Landing at Edinburgh Airport and heading into town? You have three good options, and the right one depends on your luggage, your budget and where you are staying.
The three ways into the city
Tram (route T50). Edinburgh Trams runs a dedicated line from right outside the terminal into the centre, through Princes Street and St Andrew Square and on to Newhaven. It takes about 30 to 35 minutes to the city centre, runs every few minutes, and, because it has its own segregated track, it is the most predictable option in traffic. An airport single is around GBP 7.90 bought before you board.
Airlink 100 bus. The Lothian Buses express runs from outside the terminal to Waverley Bridge (beside Waverley station) in about 30 minutes, 24 hours a day, with a dedicated baggage area. An adult single is around GBP 8.50.
Taxi or private hire. A metered black cab or booked private hire takes about 25 to 35 minutes depending on traffic, door to door, and is the most luggage-friendly. Expect roughly GBP 25 to 35 on the meter, or a fixed private-hire fare from around GBP 45.
| Option | Journey time | Approx one-way | Luggage | Best for |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tram (T50) | 30 to 35 min | ~GBP 7.90 | Open floor space, can crowd | Predictable timing, Princes Street and west end |
| Airlink 100 bus | ~30 min | ~GBP 8.50 | Dedicated baggage area | 24/7 travel, direct to Waverley |
| Taxi / private hire | 25 to 35 min | ~GBP 25 to 35 metered | Best, door to door | Groups, heavy bags, late nights, exact address |
How to choose
An Edinburgh tram with the castle beyond · Illustration generated with AI Travelling light and staying near Princes Street? The tram is clean and predictable. Arriving late or overnight, or want a dedicated luggage space? The Airlink 100 runs around the clock. A group, heavy bags or golf clubs, or a hotel off the main routes? Take a taxi.
Find a place to stay in Edinburgh
Rooms near the venue sell out months ahead for event weeks. Lock in a refundable stay now and cancel later if plans change.
Once you are in the city, see our Edinburgh Airport guide for onward flights, and if you are heading to Fife for golf, how to get to St Andrews.
Sources: Edinburgh Trams, Airlink 100 and Edinburgh Airport transport information. Fares and times are approximate 2026 figures and change with each timetable; confirm current fares before travelling.
