Options compared
| Option | Price (single) | Time | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airlink 100 bus | £6 (open return £8.50) | ~30 min | Old Town, Waverley station, night arrivals |
| Tram | £7.90 (open return £9.50) | ~35 min | New Town, West End, Leith, luggage |
| Taxi | ~£25–40 | 25–40 min | Groups, door to door |
| Uber / Bolt | Varies, often similar to taxis | 25–40 min | App users |
Fares shown are for 2026. Check current prices on Lothian Buses (Airlink) and Edinburgh Trams.
Airlink 100 bus
The express bus leaves from outside the terminal about every 10 minutes during the day and runs through the night. It stops at the West End and Haymarket before ending at Waverley Bridge, next to Waverley station and steps from the Old Town. Pay by contactless on board or buy a ticket from the kiosk or app.
Tram
The tram stop is a short walk from arrivals. Trams run roughly every 7 minutes from early morning to around 11pm, stopping at Haymarket, West End, Princes Street and St Andrew Square, then continuing to Leith and Newhaven. The airport fare applies even if you get off early. Buy tickets from the machines or tap a contactless card.
Taxi and rideshare
Black cabs wait at the official rank outside arrivals and run on a meter. Uber and Bolt pick up from a designated area, following signs. A pick-up charge applies at the airport. Taxis are the best option late at night with luggage or in a group.
Find tours & tickets in EdinburghTrains to Glasgow and the Highlands
There is no train station at the terminal. Take the tram to Edinburgh Gateway (one stop) for trains to Fife and the north, or to Haymarket for trains to Glasgow and beyond.
Tips
- Get your UK ETA before you fly; most non-UK visitors need one.
- Choose a hotel near Waverley Bridge or Princes Street for an easy arrival. See where to stay in Edinburgh.
- Buy an eSIM before you travel to use maps and rideshare apps on landing. Get a travel eSIM for Edinburgh
More Edinburgh guides
- Edinburgh travel guide
- 20 best things to do in Edinburgh
- Edinburgh itinerary: 2, 3 or 4 days
- Where to stay in Edinburgh
- Best time to visit Edinburgh
- Edinburgh Castle tickets
- Highlands and Loch Ness day trip
- UK ETA: who needs it and how to apply
FAQ: Edinburgh Airport to the city
Is the tram or the bus better from Edinburgh Airport?
The bus is cheaper and runs all night; the tram is smoother with luggage and better for the New Town and Leith.
How long does it take to get from Edinburgh Airport to the Royal Mile?
About 35–45 minutes: 30 minutes on the Airlink to Waverley Bridge, then a short uphill walk.
Does the Edinburgh tram run all night?
No. Trams stop around 11pm. After that, take the Airlink bus or a taxi.
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