Edinburgh Airport
Edinburgh, GB · 6 mi (9 km) west of Edinburgh city centre
Getting to the city
| Mode | Time | Cost |
|---|---|---|
| Airlink 100 Bus · Roughly every 10 min daytime; reduced frequency very late night/early morning | Advertised ~30 min Airport–city centre; user reports 35–45 min at peak | Around £5–6 single for Airport–city adult, per Lothian Buses fare info and recent user reports |
| Bolt Rideshare · On‑demand; driver density lower than Uber according to user reports | Around 25–35 min including average pick‑up wait | User reports suggest roughly £18–28 Airport–city centre off‑peak, varying with demand and promos |
| Central Taxis Taxi · On‑demand via rank, phone, or app; subject to peaks at busy times | Roughly 25–35 min to central Edinburgh in normal traffic | Typically £25–35 Airport–city centre according to multiple user reports |
| City Cabs Taxi · On‑demand; queues can form after banked arrivals | About 25–35 min to central Edinburgh in normal traffic | Commonly reported £25–35 Airport–city centre depending on time/traffic |
Insider notes
Security can range from 5 minutes to a 40-minute ordeal, so add a 20–30 minute buffer during rush periods and festival season.
Use the work pods near Gates 2 and 20 for a quieter space to work or rest before your flight.
The tram to Princes Street or St Andrew Square is usually cheaper and more reliable than a taxi, especially during rush hour.
Welcome
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is something of a paradox: a single-terminal hub that blends city-quality offerings with airport quirks, just a mere 6 miles west of Edinburgh's historic heart. Known for unexpectedly long security lines and a surprisingly rich selection of local food and drink, it's an airport where savvy navigation can lead to delightful discoveries. More than just a gateway to Scotland, EDI's proximity to efficient tram and bus services means that the charm of Edinburgh's Old Town is less than an hour away, particularly if you're adept at dodging the costly taxis.
At a glance
Handling over 14.7 million passengers annually, EDI is the primary aviation hub for the eastern Scottish Lowlands. While you won't find multiple terminals here, you will encounter a singular yet sprawling terminal that punches above its weight in terms of amenities. The airport boasts 28 dining options, from familiar faces like Burger King and Starbucks to local treasures like The Gathering, as well as 14 lounges catering to every type of traveler. Shopping is similarly varied, with 27 stores offering everything from Scottish crafts at Edinburgh Gift Emporium to high street staples like WHSmith and Boots.
Terminals & layout
Edinburgh Airport operates a single terminal configuration, but don't let this fool you into thinking it's a simple setup. This main terminal hosts some truly eclectic spaces that blend international convenience with local character. You might find yourself strolling past the classic Pret a Manger before discovering a quieter nook to work near Gates 2 and 20, known for their calm atmosphere compared to the bustling main seating areas.
Getting to and from the city
The airport is efficiently linked to the city via Edinburgh Trams, with a journey to St Andrew Square taking around 30 minutes and costing £7.50 single or £9.50 return. Lothian Buses run the Airlink 100 service, typically taking 35–45 minutes depending on traffic, for approximately £5–6. Alternately, taxi rides to central Edinburgh take about 25–35 minutes and can range from £25–35, while rideshares like Uber and Bolt might be a more economical choice, often priced between £18–30 during off-peak periods. For those setting out beyond the city, ScotRail offers connections to Fife and Glasgow via the Edinburgh Gateway and Haymarket stations, respectively.
Traveller essentials
Security at EDI has a reputation for unpredictability, fluctuating between quick 5-minute trips and frustrating 40-minute slogs. Regular travelers strongly recommend arriving with an extra 20–30 minute buffer during peak periods. Once through security, hopping onto the tram or one of the frequent Lothian bus services is a cost-effective alternative to pricier taxi options, especially convenient if you're headed to the city center or nearby attractions.
Dining & shopping highlights
Dining options are diverse, with BrewDog offering a taste of Scottish craft beer, while YO! brings sushi to the tarmac. For something quintessentially Scottish, try the lesser-known bars and pop-up stalls selling local crafts, a frequently cherished find by local travelers. The duty free section, while maze-like, carries limited-edition Scotch whiskies that might tempt connoisseurs.
Lounges
The main terminal hosts several lounges like the £45 Escape Lounge and a more affordable £30 option at Aspire. Each offers an oasis away from the crowded departure lounge chaos, which is often described as bustling and noisy. Frequent flyers often opt for these spaces to enjoy some quiet before their flight.
Insider tips
- Time: Security can range from 5 minutes to a 40-minute ordeal, so add a 20–30 minute buffer during rush periods and festival season.
- Quiet: Use the work pods near Gates 2 and 20 for a quieter space to work or rest before your flight.
- Local: The tram to Princes Street or St Andrew Square is usually cheaper and more reliable than a taxi, especially during rush hour.
- Insider: For quieter drinks, seek out bars away from the main departure lounge. These offer a more traditional pub vibe.
- Money: Take the Airlink or Skylink buses to save significantly over taxi fares. Contactless payment is a breeze.
- Avoid: Major coffee chains' queues can be daunting; smaller kiosks offer faster service and quality beverages.
- Insider: Parking at EDI can be costly; pre-book long-stay options for better rates and shuttle convenience.