Getting Around Edinburgh
Getting Around Edinburgh
All City Transport Options: What Locals Use and What’s Best for Tourists
General Overview
One thing that surprised me about Edinburgh's transport is how it manages to combine charm with a bit of chaos. The public transport system here isn’t exactly seamless, but it gets the job done—most of the time. You’ve got buses, trams, and a bit of train service, primarily focusing on the routes connecting the city centre with surrounding areas.Buses are the backbone of the system. Lothian Buses runs most routes, and you’ll often find them running from around 6 AM to midnight, though after-hours services drop off a bit. A single fare is around £1.80, and if you plan on hopping on and off, I suggest getting a day pass for £4.50—pure gold if you’re a tourist compared to taxi fares. A typical taxi ride can easily cost £10 or more, especially at night.
Oh, before I forget—one common mistake visitors make is thinking they can pay for their bus ride with cash. Many buses now accept your contactless card or app payments only, which might leave you stranded if you’re not prepared. Just make sure you have an appropriate payment method ready.
Getting around can be a bit frustrating, especially during rush hours when the buses can be packed. I once got stuck on the 41 during the evening commute going to Leith; it was a lesson in patience and personal space! But, you’re in for a treat if you catch the buses during the daytime—they often feel like a local tour, with many routes taking you past iconic spots like the Castle and Holyrood Palace.
One pleasant surprise? The trams! While they sometimes get mixed reviews from locals, I found them to be super convenient, especially the line connecting the city centre to the airport. That’s the 100 service—nothing like stepping off a flight and being whisked away in comfort.
As for saving money, grab an Explorer Pass for a bit more if you’re planning on multiple days; it’ll pay off if you plan to visit attractions like the zoo or the castle. And I’ve noticed that ticket prices for public transport can change during events, so keep an eye on that when festivals roll in!
One last tip: if it’s raining (which, let’s be honest, is often), don’t forget your umbrella and be prepared for slightly slower buses due to traffic. Generally, using the Pathway to Waverley Station is a great way to avoid rush-hour crowds, especially if you’re heading to the Old Town after peak hours.
So buckle up! Edinburgh's transport may be quirky, but it's all part of the experience.
Types of Transport
popular with tourists
Walking in Edinburgh is one of the best ways to explore its historic and picturesque surroundings, especially as many of the city’s top attractions are within walking distance of each other. There are no costs associated with walking, but investing in a good pair of comfortable shoes is essential for navigating the city’s steep streets and cobbled paths. Make sure to plan your route ahead of time; the Royal Mile, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse, is a must-see and packed with shops, restaurants, and street performers.
One important tip is to be mindful of the weather; Edinburgh can be unpredictable, so bringing layers and waterproof gear is advised. Additionally, while the city is generally safe, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
One important tip is to be mindful of the weather; Edinburgh can be unpredictable, so bringing layers and waterproof gear is advised. Additionally, while the city is generally safe, it's wise to stay aware of your surroundings, especially in crowded areas and at night.
popular with tourists
The tram in Edinburgh provides a convenient way to travel between the city center and the airport, with stops at key areas such as Princess Street, Haymarket, and Edinburgh Park. A single ticket costs around £1.60 and can be purchased from ticket machines located at tram stops, or via the Transport for Edinburgh app which also offers a more convenient option for multiple journeys. It's important to remember that you must have a valid ticket before boarding, as on-the-spot fines are enforced. For tourists, the tram is an efficient way to avoid city traffic, and service runs every 7-10 minutes, making it easy to plan your day. Safety tip: after dark, it's best to stay in well-lit areas near tram stops to ensure a secure journey.
The bus system in Edinburgh is extensive, covering key tourist areas including the city center, the Royal Mile, and attractions like Edinburgh Castle and Holyrood Palace. A single adult fare is typically around £1.80, while a day ticket is about £4.50, allowing unlimited travel, so it's worth considering for tourists planning to explore multiple sites in one day. Visitors can pay using cash or contactless cards on board, or purchase tickets through the Lothian Buses app, which also provides real-time updates and route information. For time-saving, familiarize yourself with the most commonly used routes, such as the 22 and 35, and always check bus schedules, particularly on Sundays when services may be less frequent. Lastly, keep an eye on your belongings while waiting at bus stops and on public transport, as with any busy city.
Driving an auto in Edinburgh gives you the flexibility to explore both the city and its stunning surroundings at your own pace. Parking can be a challenge, so plan to use city parking facilities, with fees typically ranging from £1 to £4 per hour; you can pay via mobile apps or at ticket machines. Be aware of the city's one-way systems and limited access zones, and consider using the 'Park and Ride' facilities located around the city perimeter for easier access to central attractions. If you plan to visit popular sites like the Edinburgh Castle or Holyrood Palace, aim to go early in the morning or later in the afternoon to avoid the busiest traffic. Always keep an eye on signage for pay-and-display parking restrictions to avoid fines, as these can vary between areas.
Taxis in Edinburgh are readily available throughout the city, especially around popular tourist areas like the Royal Mile, Waverley Station, and in the Old Town. Typical fares for a trip within the city center range from £5 to £15, depending on the distance and time of day, and most taxis accept both cash and card payments, including contactless options. A handy tip for tourists is to use the official Edinburgh taxi app, which allows you to book a cab in advance and track its arrival, ensuring you don’t have to wait on the street. Additionally, always check that the taxi has a blue and yellow taxi sign on its roof and is licensed by the City of Edinburgh Council for your safety. If you're traveling late at night, be aware that taxi availability may decrease, so it's wise to book in advance during peak hours.
Here you can learn about all types of transport in Edinburgh. What transport is available, how to reach tourist attractions and which mode of transport is optimal.