Find the best way to get from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to the city center. We compare Airlink 100 Express Bus, Tram, Taxi, Welcome Pickups and Uber in terms of travel time, cost and comfort – including recommendations for different travel situations.
Edinburgh Airport (EDI) → City Center
- 💸 Cheapest connection: Airlink 100 Express Bus (£6.00)
- ⏱️ Fastest connection: Taxi or Welcome Pickups (~25–35 min)
Which connection is right for you?
- I want to travel as cheaply as possible: Airlink 100 Express Bus
- I want to get to the city center fast: Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber
- I arrive at night: Airlink 100, Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber
- I want to go directly to my hotel: Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber
All transport options from Edinburgh Airport to the city center
| Transport | Travel time | Price | Ideal for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Airlink 100 Express Bus |
~30 min | £6.00 💸 | Cheapest direct option |
| Tram | ~35 min | £7.90 | Reliable & comfortable |
| Taxi | ~25–35 min ⏱️ | ~£30–40 | Comfort, spontaneous |
| Welcome Pickups |
~25–35 min ⏱️ | ~£40–60 | Maximum comfort |
| Uber | ~25–35 min | ~£25–40 | Flexible rides |
The cheapest connection from Edinburgh Airport to the city
The cheapest direct connection is the Airlink 100 Express Bus. It connects Edinburgh Airport with Waverley Bridge, close to Princes Street and the main rail and bus stations.
The fastest connection from Edinburgh Airport to the center
Taxi and Welcome Pickups are the fastest ways to reach central Edinburgh directly from the airport, especially with luggage, late arrivals or if your accommodation is not close to a tram or bus stop.
Transport from Edinburgh Airport at night
Edinburgh Airport operates 24/7. The Airlink 100 Express Bus runs throughout the night, although frequencies are lower than during the day.
For very late arrivals, Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber are usually the most comfortable options if you want to reach your accommodation directly without waiting.
ALL TRANSFER OPTIONS IN DETAIL
Airlink 100 Express Bus from Edinburgh Airport
Time: ~30 min | Cost: £6.00 ≈ 7,00 € per person 💸
The Airlink 100 Express Bus connects Edinburgh Airport directly with Waverley Bridge in the city center, close to Princes Street, Edinburgh Waverley Station and the main bus connections.
- The bus departs from Stop A next to the airport plaza.
- Runs day and night, with lower frequencies during the night.
- Best public transport option for most travelers who want a cheap and direct ride into central Edinburgh.
Tram from Edinburgh Airport to the city center
Time: ~35 min | Cost: £7.90 per person
The Edinburgh Tram connects the airport with central stops such as Haymarket, West End, Princes Street and St Andrew Square.
- The tram stop is located next to the terminal and is connected by a covered walkway.
- Good option if your accommodation is close to a tram stop or you prefer a smooth rail-based transfer.
Taxi from Edinburgh Airport to the city
Time: ~25–35 min ⏱️ | Cost: ~£30–40 per ride
Taxis take you directly from Edinburgh Airport to hotels, apartments and business addresses throughout the city center.
- Ideal for groups and travelers with larger luggage.
- During busy arrival times, there may be waiting times at the taxi rank.
Official local taxis
Welcome Pickups from Edinburgh Airport
Time: ~25–35 min ⏱️ | Cost: ~£40–60 per ride
A comfortable private airport transfer picks you up directly at the arrival hall at Edinburgh Airport and takes you to your hotel or apartment.
- Bookable in advance with a direct ride to your accommodation.
- Especially comfortable for families, business travelers and late arrivals.
- The transfer is offered by Welcome Pickups – English-speaking driver, flight monitoring and 24/7 customer support.
Uber from Edinburgh Airport
Time: ~25–35 min (+pickup) | Cost: ~£25–40 per ride
Uber is a flexible alternative to taxis and takes you directly from Edinburgh Airport to your accommodation, although prices can vary depending on demand, traffic and weather conditions.
- Direct pickup and convenient booking via app.
- Interesting for anyone who prefers app-based transport services.
Which connection is the best now?
For most travelers, the Airlink 100 Express Bus is the best combination of price, speed and availability. It is inexpensive, direct and runs day and night between Edinburgh Airport and the city center.
If your accommodation is close to a tram stop, the tram is a very reliable and comfortable alternative.
If you want to go directly to your accommodation or travel with lots of luggage, Taxi, Welcome Pickups or Uber is the most relaxed option.
Have a nice stay in Edinburgh! 🇬🇧🏰✈️
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