How to Get Around Edinburgh: Buses, Trams, and Airport Links

Getting Around Edinburgh

Edinburgh is compact, but steep hills between the Old Town and Georgian New Town shape how you travel.

• Walking: Best within the historic center. Note that steep hills, closes, and cobblestones require solid footwear.
• Buses: Lothian Buses cover the entire city. Double-deckers offer frequent service across central corridors and outer hubs like Leith and Southside.
• Trams: A single line links Newhaven through Princes Street and Haymarket to the airport. Best for direct east-west trips and luggage travel.

Fares and Payment

Buses and trams accept contactless payment cards or smart devices with automatic daily capping.

• Daily Capping: Cost-effective for travelers making three or more journeys across bus and inner tram networks in a single day.
• Who it does not suit: Visitors staying in the Old Town who walk almost everywhere; single fares are more economical.

Airport to City Center

• Airlink 100 Bus: Runs 24 hours to St Andrew Square. Budget cost band, dedicated luggage racks, and minimal effort.
• Edinburgh Tram: Links the airport to Princes Street and Leith. Moderate cost band, step-free boarding, and immune to road congestion.
• Taxis: Rank at the terminal. Highest cost band, direct door-to-door service, but vulnerable to peak traffic.

Practical Notes

• Peak Hours: Morning and evening rush hours slow central roads; trams bypass street congestion.
• Late Travel: Trams end around midnight; night buses maintain key routes through the early morning.
• Accessibility: Trams offer step-free access and buses feature low-floor boarding. Old Town stairways make heavy luggage difficult on foot.