🚇Public Transport Edinburgh

Lothian Buses are the backbone of Edinburgh's public transport. They cover virtually every part of the city and operate frequently, making them highly reliable for daily travel.

The tram line offers a fast and direct route from Edinburgh Airport through the city centre to Newhaven. Ideal for quick commutes and airport transfers.

Get real-time bus and tram tracking, journey planning, and service updates directly on your smartphone. Essential for knowing when your next ride arrives.

Lothian Buses operates a comprehensive night bus network (N-routes) on key routes, running after midnight, providing safe transport during late hours.

Familiarise yourself with major bus and tram stops like Princes Street, St Andrew Square, and Waverley Bridge for easy connections across the city.

Both Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams are fully accessible, with ramps and dedicated spaces for wheelchairs and prams, ensuring inclusive travel.

Always signal clearly to the driver as the bus approaches your stop, especially during busy times, to ensure it stops for you.

Use the Lothian Buses website or Google Maps for pre-planning your routes, checking travel times, and understanding transfers.

During the Edinburgh Festival Fringe and other major events, some routes may be diverted or have increased frequency. Check for updates.

Certain bus routes, like the 23 or 35, offer fantastic views of Edinburgh's landmarks, turning your commute into a sightseeing tour.

The easiest way to pay for individual journeys. Use your contactless bank card, phone, or watch on Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams for single fares.

A Day Ticket offers unlimited travel on Lothian Buses and Edinburgh Trams for a single day. Perfect for exploring the city extensively.

If you use public transport frequently, a weekly, monthly, or annual Ridacard offers significant savings on bus and tram travel.

For single bus journeys, you can pay with exact cash fare on board. Note that drivers cannot give change, so be prepared.

Purchase tram tickets from vending machines at any tram stop before boarding. Inspectors frequently check for valid tickets.

Children under 5 travel free. Young people aged 5-21 with a valid Young Scot Card travel free on buses. Students can apply for discounted Ridacards.

Special single or return tickets are available for tram and Airlink 100 bus services to Edinburgh Airport, distinct from standard city fares.

Conveniently recharge your Ridacard online or at various PayPoint outlets across the city, avoiding queues at travel shops.

Eligible older and disabled residents can apply for a National Entitlement Card for free bus travel across Scotland, including Edinburgh.

Lothian Buses offers family day tickets, providing an economical way for small groups to travel together for a day.

Edinburgh's Old Town and New Town are highly walkable. Many attractions are close, but be prepared for hills and cobbled streets.

With dedicated cycle paths and lanes expanding, owning your own bike is an excellent way to navigate the city and stay active.

Several shops like Leith Cycle Co. or Biketrax offer bike rentals for a few hours or days, perfect for exploring without commitment.

Utilise scenic paths like the Water of Leith Walkway or the Innocent Railway Path for safe and enjoyable cycling away from traffic.

These apps are widely available in Edinburgh, offering convenient on-demand car services for longer distances or late-night travel.

Local taxi firms like City Cabs and Central Taxis provide reliable service. You can hail them on the street or book via their apps/phone.

E-bikes can make tackling Edinburgh's famous hills much easier. Some rental shops offer them, providing an accessible cycling option.

Always wear a helmet, use lights at night, and follow road rules. Cycling on pavements is generally prohibited unless it's a shared path.

Look for local cycling groups or events to explore Edinburgh with others, offering a social and safe way to discover new routes.

Google Maps provides excellent cycling route options, often highlighting dedicated paths and quieter streets suitable for bikes.

The tram offers a direct, frequent, and efficient service from the city centre (e.g., St Andrew Square) straight to Edinburgh Airport terminal.

The Airlink 100 is a dedicated express bus service running 24/7 between Edinburgh Airport and Waverley Bridge in the city centre.

Skylink services (e.g., 200, 300, 400) connect the airport to various parts of the city beyond the immediate centre, often at a lower cost.

Taxis are available from a rank outside the terminal, or you can pre-book a private transfer for a more comfortable and direct journey.

Buy tram or Airlink tickets online, via the apps, or at airport/tram stop vending machines to save time and avoid delays.

During morning and evening rush hours, or major events, allow extra time for airport transfers, as traffic can impact bus journey times.

While public transport is generally accommodating, be mindful of space, especially with large luggage. Taxis offer more room.

If you anticipate frequent airport travel, some ticket options or Ridacard top-ups might offer better value than single fares.

Ensure you know the exact bus or tram stop closest to your accommodation or destination in the city centre for seamless onward travel.

Always check the Lothian Buses or Edinburgh Trams websites for the most up-to-date timetables before heading to or from the airport.