Edinburgh Airport (EDI) is Scotland’s busiest airport, welcoming millions of travelers each year. Located about 8 miles from the city centre, it’s well-connected to popular districts such as Haymarket, the historic port of Leith, and other areas across the city. Whether you’re heading into town for business, a festival visit, or a cruise from Leith, here’s a complete guide to getting from Edinburgh Airport to Haymarket, Leith, and beyond.
1. How To Get From Edinburgh Airport to Haymarket
Haymarket is a major transport hub in Edinburgh, home to Haymarket Station, one of the city’s busiest train stations. It’s also a popular spot for hotels and quick access to Murrayfield Stadium.
Tram
- Journey time: 25–30 minutes
- Cost: £7.50 single (£9.50 return)
- Details: The Edinburgh Tram runs every 7–10 minutes from the airport and stops directly at Haymarket Station. It’s one of the fastest and most convenient options.
Bus
- Journey time: 30–40 minutes
- Cost: Around £5–£6
- Details: The Airlink 100 bus runs from the airport to the city centre, stopping at Haymarket en route.
Taxi or Private Transfer
- Journey time: 20–25 minutes (depending on traffic)
- Cost: Around £25–£35
- Best for: Travelers with heavy luggage or late-night arrivals.
2. Edinburgh Airport to Leith
Leith, Edinburgh’s vibrant waterfront district, is known for its restaurants, bars, and the famous Royal Yacht Britannia. Unlike Haymarket, there’s no direct tram or train connection from the airport, but you still have several good options.
Tram + Bus Connection
- Step 1: Take the tram from the airport into the city centre (30 minutes).
- Step 2: Change to a local bus heading to Leith (20–25 minutes).
- Cost: Around £8–£10 total
- Pros: Affordable, frequent services
- Cons: Requires one change
Taxi or Private Transfer
- Journey time: 35–45 minutes
- Cost: £30–£40
- Best for: Groups, families, or visitors heading to the cruise terminal at Leith Docks.
Ride-Sharing
- Uber and Bolt operate in Edinburgh and can be a cost-effective alternative, though prices fluctuate with demand.
3. Beyond Haymarket & Leith: Other Areas of Edinburgh
Edinburgh Airport is also well-connected to neighborhoods across the city and beyond:
Princes Street & Old Town
- By tram: Around 35 minutes to Princes Street.
- By bus (Airlink 100): 30–40 minutes.
- By taxi: 25–30 minutes, costing £25–£35.
Edinburgh Park & Business Districts
- By tram: 10 minutes to Edinburgh Park station.
- By taxi: 15 minutes.
Ideal for business travelers staying in the city’s corporate hubs.
Portobello (Edinburgh’s seaside)
- By bus: About 60 minutes with one change in the city centre.
- By taxi: 40 minutes, around £35–£45.
4. Car Hire at Edinburgh Airport
If you want maximum flexibility, hiring a car is a great way to explore not just Edinburgh but also nearby towns like Queensferry, Musselburgh, or even the East Lothian coast.
- Journey time: 20–40 minutes to most Edinburgh neighborhoods.
- Cost: From £40 per day plus fuel and parking.
- Tip: Parking can be tricky in central Edinburgh, so this is best for visitors planning to explore the wider region.
Which Option Should You Choose?
- Fastest into Haymarket: Tram (direct in 25 minutes)
- Best for Leith: Taxi or Tram + Bus combination
- Most budget-friendly: Airlink 100 bus or tram services
- Flexible for exploring beyond: Car hire or private transfers
Final Thoughts
Getting from Edinburgh Airport to Haymarket, Leith, and beyond is easy, with plenty of transport options to match your needs and budget. For quick access to Haymarket Station, the tram is the most convenient choice. If you’re heading to Leith, a taxi or tram + bus combo works best. And for travelers exploring further afield, hiring a car or arranging a private transfer offers the greatest flexibility.
With a little planning, your journey from Edinburgh Airport to your final destination in the city will be smooth and stress-free. You can choose Gold Cars Airport Transfers Ltd for hassle free booking of cars for transfer.
