Quick Answer
The best overall way to get from Edinburgh Airport (EDI) to Princes Street is the Airlink 100 express bus. It takes about 30 minutes, costs £4.50 for a single ticket, and drops you right on Princes Street. For the fastest option with no transfers, take a taxi (20-30 mins, ~£30-£35). For the most scenic and reliable route unaffected by traffic, take the tram (33 mins, £6.50 single).
Airlink 100 Express Bus (Skylink) â Best Overall
Operated by Lothian Buses, the Airlink 100 is the most popular and balanced choice for most travelers, offering a direct, frequent, and cost-effective link to the city centre.
Why It's the Top Recommendation:
- Direct to Princes Street: Stops include Waverley Bridge (for Edinburgh Waverley Station) and Princes Street (Stop PG), putting you in the heart of the city.
- High Frequency: Buses run every 10 minutes during the day and every 30 minutes through the night (24/7 service).
- Luggage Friendly: Dedicated under-bus luggage compartments.
- Good Value: Cheaper than the tram for a single journey.
Journey Details & Costs:
| Ticket Type | Price | Where to Buy | Validity |
|---|---|---|---|
| Single (Adult) | £4.50 | Driver (cash/contactless), Lothian Buses App | One journey |
| Return | £7.50 | Driver, App | Valid for return within 28 days |
| Lothian Buses Day Ticket* | £5.50 | Driver, App | Unlimited bus travel for a day |
*The Day Ticket is an incredible deal if you plan to use buses in the city later that day.
Step-by-Step Guide:
- Find the Stop: Exit the main terminal arrivals hall. The clearly marked Airlink 100 stop is directly outside.
- Buy a Ticket: Pay the driver with contactless card/phone, cash, or have your pre-purchased app ticket ready.
- Board & Stow Luggage: The driver will open the luggage compartment. Place your bags and take a seat.
- Disembark: Key stops announced. For Princes Street, listen for "Princes Street (Stop PG)" or get off at "Waverley Bridge".
Edinburgh Tram â Most Reliable & Scenic
The modern Edinburgh Trams service offers a smooth, reliable journey unaffected by road traffic. It's ideal if your accommodation is near the West End or you value predictability.
Key Advantages & Considerations:
- Traffic-Proof: Dedicated track ensures a consistent 33-minute journey time, even during rush hour.
- Scenic Route: Travels through the developing waterfront area before heading up to the city centre.
- City Centre Access: Stops at Princes Street, St Andrew Square (near Waverley Station), and York Place.
- Space: Open-plan design can feel crowded with large luggage at peak times.
Fares & Ticketing:
| Ticket | Price | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Adult Single | £6.50 | Purchasable at platform machines or via the app. |
| Day Ticket | £6.50 | Same price as a single! Offers unlimited tram travel all day. |
| Return | £9.00 | Valid for return within 24 hours. |
Pro Tip: If you take the tram into the city, always buy the Day Ticket. For no extra cost over a single, you can use it for all your tram journeys that day.
Public Buses (Lothian Buses) â The Cheapest Option
For the absolute lowest cost, use the regular Lothian Buses network. Services like the N22 (overnight), N30, and N300 serve the airport. This is the local's choice but involves more stops.
Is It Right For You?
Choose this if: You're traveling extremely light, are on a very tight budget, or are staying near a direct bus route (e.g., in West Edinburgh).
Avoid this if: You have more than one suitcase, are in a hurry, or are unfamiliar with Edinburgh's bus network.
Key Services & Costs:
- N22 (Night Bus): Key 24/7 service connecting the airport to the city centre and beyond. Single fare: £1.80 (contactless).
- N30 & N300: Daytime services with longer routes. Single fare: £1.80.
Fare System: Use contactless payment (card/phone) for a £1.80 single fare cap. Tell the driver your destination for a paper ticket. A Day Ticket (£5.50) is valid on all these buses.
The Catch:
Journey time can be 45-60 minutes to Princes Street due to multiple stops. Check the Lothian Buses website for real-time timetables and route maps.
Taxi & Private Transfer â Fastest & Door-to-Door
For ultimate convenience, door-to-door service, or group travel, taxis and pre-booked transfers are available but come at a significant premium.
Options & Estimated Costs (2024):
| Service Type | Estimated Cost (to Princes Street) | Booking Method |
|---|---|---|
| Black Taxi (Metered) | £30 - £35 | Queue directly outside terminal. |
| Pre-Booked Private Car/Transfer | £35 - £50+ | Online via companies like Edinburgh Shuttle or HolidayTaxis. |
When a Taxi is Worth It:
- Late-Night/Early-Morning Arrivals: When public transport frequency is low.
- Groups of 3-4: Splitting the fare can make it comparable to bus/tram tickets per person.
- Heavy Luggage or Mobility Issues: Direct curbside-to-hotel service.
- Urgent Business Travel: When time is the absolute priority.
Warning: Always ensure you use the official taxi rank. Avoid unsolicited offers inside the terminal.
Cost & Time Comparison Table: Edinburgh Airport to Princes Street
Use this table to quickly compare all your options. Prices are for adult single journeys unless stated.
| Transport Method | Approx. Journey Time | Approx. Cost (Single) | Best For | Key Consideration |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Airlink 100 Bus | 25-35 mins | £4.50 | Best Overall Value & Directness | Can be delayed by heavy traffic. |
| Edinburgh Tram | 33 mins (fixed) | £6.50 (Day Ticket price) | Reliability & Avoiding Traffic | Less luggage space during peaks. |
| Public Bus (e.g., N22) | 45-60 mins | £1.80 (Contactless Cap) | Cheapest Option | Many stops, longer travel time. |
| Taxi / Private Transfer | 20-30 mins | £30 - £50+ | Speed, Convenience & Groups | Cost is 6-10x more than public transport. |
Verdict: For solo travelers/couples, the Airlink 100 bus offers the best balance. For a group of 4, a taxi split 4 ways becomes competitive on price and is far more convenient.
Traveler Experience & Essential Tips
Beyond schedules and fares, these practical tips from experienced travelers will make your journey smoother.
1. Luggage Strategy
- Heavy Bags: Opt for the Airlink 100 bus with its luggage compartments.
- Light Packing: Tram or public bus are fine.
- Excess Luggage: Consider a taxi or pre-booked transfer to avoid hassle.
2. Buying Tickets
- Pre-Purchase Apps: Download the Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams apps. Buying on the app can save time and sometimes money.
- Always Use Contactless: On buses, tap your card/phone for the best fare cap (£1.80 on city buses). For the Airlink, it's a fixed £4.50.
- Tram Day Ticket Hack: Remember, the tram Day Ticket costs the same as a single. Always choose the Day Ticket at the machine.
3. Timing & Crowds
- Festival Season (August): All services, especially buses and trams to/from the airport, will be extremely busy. Allow extra time.
- Rush Hour (7:30-9:30 am, 4:30-6:30 pm): Road traffic can significantly delay the Airlink 100 bus. The tram is immune to this.
- Late Arrivals: The 24/7 Airlink and N22 night bus have you covered. Taxis are always available but pricier.
4. Navigating Your Arrival
Princes Street is long. Know your stop:
- For the east end (Waverley Station, Old Town), get off at Waverley Bridge (Airlink) or St Andrew Square (Tram).
- For the central/shopping area, get off at Princes Street (Stop PG for bus, 'Princes Street' for tram).
- For the west end (hotels, Haymarket), the tram stop 'West End - Princes Street' is ideal.
FAQs: Edinburgh Airport to City Centre
What is the cheapest way to get from Edinburgh Airport to Princes Street?
The cheapest way is by taking the public bus (Lothian Buses services like N22/N30/N300). A single ticket costs around £1.80 with contactless payment. However, the most cost-effective direct option is the Airlink 100 express bus (£4.50 single).
What is the fastest way to get from Edinburgh Airport to Princes Street?
A taxi or private transfer is typically the fastest (20-30 mins), especially outside peak traffic hours. The tram is the fastest public transport option, taking a guaranteed 33 minutes, as it avoids road congestion.
Is there a direct train from Edinburgh Airport to the city?
No, there is no direct train service. Edinburgh Airport does not have a train station. The nearest major station, Edinburgh Waverley, is connected to the airport via the Airlink 100 bus or the tram, both taking about 30 minutes.
How long is the tram ride from Edinburgh Airport to Princes Street?
The tram journey from Edinburgh Airport to Princes Street (stop: 'Princes Street') takes exactly 33 minutes. Trams run every 7 minutes during the day.
What should I do if I arrive at Edinburgh Airport late at night?
The Airlink 100 bus operates 24/7. For late arrivals (after midnight), it runs every 30 minutes. Night bus services (N22, etc.) are also available. Taxis are available 24/7 outside the terminal but are more expensive.
Is the Edinburgh Airport tram or bus better with lots of luggage?
The Airlink 100 bus is generally better for heavy luggage as it has dedicated luggage racks underneath. Trams have open-plan space which can be crowded. For 1-2 suitcases, both are manageable.
Where exactly do I get the Airlink 100 bus at Edinburgh Airport?
The Airlink 100 (Skylink) bus stop is located directly outside the main terminal exit, clearly signposted. Look for the bright red and white 'Airlink 100' buses. You can buy tickets from the driver or via the app.
Can I use a day travel pass from the airport to Princes Street?
Yes. Purchasing a Day Ticket on the tram (£6.50) gives you unlimited tram travel for the day. For buses, a Lothian Buses Day Ticket (£5.50) is valid on the Airlink 100 and all other city buses.