The heart of Edinburgh along Princes Street, with Edinburgh Castle, shopping, and main hotels.

About Edinburgh City Centre (Princes Street)

Edinburgh's city centre along Princes Street is the vibrant core of Scotland's capital, stretching beneath the dramatic silhouette of Edinburgh Castle perched on Castle Rock. The area is home to Waverley Station, the main shopping district, and countless restaurants, pubs, and cultural attractions.

Princes Street Gardens separate the Old Town from the New Town, a UNESCO World Heritage Site known for its Georgian architecture. The Royal Mile runs parallel, connecting Edinburgh Castle to the Palace of Holyroodhouse. Visitors will find major hotels, theaters, galleries, and the iconic Scott Monument all within walking distance.

The area is well-served by buses, trams, and taxis, making it the natural arrival point for most airport travelers heading into the city.

Nearby Landmarks

Edinburgh Castle Princes Street Gardens Scott Monument Royal Mile Waverley Station

Transport Options

Taxi

Cost £25-35 (~$30-42)
Time 25-35 minutes

Follow "Taxi" signs at arrivals. Queue at official taxi stand. Metered fares, no need to negotiate.

Rideshare (Grab/Uber)

Cost £20-30 (~$24-36)
Time 25-35 minutes

Designated pick-up area outside Arrivals

Train (Edinburgh Tram)

Cost £8 single
Time 35 minutes
Frequency Every 7-10 minutes

Step-by-Step Directions

Exit terminal, turn right to bus stops. Airlink 100 departs every 10 minutes to Waverley Bridge (city center).

Quick Comparison

Option Cost Time Best For
Taxi £25-35 (~$30-42) 25-35 minutes Convenience, groups, heavy luggage
Rideshare £20-30 (~$24-36) 25-35 minutes Budget-conscious, app users
Train £8 single 35 minutes Budget, avoiding traffic

Good to Know

Late Night Transport

The Airlink 100 runs 24 hours, with reduced frequency (every 30 minutes) between midnight and 4:30 AM. Night bus N22 also serves the route. Taxis are available around the clock from the terminal forecourt, costing £25-35 to the city centre at night.

Luggage Tips

The Airlink 100 has a dedicated luggage area at the front of the bus. The tram has floor-level luggage space near the doors. Both options handle standard suitcases easily. Avoid rush-hour buses if carrying oversized bags.

Accessibility

Edinburgh Airport tram stops have step-free access with raised platforms. The Airlink 100 buses are wheelchair accessible with ramp deployment. Waverley Station has lifts, though some platforms require staff assistance. Pre-book wheelchair-accessible taxis through the airport information desk.