinburgh Airport to the city center?
Unfortunately, regular black taxis at Edinburgh Airport don’t operate on a flat-rate fee system, instead, they use a taximeter based on the distance traveled. Your final fee may vary slightly but from Edinburgh Airport to the city center, it should be around £25 (€29) during the day (06:00-18:00), plus any road tolls and an airport surcharge fee of £5 (€6). Note that prices increase by at least 33% at night (18:00-06:00), on weekends and holidays.
Where can I get a taxi from?
You’ll find official black cabs lined up outside the East Terminus Facility at the airport. As you exit the Arrivals Hall on the ground floor, walk across the plaza, following the ‘taxi’ signs. Once there, go to the front of the line and let the rank attendant know your destination.
Convenience
Getting from Edinburgh Airport to the city center by taxi is one of the best ways to travel. Taxis are comfortable, convenient, and are a perfect way to take the edge off Scotland’s chilly weather, especially if you’re traveling with luggage. The downside is you’ll have to wait for an available vehicle.
Keep in mind if your trip occurs during the holidays that taxi lines can be quite lengthy so if you prefer not to stand around, we suggest pre-booking a private transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups instead.
Useful Tips
Book a trusted, English-speaking driver to pick you up at the same price as a regular taxi
Learn moreTaking a bus from Edinburgh Airport to the city center is a highly convenient and cost-effective transfer option. The Airlink 100 Express Bus runs 24/7 and takes just 30 minutes to reach Waverly Station in the city center where you can connect with trains and other transport options.
*There are two other services connecting Edinburgh Airport to other areas of the city, the Skylink 200 which covers North Edinburgh, and the Skylink 300 which covers West Edinburgh. Just keep in mind that these buses only operate from 06:00 to 00:00.
How much is the bus from Edinburgh Airport to the city?
Taking the Airlink 100 from Edinburgh Airport to the city center will cost you £4.50 (€5) for a one-way ticket, or £7.50 (€8.70) for an open return. If you’re traveling with kids, a single child ticket (5-15 years old) costs £2 (€2.30).
You can buy your tickets at the airport from ticket booths close to the bus stop, self-service machines in arrivals, online in advance, or directly from the driver on the bus.
The Airlink 100 Express Bus is available every 10 minutes 24/7.
Where do I get the bus from?
You can find the blue and yellow Airlink Bus at the D stop at the bus terminal of Edinburgh Airport. The Airlink 100 Express Bus stops at Waverley Bridge, next to Waverley Train Station in Edinburgh city center.
Convenience
The Airlink 100 Express Bus runs 24/7, so no matter what time you land, you can hop on a bus and make your way directly to the city center, making this a fairly convenient transfer option. This option ranks lower in convenience because it won’t take you directly to the door of your destination.
To avoid having to travel on crowded public transport, especially if you’re traveling with luggage during peak hours, we suggest pre-booking a private transfer with Welcome Pickups instead so that you can travel directly to your door stress-free and relaxed.
Timetables
Edinburgh Airport to Waverley Station
Airlink 100 timetable
Useful Tips
Using the Edinburgh Airport tram is a fun transfer option although it takes longer and is slightly more expensive than the bus. Most passengers tend to get off at Haymarket Train Station or St Andrew Square in the city center which takes around 35 minutes to reach, however, there are several stops along the way including Edinburgh Park Station and Murrayfield Stadium.
*There isn’t a direct train from Edinburgh Airport to the city center so passengers traveling onward via train should transfer at Haymarket Train Station.
Edinburgh tram prices from the airport to the city center
A one-way ticket for the tram from Edinburgh Airport to the city center costs £6.50 (€7.60) for an adult traveler and accompanying children under the age of 5 travel for free.
Single ticket:
Return ticket:
All tram stops have ticket machines on the platform, or you can purchase tickets online in advance or via the ‘Transport for Edinburgh’ app.
The tram at Edinburgh Airport is available from 06:26 to 22:48.
Where do I get the tram from?
You’ll find the Edinburgh Airport tram stop outside on the Ground Floor; just follow the marked tram icons from the Baggage Claim area. Once outside the terminal, look for the stop next to the plaza and the large ‘Edinburgh’ sign. Note that the tram terminates in Newhaven so make sure you keep an eye on the stops so you don’t miss the city center.
Convenience
With direct services running between Edinburgh Airport and the city center every 7-10 minutes, the tram will get you to the train station or various stops in the city. Take note, however, that if you’re arriving late at night or in the early hours of the morning, you’ll need to find another form of transportation such as a taxi or private transfer since the tram line will be closed. Additionally, you’ll need to walk or take a taxi to your destination from the tram stop.
Timetables
Edinburgh Airport to the city
Edinburgh Airport tram timetable
Useful Tips
The most convenient and reliable way to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center is to book a private Edinburgh Airport transfer. Private transfers provide modern and comfortable air-conditioned vehicles, allowing you complete privacy as you travel to your hotel or destination. When you book a private transfer, you’ll be dropped directly at your door in around 25 minutes under ideal traffic conditions. Private transfers charge a fixed fare rate so there are no hidden extras.
When you book your transfer with a company like Welcome Pickups you’ll receive 24/7 customer support, a personalized service to suit your needs, a trained local English-speaking driver and peace of mind that everything has been taken care of for you.
How much does a private transfer from Edinburgh Airport to the city cost?
When you book a private transfer you’ll receive a a fully inclusive quote prior to booking that once secured, won’t change or be affected by traffic conditions, road tolls or various surcharges. Furthermore, you can pay for your trip online which means you won’t need to worry about withdrawing cash at the airport.
With this in mind, when you book with Welcome Pickups you can expect to pay £71 (€84) for a 5-seater vehicle or if you’re traveling as a larger group, you’ll pay £79 (€94) for an 8-seater minivan for your trip to downtown Edinburgh. Your ride can be booked online or via the app in less than 60 seconds; simply enter your personal details, your flight number and the time and date you wish to be collected.
Private transfers can be arranged for any time of day, every day of the year.
Where do I meet my private transfer?
When you book a private transfer you’ll have the benefit of a meet-and-greet service where your driver and vehicle will be waiting for you on arrival. Your friendly English-speaking driver will be waiting by the Arrivals Hall entrance holding a sign with your name to help you recognise them. After the introductions, you’ll be shown to your pre-selected private vehicle and be on your way.
Convenience
Nothing beats a door-to-door service with zero wait time which is why getting a private transfer is the most convenient mode of transport from Edinburgh Airport to the city center. If you’re traveling in a group, the costs can be split, making this option just as affordable as a taxi or public transport, plus there is plenty of space for luggage and your driver will give you tips and tricks about Edinburgh City on the way to your accommodation.
Useful Tips
Sedan up to 4 passengers
€62Starting from 15.5 EUR / passenger
MiniVan up to 5 passengers
€84Starting from 16.8 EUR / passenger
Van up to 8 passengers
€93Starting from 11.6 EUR / passenger
Frequently asked questions
How much is the train from Edinburgh Airport to the city?
Unfortunately, trains do not run from Edinburgh Airport to the city center. However, there are other public transport options including a tram and the Airlink bus. The Airlink 100 Express Bus takes 30 minutes and a one-way ticket costs £4.50 (€5) whereas the tram costs £6.50 (€7.60) and takes 35 minutes to reach the city center.
How much does a taxi cost from Edinburgh Airport to city center?
From Edinburgh Airport to the city center a taxi should cost around £25 (€29) during the day (06:00-18:00), excluding any extra charges such as tolls, airport and nighttime surcharges.
How do I get to Edinburgh city center from the airport?
There are four different ways to travel from Edinburgh Airport to the city center; you can either take a taxi or private transfer, the bus or the tram. The cheapest transfer option is to take the Airlink 100 Express Bus, which costs £4.50 (€5) for an adult one-way ticket. Alternatively, you can use Edinburgh’s tram service at £6.50 (€7.60) for each adult traveler.
Better yet, you can opt for the comfortable and convenient option of taking a taxi from Edinburgh Airport to the city which should cost about £25 (€29). Or, if you’d rather treat yourself to a premium service with an all-inclusive price and no extra costs, you can pre-book an airport taxi with Welcome Pickups.
How long does the tram take to get from Edinburgh Airport to the city center?
There is a direct tram that runs from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre. The tram runs every 7-10 minutes from 06:26 to 22:48 and takes 35 minutes to reach the city.
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