How to Get to Edinburgh Airport – Local Travel Guide

These local travel tips will help you choose the best way to get to Edinburgh Airport based on your location and needs.

Planning your journey to Edinburgh Airport? This local guide will help you understand your travel options — whether you're heading there from Leith, Portobello, the city centre, or surrounding areas.

 

At Kay’s Cabs, we provide pre-booked private hire taxi transfers across Edinburgh. But even if you're just comparing travel options, this guide has everything you need.

 

🚖 Pre-Booked Private Hire Taxi (Best for Door-to-Door Travel)

 

If you're looking for a fast, direct, and stress-free way to get to Edinburgh Airport, a private hire taxi is your best option. Unlike black cabs or rideshare apps, our taxis are pre-booked, licensed, and offer fixed pricing in advance.

 

We collect from:

 

• Leith & Newhaven  

• Portobello & Craigentinny  

• Haymarket, Gorgie & Stockbridge  

• City centre hotels & Airbnbs  

• Waverley Station  

• Cruise terminals & student accommodation

 

Benefits of booking with Kay’s Cabs:

 

• Fixed fares with no hidden fees  

• 24/7 availability for early flights and late arrivals  

• Space for luggage, golf bags, and groups  

• Comfortable vehicles (1–8 passengers)  

• Flight tracking and live updates  

• Professional, PVG-checked drivers

 

🚌 Airlink 100 Bus

 

The Airlink 100 bus runs 24/7 between Waverley Bridge (near Princes Street) and Edinburgh Airport. It departs every 10–30 minutes and takes about 30 minutes depending on traffic.

 

Pros:

• Affordable (£5.50 adult fare one-way)  

• Luggage racks and free Wi-Fi  

• Runs all day and night

 

Cons:

• Only departs from city centre  

• No door-to-door pickup  

• Can be crowded at peak times

 

🚋 Edinburgh Trams

 

The tram connects the city centre (York Place) to the airport via Haymarket, Murrayfield, and Gogarburn. Journey time is around 35–40 minutes. You must buy your ticket before boarding.

 

Pros:

• Frequent service every 7–10 minutes  

• Luggage-friendly  

• Good for city centre access

 

Cons:

• No tram stops in Leith or Portobello  

• Limited seating during busy hours  

• Not ideal for early or late flights

 

🚗 Driving & Drop-Off

 

If you're being dropped off by a friend or family member, Edinburgh Airport has a short-stay drop zone (charges apply). Long-stay and multi-storey parking options are available for travellers.

 

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✈️ Summary – What’s the Best Option?

 

• Need door-to-door service from anywhere in Edinburgh? → Pre-book with Kay’s Cabs  

• Staying in city centre and travelling light? → Try the bus or tram  

• Travelling early, late, or with a group? → Book a private hire taxi

 

📞 Call Kay’s Cabs on 0131 629 2129  

📲 Book online: [www.kayscabs.co.uk/book-a-taxi]

 

We'll confirm your booking in advance and help you reach the airport on time, every time.