Edinburgh is a city rich in history, culture, and beautiful landscapes, and its public transport system is equally impressive. Whether you’re exploring the medieval streets of the Old Town, discovering the grandeur of the New Town, or venturing to the outskirts to see the stunning natural beauty that surrounds the city, Edinburgh’s public transport will get you where you need to go efficiently and affordably.
This comprehensive guide will help you master Edinburgh’s public transport so that you can travel like a local and make the most of your time in the Scottish capital.
Edinburgh’s Public Transport System
Edinburgh’s public transport primarily consists of buses, trams, and trains. The city is well-connected, with services that run frequently throughout the day and into the night. Lothian Buses is the main bus operator in the city, while Edinburgh Trams provides a convenient way to travel between the city centre and Edinburgh Airport. Additionally, the city’s train stations offer connections to other Scottish cities and the wider UK.
1. Buses
Buses are the backbone of Edinburgh’s public transport system, with routes crisscrossing the entire city. Lothian Buses, the main operator, runs a fleet of over 700 buses, making it easy to get around. There are also several other bus companies operating in the wider Edinburgh area, but Lothian Buses is by far the most popular option for tourists.
- Routes and Frequency: Lothian Buses offers extensive coverage of the city, with major routes running every 10-15 minutes during peak times. The service operates from around 5:30 a.m. to midnight, and there are also several night buses that operate after hours, ensuring you can get back to your accommodation safely after a late night out.
- Tickets and Fares: One of the things I love about Edinburgh’s bus system is how straightforward the fare structure is. A single adult ticket costs £2.00, and if you’re planning to use the buses frequently throughout the day, it’s worth purchasing a day ticket for £5.00, which offers unlimited travel on Lothian Buses and trams. If you’re traveling with kids, family day tickets are also available for £10.50, covering two adults and up to three children.
- How to Pay: You can buy tickets on the bus, but it’s important to have the exact fare in cash as the drivers don’t provide change. Alternatively, Lothian Buses offers a handy mobile app where you can purchase tickets in advance and simply scan your phone as you board. This was my preferred method as it’s more convenient and you don’t have to worry about carrying the exact change.
- Popular Routes for Tourists: Some bus routes are particularly useful for tourists. The number 35 bus, for example, runs between the airport and the city centre, passing through several key attractions along the way. The number 100 Airlink service is also popular for getting to and from Edinburgh Airport. Additionally, the number 22 bus will take you through the city centre and down to Leith, where you can explore the Royal Yacht Britannia and the charming waterfront area.
2. Trams
Edinburgh’s trams offer a smooth and scenic way to travel through the city. While the tram network is smaller than the bus system, it’s incredibly efficient for getting from Edinburgh Airport to the city centre.
- Routes and Frequency: The tram line runs from Edinburgh Airport to York Place in the city centre, making it ideal for travelers arriving by air. The trams stop at key locations such as Murrayfield Stadium, Haymarket, and Princes Street. Trams run every 7-10 minutes during peak times, so you never have to wait long for the next one.
- Tickets and Fares: A single adult tram ticket costs £2.00 for travel within the city zone and £7.00 for travel from the city centre to the airport. Like the buses, you can buy tickets via the Lothian Buses mobile app or from ticket machines at tram stops. If you’ve purchased a Lothian day ticket, it also covers tram travel within the city, which is a great deal if you’re using both buses and trams.
- Airport Transfer: One of the most convenient things about the tram system is its direct connection to Edinburgh Airport. When I arrived in Edinburgh, I found the tram to be a quick and comfortable way to get to my hotel in the city centre. The journey takes about 35 minutes, and the trams are modern and spacious, with plenty of room for luggage.
- Tram Stops Near Attractions: If you’re visiting Murrayfield Stadium for a rugby match or concert, the tram is the best way to get there. The tram stop at Princes Street is perfect for exploring the city’s shopping district and the nearby Edinburgh Castle. The York Place stop, at the end of the line, is ideal for accessing the New Town area.
3. Trains
Edinburgh’s train network is operated by ScotRail and connects the city to the rest of Scotland and beyond. Trains are a great option if you’re planning day trips to nearby destinations like Glasgow, Stirling, or the Scottish Highlands.
- Main Stations: Edinburgh has two main train stations—Waverley Station and Haymarket Station. Waverley is the largest station and is located in the heart of the city, making it the primary hub for most train services. Haymarket Station, located in the West End, is another key station, particularly if you’re staying in that part of town or attending an event at Murrayfield Stadium.
- Tickets and Fares: Train fares vary depending on the destination, but ScotRail offers discounted off-peak fares if you’re traveling outside of rush hours. You can buy tickets at the station or online via the ScotRail app, which I found to be very user-friendly.
- Day Trips by Train: If you have time, I highly recommend taking the train to nearby cities like Glasgow (just under an hour away) or Stirling (about 45 minutes away). Both cities offer unique attractions and are easily accessible by train from Edinburgh.
4. Taxis and Ride-Sharing
While public transport is the most affordable way to get around Edinburgh, there are times when a taxi or ride-sharing service might be more convenient. Taxis in Edinburgh are reliable and relatively affordable, especially for short trips within the city centre.
- Black Cabs: Edinburgh’s iconic black cabs can be hailed from the street or found at taxi ranks around the city, particularly near Waverley Station and Princes Street. They are metered, and while they’re more expensive than buses or trams, they’re useful for getting to places that aren’t well-served by public transport.
- Uber and Ride-Sharing: Uber operates in Edinburgh, and I found it to be a convenient option for getting around late at night or when I was in a hurry. The fares are typically lower than traditional taxis, and the app makes it easy to track your ride and estimate the cost before you book.
5. Cycling in Edinburgh
For the more adventurous traveler, cycling is a fantastic way to explore Edinburgh. The city has been working to improve its cycling infrastructure, and there are several bike rental companies and cycle routes that allow you to experience Edinburgh from a different perspective.
- Cycle Hire: Edinburgh offers several bike rental services, including Just Eat Cycles, the city’s official bike-sharing scheme. You can pick up and drop off bikes at various locations throughout the city, and the app allows you to easily rent a bike for as long as you need. Daily rates are affordable, making it a great option for tourists who want to explore by bike.
- Cycle Routes: Edinburgh is home to several scenic cycle routes. The Union Canal towpath is a popular route that takes you out of the city and into the countryside, while the Meadows offers a more central option for a leisurely ride. For those looking for a challenge, the route to Arthur’s Seat offers stunning views of the city, though it’s not for the faint-hearted!
6. Walking in Edinburgh
Of course, one of the best ways to explore Edinburgh is on foot. The city’s compact size and pedestrian-friendly streets make walking a convenient and enjoyable option for tourists. Many of the main attractions, such as the Royal Mile, Edinburgh Castle, and Holyrood Palace, are located within walking distance of each other.
Walking also allows you to discover Edinburgh’s hidden gems—narrow alleys, quaint cafes, and stunning viewpoints that you might miss if you’re traveling by bus or tram. Plus, walking is free, making it the ultimate budget-friendly option!
Tips for Navigating Edinburgh’s Public Transport
- Plan Ahead: Download the Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams apps to plan your journey and buy tickets in advance. These apps also provide real-time updates on bus and tram arrivals, which is useful for avoiding long waits at stops.
- Carry Exact Change: If you’re paying for a bus ticket in cash, make sure to have the exact fare as drivers don’t provide change. Alternatively, use the app to purchase tickets.
- Use Day Tickets: If you’re planning to use public transport multiple times in a day, it’s worth investing in a day ticket, which offers unlimited travel on buses and trams.
- Avoid Rush Hour: Edinburgh’s public transport can get busy during peak hours (7-9 a.m. and 4-6 p.m.), so try to travel outside of these times if possible.
- Be Prepared for the Weather: Edinburgh’s weather can be unpredictable, so pack a rain jacket or umbrella, especially if you’re walking or cycling around the city.
Edinburgh’s public transport system is a convenient, affordable, and efficient way to explore the city. Whether you’re taking a bus to the Royal Yacht Britannia, hopping on a tram from the airport, or cycling through the Meadows, getting around Edinburgh is straightforward and accessible.
