How to get from Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh Castle

Cities & Metropolitan Areas · United Kingdom · Urban & Cultural · Edinburgh · Edinburgh Airport · Edinburgh Castle

How to get from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Edinburgh Castle is straightforward, with tram, express bus, taxi and private transfer options all getting you from the runway to the Royal Mile in around 30–45 minutes depending on traffic and where you are staying nearby.

At A Glance (Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh Castle)

Mode Duration Best For
🚊 Edinburgh Tram (Airport → City Centre) + Walk ~30–35 min tram + 10–15 min walk First-time visitors, step-free, reliable
🏷️ Cost: ~£7.50–£9.50 per adult (single/open return) » official fares | pre-book tram ticket
🚌 Airlink 100 Express Bus (Airport → Waverley Bridge) ~30 min bus + 10–20 min walk or short bus/taxi 24/7 service, budget travellers
🏷️ Cost: ~£5–£8.50 per adult (single/open return) » official info | reserve Airlink ticket | shuttle bus on Klook
🚍 Local Lothian Buses (Routes 17 / 18) + Walk ~40–55 min total (traffic-dependent) Lowest fare, those staying away from the centre
🏷️ Cost: From ~£2.20 adult single within city zones » fares & routes | plan with Traveline Scotland
🚕 Taxi / Uber / Bolt ~25–35 min door-to-door Late arrivals, heavy luggage, groups
🏷️ Cost: ~£25–£40+ per car to the Old Town » official airport taxis | fixed-price transfer | compare private cars
🚐 Pre-booked Private Transfer ~25–35 min door-to-door Doorstep service, families, time-sensitive trips
🏷️ Cost: ~£35–£70 per vehicle depending on size and time » airport transfer options | private transfers on Klook
🚗 Car Rental (Airport → City Centre) ~30–45 min including pickup and city traffic Road trips, exploring beyond Edinburgh
🏷️ Cost: From ~£25–£40 per day for a small car, plus fuel and parking » compare airport car hire | check flights into EDI

Which Option or Route Should You Choose?

  • Fastest and most convenient: A taxi or ride-hailing service or a pre-booked private transfer gets you from the terminal to a hotel near the Royal Mile or directly to the Esplanade in around 25–35 minutes, ideal if you are arriving late, travelling with children or carrying bulky luggage.
  • Best balance of price and comfort: The Edinburgh Tram and the Airlink 100 express bus both offer frequent, comfortable journeys to the city centre in about 30 minutes, with a scenic 10–15 minute walk up to the castle.
  • Cheapest option: If you are on a tight budget and not in a rush, local Lothian Buses services 17 and 18 use the same low city fares as other buses and can cost roughly half of the express options, but you will make more stops and may stand with luggage.
  • Best if you plan a wider Scotland trip: Renting a car at the airport is not necessary just to reach the castle, but it makes sense if you are driving on to the Highlands or other parts of Scotland after a night or two in Edinburgh.

How to Book and Practical Tips

🚊 Option #1 — Edinburgh Tram (Fast & Easy)

Frequent Step-free Short walk

  • Overview: Modern trams run from just outside the terminal to the city centre (Princes Street, St Andrew Square and beyond) roughly every 7–10 minutes during the day. From Princes Street or St Andrew Square it is about a 10–15 minute uphill walk to Edinburgh Castle via the New Town and Royal Mile.
  • How to book (with price): Adult airport and city zone tickets are typically around £7–£8 one way, with open returns costing a little more. Buy from the tram ticket machines at the platform, via the official Bus & Tram app, or pre-book a voucher-style ticket through Klook tram tickets.
  • Pros: Fast, frequent, traffic-free, with good luggage space and level boarding for wheelchairs and buggies.
  • Cons: Does not stop right at the castle; you must walk uphill or change to a local bus or taxi for the final leg. Trams do not run overnight.

Step-by-step: Edinburgh Tram

  1. After leaving arrivals, follow signs for Trams along the covered walkway outside the terminal.
  2. At the platform, use the machines or the Bus & Tram mobile app to buy an airport and city zone ticket before boarding. Keep it handy for inspection.
  3. Board the next tram towards the city centre. There is space for suitcases by the doors; avoid blocking aisles.
  4. For the castle, get off at Princes Street or St Andrew Square. Princes Street gives a direct view of the castle and a scenic walk up The Mound.
  5. Walk up The Mound towards the Old Town, continue on the Royal Mile, then turn onto Castlehill and follow signs up to the castle entrance on the Esplanade.
  6. If you prefer not to walk, you can take a short taxi ride from Princes Street or St Andrew Square instead.

Getting to the main embarking points (Tram)

  • Airport stop: The tram stop is directly outside the terminal building; simply follow the purple Tram signs from arrivals.
  • City centre stops: For the castle, the most convenient stops are Princes Street (below the castle gardens) or St Andrew Square (handy for hotels and Waverley Station).
  • Accessibility: Platforms and trams are step-free with dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and buggies.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

Low cost 24/7 service Central drop-off

  • Overview: The blue Airlink 100 buses run between Edinburgh Airport and Waverley Bridge by the main railway station, usually every 10 minutes during much of the day and at reduced frequency overnight. From Waverley Bridge it is a 15–20 minute uphill walk or a short local bus or taxi to the castle.
  • How to book (with price): Adult tickets are usually around £5–£6 single and £8–£9 open return. Buy from the driver with contactless payment, via the Lothian mobile app, or pre-book through platforms such as GetYourGuide Airlink bus transfer, Klook airport shuttle bus or Trip.com Edinburgh Airport bus transfer.
  • Pros: Runs day and night, generous luggage racks, Wi‑Fi and USB charging, stops close to Waverley Station and the Old Town.
  • Cons: Can be slower than the tram in heavy traffic and still requires a walk or connection up to the castle.

Step-by-step: Airlink 100 Express Bus

  1. From arrivals, follow signs for Buses and Coaches to the dedicated Airlink bus stops just outside the terminal.
  2. Check the front of the bus for route 100 and destination City Centre or Waverley Bridge.
  3. Buy your ticket from the driver with contactless payment or show your pre-booked mobile voucher from GetYourGuide, Klook or Trip.com.
  4. Place large bags in the luggage racks and take a seat. Journey time to Waverley Bridge is usually about 30 minutes.
  5. At Waverley Bridge, either walk up Market Street and onto the Royal Mile towards the castle or transfer to a local Lothian bus up to the Lawnmarket/George IV Bridge area.
  6. Follow signs along Castlehill to reach the castle Esplanade for ticket checks and entry.

Getting to the main embarking points (Airlink 100)

  • Airport stop: The Airlink stand is located outside the main terminal building; look for the blue 100 buses and platform signs.
  • City centre stop: Waverley Bridge is right by Edinburgh Waverley Station and at the lower end of the Old Town, convenient for many hotels and onward buses.
  • Tickets and info: For the latest timetable and any service changes, check the official Airlink and Lothian Buses website before travelling.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚍 Option #3 — Local Lothian Buses 17 & 18 (Cheapest, More Stops)

Cheapest Frequent Flexible routes

  • Overview: Standard Lothian Buses services 17 and 18 replaced the old Skylink routes and now connect the airport with neighbourhoods across the city. They use regular city fares and can drop you closer to specific areas, though journeys take longer than the express bus or tram.
  • How to book (with price): Adult single fares within the city are usually from around £2.20. Pay with exact cash, tap with contactless or use mobile tickets in the Lothian app. For route planning, see Lothian Buses or Traveline Scotland.
  • Pros: Lowest cost public transport option, with stops in residential areas that may be close to guesthouses and Airbnb stays.
  • Cons: Slower, more crowded at peak times and less luggage space than the Airlink bus; may require an extra change to get near the castle.

Step-by-step: Local Lothian Buses

  1. From arrivals, follow signs to the public bus stands and look for the stop serving routes 17 and 18.
  2. Check the electronic displays or the Lothian app for the next departure towards the city centre and your accommodation area.
  3. Board, pay using contactless, cash or a mobile ticket, and keep an eye on the stop announcements or a maps app for your stop.
  4. Alight near Princes Street, Tollcross, Grassmarket or another central area depending on the route and where you are staying.
  5. Walk or connect to another local bus or taxi for the final climb up towards Edinburgh Castle on Castlehill.

Getting to the main embarking points (Local buses)

  • Airport stands: Local buses use clearly marked stops outside the terminal forecourt; check stop letters and screens to confirm your route.
  • City centre stops: Services stop at key streets such as Queensferry Road, Princes Street, Haymarket and Grassmarket; choose the closest to your hotel or the Royal Mile.
  • Journey planning: Use Traveline Scotland or the Lothian Buses website to see the latest route maps and live departures for routes 17 and 18.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚕 Option #4 — Taxi & Ride-hailing (Fastest Door-to-door)

Door-to-door Great with luggage 24/7

  • Overview: Licensed black taxis and private hire vehicles offer a direct trip from the terminal to your hotel or close to the castle entrance in around 25–35 minutes, depending on traffic.
  • How to book (with price): Official airport taxis queue at a signed rank and use a meter; fares to the Old Town typically range from about £25–£40. For a fixed price and meet-and-greet, you can pre-book with services such as Welcome Pickups airport transfer or compare offers on GetTransfer for Edinburgh Airport. App-based ride-hailing like Uber and Bolt also operate in Edinburgh; pick-up points are signposted at the airport.
  • Pros: No need to handle luggage on public transport, direct to accommodation, ideal if mobility is limited or you arrive very early or late.
  • Cons: Most expensive option, can be slower at rush hour, and may involve short waits at busy times or after big events.

Step-by-step: Taxi & ride-hailing

  1. On arrival, follow signs to the taxi rank located near the terminal. Join the queue and a marshal will direct you to the next available cab.
  2. If you prefer a pre-booked transfer, your Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer driver will usually meet you in arrivals with a name sign before walking you to the car.
  3. Give your driver the address of your hotel or simply say Edinburgh Castle if you want to be dropped near the Esplanade; they will choose the most suitable route.
  4. Pay by card or cash in official taxis, or through the app for services like Uber and Bolt. Check whether service charges or night surcharges apply.
  5. For the return journey, ask your hotel to arrange a taxi or use your preferred ride-hailing app to book a pickup from your accommodation or the Royal Mile.

Getting to the main embarking points (Taxi & ride-hailing)

  • Airport taxi rank: The official taxi rank is signposted from arrivals and is usually staffed to help you find the right queue.
  • Ride-hailing pickup zones: Check your ride-hailing app for the designated pickup area at the airport (often a short walk from the terminal).
  • Castle drop-off: Taxis generally drop passengers near the top of the Royal Mile close to Castlehill; check with your driver for the nearest legal stopping point.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚐 Option #5 — Private Transfers (Pre-booked Cars & Minivans)

Meet-and-greet Fixed price Great for groups

  • Overview: Private transfers work much like a taxi but are booked in advance at a set price. A driver meets you in the arrivals hall, helps with bags and drives you directly to your hotel or near Edinburgh Castle.
  • How to book (with price): Expect to pay from around £35–£70 per vehicle depending on size and time of day. You can compare options on GetYourGuide private airport transfers, premium AirportLink cars, on Klook airport transfers, via Welcome Pickups or GetTransfer.com.
  • Pros: Stress-free if you are new to the city, travelling with kids or arriving after a long-haul flight; helpful drivers and often nicer vehicles.
  • Cons: More expensive than public transport, and you must remember to update your provider if your flight is significantly delayed.

Step-by-step: Private transfer

  1. Before travelling, choose a provider and book your transfer online, entering your flight number, arrival time and accommodation address.
  2. After landing, switch on your phone; many companies send a message with your drivers exact meeting point inside the terminal.
  3. Meet your driver in arrivals (often holding a sign with your name), then follow them to the car park or short-stay area.
  4. Load your luggage, confirm the destination and enjoy a direct ride through the western suburbs into the city centre.
  5. Ask your driver for local tips on walking routes to the castle, good viewpoints and where to eat nearby once you have checked in.

Getting to the main embarking points (Private transfer)

  • Meeting point: Check your booking confirmation for the exact meeting point; it is usually just outside customs in the arrivals hall.
  • Vehicle location: Cars and minibuses are typically parked in the short-stay car park; follow your driver.
  • Return transfers: You can usually book your return journey at the same time; confirm pick-up time and location with the driver or company.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

🚗 Option #6 — Car Rental from Edinburgh Airport (For Road Trips)

Flexible Ideal beyond the city Parking needed

  • Overview: Hiring a car at the airport is not necessary purely to reach the castle, but it is handy if you plan to drive on to places like the Highlands, St Andrews or the Borders after visiting Edinburgh.
  • How to book (with price): Small cars often start from around £25–£40 per day excluding fuel and deposits. Compare deals from multiple companies at once on Booking.com car rental at Edinburgh Airport or browse airport pickup options on Trip.coms Edinburgh Airport hub.
  • Pros: Full flexibility for onward travel, easy to detour via viewpoints or out-of-town attractions before or after your castle visit.
  • Cons: City centre driving and parking can be stressful and pricey; many Old Town streets are narrow, one-way or pedestrian-priority.

Step-by-step: Car rental

  1. Reserve a car in advance through Booking.com, Trip.com or directly with your chosen rental company, selecting Edinburgh Airport (EDI) as pickup.
  2. At arrivals, follow signs for Car Rental to reach the consolidated rental centre or counters.
  3. Complete paperwork, inspect the car for existing damage and set your navigation to Edinburgh Castle or your hotel near the Royal Mile.
  4. Drive towards the city centre, following signs for City Centre then for Princes Street or the Old Town; avoid bus lanes and tram tracks.
  5. Park in a secure multi-storey such as Castle Terrace Car Park or another central car park, then walk up to the castle on foot.

Getting to the main embarking points (Car rental)

  • Rental centre: Most major brands have desks or a shared rental centre at the airport, linked by a short shuttle or walkway.
  • Parking near the castle: There is no public parking directly at the castle; instead use nearby car parks and walk, or leave the car at your hotel and take a tram or bus in.
  • Driving tips: Edinburghs Old Town has steep, narrow streets and one-way systems; consider leaving the car parked while you explore on foot or by public transport.
  • Locations/Trip Planner: 🔗 Google Map / 🔗 OpenStreetMap

FAQ (Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh Castle)

How long does it usually take to get from Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh Castle?
For most travellers it takes around 30–45 minutes door-to-door. The tram and Airlink 100 bus both reach the city centre in about 30 minutes, after which you should allow a further 10–20 minutes to walk or connect by local bus or taxi up to the castle. Taxis and private transfers can be slightly quicker outside rush hour, but journeys may take longer during peak commuting times or major events.

What is the easiest option if I am visiting Edinburgh for the first time?
The Edinburgh Tram is often the easiest for first-time visitors thanks to clear signage at the airport, simple ticketing and a smooth, traffic-free ride to the centre. From Princes Street the route up The Mound to the Royal Mile is well signposted. If you would rather avoid the uphill walk, an airport taxi or a private transfer directly to your hotel near the castle is even more straightforward.

Can I pay by contactless on trams and buses from the airport?
Yes. Both Edinburgh Trams and Lothian Buses accept contactless bank cards and mobile wallets, and many tickets can also be bought in the Bus & Tram app. Always tap for each passenger separately and keep the same card or device for the whole day to benefit from fare capping where available.

Is there a direct public transport route right to the castle entrance?
No public transport stops directly at the castle gates. All options from the airport bring you to the city centre first (Princes Street, Waverley Bridge or nearby), from where you either walk up the Royal Mile and Castlehill or take a short connecting bus or taxi to a drop-off point close to the Esplanade.

What should I do with my luggage if my hotel check-in is later?
Since the castle does not provide left-luggage facilities, it is best to store bags at your hotel, at Waverley Station or with a dedicated service. You can look up citywide options on the official guide to luggage storage in Edinburgh or reserve a space very close to the castle via Radical Storage around Edinburgh Castle.

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