Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Grassmarket is by taking the Tram to Edinburgh Gateway station and then a ScotRail train to Edinburgh Waverley, followed by a short walk. This is the fastest public transport option, taking 35-45 minutes and costing around £6.50-£8.50 one-way. The cheapest option is the Airlink 100 express bus (about £5.50), taking 40-55 minutes depending on traffic. For direct door-to-door service, a taxi or pre-booked transfer costs £20-£35 and takes 25-40 minutes.
Train from Edinburgh Airport to Grassmarket (Fastest Public Transport)
Contrary to what many think, there is no single âairport trainâ. The fastest rail route involves a quick, integrated tram-to-train connection. This option is highly recommended for its reliability and speed, avoiding city road traffic.
Step-by-Step: Tram + Train Route (Recommended)
- Take the Edinburgh Trams from the stop directly outside the airport terminal. Buy a ticket from the vending machine or use contactless payment. Take the tram bound for âEdinburgh Gatewayâ.
- Alight at Edinburgh Gateway Station (approx. 7-minute journey). This is a modern, integrated transport hub. Follow signs for ScotRail trains.
- Board a ScotRail Train to Edinburgh Waverley. Trains are frequent (every 10-15 mins). The journey to Waverley takes about 7 minutes.
- Walk from Edinburgh Waverley to Grassmarket (10-15 minute walk). Exit Waverley onto Waverley Bridge, head south down the Royal Mile (Lawnmarket), and descend Victoria Street or West Bow into Grassmarket.
| Leg of Journey | Duration | Approx. Cost (One-Way) | Key Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Edinburgh Airport â Edinburgh Gateway (Tram) | 7 mins | £2.50 (Adult Single) | Contactless/card accepted. Trams run every 7 mins. |
| Edinburgh Gateway â Edinburgh Waverley (Train) | 7 mins | £3.20 (Off-Peak Single) | Use contactless or m-ticket. Frequent service. |
| Walk (Waverley â Grassmarket) | 10-15 mins | Free | Paved, slightly downhill walk through Old Town. |
| TOTAL (Approx.) | 35-45 mins | £5.70 - £8.50* | *Cost varies with ticket type/time. A through ticket may be cheaper. |
Why This is the Best Train Route
This combination beats taking the tram all the way to the city centre (York Place) because Edinburgh Gateway is designed for swift, level-access transfers. Itâs more reliable than the bus in heavy traffic. Luggage space is ample on both trams and trains outside peak hours.
Alternative: Direct Tram to City Centre & Walk
You can also take the tram directly to âSt. Andrew Squareâ or âYork Placeâ (30 mins from airport), then walk 15-20 minutes to Grassmarket. This is simpler (no transfer) but the total journey time is longer (45-55 mins). A single tram ticket to the city centre is £7.00.
Express Bus from Edinburgh Airport to Grassmarket (Best Value)
The Airlink 100 express bus is the most economical and direct public transport link to the city centre, getting you very close to Grassmarket with minimal hassle.
Airlink 100 Service Details
- Operator: Lothian Buses (the main city bus company).
- Route: Runs directly from the airport bus stops (outside terminal) to Edinburgh city centre.
- Key Stop for Grassmarket: Get off at âPrinces Street (Waverley Steps)â. From there, itâs a 10-minute walk up the Mound and down George IV Bridge/Lawmmarket to Grassmarket.
- Frequency: Every 10 minutes during the day.
- Journey Time: 25-35 minutes to Princes Street, but allow 40-55 minutes total to Grassmarket including traffic and walk time.
Cost & Ticketing
A single ticket costs £5.50 (adult, cash or contactless). A return ticket is £9.00 (valid for 28 days). You can also use the Lothian Buses m-ticket app or a Ridacard for unlimited travel. Buying on the bus with contactless is the easiest method.
Advantages & Considerations
Pros: Cheapest direct option, frequent service, good luggage racks, drops you in the heart of the city. Cons: Journey time is entirely dependent on road traffic, which can be heavy during rush hour or festival times. The walk from Princes Street to Grassmarket involves a slight incline.
Note: There is no true ânight busâ from the airport; the last Airlink 100 service departs around 00:20. For very late arrivals, a taxi is necessary.
Taxis & Private Transfers from Edinburgh Airport to Grassmarket (Door-to-Door Convenience)
For direct, hassle-free travelâespecially with heavy luggage, in a group, or arriving lateâa taxi or pre-booked private transfer is the most convenient option, albeit the most expensive.
Official Edinburgh Airport Taxis (Black Cabs)
- Location: The official taxi rank is directly outside the main terminal exit.
- Cost: The fare to Grassmarket is metered and typically ranges from £20 to £35. The final price depends on traffic, time of day (surcharges may apply late at night), and exact drop-off point.
- Journey Time: 25-40 minutes, depending on traffic.
- Capacity: Can usually accommodate up to 5 passengers and luggage.
Pre-Booked Private Transfers & Ride-Hailing (Uber)
You can pre-book a private car through reputable companies like Edinburgh Airport Transfers or use the Uber app. Pre-booking fixes the price in advance, which can be advantageous. Uber operates at EDI; youâll need to use the designated pickup zone in the multi-storey car park.
When is a Taxi the Right Choice?
Consider a taxi if: you arrive after midnight (when public transport has stopped), are in a group of 3 or more (splitting the fare can make it competitive), have mobility issues or lots of bulky luggage, or are simply prioritising comfort and direct service after a long flight.
Warning: Avoid unlicensed âtoutsâ offering rides inside the terminal. Always use the official rank or a pre-booked service.
Ticket Options & Cost Comparison Table
This table provides a clear, at-a-glance comparison of all transport options to help you decide based on your budget and priorities.
| Transport Method | Approx. Total Journey Time | Approx. Cost (One-Way, Adult) | Key Advantages | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tram + Train | 35-45 mins | £6.50 - £8.50 | Fastest public transport, reliable, avoids road traffic. | Solo travelers & couples prioritizing speed. |
| Airlink 100 Express Bus | 40-55 mins | £5.50 (Cheapest) | Best value, direct city centre drop-off, frequent. | Budget travelers, solo or small groups. |
| Tram to City Centre + Walk | 45-55 mins | £7.00 | Simple (no transfer), scenic route into town. | Those who prefer simplicity over absolute speed. |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 25-40 mins | £20 - £35 | Door-to-door, most convenient, available 24/7. | Groups, late arrivals, those with heavy luggage/mobility needs. |
Money-Saving Tip: Combined Tickets
Investigate if a through ticket from the airport to a city zone via tram/train/bus is available, as it can sometimes be cheaper than two separate singles. Check the ScotRail and Edinburgh Trams websites for the latest offers.
Local Traveler Tips & Insights for Your Arrival
Beyond the schedules and prices, hereâs the on-the-ground knowledge that will make your arrival smoother.
- The Walk is Part of the Experience: The walk from Waverley Station or Princes Street to Grassmarket takes you through the historic Old Town. Itâs largely pedestrian-friendly, but the cobblestone streets on the final descent can be tricky with wheeled luggage.
- Traffic is the Wild Card: If youâre on a tight schedule between landing and a check-in/time, do not rely on the bus or taxi being fast. The tram+train combo is the only traffic-proof option.
- Currency & Payment: You do not need cash. All public transport (trams, buses, trains) and taxis accept contactless credit/debit cards or Apple/Google Pay. This is the easiest way to pay.
- Weather Preparedness: Edinburgh is famously changeable. Have a jacket or umbrella accessible. That 10-minute walk to Grassmarket can feel long in the rain.
- Accommodation Check-In Realities: Many hotels and Airbnbs in Grassmarket have check-in times from 3 PM. If you arrive early, you may need to store luggage. Some larger hotels may offer early check-in for a fee.
Practical Advice & Final Checks Before You Travel
- Luggage: If you have very heavy or multiple large bags, strongly consider a taxi or the tram/train (which have more space than the bus). Rolling suitcases on Grassmarketâs cobbles are noisy and difficult.
- Connectivity: Free Wi-Fi is available at the airport and on the trams and some buses. Download your boarding pass/ticket or map of Grassmarket offline just in case.
- Arriving During the Festival (August): All journey times will increase significantly due to crowds and road closures. Public transport is the smartest choice, but book airport transfers well in advance if you need one.
- Safety: Grassmarket and the routes to it are generally safe, even at night for the walk from public transport. Standard city precautions apply.
- Final Verification: Always check the official operator websites the day before travel for any service disruptions or timetable changes:
FAQs: Getting from Edinburgh Airport to Grassmarket
Is there a direct train from Edinburgh Airport to Grassmarket?
No, there is no single direct train. The fastest public transport route involves taking the tram from the airport to Edinburgh Gateway station (7 mins), then transferring to a frequent ScotRail train to Edinburgh Waverley station (7 mins), followed by a 10-15 minute walk to Grassmarket.
What is the cheapest way to get from Edinburgh Airport to Grassmarket?
The cheapest way is the Airlink 100 express bus. A single adult ticket costs £5.50, and it takes you directly to the city centre (Princes Street), from where itâs a short walk to Grassmarket.
How much is a taxi from Edinburgh Airport to Grassmarket?
A taxi from the official rank will cost between £20 and £35, depending on traffic, time of day, and exact destination. The ride takes 25-40 minutes. Pre-booking a private transfer can sometimes offer a fixed price.
What is the best option if I arrive at Edinburgh Airport late at night?
If you arrive after midnight (when the last Airlink 100 bus and tram have departed), your only practical option is a taxi or pre-booked private transfer. The official taxi rank operates 24/7.
Is it easy to walk from Edinburgh Waverley station to Grassmarket with luggage?
The walk is mostly on paved streets and takes 10-15 minutes, but it involves a descent down historic, often cobbled, lanes like Victoria Street. It is manageable with a wheeled suitcase, but can be tiring with very heavy bags or in poor weather. For lots of luggage, a taxi from the station rank might be worth it.
Can I use my contactless bank card on all transport from the airport?
Yes. You can use contactless payment (credit/debit card or mobile wallet) on Edinburgh Trams, Lothian Buses (including Airlink 100), and ScotRail trains. Itâs the simplest payment method. Just tap on and, where required, tap off.
Which option is best for a group of 4 people?
For a group of 4, compare the total cost. 4x bus tickets = £22. 4x tram+train tickets = £26-£34. A taxi costing £25-£35 becomes very competitive, offering door-to-door convenience for a similar price. Splitting a taxi fare is often the best group choice.
How far in advance should I book a private transfer?
Itâs advisable to book at least 24-48 hours in advance, especially during peak tourist season (July-September) or around major events like the Edinburgh Festival. This guarantees availability and a fixed price.