Travel in Edinburgh

Travel in Edinburgh is easier than you might expect for a capital city. The city is compact, well-connected, and welcoming to visitors. You’ll find both modern transport options and charming old streets that are easy to walk. Whether you’re arriving from the airport, travelling between neighbourhoods, or planning day trips, Edinburgh’s transport system makes exploring simple.

Most visitors begin their trip at Edinburgh Airport, located just west of the city. From there, regular Edinburgh Trams go directly to the city centre and stop at places like St Andrew Square, which is close to shops, hotels, and the historic New Town. Buses are also a good choice, with frequent service both day and night.

After you arrive in the city, you’ll find even more ways to get around. Edinburgh Waverley railway station sits in the city centre, between the Old and New Towns, and is a great place to start train journeys across Scotland. Haymarket station, to the west, is especially useful for trips to Glasgow and the Highlands. With these two stations, travelling beyond Edinburgh is simple.

Trams and buses are the main ways to travel around the city. The tram line gives you a smooth, step-free ride from the airport through the city centre. Lothian Buses reach every neighbourhood, from the cobbled Old Town to the green streets of Stockbridge and Morningside. Many visitors say Edinburgh’s best feature is how easy it is to walk. Most major sights are closer than you’d expect, and walking lets you enjoy the city’s unique character.

Travel in Edinburgh – Arriving by Bus

Many visitors arrive in Edinburgh by coach or long-distance bus, particularly those travelling from other parts of Scotland, England, or further afield. Most services terminate at Edinburgh bus station on Elder Street, conveniently located at the eastern end of the New Town. From here, visitors are within easy walking distance of Princes Street, St Andrew Square, and Edinburgh Waverley railway station. Local buses, trams, taxis, and cycle hire facilities are all close at hand, making onward travel straightforward. Whether arriving on a national coach service or a regional bus route, the station provides an excellent gateway to the city centre and many of Edinburgh’s most popular attractions.

This page gathers all our detailed transport guides, with information on trams, buses, rail connections, and practical travel tips to help you plan your trip with confidence. Whether you want the quickest route from the airport, are comparing ways to get around, or just need help getting started, you’ll find everything you need to explore Edinburgh with ease.

• Edinburgh Airport
• Edinburgh Bus Station
• Edinburgh Haymarket Train Station
• Edinburgh Waverley Train Station
• Lothian Buses
• Airlink – Edinburgh Airport to Edinburgh Bus