Quick Answer
For most travellers, the best overall way to get from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Glasgow city centre is by taking the Edinburgh Trams to Haymarket station, then a direct ScotRail train to Glasgow Queen Street. This combo offers a good balance of speed (approx. 1h 15m - 1h 30m), comfort, and frequency. The cheapest direct option is the Airport Express 900 bus (approx. 1h 15m - 1h 45m), with fares from £7.50 one-way. For ultimate convenience regardless of cost, book a private taxi or transfer (approx. 1h - 1h 30m), costing £80-£120+.
Option 1: Train & Tram Combo (Fast & Frequent)
This is the preferred method for speed and a "proper journey" feel. It involves a short tram ride from the airport to a central Edinburgh train station, followed by a mainline train to Glasgow. There are two key route variations to choose from.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Take the Edinburgh Trams: The tram stop is directly outside the airport terminal. Buy a ticket from the machine or use contactless payment.
- To Edinburgh Gateway: (7 mins, £7.50 return with train ticket). This modern station is designed for airport connections but has fewer train services to Glasgow.
- To Edinburgh Haymarket: (15 mins, £7.50 return with train ticket). This is the recommended stop as it's a major station with very frequent, direct trains to both Glasgow Queen Street (fastest) and Glasgow Central.
- Transfer to a ScotRail Train: Follow signs within the station. Trains to Glasgow depart very frequently (every 10-15 minutes during peak times).
- To Glasgow Queen Street: The fastest route (journey time from Haymarket: ~50 mins). Most services are direct.
- To Glasgow Central: Slightly longer (journey time from Haymarket: ~70 mins) and may require a change at Edinburgh Waverley.
Ticket Information & Costs:
You can buy separate tram and train tickets, but the best value is a combined "Plane + Train" ticket sold by ScotRail. This includes your tram ride to/from the airport and your train journey.
| Ticket Type | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Where to Buy | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plane + Train Ticket | £15.90 - £25.90 | ScotRail website/app, airport tram ticket machines | Off-peak is cheaper. Covers tram to/from EDI and train. |
| Separate Tickets (Tram + Anytime Train) | £8.20 (Tram Return) + £14.90 (Train) = ~£23.10+ | Tram machines, ScotRail app | More expensive and less convenient. |
| Contactless/Card Payment | Varies (Capped daily fares may apply) | Tap on tram, tap at train station gates | Ensure you use the same card. Check ScotRail Smart zones. |
Pro Tip: Book your "Plane + Train" ticket in advance on the ScotRail app for the best off-peak fares. If your final destination is Glasgow's West End (University of Glasgow, Kelvinbridge), getting off at Glasgow Queen Street is most convenient.
Option 2: Direct Bus (Most Economical)
The Airport Express 900 service, operated by Scottish Citylink, is the only direct public transport link between Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow. It's ideal for budget travellers, those with heavy luggage (large under-coach storage), and for late-night/early-morning travel when trains aren't running.
Key Details:
- Route: Direct from Edinburgh Airport (stop outside terminal) to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station (city centre).
- Journey Time: Approximately 1 hour 15 minutes to 1 hour 45 minutes, heavily dependent on traffic on the M8 motorway.
- Frequency: Every 15-30 minutes during the day. Runs 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
- Onboard Amenities: Free WiFi, USB charging points, air conditioning, and wheelchair access.
Fares & Booking:
| Fare Type | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Online Advance Single | From £7.50 | Cheapest option. Must be booked on the Citylink website/app for a specific time. |
| Walk-Up Single (On Bus) | £10.50 | Paid by contactless/card or cash (exact change) to the driver. |
| Return Ticket | From £12.50 online | Valid for 28 days. Offers good savings for a round trip. |
Warning for Rush Hour: If you are travelling during weekday peak times (7-9 AM into Glasgow, 4-6 PM out of Glasgow), the bus can be significantly delayed by traffic. Allow extra time.
Option 3: Taxi & Private Transfers (Door-to-Door Convenience)
This is the most expensive but also the most convenient and flexible option, providing a direct, private ride from the airport arrivals hall to any address in Glasgow.
Options & Costs:
- Black Taxis (Metered): Available at the rank outside the terminal. The fare to central Glasgow is not fixed and will be metered, typically resulting in a cost of £100-£130+. Not recommended due to high, variable cost.
- Pre-Booked Private Transfers: The recommended way to take a car. Companies like Central Taxis or Glasgow Taxis offer fixed-price, pre-booked services. A standard saloon car for up to 4 passengers typically costs £80-£100. You will be met in arrivals with a name board.
- Ride-Hailing Apps (Uber): Uber operates at Edinburgh Airport. A one-way trip to Glasgow usually costs £70-£110, but is subject to surge pricing during high demand, bad weather, or at night. The pick-up point is in the dedicated hire car area.
When is a Taxi the Best Choice?
- Traveling in a group of 3-4 people (splitting the cost).
- Arriving very late at night or with very early morning flights.
- Carrying excessive sports equipment, musical instruments, or bulky luggage.
- If you have mobility issues or require direct access to a specific address.
Option 4: Car Rental (For Exploring Scotland)
Renting a car at Edinburgh Airport is only advisable if you plan to explore the Scottish Highlands, islands, or rural areas immediately after your flight. For going directly to Glasgow city centre, it is not recommended due to:
- High Cost: Rental fees, one-way drop charges (if applicable), and expensive city-centre parking in Glasgow.
- Traffic & Navigation: Navigating the M8 into Glasgow can be stressful, especially during rush hour.
- Parking: Secure parking in Glasgow costs £15-£30+ per day.
Verdict: Use public transport to get to Glasgow, and rent a car from within Glasgow if needed for onward travel. Major rental companies have offices in the city centre.
Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow: Comparison Table
| Transport Method | Avg. Journey Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Transfers | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tram + Train | 1h 15m - 1h 30m | £15.90 - £25.90 | 1 (Tram to Train) | Best Overall (Speed, comfort, frequency) |
| Airport Express 900 Bus | 1h 15m - 1h 45m | From £7.50 | 0 (Direct) | Best Budget & Late-Night option |
| Pre-Booked Private Taxi | 1h - 1h 30m | £80 - £120+ | 0 (Direct) | Best for Groups & Door-to-Door convenience |
| Rental Car | 1h - 1h 30m | £40 - £80+ (rental) + parking & fuel | 0 (Direct) | Only if exploring beyond Glasgow immediately |
Essential Traveler Tips & Experience
Luggage Strategy:
If you have very heavy or multiple suitcases, the direct 900 bus is easiest due to its under-coach storage. On trains, use the dedicated luggage racks near the doors.
Buy Tickets in Advance:
Always book train "Plane+Train" tickets or bus tickets online in advance. This secures the lowest fares (especially for trains) and guarantees a seat on busy bus services.
Navigating Edinburgh Stations:
- Haymarket: The transfer from tram to train platform is quick and easy via escalators/lifts.
- Gateway: Very simple, modern interchange. However, check train times as services are less frequent than from Haymarket.
Connectivity:
Download the ScotRail and Citylink apps before you travel. They provide live times, platform info, and mobile ticketing.
Peak Times & Events:
During major events (e.g., COP26, concerts, rugby matches at Murrayfield) or festivals (Edinburgh Fringe in August), all services will be extremely busy. Book transport as far in advance as possible.
FAQs: Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow Transport
What is the fastest way to get from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow city centre?
The fastest option is typically the combination of the Edinburgh Airport Tram to Edinburgh Haymarket station, followed by a direct ScotRail train to Glasgow Queen Street. The total journey time can be as quick as 1 hour and 15 minutes under ideal conditions.
What is the cheapest way to travel from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow?
The Airport Express 900 bus to Glasgow Buchanan Bus Station is consistently the cheapest public transport option, with single fares from £7.50 when booked online in advance. It offers a direct, no-transfer route.
Is there a direct train from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow?
No, there is no direct train. You must first take the Edinburgh Trams to either Edinburgh Gateway or Haymarket station (approx. 7-15 mins), then transfer to a ScotRail train to Glasgow Queen Street or Glasgow Central (approx. 50-70 mins).
How much is a taxi from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow?
A pre-booked private taxi or transfer for the 55-mile journey costs between £80 and £120+ one-way, depending on the company, vehicle type, and time of day. Metered airport taxis are generally more expensive. It's the most costly option but offers door-to-door convenience.
Can I use my travel pass from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow?
It depends on the pass. ScotRail Season/Club 50 tickets are valid on the train portion from Edinburgh stations. National Entitlement Cards (free bus travel for eligible residents) may be valid on the Airport Express 900. The Edinburgh Tram is a separate service; check their website for pass compatibility. Private bus/taxi transfers are not included in rail passes.
How do I get from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow late at night or very early in the morning?
For late-night arrivals (after ~11:30 PM), your only reliable public transport option is the Airport Express 900 bus, which runs 24/7. For very early morning departures from Glasgow (before ~6:00 AM), the 900 bus or a pre-booked private taxi are the only viable choices, as trams and trains start later.
What is the best option for a group or family with lots of luggage?
For groups of 3-4 or more with substantial luggage, a pre-booked private people carrier or minivan transfer can be cost-effective and logistically simpler than managing multiple tickets and luggage on public transport. Compare the total cost of a private transfer versus multiple bus/train tickets.
Is it better to fly or take the train/bus from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow?
Taking a domestic flight between Edinburgh and Glasgow is not recommended for this journey. While the flight time is short (30 mins), when you add check-in, security, boarding, and travel from Glasgow International/Prestwick airports to the city centre, the total door-to-door time (3+ hours) and cost far exceed the direct train/bus options.