Edinburgh, Scotland’s capital, is a city rich in history, culture, and stunning architecture. Whether you’re here to explore Edinburgh Castle, wander through the medieval streets of the Old Town, or visit the elegant Georgian New Town, getting around the city efficiently is key to making the most of your visit. On my recent trip to Edinburgh, I took full advantage of the city’s excellent public transport system, combined with some local tips, to navigate the city with ease.
Public Transport in Edinburgh
Edinburgh is a compact city, and many of its attractions are within walking distance of each other. However, when you need to cover longer distances or simply want to save time, the city’s public transport network offers a variety of reliable options, including buses, trams, and taxis. Here’s a breakdown of the major public transport options:
- Buses
- Trams
- Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
- Trains
- Cycling in Edinburgh
- Walking in Edinburgh
1. Buses in Edinburgh: The Main Mode of Transport
Buses are the most common form of public transport in Edinburgh, and they cover nearly every corner of the city. The main operator is Lothian Buses, which runs a comprehensive network of routes both in the city center and surrounding areas. Here’s everything you need to know about using buses in Edinburgh:
Tickets and Fares
Lothian Buses operate on a simple fare structure:
- Single Ticket: £2 for an adult, regardless of the distance you travel.
- Day Ticket: £5 for unlimited travel on buses and trams for the day.
- Family Day Ticket: £10.50 for up to two adults and three children.
You can purchase tickets from the driver on board (contactless payments are accepted) or via the Transport for Edinburgh app, which allows you to plan your journey and buy digital tickets in advance.
Bus Routes
Lothian Buses are frequent and easy to navigate. Some of the most useful routes for visitors include:
- Route 23: Connects the Old Town with the New Town, passing by landmarks like the National Museum of Scotland and the Royal Mile.
- Route 100: The Airlink service from Edinburgh Airport to the city center (Waverley Station), which runs 24/7.
- Night Buses: Several night bus routes operate from midnight to 4:30 AM, perfect if you’re out late exploring Edinburgh’s vibrant nightlife.
Buses are an affordable and convenient way to get around the city. The service is frequent, and most buses run from early morning until late at night, making it easy to plan your day without worrying about getting stranded.
Local Tip: Use the Upper Deck
If you’re new to Edinburgh, I recommend sitting on the upper deck of the bus (if it’s a double-decker) for a bird’s-eye view of the city. It’s a fantastic way to take in the architecture and street life of Edinburgh while traveling from point A to point B.
2. Trams: Modern and Convenient
Edinburgh’s tram system is newer and smaller than its bus network, but it’s an excellent way to travel between key locations, particularly if you’re coming from the airport or exploring areas like Leith. The tram line runs from Edinburgh Airport to York Place in the city center, with stops at places like Murrayfield Stadium and Princes Street.
Fares and Tickets
- Single Airport to City Ticket: £7.50 for an adult (£5 for children).
- City Zone Ticket: £2 for a single journey within the city.
- Day Ticket: £5, valid for unlimited tram and bus rides in the city.
Tickets can be purchased at tram stops, and like the buses, contactless payments are accepted. You can also buy tickets via the Transport for Edinburgh app. Make sure you buy a ticket before boarding, as there are no ticket sales on the tram itself.
Tram Route and Stops
The tram has 16 stops, with some of the most useful for visitors being:
- Edinburgh Airport: The tram offers a direct and smooth ride to and from the airport.
- Haymarket: This stop is near Haymarket Train Station, connecting you to other parts of Scotland by rail.
- St Andrew Square: Right in the heart of Edinburgh’s New Town and a short walk from Princes Street and Waverley Station.
Local Tip: Avoid Peak Hours
While trams are spacious, they can get crowded during peak times, especially around 8 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 6 PM. If possible, try to avoid traveling during these hours for a more comfortable ride.
3. Taxis and Ride-Hailing Services
Taxis are readily available in Edinburgh, and there are two main types: black cabs (which you can hail on the street or at designated taxi ranks) and private hire cars (which must be pre-booked).
Black Cabs
Black cabs are metered, and fares start at around £3. Edinburgh’s black cabs are spacious and can accommodate larger groups or luggage. They can be found at taxi ranks at major locations such as Waverley Station, Princes Street, and Edinburgh Airport.
Ride-Hailing Services
If you prefer using ride-hailing apps, Uber and Bolt operate in Edinburgh. They’re convenient, especially if you’re looking for a quick ride without needing cash. However, during peak hours or major events, expect higher prices due to surge pricing.
Local Tip: Use Taxis After a Late Night
Edinburgh’s Old Town, with its narrow cobbled streets, can be challenging to navigate on foot after dark, especially if you’ve had a late night out. Taxis are a safe and convenient option to get back to your hotel, particularly after midnight.
4. Trains: Exploring Beyond Edinburgh
If you’re planning on taking day trips from Edinburgh to nearby destinations like Glasgow, Stirling, or the Scottish Highlands, the train is your best bet. Edinburgh has two main train stations: Waverley Station and Haymarket Station.
Waverley Station
Located in the heart of the city between the Old and New Towns, Waverley Station is Edinburgh’s primary railway hub. From here, you can catch trains to cities across the UK, including direct services to London, Manchester, and Aberdeen.
Local Train Services
For local journeys, ScotRail operates regular services to nearby destinations. For example:
- Edinburgh to Glasgow: Trains run every 15-30 minutes and take around 50 minutes.
- Edinburgh to Stirling: Trains are frequent and take around 45 minutes.
- Edinburgh to North Berwick: If you’re looking to explore the coastline, this charming town is just 30 minutes away by train.
Local Tip: Use Off-Peak Trains
Trains can be quite busy during peak hours (7 AM to 9 AM and 5 PM to 7 PM). If you’re flexible with your schedule, opt for off-peak times to enjoy a more relaxed journey and often lower ticket prices.
5. Cycling in Edinburgh: A Growing Trend
Edinburgh is an increasingly bike-friendly city, with several cycling routes and dedicated lanes. Just Eat Cycles, Edinburgh’s public bike-sharing scheme, is an affordable and convenient way to explore the city on two wheels.
How to Use Just Eat Cycles
- Download the Just Eat Cycles app to locate nearby bikes and docking stations.
- The cost is £1.50 for a single journey or £3 for unlimited 60-minute rides within 24 hours.
- Dock your bike at any of the designated stations when you’re finished.
While cycling in the city center can be tricky due to narrow streets and hills, Edinburgh’s parks and paths offer more leisurely routes for cyclists. The Water of Leith Walkway and Holyrood Park are popular spots for a scenic ride.
Local Tip: Be Cautious on Cobblestone Streets
Some streets in Edinburgh’s Old Town are cobblestone, which can be difficult to cycle on. Take extra care, especially during wet weather, or stick to the bike-friendly paths.
6. Walking: The Best Way to Explore
Despite the convenience of buses, trams, and bikes, walking is by far my favorite way to explore Edinburgh. The city is compact, and its winding streets and historic alleys (called “closes”) are best discovered on foot. The Royal Mile, Princes Street Gardens, and Dean Village are all must-see areas that are perfect for a leisurely stroll.
Local Tip: Prepare for Hills
Edinburgh is known for its steep hills, particularly in the Old Town. Comfortable walking shoes are essential, and it’s a good idea to take short breaks while climbing up to attractions like Edinburgh Castle or Arthur’s Seat.
7. Tips for First-Time Visitors Using Public Transport
- Download the Transport for Edinburgh App: This app covers both buses and trams, making it easy to plan your route, check timetables, and buy tickets.
- Have Exact Change for Buses: If you’re paying with cash on the bus, make sure you have the exact fare, as the drivers do not give change.
- Avoid Rush Hours: Public transport can be crowded during the morning and evening rush hours. Plan your travel accordingly for a more relaxed experience.
- Walkable City: Edinburgh is best explored on foot, but when tired or visiting more distant areas, the city’s public transport is reliable and easy to navigate.
Edinburgh’s efficient and affordable public transport system, combined with the city’s walkability, makes getting around easy for both first-time visitors and seasoned travelers. Whether you’re hopping on a bus to reach the next attraction or taking a scenic tram ride from the airport, the options are plenty. Equipped with this guide and some local tips, you’re now ready to navigate Edinburgh with confidence.
